Buffalo Trace Distillery Announces John G. Carlisle Cafe: New Dining Experience Opening Spring 2026
Frankfort, KY – August 12, 2025 – Buffalo Trace Distillery is expanding its visitor experience with the announcement of the John G. Carlisle Cafe, a permanent dining option scheduled to open in Spring 2026. Located on the first floor of the Elmer T. Lee Clubhouse, the new café will bring fresh, made-to-order meals and handcrafted cocktails to guests touring the historic distillery.
A New Culinary Addition to Buffalo Trace Distillery
The John G. Carlisle Cafe spans 4,900 square feet, with indoor and porch seating for 70 guests. The café will primarily serve lunch with a menu of sandwiches, salads, soups, and kid-friendly options. Visitors can also enjoy a limited cocktail menu featuring select Buffalo Trace products.
“The John G. Carlisle Cafe is an exciting new addition to the Buffalo Trace Distillery visitor experience,” said Tyler Adams, General Manager, Buffalo Trace Distillery. “It allows us to connect with guests in a new way, blending our legacy of hospitality with a welcoming dining space that celebrates our history.”
Honoring John G. Carlisle’s Legacy
The café is named after John G. Carlisle, U.S. Congressman and champion of the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, which set quality standards for American whiskey. To honor Carlisle, Buffalo Trace forefather Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. built one of his two distilleries in his name. Though demolished in 1936, its history lives on.
A commemorative plaque and original stone from the Carlisle Distillery will be relocated to the new café entrance, ensuring visitors connect with this important chapter in bourbon history.
Enhancing the Visitor Experience
Guests can stop by the John G. Carlisle Cafe before or after a distillery tour or while shopping at the Buffalo Trace Gift Shop. Visitors must check in at the Freehouse welcome building, located beside the main parking lot, before entering.
Construction is currently underway, with opening planned for Spring 2026. Hours of operation will be announced closer to launch.
About Buffalo Trace Distillery
Buffalo Trace Distillery is a family-owned distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, with a heritage dating back to 1775. A National Historic Landmark, it is home to legendary names like E.H. Taylor Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee.
Producing award-winning bourbon, rye, and vodka, Buffalo Trace has won over 40 distillery titles since 2000 and more than 1,000 awards for its spirits. Its William Larue Weller and Stagg bourbons were named Best of Show at the 2024 Denver International Spirits Competition, while Traveller Whiskey was recognized as the Most Awarded Super Premium Whiskey Release of 2024.
Buffalo Trace is also deeply committed to philanthropy. Nonprofits can learn more and register for charitable support here.
