RIP, Parkette Drive In, you are missed. | Photo by @ginamarieyoung + @gatheredliving
Are there old Lexington diners, music venues, bars, and businesses you still miss? We recently asked you which shuttered spots you miss the most, and now we’re taking a trip back in time.
Consider this is an ode to some of your favorite now-closed Lexington businesses.
Alfalfa
This beloved staple called South Limestone home, then East Main Street in its later iterations. Opened in 1973, the spot was known for its Southern fare (anyone remember the griddle cakes?) and vegetarian options.
Atomic Cafe
Instagram user @kamorris2 said every time they drive by the "[still] empty carcass of Atomic Cafe,” they’re flooded with memories of being in their early 20s in a rock and roll band.
“Atomic Cafe! Best patio in Lexington.” — @markmonzinger
The Coach House was located at 855 S. Broadway. | Photo courtesy of the Lexington Herald-Leader
The Coach House
The fine-dining establishment featured French, Italian, and Greek cuisines with an atmosphere that felt like an exclusive club.
Cosmic Charlie’s
Nothing said a night out on the town like catching a concert at Cosmic Charlie’s. It’s Deadhead-inspired vibes welcomed some iconic acts like Apples in Stereo and Unknown Hinson of Adult Swim fame.
The Dame
Another beloved music venue, this West Main Street venue saw budding artists (many of whom went on to win Grammy Awards) like Jason Isbell and St. Vincent before it closed in 2009.
Magee’s Bakery closed last spring after 67 years in business. | Photo by LEXtoday
Magee’s Bakery
“I’ll never get over Magee’s being closed. A true Lexington gem!” — @sarahkosidedwards
Parkette Drive In
“If I dare to dream, I would love for the Parkette to be re-opened in a new area, move the sign (or leave it where it stands), and bring back the iconic drive-in eatery that was one of the spots Lexington was known for!” — Reader Ginni H.
Sav’s Grill
This West African spot served up comforting food, like its peanut chicken bowl and fufu. But don’t fret — you can still grab Sav’s hot sauce and ice cream around town.
Events
Thursday, Feb. 15
Discover: Black Inventors | Thursday, Feb. 15 | 3:30-4:30 p.m. | Eastside Branch, 3000 Blake James Dr., Lexington | Free | Kids will learn about inventions created by Black Americans through food, art, and activities.
Friday, Feb. 16
Valentine’s Dance and Fondue Party | Friday, Feb. 16 | 8-10 p.m. | The Ballroom House, 312 Southland Dr., Lexington | $5-$10 | Grab a partner for this all-level 30-minute Rumba dance lesson, followed by chocolate fondue and mingling.
For The Love Of R&B: Valentines Edition | Friday, Feb. 16 | 10 p.m.-2:30 a.m. | Stings Lounge, 123 W. Main St., Lexington | $40-$60 | Dress in your Valentine’s best for a night of nonstop R&B jams, with a live performance from Carl Thomas — must be 25+ to enter.
Saturday, Feb. 17
Sow Like a Pro | Saturday, Feb. 17 | 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Wilson Nurseries, 2700 Palumbo Dr., Lexington | $30.23 | Learn the foundation of growing your own veggies, herbs, and flowers from seed before spring arrives.
Art Attack! | Saturday, Feb. 17 | 3-4:30 p.m. | Central Library, 140 E. Main St., Lexington | Free | Learn about the art forms of artist Kehinde Wiley, known for painting the 2017 presidential portrait for Barack Obama.
Sunday, Feb. 18
Weekly Sound Bath with Amy Hudson | Sunday, Feb. 18 | 5:30 p.m. | The Sound Healing Center, 333 E. Short St., Ste. 320, Lexington | $25 | Let your tension and stress melt away to sweet serene sounds of crystal singing bowls.
Lexington-based construction company Deanbuilds has been tapped to lead the Keeneland renovations. Work on the $93 million project has begun, and once completed, will include new experiences to the grounds, including an on-site restaurant + bar and improved saddling stalls for a safer equine environment. (The Lane Report)
Ranked
UK ranked No. 100 on Forbes’ “America’s Best Large Employers” list, based on insight from 170,000 US workers. The publication analyzed data from both employee feedback and indirect surveys (think: responses from friends, family, or those within the industry).
Cause
The Junior League of Lexington is celebrating its centennial with the launch of its 100 Women of the Bluegrass initiative. The program aims to highlight women who have made a big impact in the community. Submit your nomination.
Plan Ahead
Bluegrass Greensource will host the 4th annual Sustainability Summit on April 1. The conference invites regional + local community leaders who are interested in boosting sustainability efforts in their respective towns on a grassroots level. Registration is open now.
Arts
Ever wanted to try your hand at henna? The Living Arts & Sciences Center is hosting an Intro to Henna Design class on Saturday, Feb. 24. During the four-hour session, you’ll learn the basics of rolling henna cones, mixing paste, as well as creating and properly applying designs.
Sports
Rupp Arena will play host to a regional stop for The Basketball Tournament. The single-elimination tournament will feature eight regions + 64 teams, including La Familia (Kentucky Alumni), all competing for a $1 million prize. The games take place July 19-24.
Try This
Want to advertise with us but not sure where to start? Check out our self-service advertising, a quick and easy way to get acquainted with our local audience through Listings, Banner Ads, and Articles. Get started today.
Wellness
Regain’s couples therapy is accessible via phone, text, and video call and is FSA/HSA-friendly. Get 25% off your first month for Valentine’s Day.*
Development
Here we grow again
Meet the new apartment complex coming to Paris Pike
The proposed apartment complex will be located within this triangle-shaped corner of Paris Pike. | Map courtesy of Google Maps
A new apartment complex is coming to Old Paris Pike after a zone change was approved by the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council.
The zone change takes the land from a B-3 (highway business zone) to an R-4 (medium density residential zone.)
Here’s what to expect from the development:
Located at 2200 Old Paris Pike and 2324 Paris Pike
Housed on a 5.2-acre lot
Features 165 units across five apartment buildings
First-floor garage parking
A clubhouse with a pool and gym
According to Dick Murphy, lawyer for development company Joyland Crossing LLC, this option provides “missing middle work-force housing” — a goal outlined in the Imagine Lexington 2045 plan.
The Buy
The Buy 2.15.24 (Affiliate + Six & Main)
Some stylish sunglasses by Rheos or I Am Girl Stephanie, because we’re dreaming about summer and soaking up sunny rays. Pro tip: With the days already getting longer, it’s never too soon to start protecting your eyes.
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