Lexington, September 19, 2025
News Summary
Maple Street Biscuit Company has permanently closed its Lexington location after 2.5 years of service, leaving only one site in Kentucky. The closure follows changing consumer preferences and uncertainty regarding the chain’s future under Cracker Barrel’s ownership. Many locals enjoyed dishes like the Squawking Goat, but the restaurant was unable to sustain operations. As options for biscuits remain in Lexington, establishments like Winchell’s and Doodles now fill the gap left behind.
Lexington — Maple Street Biscuit Company has officially closed its location in Lexington after 2.5 years of service. The eatery, situated at 2270 Nicholasville Rd. within the Zandale Shopping Center, displayed signs on its doors indicating that the restaurant is permanently closed. Notably, the restaurant’s signage was found on the ground on the morning of September 18, signaling its abrupt end.
The closure leaves only one Maple Street Biscuit location remaining in Kentucky, which is based in Florence. Previously, the Louisville location also ceased operations in 2023, exacerbating the dwindling presence of the chain in the state. The restaurant was conveniently located next to a Chipotle Mexican Grill, attracting local diners who enjoy quick service and comfort food.
Maple Street Biscuit Company, renowned for its freshly made biscuit sandwiches, had been a favorite amongst locals for its signature dishes such as the Squawking Goat, a dish that gained quite a following during its tenure in Lexington. However, despite its popularity, the Lexington location could not sustain its operation.
The chain’s future became uncertain after Cracker Barrel acquired Maple Street Biscuit Company in 2019. In May 2024, Cracker Barrel announced plans to slow the expansion of the Maple Street chain, raising questions about the brand’s strategy moving forward. The decision to scale back aligns with a broader trend that has seen many restaurants reassess their growth plans following changing consumer behaviors.
In Lexington, locals now have several other options for fresh biscuits. Establishments such as Winchell’s, Doodles, Josie’s, Biscuit Daddies, and Rise and Brine Chicken Biscuits have filled the gap left by Maple Street. Additionally, Keeneland’s track kitchen offers a popular biscuit menu during race days, catering to a festive crowd in the area.
Biscuit Belly, a competitor, currently operates two locations in Lexington, one on East Main Street and another off Leestown Road. The local dining scene also welcomed Tudor’s Biscuit World, which opened on New Circle Road in September 2020, further diversifying the offerings for biscuit enthusiasts in the community.
The closure of Maple Street Biscuit’s Lexington location marks a notable shift in the local food landscape, reflecting changing consumer preferences and the competitive nature of the dining industry in the area. Residents who enjoyed frequenting the restaurant will now need to explore other options to satisfy their biscuit cravings.
FAQs
Why did Maple Street Biscuit Company close its Lexington location?
The Lexington location of Maple Street Biscuit Company closed after 2.5 years of operation, amid uncertainty regarding the company’s expansion strategy under new ownership by Cracker Barrel.
What is left of Maple Street Biscuit Company’s presence in Kentucky?
Currently, there is only one remaining Maple Street Biscuit location in Kentucky, located in Florence.
What other options are available for biscuits in Lexington?
Lexington offers several alternatives for fresh biscuits, including Winchell’s, Doodles, Josie’s, Biscuit Daddies, Rise and Brine Chicken Biscuits, and Keeneland’s track kitchen.
Key Features of the Closure
| Date of Closure | Location | Previous Owners | Remaining Locations in Kentucky |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 18, 2025 | 2270 Nicholasville Rd., Lexington, KY | Cracker Barrel (acquired in 2019) | 1 (Florence) |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Lexington Restaurant News
- Wikipedia: Food and Drink in Kentucky
- Post and Courier: Lexington Tap House
- Google Search: Lexington Restaurants
- The State: Local Dining Update
- Google Scholar: Lexington Food Industry
- Cola Daily: RFS Corner Grill Closure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Restaurant Closure
- Lexington Herald Leader Article
- Google News: Lexington Biscuit Restaurants
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
