By VOICE-TRIBUNE • Photos by Matt Johnson
In Louisville, Kentucky, few names are as synonymous with culinary innovation and community-driven success as Susan Hershberg and her beloved business, Wiltshire Pantry. Celebrating 35 years in business this year, Wiltshire Pantry has become more than just a culinary landmark in the city; it has become a beacon of philanthropy, social justice, and unwavering support for Louisville’s vibrant arts scene. Under Susan’s leadership, Wiltshire Pantry has grown from a small catering company into a multifaceted culinary powerhouse with cafes, catering services, and a farm-to-table ethos at its core.
A Culinary Vision That Shaped Louisville
Since 1989, Susan Hershberg and Wiltshire Pantry have been creating innovative menus for celebratory occasions, from intimate to elaborate. Long before “farm to table” became the norm in fine dining rooms, she and her team cultivated relationships with farmers in order to access the freshest, most flavorful ingredients. She and her team developed menus based on what was being grown locally and in doing so, grew alongside young farming families just starting out. After a few years, Wiltshire began to supply huge events with fully locally sourced ingredients. Charitable fundraisers were then transformed into culinary events where guests could look forward to their meal as a primary draw to attend.
Over the years, Wiltshire Pantry has grown to include multiple retail outlets. The Original Highlands Bakery Cafe at 901 Barret Avenue and its sister Cafe downtown at 6th and Main have been celebrated for their creative, locally sourced menus and for providing spaces where art, culture, and food intersect.
Championing the Arts and Culture
One of the defining characteristics of Susan’s career is her unwavering commitment to the arts, extending beyond culinary creations to include advocacy and support of Louisville’s arts organizations. By hosting and sponsoring events, Wiltshire works to enrich the cultural fabric of the city. Hershberg sees the arts as a vital part of Louisville’s identity and believes in fostering creativity not only through food but through active participation in the cultural life of the city.
In keeping with that tradition, Wiltshire on Main Street offers Prix Fixe dinners in advance of performances at the Kentucky Center for Performing Arts, just a half block away. Starting October 4th and 5th before the Broadway in Louisville series performances of Les Misérables, Wiltshire will host pre-performance dining with seating beginning at 5:30pm. Reservations are encouraged but not required. Dinner service in advance of Louisville Orchestra Concerts as well as Louisville Ballet performances will allow patrons to be fully immersed in the experience.
A Commitment to Social Justice and Philanthropy
Hershberg’s influence in Louisville reaches far beyond the culinary and arts scenes. She is deeply committed to philanthropy and social justice, using her business as a platform to support causes that matter to her and the community. From partnering with local nonprofits to supporting organizations that work for social equity, Hershberg has built a reputation as a business leader who cares about giving back.
In recent years, Hershberg has used Wiltshire Pantry to amplify voices calling for social change, particularly in the realms of racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and economic equity. She believes in using her platform not only to create jobs and sustain local farms but also to make a lasting difference in the lives of the underrepresented and marginalized. Hershberg is known for hiring from diverse backgrounds and advocating for fair wages and working conditions in the food industry.
Revitalizing Downtown Louisville
As an integral part of the Louisville business community, Hershberg has also been a key player in the economic revitalization of Louisville’s downtown. Wiltshire Pantry’s flagship locations have long been anchor institutions, drawing visitors, locals, and tourists to the heart of the city. Her investments in downtown Louisville have helped preserve the city’s architectural heritage while contributing to its modern economic development.
Hershberg has been a vocal advocate for supporting local businesses and downtown revitalization efforts, believing that a thriving city center is crucial to Louisville’s overall health. By creating jobs, supporting local suppliers, and maintaining a commitment to sustainability, Wiltshire Pantry has become a model of how small businesses can drive economic growth while also fostering a strong sense of community.
Looking Ahead
As Wiltshire Pantry celebrates its 35th anniversary, Hershberg shows no signs of slowing down. Her dedication to food, the arts, and the community continues to inspire those around her. Her legacy is one of innovation, compassion, and leadership, making her one of Louisville’s most beloved and respected figures. Whether she’s serving a meal at a local arts gala, advocating for social justice, or contributing to the city’s downtown revitalization, Hershberg’s impact on Louisville is immeasurable.
In a city rich with culture, history, and diversity, Susan Hershberg and Wiltshire Pantry have become symbols of what is possible when passion, philanthropy, and community spirit come together. Thirty-five years in, and the future looks brighter than ever.