Discover Parisian Elegance at Louisville’s New Boutique Hotel with a Secret Bar

1. Introduction to Hotel Genevieve

Hotel Genevieve opened in Louisville on May 3 ahead of the Kentucky Derby this weekend.

2. A Chic Accommodation in NuLu

If you appreciate the vibrant colors synonymous with Kentucky Derby fashion, you’ll undoubtedly admire the newest boutique hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. Hotel Genevieve, a stylish property developed by Austin-based hospitality company Bunkhouse Group, is situated in Louisville’s trendy NuLu (New Louisville) neighborhood.

3. Embracing Cultural Richness

“Louisville is just a great town. Totally underrated in our view,” said Amar Lalvani, Bunkhouse Group’s executive chairman. He highlighted the city’s diverse offerings, noting that beyond the Derby and the bourbon trail, the cultural landscape, including its art and food scenes, is robust and inviting.

4. Inspiration Behind the Name

The hotel’s name, Hotel Genevieve, pays homage to the patron saint of Paris, Saint Genevieve, celebrating the historic American city’s French heritage. Louisville was named after Louis XVI, the last king of France, in recognition of his assistance to the American colonies during the Revolutionary War.

5. Thoughtful Design Elements

Bunkhouse Group collaborated with interior design studio Rohe Creative to create a colorful floral space, featuring vibrant pink and gold at the front desk, alongside shades of blue in each of the 122 guest rooms. The design is complemented by an eclectic collection of antique items, sourced from antique fairs, including Texas’ renowned Round Top Antiques Fair.

“This is our first urban-core, new-build hotel, which means it doesn’t have some of the features typically found in our other properties—such as extensive landscaping or beach access,” noted Tenaya Hills, Bunkhouse Group’s SVP of design and development. “Therefore, we aimed to compensate for the absence of a natural setting by incorporating captivating architectural details throughout the hotel.”

6. A Culinary Destination

Hotel Genevieve is more than just a comfortable place to stay; it is a culinary haven as well, featuring three restaurants and bars curated by James Beard-nominated chef Ashleigh Shanti. Additionally, a mini-market stocked with local provisions enhances the guest experience.

Lalvani described the hotel’s all-day eatery, Rosettes, as “transporting you to the feeling of dining alfresco in a beautiful Parisian cafe.” Moreover, the Hotel Genevieve Bar serves crafted cocktails and light bites inspired by French street food and Mediterranean cuisine, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline and the Ohio River. There is also a hidden gem within the hotel—a late-night speakeasy-style venue called Lucky Penny. “All of them introduce new concepts to Louisville while feeling like they have always belonged here,” Lalvani added.

7. Affordable Rates

Rates at Hotel Genevieve begin at $159 per night. Experience the charm and culinary delights of this new Louisville destination.