Louisville’s national reputation as a culinary center is driven by the creative work of its independent restaurants – the rich trove of small businesses that entertain and inspire us, meal after meal. 

By definition, these are small businesses with big hearts and ambitious visions. But the folks who staff these restaurants sometimes find themselves in need of emergency financial assistance due to illness, injury, or other causes.

That’s where Apron, Inc. comes in. Since 2011, nearly a hundred local indie restaurants have awarded some $240,000 in 230 grants to folks who needed that kind of assistance.  

Apron, Inc’s big annual fundraiser, The Fifth Annual Taste of Independents, is charity tasting event that gives diners an opportunity to dine, drink, listen to the Robbie Bartlett Duo, bid on Silent Auction items — and maybe discover some new restaurants. All this while supporting a good cause.

Food and beverages will be served by some thirty local restaurants. There will be newcomers like Biscuit Belly and Diamond Grub and Hops, and well-established favorites, like Brasserie Provence, Fat Lamb, Volare and Bourbons Bistro.   

A Taste of Independents is Sunday, July 14 from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., at The Olmsted (3701 Frankfort Ave, Louisville, KY 40207). Tickets are available at Louisville Tickets.

Tickets are $50 in advance, $60 at the door.

Proceeds from the Kentucky Restaurant Association’s Summer Bourbon Cruise on Wednesday, July 24 also will help to support Apron’s program. Tickets are limited; call 502.400.3736 to reserve yours.