Did you know? Kentucky is home to 364,200 small businesses. We want to celebrate all the businesses that make LEX so special.
In honor of our many movers and shakers, we’re asking readers to nominate small businesses they love so we can share them with the whole audience.
We’ll be here to share a new batch of small businesses every month, so bookmark this page to come back for more, especially if you’ve enjoyed our Small Business Week and Today’s Best coverage.
Editor’s note: Some quotes may have been edited for clarity and brevity.
Editor’s picks
girlsgirlsgirls Burritos | Food + Beverage
“The team I work with daily is wildly creative and is the heart and soul of our extremely unique and authentic restaurant experience we offer to our customers here.” — Founder + Operator Sara Wood
- girlsgirlsgirls Burritos serves creative burritos, bowls, and margaritas alongside a full bar and regular live music + events in a laid-back, dog-friendly patio setting.
Proof Fitness | Health + Wellness
“A lot of people come here to escape work or whatever situation they’re in. Everyone’s going through something different every day.” — West Main Manager Jordan Anderson
- Whether you’re looking for group fitness classes like spin + TRX, or you want to move at your own pace on the treadmills, ellipticals, and weight machines, there’s no shortage of options at Proof Fitness.
Local LEX Market | Shopping
“It’s truly amazing watching others succeed underneath you, and having a space for everyone is the best.” — Owner Merritt Monroy
- Home to more than 75 local businesses, this shared retail space opened in 2021 to help small business owners grow together. Shoppers can find something at every price point, and the store hosts block parties from April through October.
Arts
Midway Art Studios | 100 E. Main St. (second floor)
“I joined the studio in Feb 2026 in order to have a dedicated space to share my art with the public. I also have a space to create and love spending time with this group of like-minded individuals! The space has a welcoming and creative energy.” — Studio Artist Tessa Habash
- This art studio is open to the public on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. to view art and chat with the artists. Make sure to check out the free community coffee bar.
Studio Mel Designs | 309 N. Ashland Ave.
“We believe murals matter because they live in everyday spaces and can completely transform how a place feels.” — Co-owner Lynsay Christensen
- Owned by twin sisters Lynsay Christensen + Hayley Harris, Studio Mel has painted more than 42 murals across Kentucky. If you’re not in the market for a mural, we recommend shopping their colorful wall art.
Retail
Emporium | 193 Kentucky Ave.
“We saw a need for upscale consignment of decor, art , furniture, jewelry, and more. Buying pre-loved items is an economical and sustainable option for all shopping needs.” — Owner Anne Helmers
- Shop antique and vintage decor, jewelry, furniture, and more at this local store that opened in 2021. You can also explore the online catalog.
Kentucky for Kentucky | 1315 Winchester Rd., Ste. 321
“In 2012, we were tasked (by ourselves) to develop a new brand for Kentucky, something that got people excited and better reflected our unique style. Our goals? Increase tourism, attract new business, foster pride, diminish stereotypes, and distinguish the Commonwealth of Kentucky from any other place on the planet.” — Owner Toni Cannon
- If you’re searching for Kentucky gear, look no further. Head to this store to take a selfie with the Cocaine Bear, pick up a “Kentucky kicks ass” hat, and grab a “y’all” sweatshirt.
Psst — If you’d like to see a small business included in LEXtoday, make sure to submit it here.
