The Galaxy Bistro at the Louisville (KY) Science Center occupies an inauspicious space. Many have tried and failed to make the operation a success. The latest is Aramark Corp., which took over the contract this past summer.
Aramark goes in with a couple of advantages not available to previous operators. One is that its contract also includes the center’s catering business, a revenue stream that can help maximize the value derived from the available assets. Previously, the center simply referred groups wishing to hold private parties and events on the premises to a list of outside catering companies. The Galaxy will also for the first time be open to the street for walk-in business. In the past, patrons had to enter the science center to access the café. Signage and other promotional materials, along with outside sidewalk tables and chairs in appropriate weather are being used to signal the spot as a desirable lunch place.
The Galaxy is described as a quick-casual upscale grill. The menu offers slow-cooked prime rib, Philly cheesesteak and Italian sausage sandwiches as well as fresh vegetables and sides.
The renovation to the space, including the opening to the street, was financed by the museum with private donations.