Lexington, August 21, 2025
News Summary
A new cookbook titled ‘Eat Your Carrot Cake’ will celebrate the rich history of Alfalfa Restaurant in Lexington as part of the city’s 250th anniversary. Set for publication in late 2025, the book will feature over 130 recipes and personal narratives, showcasing the restaurant’s impact on the community during its 48 years of operation. Co-published by Institute 193 and Butler Books, the book is currently supported by a fundraising campaign to preserve the culinary heritage and stories associated with Alfalfa.
Lexington
In celebration of Lexington’s 250th anniversary, the upcoming book “Eat Your Carrot Cake — Life, Art, Community and Cookery: Stories and Recipes from Alfalfa Restaurant” is set to revive the legacy of the iconic Alfalfa Restaurant. The book is expected to be published in late 2025 and will provide a comprehensive look at the first 25-30 years of the restaurant’s history, particularly at its famed location at 557 S. Lime.
The Alfalfa Restaurant, a beloved establishment known for its vegetarian-leaning health food and commitment to locally-sourced products, operated for 48 years before closing its doors in 2021 due to various ownership changes and a relocation. Co-published by Institute 193, a contemporary art gallery in Lexington, and Butler Books from Louisville, the book features contributions from former cook/owner Marina Ubaldi Ritter, along with former cooks Lucinda Zoe and Michael Kelsay, as well as the Carrot Cake Collective.
Alfalfa was founded in an era of social change, inspired by the movements of the late 1960s and early 1970s. The restaurant not only served healthy, sustainable food but also acted as a cultural hub for the community. It hosted art shows, musical performances, literary readings, and various community events, playing a vital role in local culture and social interactions. Its commitment to sustainability included initiatives that contributed to the formation of the area’s first food co-op through bulk purchasing.
The forthcoming cookbook will feature over 130 recipes, along with personal narratives collected from the Alfalfa Oral History Project at the University of Kentucky. This project ensures that the stories and experiences related to Alfalfa are preserved for future generations. Additionally, the book will be adorned with nearly 400 pages of full-color content, including more than 100 black & white photos, press clippings, posters, and event flyers, showcasing the vibrant history of the restaurant.
Notable contributions to the book will include works by photographer Guy Mendes, who documented Alfalfa’s evolution and its influence on the community through his lens. A fundraising campaign is currently underway to support the publication, allowing readers to pre-order the book and specialty items. This initiative highlights the goal of preserving generational knowledge and combating the loss of traditional recipes amidst the celebrations of Lexington’s 250th anniversary.
The book not only aims to revive the culinary legacy of Alfalfa Restaurant but also to provide a deeper insight into the social fabric of Lexington. It represents a collection of art, culture, and history, merging recipes with personal anecdotes and visuals that narrate Alfalfa’s impact on its community.
About Alfalfa Restaurant
Operational from 1973 until its closure in 2021, Alfalfa Restaurant became synonymous with health-oriented dining in Lexington. It was founded by a group of individuals passionately committed to promoting health and wellness in alignment with the evolving social movements of their time. Its ethos was characterized by a dedication to nourishing meals created from local ingredients, allowing patrons to connect to the broader community while enjoying wholesome food.
Fundraising Campaign
The fundraising efforts for the print edition of Eat Your Carrot Cake will enable interested individuals to contribute towards completing the project. Supporters can participate through pre-orders, giving them a chance to secure a copy and connect with the essence of Lexington’s culinary and cultural history.
Conclusion
As Lexington commemorates its rich history with the upcoming publication of this book, the legacy of Alfalfa Restaurant is ensured a prominent place in the narrative of the community. The fusion of history, art, and culinary traditions will resonate with residents and readers alike, creating a timeless reminder of Alfalfa’s lasting impact.
FAQs
What is the book “Eat Your Carrot Cake” about?
The book is a celebration of Alfalfa Restaurant’s history, featuring recipes, personal stories, and visuals to highlight its cultural significance in Lexington.
When is the book set to be published?
The book is expected to be published in late 2025.
Who are the co-publishers of the book?
The book is co-published by Institute 193 and Butler Books.
How can people support the book?
Individuals can support the publication by pre-ordering the book and specialty items through a fundraising campaign currently underway.
What type of content can readers expect in the book?
Readers can expect over 130 recipes, personal narratives, photographs, and various materials showcasing Alfalfa’s history and community impact.
Key Features of the Book
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Publication Date | Late 2025 |
| Page Count | Approximately 400 pages |
| Recipes Included | Over 130 recipes |
| Visual Content | Over 100 black & white photos, press clippings, posters, event flyers |
| Contributors | Marina Ubaldi Ritter, Lucinda Zoe, Michael Kelsay, and many local artists |
| Fundraising Campaign | Currently underway for pre-orders and specialty items |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Support Local: Celebrate Black-Owned Food Businesses in Lexington
Lexington Unveils Renovated Pam Miller Downtown Arts Center
Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Opinion Article
- Wikipedia: Lexington, Kentucky
- Fox 56 News: Alfalfa Restaurant Closing
- Google Search: Alfalfa Restaurant Lexington Kentucky
- LEX18: Reopening Alfalfa Restaurant
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lifestyle and Health
- Kentucky.com: Local News Article
- Smiley Pete: Alfalfa Restaurant History
- LEX18: Alfalfa Reopens Under New Ownership
- Kentucky.com: Restaurant Review
- Smiley Pete: Alfalfa Restaurant For Sale Again
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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