Wagner's Pharmacy

I love wagner's because of its simple, old fashion and authentic diner atmosphere. The food is decent but not amazing. It's your basic sandwich, burger, fries etc. something you can easily whip up at home.

Share a table with the men and women working at Churchill Downs and hear their stories.

If you're coming as a tourist, you should go.  It is a 5 star place in that situation.  It is the most classic Kentucky Diner you will ever find because it is literally next to the racetrack!  Not the posh main gate side either, but the backside of the track.  You are likely to see owners, trainers, hotwalkers, grooms, exercise riders, etc...ALL THE RACETRACKERS.  It is basically a shrine to horse-racing and the Kentucky Derby on the inside.  They are doing what they know, and I respect that.  They haven't really updated much of anything and I respect that too.  

Now, if you're coming as someone who wants some food it is 3 stars.  Not bad, it's just greasy diner food.  The breakfast is better than the lunch fare, but none of it will blow you away.  I think they still do their Cherry Cokes the real way, so that may be the one exception that is pretty awesome.  

If you live in town and you've never been, stop by if you're in the area.  If you're from out of town and going to the track, check it out.  If you are looking for a nice clean restaurant with excellent service and high quality food, well it's not your place.

Wagner's has been a staple for many Louisville folks for years and it is worth the trip to get some of the best biscuits and gravy around. Prices are cheap and if you like breakfast, you're gonna love this place. The people that work there are as friendly as can be and you'll get a perfectly cooked egg every time, any way you like it. If you go early, you will see lots of "horse people". That's Kentucky speak for horse trainers, jockey, etc.. It is located right across from the famous Churchill Downs race track. Closes around 2:00 p.m. but walk in the door before 1:30p because if the staff had a busy morning, they are gonna want to go home and you waiting until 1:35 to step in for lunch is uncool. Most of the time they will never let onto that though ; )  This place is an institution. Great place to take your kid when you are playing hookey for the day as well. They have a soda fountain so get him/her a yummy sugary soda while sharing a Pam & Jacks Omlette! Oh, and sit at the bar so you can hear the cook whistle or sing. That's Kentucky for ya!