Lexington, Kentucky Celebrates Black-Owned Businesses

Lexington, Kentucky, October 3, 2025

News Summary

Lexington, Kentucky, recognized as the Horse Capital of the World, boasts a vibrant community of Black-owned businesses that contribute significantly to the city’s cultural and culinary landscape. Ten notable establishments, including Genesis Coffee House and Honey J’s, showcase diverse offerings, while events like SoulFeast highlight the contributions of these businesses. The legacy of Black entrepreneurship in Lexington reinforces community resilience and creativity, with local venues providing unique experiences that shape the city’s identity.

Lexington, Kentucky Celebrates Black-Owned Businesses

Lexington, Kentucky, known as the Horse Capital of the World, is also home to a thriving community of Black-owned businesses that enrich the city’s culture, cuisine, and creativity. These businesses play a vital role in shaping local experiences, showcasing a variety of culinary delights and community-driven initiatives.

Ten Notable Black-Owned Businesses in Lexington

Visitors and locals alike can explore ten exceptional Black-owned establishments that highlight the culinary diversity of Lexington:

• Genesis Coffee House: A welcoming spot known for its cozy atmosphere and all-day brunch options including famous waffles and baked treats.
• Black Soil: This market strives to connect Kentuckians with their agricultural roots, offering fresh produce and local products.
• Sassy Bleu: A restaurant that serves elevated comfort food, with fried chicken and hearty Southern sides featuring prominently on the menu.
• Honey J’s: A soul food eatery known for its hot honey wings, mac & cheese, collard greens, and cornbread.
• Tee Dee’s Lounge: A live music venue showcasing blues performances by Tee Dee Young, particularly vibrant on Monday evenings.
• Silver Springs Farm: A Black-owned vineyard offering wine tastings at a historic distillery site while featuring award-winning wines.
• Fresh Bourbon Distillery: This unique Black-owned bourbon brand emphasizes community and inclusivity within the bourbon tasting experience.
• Wing KYng: Renowned for its flavorful wings, this popular spot is located at Greyline Station.
• The Melroy: A new membership club blending lounge and nightlife, it serves cocktails and hosts public events.
• Hopsack Gifts & More: A shop dedicated to offering unique, curated gifts that reflect the local culture.

Exploring Cultural Heritage

A self-guided tour of Lexington provides insights into the city’s African American history and highlights significant contributions from the Black community. Notable food establishments include:

• Africa & Caribbean Cuisine: Known for its oxtail and jerk chicken.
• AJ’s Wings & Things: Specializes in wings and soul food dishes.
• Blue Skillet: Focuses on soul food and Southern specialties.

In addition, various food trucks and catering services participate in annual events such as SoulFeast and Black Restaurant Week, celebrated in June.

Legacy of Black Entrepreneurship

The legacy of Black entrepreneurship in Lexington includes historical figures like Zirl Palmer, who opened the first Black-owned Rexall pharmacy in the country. Despite facing racial discrimination, Palmer became a central figure in the community. Additionally, Hawkins-Taylor Funeral Home, Lexington’s oldest Black-owned business, recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. The firm has provided essential services to the community throughout its history, including during the civil rights movement and the challenges posed by the recent pandemic.

Conclusion

Black-owned businesses in Lexington not only contribute to the economy but also enhance the city’s rich cultural landscape. With unique culinary offerings, live music venues, and a commitment to fostering community, these establishments are shaping your local experience.

FAQs

Key Features of Black-Owned Businesses in Lexington

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Lexington Celebrates Its 250th Anniversary with Historical Insights
Remembering Zirl Palmer: Lexington’s First Black Pharmacist
The V Restaurant Set to Open in Lexington
Lexington’s Best High-End Burgers Ranked: A Taste Test of Gourmet Offerings
Alfalfa Restaurant’s Legacy Revived in Upcoming Cookbook
Lexington Burger Week Returns with Over 40 Specialty Burgers
Kentucky Celebrates Achievements in Tourism, Education, and Culture
Del Taco to Open First Kentucky Location in Lexington
Lexington Celebrates Black Culinary Culture with SoulFeast Week
Lexington Herald-Leader Celebrates 137 Years and 250 Years of History

Additional Resources

• VisitLex: Black-Owned Businesses in Lexington
• Kentucky.com: Know Your Kentucky
• Spectrum News1: Ice Cream in Lexington
• Travel Noire: Black-Owned Bourbon Distillery
• LEX18: Black-Owned Business Celebrates 100 Years

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.