The one-time grocery store is now among Louisville’s hippest restaurants.

The vibrant dining scene takes place on the street level of the restaurant. A lounge area is located one floor up.

Chef/owner Bobby Benjamin, who learned some of his cooking chops from famed chef Sean Brock, is the star of the show. His down-to-earth American menu with a slight Italian accent is honest, simple and delicious.

The dining area features leather and linen banquettes and a vintage-inspired mosaic tile floor. Antique brass pendants radiate a buttery glow as diners sit at Carrara marble tables in iconic Cab chairs.

Local design firm Bittners chose a historical palette of original exposed brick walls and a weathered ceiling. The bar is adjacent to the dining area.

Ascend the stars past oxblood-painted walls and you’ll find a lounge featuring daybeds in dark quilted fabric and oversized pillows. Drinks are served at an expansive 35-seat galvanized metal bar. Check out the corner stage. Perhaps a surprise concert by My Morning Jacket is in order.

Beverage director Marie Zahn has developed an imaginative and sexy cocktail list.

Zahn flames an orange peel for a gin-based drink called Catching the Midnight Drift.

The Little Joe From Kokomo cocktail features rum, lime, cinnamon, bitters and mint.

Those who want to get closer to the action can opt for the chef’s table off the downstairs kitchen.

Tina Dyer is the chef de cuisine.

To demonstrate how serious it is about food, Butchertown Grocery has a dedicated space in the kitchen for charcuterie.

The restaurant also features a rotisserie where many of its meats are cooked. Here is pork belly nearing completion.

A favorite entree is the rotisserie chicken with lemon, roasted garlic, roasted carrot and Kalamata tapenade.

For a lighter appetite, the rainbow trout with fregula and charred onions and peppers is a great choice.