$18 for $40 Worth of Contemporary American Cuisine and Drinks at Avalon

Louisville's 19th-century shipping tycoons traditionally did their wheeling and dealing at exclusive restaurants, cleverly concealing the fact that they still lived with their moms. Today's deal lets you dine in similarly high style. For $18, you get $40 worth of contemporary American cuisine and drinks at Avalon in Highlands.

Back in the old days when folks walked uphill both ways, fine dining consisted of one baked bean and a can of potatoes. Avalon provides a much higher standard of dining, thanks to chef Laurence Agnew’s impeccable taste and attention to detail—both of which played a role in his being selected by the James Beard Foundation to participate in this year's Celebrity Chef Program. While surrounded by beige and green hues and a modern bistro feel, patrons can enjoy Agnew's varied menu of small plates, sandwiches, and dinner plates.

Take a break from a work-dodging golf game by stopping in for small plates of Thai meatballs with coconut milk, peanuts, and Panaeng curry ($5.90) and bacon-wrapped tempura dates with bourbon honey ($5.90). For a more hands-on lunch, choose a mitt-fitting sandwich such as the brick-pressed Cuban with braised bacon, country ham, swiss, and mojo ($9.90) or a salmon burger with panko breadcrumbs, capers, red onion, and dill cream cheese ($9.50). Large plates such as braised beef short rib with braising reduction, Weisenburger grits, and honey crisp apple ($19.90); butternut squash pasta ($13.90); and truffled lobster mac ‘n' cheese ($9.90) will undoubtedly quell even the most raging belly-fire before it erupts out one's mouth and singes a date's hair. Top your ascent to dizzying culinary heights with a dessert of fried apple pie with sea-salt caramel and vanilla-bean ice cream ($6). With more than 40 wine varieties available, you can pair any item on the Avalon menu with adult grape juice in some form.

A picture is worth a thousand words, but a good meal is worth a thousand approving head nods accompanied by a thousands "mmm" noises. With today's Groupon to Avalon, you’ll dine on a world-class meal that speaks (and occasionally votes) for itself. Reservations are required, so call ahead.

Reviews

The Courier-Journal says:

• In season, there's a wildly popular outdoor dining area, and throughout the year the bar offers a cozy refuge. Every detail, from the stylish flatware to the meticulous service, seems well-considered. – Marty Rosen

Seven Citysearchers give it 4.5 stars, 87% of Urbanspooners like it, and nine Metromixers give it 4.6 stars.

• I have been to Avalon numerous times, and it is hands down some of the best food I have ever had in Louisville. First you get to pick from a varitey of appetizers, which are all amazing (hummus is my favorite). Then you move on to the salads which are so light and delicious and different from anything else I have ever had. There is a wide range of entrees to choose from, including vegetarian dishes which is a plus for me. – ecg, Citysearch
• My husband & I have traveled and/or lived in numerous countries in Europe, Asia and Latin America. We've dined in some of the world's best restaurants. Avalon was a fantastic find during our visit to Louisville for the Derby. The cuisine is innovative & delicious; the decor impeccable & the service flawless. – yolanda, Urbanspoon