Chef Michael Crouch Joins Watch Hill Proper as Executive Chef

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PROSPECT, Ky. (February 24, 2022) - Louisville’s first premier bourbon club, Watch Hill Proper, has announced a well-known expert to take the food program to a new level. Chef Michael Crouch will be the Executive Chef for the club. This is his first opportunity to lead a creative restaurant team since Bistro 1860. 

The excitement over Michael joining the team led to the owners’ decision to expand the kitchen space to accommodate more staff and capabilities. They are currently hiring kitchen staff to join the group; applications are accepted at WatchHillProper.com. 

“We are beyond excited to be able to add Michael to our amazing team,” says co-founder Tommy Craggs. “Honestly, we have downplayed our food menu from the very beginning. When it became clear that we had the opportunity to add Michael, we switched gears. So much so that we are in the process of doubling the size of our kitchen. Michael’s talent and creativity is elevating the quality of our menu and allowing us to really expand the role that food will play at Watch Hill Proper.”

By showcasing his culinary skills over the years as a private chef and at many respected Louisville restaurants, including Bourbons Bistro and Bistro 1860, Michael has earned the reputation of being one of the premier chefs in Louisville. He spent several summers in Paris learning from some of the top French Masters. Michael will use his love of exploring flavors to provide bold, flavorful cuisine yet simple and elegantly presented to deliver an unforgettable dining experience for Watch Hill Proper guests. 

“I’m more than excited to be joining Josh and Tommy on this new venture in Norton Commons and honing my skills in a commercial kitchen again,” says Chef Michael Crouch. “This amazing concept will be bringing people far and wide and at the same time rekindling so many great relationships with the countless friends I have accumulated through my culinary journey thus far in this great city. Expect a selection of dishes that are easily shareable in addition to a handful of individual entrées. There will certainly be something for everyone. Bear with us as we extend our kitchen and slowly add to our menu. Great things to come! Lastly…drink whiskey.”

What makes Watch Hill Proper so unique? It’s a celebration of bourbon and its rich Kentucky history. The ambiance, the architecture, the knowledgeable staff assisting guests in selecting the perfect paring of food and beverage... it’s an immersive experience. In addition to the expansive whiskey offerings and rare bourbon list, an extensive wine list and expertly crafted specialty cocktails will be available. 

While membership has major perks at Watch Hill Proper, the club is open to everyone. Only members can make table reservations at the club, but anyone can walk in and be seated. Membership provides discounts on drinks, early access to purchase the club barrel picks, spirit lockers, and invitations to special member-only events along with many other privileges. However, anyone who wants to have a great bourbon experience is invited to visit.

“Watch Hill Proper is a place for everyone to enjoy,” explains co-founder Josh Howes. “We have a huge whiskey collection, a world-class cocktail program, an extensive wine list, an incredibly talented staff, and in our opinion one of the best chefs in the city. We want to give everyone that visits us an experience of a lifetime.”

Watch Hill Proper is expected to open to the public in April, and special members-only events and grand opening celebrations are in the works. For more information or membership details, please visit watchhillproper.com or contact Bev Reese at (502) 230-1982.

For more information about Chef Michael Crouch, visit chefmichaelcrouch.com.

About Watch Hill Proper:

Watch Hill Proper, located in Norton Commons, is Louisville’s first premier membership bourbon club. The purpose is to be a community built around a common interest - bourbon. The goal is to be a community of ambassadors for Kentucky’s signature industry and do it in style. For more information about Watch Hill Proper, or to apply for membership, visit www.watchhillproper.com.