Lexington has been my home for the last 17 years, so to say I love it here is an understatement. I grew up here, went to college here and one day hope to raise a family here. Lexington is the heart of Kentucky and I feel truly blessed to get to live here! Taking beautiful backroads and seeing all of the rolling horse farms is not lost on me. Amongst all of Lexington’s natural beauty is an ever growing city full of restaurants, shops and night life. Here are a few of my local favorites, in hopes you will enjoy them as much as I do.

Chocolate Holler is a relatively new coffee joint in Lexington and quickly one of my favorites, you can find me here going through my never ending inbox or meeting up with girlfriends. The name alone got me through the door– I guess you can take the girl out of Eastern Kentucky, but you can’t take the Eastern Kentucky out of the girl. If you’re a fan of tasty coffee and even tastier flavors (I’m talking cookie butter) then this is your spot.

A Cup of Commonwealth is another coffee shop I can get behind because they have excellent lattes and an even better message. When you walk in you’re immediately drawn to the wall of signed coffee cup sleeves, where previous customers have ‘paid it forward’ and purchased someone else’s cup of coffee… often times saying little things like “for the student who is knee deep in a paper” or they might suggest their favorite drink… in that case, mine would say “vanilla latte”. I’m ’bout it.

The Weekly Juicery is my go to for a quick and delicious healthy fix. They have lots of juices that are super yummy and super instagram-able… because thats important these days. My favorite juice is the Bluegrass Sunrise, just enough greens to make me feel healthy while balancing out the taste with some fresh citrus. Another way I like to sip my way to a healthier me is their smoothies. My current go to is the Blue Majik but I can be talked into the Pink Door Special real quick. They also have delicious acai bowls, which are my J A M lately– grab yourself a Bee Nutter & Jelly and thank me later.

Crank and Boom offers a slew of custom ice cream flavors… I didn’t even know I needed anything other than chocolate but I’m not complaining. Some vary seasonally (think pumpkin flavored everything in the Fall) and some are around for the long haul. My favorite of all time is the Kentucky Blackberry + Buttermilk but their signature (and another must try) is the Bourbon Honey– tell me your mouth isn’t watering! All the ingredients are local so you’ll feel like a true kentuckian while your devouring your ice cream. PLUS I have to brag about the area it’s located in– Lexington’s Distillery District! I loooove. Theres so many great things popping up in this area and I’m all for it (you’ll see a couple more in this list).

Middle Fork is another favorite located in the Distillery District and a must for dinner with friends. They serve it up family style so it’s ideal for a big group– plus the atmosphere is super cool and something different for Lexington.

North Lime Donuts crack me up with their donut selection– I never knew I wanted bacon on my donut til I stepped through their door. If you’re a little hesitant on their wild donut flavors, you can never go wrong with a glazed or snickerdoodle. But for those feeling a little daring, try out the maple bacon– live a little.

Goodfellas Pizza is another one in the Distillery District and great for pizza by the slice! It’s quick and easy and super delicious. They’re located inside of an old distillery, so it’s not your normal pizza parlor… y’all the smokestack is still inside there. So cool.

If you make your way to the Bluegrass during Keeneland’s spring or fall meet, you’re in for a real treat. Nothing feels more like Kentucky than putting on your best duds and betting on some ponies!

Manchester Music Hall is the place to be in Lexington for live music– with a slew of country artists making appearances all year round, I’m particularly excited about their summer lineup. Anytime Sundy Best is playing, I’m there. Sundy is a couple local boys and the true sound of Kentucky. They’ll be playing at MMH May 12 and you won’t want to miss out.

The Summit is the newest gem to Lexington and I couldn’t be more excited that she’s finally open to the public– it feels like Christmas morning. With a variety of shops, restaurants, workout places and even a Whole Foods, it truly is the place to be. The Summit is now home to our FRYE store, where you will probably be able to find me on a weekly basis– no shame. Welcome to Lexington, FRYE!