A most elegant Kentucky hotel

Few places offer such sparkling accommodations as Louisville's The Brown.

Thwe actress Lily Pons let her pet lion cub wander freely in her suite. Al Jolson got involved in an altercation in the English Grill. And Victor Mature held the position of elevator operator before he headed for acting fame in the movies.

These are only a few of the many luminaries who have passed through The Brown, a Camberley Hotel built in Louisville in 1923. It opened to great acclaim back then, and it's still a star attraction today.

Enter the first-floor lobby, and you'll catch the aroma from the friendly coffee shop, with its fresh breads and cheery air. To your right waits a small antiques store filled with treasures both large and small.

Before going to the main lobby on the second floor, walk through the street-level lobby and into the hallway, where you'll find the home of the Embroiderer's Guild of America. Changing exhibits show intricate needle-- work from the guild's collection.

After exploring this lovely handiwork, move on to the decorative and structural handiwork that makes up The Brown. First, delight in the pampering sanctuary of your room. The Brown once suffered from small, cramped rooms. During its renovation, however, the original 700 rooms were reconfigured to make 293 much larger ones. The first-rate beds invite a leisurely nap.

Before you give in to that late-afternoon snooze, go to the Lobby Bar, where guests gather at the dimming of the day to sip cool drinks and wait for an amazing dinner.

As the pianist plays, you'll be escorted into the English Grill, which thrives under the expertise of chef Joe Castro. The Hot Brown-an open-faced sandwich made with turkey, toast, cheese sauce, bacon, and tomatoes-was invented here. Don't pass up this tradition or the souffle du jour. Note: You must order the dessert 45 minutes in advance, but it's worth every second.

Now you can further explore the luxury of your room, from its fresh flowers to the free overnight shoe shine. And because you're in The Brown, you're bound to have sweet dreams.

The Brown, a Camberley Hotel: 335 West Broadway, Louisville, KY 40202; (502) 583-1234, 1-888-999-8075, or www.brown hotel.com. Rates: $156-$240.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation May 2002
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