Home to a winning college basketball team and legendary thoroughbreds, Lexington, Kentucky, scores big in the sports world. But it’s more than hoops and horses. Fed by limestone-rich water, the fertile fields surrounding the city yield abundant crops and a majority of the world’s bourbon. It also boasts hoppin’ craft breweries, an array of dining options ranging from downhome to highbrow, and some seriously locavore chefs. It all combines to create a sure-bet culinary scene that’s giving its other appealing aspects a run for their money. Start in NoLi (North Limestone), an edge-of-downtown neighborhood that’s transformed from abandoned properties to an arts hub. Fuel up for a day of exploring at Doodles, a former gas station now serving Lex-sourced breakfast staples like cornmeal-crisped pancakes drizzled with sorghum molasses. Head to the historic James E. Pepper Distillery District and grab a cold one—an ice cream cone or a Kentucky craft beer—at Crank & Boom Ice Cream Lounge. When in the horse capital of the world, a stop by Keeneland is a winning choice. Hooves pound the historic track each April and October, but its idyllic green grounds and facilities are open for tours year round.
explore lexington 
Radar
Radar: 8 “Must-Go” New Restaurants of 2023
From omakase to Yucatan-inspired fare, these 8 must go restaurants bring something new to the South's diverse culinary landscape.
Road Trip
Fresh Bourbon in the Bluegrass Region
Managing editor, Emily Havener, guides us through her tasting at Fresh Bourbon in Lexington, a stop on her roadtrip through bourbon country.
At the Table
Turmeric and Buttermilk
Turmeric and Buttermilk: One Kentucky chef taps into her Southern and Sri Lankan heritage to spice up fried chicken with her signature blend.
Explore Nearby
On the Road
Louisville
New and exciting aromas fill the old, industrial streets of the Gateway to the South. Come for Bourbon, and leave with artisan bread.
On the Road
Nashville
Nashville is a city fueled by music, steered by history, and revved up with a dynamic food and drink scene.
On the Road
Memphis
Call it grit. Call it soul. No matter how you slice it, there’s something about Memphis' food and music scene.
