Horse Mania, Lexington, KY

Find a horse of every color around town this summer.

by Fiona Young-Brown | July 27, 2010

Visitors to Lexington in the past few weeks may have noticed there’s something a little different, something that wasn’t here before. That something is 82 horse statues, decorated in every manner of colors and styles.

Horse Mania is back in town!

In 2000, the city hosted an exhibit of decorated horses that were later sold off for charity. With the World Equestrian Games coming up, it’s only natural that the city should host …

Bellacino’s Pizza, Nicholasville, KY

The address is Nicholasville, but it's right on the edge of Lexington and has great pizza!

by Fiona Young-Brown | July 26, 2010

I am pretty picky about my pizza, and most chain or franchise places just don’t do it for me. In fact, I’m more likely to stay at home and just make pizza myself. There are some places in town that are worth a visit though. I mentioned Pazzo’s Pub in an earlier post. Another place to enjoy some good pizza is Bellacino’s at Brannon Crossing.

My family used to be regulars at …

Portofino, Lexington, KY

An elegant setting and the finest cuisine -- you might even think you're in Italy!

by Fiona Young-Brown | July 20, 2010

If you’re looking for somewhere upscale to take out of town guests or to go for a special occasion, Portofino, in downtown Lexington, should be on your list of go-to restaurants.

Portofino is located on Main Street, just a hundred yards or so from the Kentucky Theater. The restaurant features a wonderful menu of Italian and American cuisine, and an extensive wine list. Portofino earned the Wine Spectator Award seven years in a …

The Explorium, Lexington, KY

Lexington's Explorium is fun for kids and adults alike.

by Fiona Young-Brown | July 19, 2010

Want to know how it feels to be a turtle? Learn about how to fly? Enclose yourself in a bubble?

You can do all of that and more at the Explorium, formerly known as the Lexington Children’s Museum.

The Explorium provides an afternoon of entertainment for children of all ages. Since this is Kentucky, there is, of course, a permanent exhibit teaching children about horses. Also learn about healthy foods and healthy …

Rupp Arena, Lexington, KY

Classical to Rock - they all play Rupp.

by Fiona Young-Brown | July 12, 2010

Monster trucks, wrestling, comedians, basketball, U2, country music… you’ll find it all on the yearly calendar at Rupp Arena, central Kentucky’s biggest venue for live music.

Located in the center of downtown Lexington, Rupp Arena opened in 1976 with a seating capacity of 23,500. It is home of the Kentucky Wildcats basketball team and, as such, sees some of the biggest game day attendance figures in the nation. However, Rupp Arena also …

The Lexington Legends, Lexington, KY

Come and cheer on Lexington's very own minor league baseball team.

by Fiona Young-Brown | July 10, 2010

If you have not yet spent a hot Lexington evening with a hot dog in hand, while singing a rousing chorus of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” from the stands of Applebees Park, you clearly have not yet been to a Lexington Legends game.

What are you waiting for?

Lexington’s minor league baseball team, affiliated with the Houston Astros, had their inaugural season in 2001. Since then, they’ve gone …

Alfalfa Restaurant, Lexington, KY

Offering eclectic vegetarian food for more than 35 years.

by Fiona Young-Brown | July 06, 2010

Vegetarians in Lexington have known about Alfalfa for a long time. For more than thirty five years, while other restaurants’ only options for non-meat eaters were a green salad or a baked potato, the folks at Alfalfa were offering up tasty plates of falafel, hoppin’ john, and vegetable tempura.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, even catering for outside events – all are available at Alfalfa. Have a die hard carnivore in your group? Not to …

Herrington Lake, Lancaster, KY

There's plenty of fun on the water at Herrington Lake.

by Fiona Young-Brown | July 05, 2010

Now is the perfect time for messing about on the water and, despite Kentucky’s lack of a coastline, we do have plenty of wonderful lakes nearby for fishing, boating, and swimming enthusiasts to take advantage of.

Herrington Lake is roughly 3600 acres and spreads between Boyle, Mercer, and Garrard counties, just a short drive from Lexington. It was created in 1925, when Dix Dam was constructed to generate hydroelectric power along part of the …

Bar Louie, Lexington, KY

Eat, Drink and be Happy at Bar Louie in Lexington Green

by Fiona Young-Brown | June 29, 2010

Lexington Green has always offered a great combination of shops, eateries, and entertainment, so it comes as no surprise to find Bar Louie taking the spot where Ruby Tuesdays used to be. Whether you’re meeting a friend for lunch, sharing dinner with your spouse, or enjoying a drink before a show at neighboring Comedy Off Broadway, Bar Louie offers great food, a wide choice of drinks, and friendly service. The big screens also …

The Summer Classics Series at the Kentucky Theater, Lexington, KY

See all your heroes, from Bogey to Indiana Jones.

by Fiona Young-Brown | June 28, 2010

If your cinematic tastes are a little less-inclined toward the modern, CGI-infused blockbusters, and a little more toward the classics of yesteryear, the Summer Classics Series at the Kentucky Theater is for you.

Each year, lovers of bygone Hollywood are treated to four months of classic screenings, with a new film showing each Wednesday. The screenings are quite an event. The restored organ plays while you take your seats, and then the crowd …

The Pioneer Playhouse, Danville, KY

The fun of open air theater is just a short drive from Lexington

by Fiona Young-Brown | June 22, 2010

An evening at the theater doesn’t have to mean putting on a tie. How about barbecue, beans, and some open air comedy?

Kentucky’s oldest open-air theater, the Pioneer Playhouse in Danville, celebrated its sixtieth birthday last year. In its history, it has seen some major stars pass through. John Travolta and Lee Majors both appeared here before they went on to achieve movie stardom.

Although the future of the Pioneer Playhouse …

The Fourth of July, Lexington, KY

Celebrate the 4th on the 3rd in Lexington!

by Fiona Young-Brown | June 21, 2010

Since July 4^th falls on a Sunday this year, the city of Lexington wants to make sure you have plenty of time to celebrate. So much so in fact that the official July 4^th celebrations will be taking place on July 3^rd.

Due to downtown construction, the 2010 events have shifted two blocks north to Phoenix Park, Courthouse Plaza, and Short Street, but don’t worry. Just because things have moved doesn’t mean …

Lexington Pride Festival, Lexington, KY

A Horse of Every Color is the theme to this year's festivities.

by Fiona Young-Brown | June 15, 2010

With the World Equestrian Games just a few months away, it is only fitting that the theme for this year’s Lexington Pride Festival is A Horse of Every Color.

The first gay pride festival in Lexington was held in 2008 and the event has, to use a cliché, become bigger and better each year. In fact, the event has become so popular that the previous location of Cheapside is just …

The Alltech Lexington Brewing and Distilling Co., Lexington, KY

You know Kentucky makes great bourbon... now try our beer.

by Fiona Young-Brown | June 14, 2010

Few people visit central Kentucky without visiting at least one stop on the Bourbon Trail, but few visitors to Lexington know that bourbon is now being distilled within the city limits once more.

The revitalization of the old distillery district has seen the opening of one small distillery and perhaps more may follow.

But there’s more to Kentucky than bourbon. Just around the corner from the historic distillery district, …

The Great American Brass Band Festival and Balloon Race, Danville, KY

It's a traditional all-American weekend of brass bands in the park and picnics in Danville

by Fiona Young-Brown | June 07, 2010

If you’re looking for an all-American small town, Danville, a short drive from Lexington, is the place to go. The town is home to the Great American Dollhouse Museum, the Pioneer Playhouse Theater, Constitution Square, and, June 10-13, the annual Great American Brass Band Festival.

Each year, musicians from across the country, and even around the world, gather in Danville to celebrate the good old brass …

Old Bridge Golf Course, Danville, KY

A beautifully designed golf course in the heart of Bluegrass countryside.

by Fiona Young-Brown | June 07, 2010

Visitors to the Bluegrass are pleasantly surprised to discover that Lexington and the surrounding area is home to a plethora of marvelous golf courses, and while some are part of expensive clubs, others are very affordable.

So it may seem a little odd that I’m going to recommend a golf course in nearby Danville this week, but if you’re going along to visit some of Danville’s other attractions: the Great …

Natasha’s Bistro and Bar, Lexington, KY

Theatre, music, food, and a world of color awaits you at Natasha's.

by Fiona Young-Brown | May 31, 2010

What do you call a place that serves everything from pizza to filet mignon? Baba ghanouj to sandwiches? With a fully stocked bar, not to mention gourmet Turkish coffee? A place where, while you dine, you can watch some of the most talented stage acts touring the US today? Somewhere you can view films from emerging local filmmakers in a state of the art digital micro cinema or see performances by a local theatre company? …

The Bodley-Bullock House, Lexington, Ky

This historical location provides an elegant venue for a Southern wedding.

by Fiona Young-Brown | May 31, 2010

It’s wedding season again and if you’re looking for somewhere to hold your nuptials, Lexington hold lots of beautiful and historic options. One venue that you might not have heard of is the Bodley-Bullock House near Gratz Park.

The house was built in the early 19^th century for Mayor Thomas Pindell and is typical of the period’s magnificent architecture. Revolutionary war hero General Thomas Bodley then bought the property and his name has …

Wine and Market, Lexington, KY

A gourmet's dream comes to town, thanks to Wine and Market.

by Fiona Young-Brown | May 25, 2010

Are you looking for somewhere you can find fabulous cheese, freshly baked bread, and some good wine? In fact, how about some really good wine – organic perhaps? If you’re thinking that you need to be in New York, San Francisco, or Paris to find such a place, you can now relax in the knowledge that Lexington, KY is up there with the best of them, thanks to a little place called Wine & …

Wolf Run Wildlife Refuge, Nicholasville, KY

Lions and wolves are on the doorstep of Lexington at this wonderful refuge.

by Fiona Young-Brown | May 24, 2010

Although you’ll have to drive to Louisville or Cincinnati to visit a zoo, there is a wonderful wildlife refuge and rescue center right on Lexington’s doorstep.

Wolf Run in Jessamine County was first established in 1993 to provide a facility for rescued wolves that could not be released back into the wild. Since then, it has grown and is now a USDA and a state licensed facility that provides shelter for …

Memorial Weekend Music, Lexington, KY

Take Your Pick of Great Musical Events in the Bluegrass this Memorial Day Weekend

by Fiona Young-Brown | May 17, 2010

Music fans in the Bluegrass have an array of great options to choose from this Memorial Day weekend so let’s look at two of the possibilities.

If you like chamber music, you’ll want to head over to Shaker Village on May 29 and 30 for the Chamber Music Festival of the Bluegrass. Sponsored by the Norton Center for the Arts, the weekend will feature music from members of New York’s Chamber …

The Lexington Cemetery, Lexington, KY

Pay respects to those who died for their country at the annual Memorial Day Observance

by Fiona Young-Brown | May 17, 2010

For those wishing to attend a Memorial Day observance in central Kentucky, there are few locations more idyllic and more appropriate than the Lexington Cemetery. Serving as the city burial ground since its establishment with an 1848 Charter (at which time it was on the outskirts of the fledgling town), Lexington Cemetery is the final resting place for Henry Clay, the Breckinridges, John Hunt Morgan, Mary Todd Lincoln’s father, and many more.

It …

Wallace Station, Versailles, KY

Sandwiches and salads are the latest in Chef Ouita Michel's food family.

by Fiona Young-Brown | May 11, 2010

Chef Ouita Michel’s Holly Hill Inn is a fixture of many fine dining guides, and the restaurant has put Midway firmly on the map for many visitors to Kentucky. However, if you are looking for something a little lighter, you’ll be pleased to know that she is also the creative brain behind Wallace Station, a wonderful deli-bakery just a few miles from Midway.

The eye-catching white building on Old Frankfort Pike is …

Talon Winery, Lexington, KY

Discover Kentucky's other great drink... at Talon Winery in Lexington.

by Fiona Young-Brown | May 10, 2010

Although most people think of bourbon when they think of Kentucky, few realize that the Commonwealth once had a strong wine industry, something that has seen a good deal of resurgence over the past decade. Since the soil in the Central Bluegrass is ideal for grape cultivation, the region is now home to more than a dozen wineries, including Lexington’s Talon Winery.

Located in an 18^th century farmhouse on Tates Creek Road, Talon …

Three Suns Bistro, Nicholasville, KY

Pecan chicken and profiteroles are among the favorites at Three Suns Bistro.

by Fiona Young-Brown | May 03, 2010

Some time ago, Sherrie Keller-Pauley and her husband decided to open a restaurant in a former Dairy Queen in Nicholasville. The location’s humble fast-food origins belied the new chef’s wonderful food. Word spread about the menu, which included customer favorite pecan-crusted chicken in praline sauce. Soon, the Three Suns Bistro moved to a new location in the Brannon Crossing development, just outside of Lexington. Business has boomed and now Three Suns has two …

Posh Salon and Spa, Lexington, KY

It's All About You at Lexington's Posh Salon and Spa

by Fiona Young-Brown | May 03, 2010

When the rigors of daily life are all a bit much and you are in need of some serious pampering, there are few better ways to spend a few hours, or a day, than at Lexington’s Posh Salon and Spa.

A frequent winner in the Lexington Herald-Leader's Reader Polls, Posh Salon and Spa offers a complete range of treatments, from a simple manicure or eyebrow wax to a full day …

Billy’s Bar-B-Q, Lexington, KY

Some of the best barbecue in Lexington can be found at Billy's Bar-B-Q in Chevy Chase.

by Fiona Young-Brown | April 26, 2010

Southerners take their barbecue seriously, and Kentucky is no exception. The debates between the most ardent fans about types of sauce, levels of heat, dry rub or wet sauce, can drag on for hours. So when I decided to research local barbecue joints, I knew I could be venturing into controversial territory. Luckily, most people had the same answer: Billy's Bar-B-Q, they all assured me, has the best barbecue around. As one happy …

Lexington Farmer’s Market, Lexington, KY

Fresh, local and healthy—only the best produce is at the Lexington Farmer's Market.

by Fiona Young-Brown | April 26, 2010

Now that spring is here again, it is time to enjoy some of the very best local produce available in central Kentucky, and my favorite place to find it is at the Lexington Farmer’s Market.

Established in 1975, the cooperative that runs the market now has 65 members who all help to keep the things going.

Fresh asparagus is in season now, and you can still pick up some …

Mayfest Arts Festival, Gratz Park, Lexington, KY

Enjoy the spring weather in beautiful Gratz Park.

by Fiona Young-Brown | April 19, 2010

If May conjures up images of ice cream and crafts, children playing in the park, and families enjoying folk music, you’ll have a wonderful afternoon at the MayFest Arts Fair in Lexington’s beautiful Gratz Park.

This year, as in many previous years, Mayfest will take place the weekend of Mother’s Day (Saturday, May 8, and Sunday, May 9) giving you the perfect opportunity to treat Mom after taking her to lunch.

…

Derby Day Parties at Keeneland, Lexington, KY

Where to watch the Run for the Roses in Lexington

by Fiona Young-Brown | April 19, 2010

If you can’t make it to Louisville for the most exciting two minutes in sport, or if you just don’t want to find yourself sweating among the crowds of the infield at Churchill Downs, not to worry. Lexington has some great places to go and enjoy the race as well as an afternoon filled with racing festivities.

The popular place to head to is Keeneland. After all, where better to …

Stella’s Kentucky Deli, Lexington, KY

Local meats and produce make the food extra special at this Lexington eatery

by Fiona Young-Brown | April 12, 2010

It’s always good to see a local business doing well. Even more satisfying is seeing the success of a local business that makes use of other local businesses. Such is the case with Stella’s Kentucky Deli on Jefferson Street, just a few blocks from downtown and Rupp Arena.

The menu is delicious with some charmingly eclectic additions. The lamb burger is juicy and flavorful, the black bean soup rich and warming. Vegetarian? …

The Rolex 3 Day Event 2010, Lexington, KY

See some of the world's best equestrians compete in Lexington at the Rolex 3 Day

by Fiona Young-Brown | April 12, 2010

One thing is for sure about Lexington and the Bluegrass: Whether you live here or you’re just passing through, you can’t ignore the horses. We see them in pastures as we enter the city. We see banners or horse-related businesses around town. We fight traffic around Keeneland when spring and fall meets are on. But if the speed of Keeneland is not to your liking, you may find a gentler, although no less …

Keeneland Spring Meet, Lexington, KY

Enjoy a day at the races in Kentucky's Bluegrass

by Fiona Young-Brown | April 04, 2010

April is here and for Lexingtonians that can mean only one thing: racing season at Keeneland. Rain or shine, but especially shine, there are few better ways to spend an afternoon in Lexington than soaking up the atmosphere at Keeneland race track. There are two live meets per year, in April and in October, giving you a total of six weeks to get along to mingle with the crowd, maybe place a bet …

The Arboretum, Lexington, KY

Enjoy 100 acres of beautiful greenery at the State Botanical Garden of Kentucky

by Fiona Young-Brown | April 04, 2010

Lexington is fortunate to have a large amount of green space. With its variety of parks and community gardens, visitors and residents are never far from a peaceful retreat or a children's play area. However, did you know that Lexington is also home to the State Botanical Garden?

The Arboretum, as it is more commonly known, opened in 1991 as a joint project between the Lexington-Fayette County Urban Government and the University …

The Beaux Arts Ball, Lexington, KY

Don't miss Kentucky's most outrageous masquerade ball!

by Fiona Young-Brown | March 30, 2010

Want to attend an event of outstanding entertainment and outrageous costumes—all for a good cause? A creative event that brings guests from around the world to Lexington in search of one night of crazy, memorable fun? The Beaux Arts Ball is the place for you!

Back in the 19th century, the Ecole des Beaux Arts architectural community held the first in a line of masquerade balls, designed to explore creativity "beyond the …

The Unitarian Universalist Church of Lexington, Lexington, KY

Find a warm welcome for all spiritual beliefs at the U.U.

by Fiona Young-Brown | March 29, 2010

Visitors to Lexington who are wanting to attend a Sunday service will not find any shortage of churches to choose from. Just the shortest of drives along Clays Mill Road will reveal more places of worship than I could count. One that you may miss however is set back from the main road, surrounded by a beautifully peaceful campus of trees.

The Unitarian Universalist Church of Lexington was built in 1965 and …

Mary Todd Lincoln House, Lexington, KY

Visit the First Site to be Restored in Honor of a First Lady

by Fiona Young-Brown | March 23, 2010

Mary Todd Lincoln remains one of American history's most maligned and misunderstood characters. The First Lady was ridiculed and disliked during her lifetime, although some historians now see her in a different light, as an intelligent, ambitious woman who was ahead of her time. Mary was born in Lexington in 1818. The daughter of a prominent local merchant, her mother died when Mary was just seven years old. For much of her childhood, she and …

The Parkette, Lexington, KY

Enjoy a Poor Boy at Lexington's Favorite Drive-In Restaurant

by Fiona Young-Brown | March 22, 2010

Way back in 1951, when New Circle Road was little more than a dirt road, Joe Smiley decided the city needed a drive-in restaurant. He gave us the Parkette. He also gave us the Poor Boy, a double-decker hamburger. A Lexington landmark was created. A few years later, the famous sign was added—a sign that still stands today.

New Circle Road may have changed. Looking at the old pictures and then at …

Beer Cheese Festival, Winchester, KY

More Beer Cheese, More Music, More Fun at the Second Annual Beer Cheese Festival

by Fiona Young-Brown | March 16, 2010

Beer cheese is another of those Kentucky staples. Sure you might find something that claims to be beer cheese in another part of the US, but for the real thing, come to the Bluegrass State. Many cooks have their own favorite recipe and those who prefer not to make it have a favorite brand. Hall's on the River, a restaurant in Winchester, is particularly well known for its beer cheese.

So what …

Best of the Bluegrass, Lexington, KY

Five Days of Fabulous Events Celebrating the Best Lexington and the Bluegrass Has to Offer!

by Fiona Young-Brown | March 15, 2010

It may be difficult to acknowledge right now, given these dark, dreary March mornings, but spring is here. The birds are chirping, green buds are springing forth. Sounds like time for a spring festival, and Lexington has one for you with its annual Best of the Bluegrass Celebration.

Each year, the Downtown Lexington Corporation, an organization comprised of business owners, neighborhood associations, churches, and community groups, puts on a multiday …

Failte, Lexington, KY

Stock up on your Irish Favorites at Failte Irish Import Shop

by Fiona Young-Brown | March 08, 2010

In the beautiful lilting Gaelic tongue, the word "failte" means "welcome". It describes just how you will feel when you step through the doors of Failte Irish Import Store, owned by native Dubliner Liza Hendley Betz. Betz has been in Kentucky since 1996 when a vacation unexpectedly became a whole new life. After suffering from homesickness, Betz decided to open Failte in 2001 as a way of providing herself and her fellow expats …

Molly Brooke’s Irish Bar, Lexington, KY

Join the parade in downtown Lexington, then head along to Molly Brooke's

by Fiona Young-Brown | March 08, 2010

St Patrick's Day will soon be upon us, which means it is time once again for green beer, corned beef and cabbage, and some of the worst fake accents you'll ever hear. It also means hordes of drunk students crowded into some of the hostelries around town. Knowing where to go to have a good time but without the rowdiness of those who might have overindulged a wee bit needn't be a difficult choice. Whether …

Third Street Stuff, Lexington, KY

Coffee, Poetry, and Shopping at one of Lexington's Coolest Hangouts.

by Fiona Young-Brown | March 02, 2010

Third Street Stuff stands out from its surroundings like a brightly colored oasis of creativity and fun. In fact, I defy anyone to enter the store and not find at least half a dozen things they want to buy right now. Funky water bottles, recycled plastic or denim bags, the cutest jewelry, geisha alarm clocks...once you've been here, there is absolutely no excuse for not having a ton of color in your life.

Owned …

University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY

Come to the home of the Wildcats!

by Fiona Young-Brown | March 01, 2010

So you're thinking about college and you're wondering if you want to be a Wildcat? Of course you do! Come to the University of Kentucky and see all there is to love about living in Lexington.

On the official tour, they'll tell you all about the history of the university, how it was founded in 1865 as a land-grant institution. Believe it or not, it used to be right at the edge …

One World Film Festival, Lexington, KY

10 Free Films Showing Through February and March

by Fiona Young-Brown | February 22, 2010

After a young cellist loses his job, he returns to his home town to train as an undertaker. A Vietnamese girl sold into prostitution finds friendship with an American art dealer. Low-income families in LA fight property developers to protect an urban farm.

These are just three of the ten films scheduled to show at this year's One World Film Festival, a series of films screening during February and March. …

Holly Hill Inn, Midway, KY

Exquisite Dining Just Minutes from Lexington

by Fiona Young-Brown | February 22, 2010

Those familiar with local cuisine were not at all surprised to hear last week that Ouita Michel has been named a semifinalist for the James Beard Award for Best Chef in the Southeast. It is her third nomination for the prize.

Ouita is the chef and owner of Midway's Holly Hill Inn. With her husband, Chris, she has operated the restaurant since 2000, earning regional and national recognition along …

Marikka’s Restaurant and Bier Stube, Lexington, KY

Enjoy beers from around the world at Lexington's only authentic German restaurant.

by Fiona Young-Brown | February 15, 2010

Many moons ago, I spent a summer living and working in a mountain hut on the German-Austrian border. During my time there, I learned how to speak German with a soft Bavarian accent, how to pour and carry those huge steins of beer, and how to chop wood, since there was no electricity or running water.

Fortunately, if you want a taste of Germany, you can enjoy the beer and sausage with all the home comforts, …

Travel Guide to Lexington, KY

Why You Should Visit Lexington

by Fiona Young-Brown | February 15, 2010

Lexington has historically been the center of economic and cultural life for Kentucky. Of note for the fact that it did not grow up around a major waterway, the city developed a thriving commercial and agricultural heritage due to its central location for the entire state.

The first university west of the Alleghenies, Transylvania University was established here in 1780 and housed a medical school, law school and seminary. The presence …

Buster’s Billiards and Backroom, Lexington, KY

Pool and Live Music are Part of Lexington's Distillery District Revival

by Fiona Young-Brown | February 08, 2010

In the past year or so, the Distillery District of Lexington has undergone a fabulous revival. The once abandoned warehouses along Manchester Street are coming back to life as bars, art galleries, and more. There are even plans for a new artisan distillery to open.

Buster's Billards and Backroom is located in what used to be the Old Tarr Distillery Warehouse, built in 1860. Covering some 11,000 square feet, the …

Gumbo Ya Ya, Lexington, KY

For awesome jambalaya and casual Creole style, head to one of Gumbo Ya Ya's two locations

by Fiona Young-Brown | February 08, 2010

If you can't quite make it to New Orleans for Mardi Gras or whenever you crave a little Maque Choux, it's all good. Just drive to South Broadway or Main Street and get your fill at Gumbo Ya Ya's, home to Lexington's best Cajun and Creole food.

Owner Greg Todd trained under New Orleans native Joe Vuskovich for years, before setting up on his own in 2004. Last year, he and …

Lyndon House Bed & Breakfast, Lexington, KY

When you need a beautiful place to escape...head to Lyndon House, one of Lexington's most attractive bed and breakfasts.

by Fiona Young-Brown | February 01, 2010

Lexington's historic downtown area is full of beautiful old houses and gardens, and wonderful streets to wander along as you while away the hours. So it makes sense that you should choose to stay in the district if you want a break.

The Lyndon House Bed and Breakfast, located on North Broadway, is home away from home, offering guests elegantly decored rooms and a delicious home cooked breakfast, all within walking distance of downtown …

Pazzo’s Pizza Pub, Lexington, KY

Find the best hand-tossed pizza and largest draft beer selection in Lexington at Pazzo's

by Fiona Young-Brown | February 01, 2010

There are quite a few pubs and sports bars in Lexington, but if you want one with a great atmostphere and fantastic food, you need to head to Pazzo's, at the corner of Euclid and South Limestone.

At first glance, it's easy to dismiss this as just another student hangout, given its proximity to the UK campus. You'll be missing out though if you don't give it a try. Pazzo's has bars both …

Koreana, Lexington, KY

Fabulous Korean cuisine at a great price is yours at Koreana.

by Fiona Young-Brown | January 26, 2010

If you've never tried Korean food, you are missing out. Luckily, that is easy to remedy with a visit to Koreana, located on Woodhill Drive, just off New Circle Road. From outside, the restaurant may not look like much, and you may even miss it if you didn't know it was there. Once you enter, however, your tastebuds will be treated to a selection of flavors and textures that put your usual Wednesday night takeout to …

Gratz Park Inn, Lexington, KY

Escape to one of Lexington's Most Romantic Getaway Spots

by Fiona Young-Brown | January 26, 2010

If you're looking for somewhere romantic to spend this Valentine's Day weekend, look no further than Lexington's Gratz Park Inn. Located in Gratz Park, downtown Lexington's most beautiful and historic area, the Inn was a medical clinic until 1988, when it was converted into a luxury hotel.

The Inn offers a range of packages, several geared towards romance. The French package remembers Lexington's continental history and includes accommodation in the delightfully …

Alure Salon and Day Spa, Lexington, KY

Recharge those batteries at one of Lexington's finest day spas

by Fiona Young-Brown | January 18, 2010

Whether you live in Lexington, or are in town for a business conference or a vacation, sometimes you need a break from it all. Make some time for you at the Alure Salon and Day Spa in Lexington's Beaumont Circle.

Imagine a hydrotherapy soak in aloe vera, citrus flowers, and mint aromatherapy oils, followed by a cactus skin rub to get the circulation flowing. How about a warm citrus wrap and Chinese herb exfoliation? …

Mi Mexico, Lexington, KY

Enjoy great Mexican food and friendly service at Mi Mexico's three locations

by Fiona Young-Brown | January 18, 2010

Lexington has a large Mexican immigrant population and an equally large number of Mexican restaurants. But finding one you like can be a little on the tricky side. Some try to provide a "gourmet" experience and, in doing so, offer overpriced food that is far better elsewhere. Others offer poor service and poor food. Remember one simple rule: Where do the immigrants eat? The answer? Mi Mexico.

The first Mi Mexico restaurant in Lexington …

Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa, Lexington, KY

Golf, fine dining, and a fabulous spa are all on the edge of town.

by Fiona Young-Brown | January 12, 2010

If you're looking for somewhere to stay in Lexington that seems to have thought of everything, the Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa should be top of your list. Close to the interstate? Close to the airport? Easy access to downtown for shopping and to horse farms for sightseeing? Yes, yes, and yes. Fortunately, it's also surrounded by enough greenspace to provide peace and quiet, and to make you feel as if you are …

Lexington History Museum, Lexington, KY

View Lexington's past - Lincoln, Keeneland, Black and White, and more.

by Fiona Young-Brown | January 11, 2010

If you're looking for somewhere to learn about Lexington's Civil Rights history, look no further than the In Black and White exhibit at the Lexington History Museum.

The Museum opened in 2003 in the old downtown courthouse, a magnificent building on Main Street. Evening lectures are held once a month and children's programs are also featured. There are several permanent exhibits in place. Athens of the West recalls Lexington's early days, when the state …

The Kentucky Theater, Lexington, KY

Step back in time to true Hollywood glamor at Lexington's Kentucky Theater.

by Fiona Young-Brown | January 05, 2010

There was once a time when going to the movies was almost as exciting as the movie itself. Thick carpeting, ornately decorated walls, stained glass, lavish murals on the ceiling - all a far cry from today's bland multiplexes. Luckily you can relive a little movie magic at the Kentucky Theater in downtown Lexington.

The Kentucky opened in 1922 with a showing of "The Eternal Flame" starring Norma Talmadge. In 1927, it became the first theater …

The Yoga Studio at Dudley Square, Lexington, KY

Health and fitness for all ages at the Yoga Studio

by Fiona Young-Brown | January 05, 2010

Whether it's a New Year's resolution to drop a few pounds, or the creaking of your joints reminding you it's time to stretch more frequently, finding somewhere to work out can be a daunting task. Some places are filled with muscle-bound warriors—far too intimidating for those of us who slouch around in a baggy t-shirt and leggings. Others leave you to get on with it, until you injure yourself because of the lack of proper, trained …

Morris Book Shop, Lexington, KY

A local bookstore that is part of the community.

by Fiona Young-Brown | December 28, 2009

In these days of megamarts, giant box stores, and online retailers, it may seem as if the traditional, community shop is but a distant memory. The Morris Book Shop aims to change that.

Back in 1937, the original Morris Book Shop opened its doors. In the 1950s, it changed ownership and Joseph Houlihan operated the store downtown until its closure in 1978. Joseph's great-nephew Hap is now the store manager of the reincarnation of …

Dick Bark’s Howlin’ New Year’s Eve, Lexington, KY

Party like an animal to celebrate New Year, for a good cause.

by Fiona Young-Brown | December 28, 2009

If you're still looking for THE place to be on New Year's Eve, look no further because the party to be at features television stars, fine food, excellent music, and all the glamour of Hollywood. Need an extra bonus? It's all to raise money for a good cause.

Home At Last is a 200 acre no-kill animal shelter, located 14 miles outside of Lexington. For the last 12 years, the refuge has become home …

Saul Good Restaurant and Pub, Lexington, KY

Some of the best pizzas and chocolate in town are at Saul Good.

by Fiona Young-Brown | December 21, 2009

If you like pizza and chocolate (and who doesn't), you are missing out if you have not yet paid a visit to Saul Good Restaurant and Pub, located in the Plaza at Fayette Mall, across from the cinema. Where else in town can you get a chocolate pizza or an ice-cream float in chocolate beer?

Saul Good is one of Lexington's most stylish and fun eateries. Named after the legendary jeweler's son who supposedly traveled the …

Ashland - The Henry Clay Estate, Lexington, KY

Celebrate Christmas as it used to be with Henry Clay and Currier & Ives

by Fiona Young-Brown | December 21, 2009

The holidays are a wonderful time at Ashland, the historic home of statesman, Presidential candidate, and one of Lexington's most illustrious figures, Henry Clay. So it's a perfect time to take out of town guests for a visit. Once part of a massive estate on what used to be the edge of Lexington, Ashland now stands proud not far from downtown. It has been a museum since 1950. Each Christmas, the staff at the home painstakingly …

Tokyo Sushi, Lexington, KY

Head to Tokyo Sushi to enjoy some of the best rolls in town.

by Fiona Young-Brown | December 15, 2009

Admit it Lexington – we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to restaurants. As I was told when I first moved here, people in Lexington like to eat. The trouble is, most of the crowds head to the same old chains, ignoring the great little places scattered across town. On the bright side, that means you rarely have to wait for a table. I've been faced with a two hour wait at a chain restaurant but …

Southern Lights, Lexington, KY

Feel the magic of Christmas in Kentucky with miles of glorious light displays.

by Fiona Young-Brown | December 15, 2009

Every Lexington resident knows that when you have guests in town for Christmas, the Southern Lights is the place to go. As you drive along I-75, you'll find yourself bewitched by thousands of twinkling lights near the Kentucky Horse Park. That's your signal to head along to the Horse Park (after dark, of course) to enjoy several miles of incredible animated displays. Fairytale characters, movie scenes, a rerun of the Kentucky Derby... it's all here for …