Seasoned Louisville chef opens The Fat Lamb in the Highlands

Dallas McGarity is the Executive Chef at Marketplace on 4th Street ... at least for now.

“My last day here will probably be Friday,” McGarity said.

On Oct. 18, McGarity is opening The Fat Lamb on the corner of Bardstown Road and Grinstead Drive where Fontleroy's used to be located.

“This is the first restaurant that I've opened on my own,” McGarity said

Although other restaurants have tried and failed at that location, McGarity says it's exactly what he's looking for.

“I'm going to just make it a nice neighborhood restaurant,” McGarity said.

McGarity has a notable reputation with Louisville foodies.

"The first restaurant I worked at was Volare on Frankfort Avenue, and I was a chef there for about three years,” McGarity said. “Then I left, and I opened Z's Fusion which is now Z's Oyster Bar, and I worked there for probably two years.

"I've been at Marketplace pretty much ever since.”

McGarity describes his chef style as “probably leaning toward Italian, mixed with a little southern flavor.”

That’s exactly what you'll find him cooking up at The Fat Lamb. McGarity is known for his brussels sprouts and gnocchi, so he’s planning on including them on the menu, although the menu for the opening day hasn't been set yet.

“We're going to do lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday, and then on Sunday, we will be open for brunch,” McGarity said.

There will be a small beer and wine list and, “a cool, creative craft cocktail program going on.”

McGarity trained a new executive chef at Marketplace, Zac Young from Ward 426, so the transition should be seamless.