The Shady Lane Cafe is owned by Bill Smith. Bill is widely known across Louisville and literary circles as the poet W. Loran Smith. He has published two collections of poetry, "Night Train" and "Walking Upright" and was named "Best Poet" by Louisville Magazine in the magazine's "Best of Louisville Awards 2005".

A veteran of the restaurant industry, Bill has held various line and chef positions at some of Louisville's most recognized dining establishments, including Equus, Roppell's Catering, Harvest House, and the original Bristol Bar & Grille. He was also shift supervisor at Omega Institute Holistic Retreat in Rienbeck, New York.

At the Shady Lane Cafe, Bill prepares every dish by hand. The cafe's menu features piled-high sandwiches, savory home-made soups, and hot-off-the-grill entrees. The Saturday Morning breakfast service offers early risers the Southern classic biscuits and homemade gravy, as well omelets, breakfast sandwiches and French toast.