Watch Hill Proper, located in Prospect, Kentucky, is honored to share that we have been named a 2026 semifinalist for the James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar. Being recognized alongside some of the most respected bar programs in the country is an incredible moment for our team, and we’re grateful for the spotlight on the work we pour into this place every day.

At Watch Hill Proper, we’ve always believed a great bar is about more than what’s in the glass—it’s the full experience: the energy of the room, the warmth of the welcome, the intention in every detail, the food meant to be shared, and the care that keeps guests coming back. This recognition reflects the passion and consistency our team brings night after night, and we’re proud of the community we’ve built within these walls.

We’re also deeply grateful to represent Kentucky’s growing presence on the national food and beverage stage. To be recognized as only the second bar in Kentucky to ever receive this honor is something we don’t take lightly, and we’re proud to be part of the momentum that continues to build across the state. To be included among the country’s best reinforces what we’ve known all along: the talent, culture, and hospitality of the Louisville area deserves a spotlight, and we’re grateful to be part of that story.

From all of us at Watch Hill Proper, thank you to the James Beard Foundation for this recognition, and congratulations to the other semifinalists whose work continues to raise the bar across the industry.

Read the full article to learn more about the 2026 James Beard Award Semifinalists!