You know what goes great with an ice cold brew on a muggy summer day? A savory dish that will leave you happy, full, and (hopefully) distracted from the increasing temperatures.
We’re here to help you go beyond the beer by rounding up our favorite breweries with mainstay bites around Lexington.
Blue Stallion Brewing Co., 610 W. 3rd St.
Enjoy a German-style craft beer at this cozy brewery just on the outskirts of downtown, where you can get complementary Euro-centric bites from Yearling Kitchen.
- We recommend ordering the charcuterie board featuring pickled vegetables, crostini, assorted meats, cheese, and apple butter to pair with a Bruised Orange Pilsner.
Burl Brew, 371 Thompson Rd.
Whatever you consider your “big game,” this Distillery District brewery has you covered. Stop by to catch sports on one of its many giant TVs, then stay for the warm atmosphere, refreshing beer, and dinner from Lucy’s Kitchen.
- We recommend ordering the mini corndogs with a Burl Lite for that perfect fried food + light beer combo.
Ethereal Brewing, various locations
While you can always stop by its original spot on Manchester Street for one of its palate-pleasing beers, its multiple locations round out a great evening with a variety of bites. Looking for German-esque eats? Head downtown to Ethereal Public House for a drink + old world cuisine from Salt & Vinegar. Closer to UK’s campus? The Slice House serves up hot, fresh pizza alongside its iconic beers.
- We recommend the Crushcumber, a tart and refreshing cucumber + lime gose, with an amped-up tomato bisque and grilled cheese.
Mirror Twin Brewing, 725 National Ave.
Bring Fido along while you try one of the many rotating beers on tap at this Warehouse Block brewery, and if they’re a really good pup, maybe they can sneak an apple slice from Rolling Oven’s whipped feta dip appetizer.
- We recommend sharing (or not — we don’t judge) the Sweet Thai Chili Chicken pizza to pair with your Whatever You Want witbier.
The Void Sake Co., 819 National Ave., Ste. 120
Brewed just around the corner, the taproom allows you to try sake seltzer, a build-your-own flight, or a traditional masu cup. The only thing that could make it better? An Asian-inspired bite from on-site food truck Kowai.
- We recommend ordering a wagyu beef glizzy topped with charred shishito peppers to go along with a fruity The Shining One Creamsicle Nigori.
West Sixth Brewing, 501 W. 6th St., #100
This iconic brewery and taproom is a staple in Lexington — for good reason. Whether you’re a part of their epic run club, or just looking for a reliable lunch from Smithtown Seafood, you’re guaranteed to leave satisfied.
- We recommend the blackened catfish + Weisenberger cheese grits plate that pairs beautifully with a crisp West Sixth Cerveza.
Wise Bird Cider Co., 1170 Manchester St., #140
With Kentucky-grown apples, you’re sure to have a sweet time at this Distillery District cidery. Enjoy a glass of cider or frozé to sip on while you snack down on seasonally-minded food from Little Fork food truck.
- We recommend a blueberry mint cider as a light, refreshing option to pair with your hot pepper chicken basket, featuring hot pepper jelly, ranch, fries, and slaw. Bonus: This Drink Up partner is giving you half-off its frozé slushies + frozen cideritas now through Friday, July 26.
