Lexington, Kentucky, has a reputation as the racehorse capital of the world. Every October, racehorse enthusiasts come to Lexington for the yearling sale. There, prospective buyers hope to pick the next Triple Crown winner. All year long, visitors to Lexington can catch racing fever by visiting the Kentucky Horse Park or by taking a tour of area horse farms or nearby Keenland racetrack.
In addition to horses, Lexington also has a love affair with golf. According to Golf Digest, the two best instructors in the state live in Lexington. The love affair with horses and golf aren't Lexington's only romance, however. The city and surrounding area offer numerous romantic restaurants that visitors can enjoy.
Halls on the River
As the name implies, Halls on the River is located on the Kentucky River, approximately one mile from Boone's Fort near the town of Boonesborough, Kentucky. When you walk through the door, you can see markers that indicate the high water line in the building during notable floods. While this restaurant isn't actually located in Lexington, many Lexingtonians have taken the trip to Halls for the atmosphere and menu, which includes seafood and Hall's famous beer cheese. The restaurant offers cozy candlelit tables indoors and outdoor tables that provide an incredible view of the surrounding countryside.
Halls on the River
1225 Athens-Boonesborough Rd.
Winchester, KY 40391
(859) 527-6620
www.hallsontheriver.com/
JW's Steakhouse
JW's Steakhouse is owned by the Marriott hotel chain and is operated by the hotel as part of a hotel, spa and golf resort. The menu is traditional steakhouse fare, with steaks and seafood as well as a selection of wines. There is a full bar, and the restaurant does not permit smoking. Dress is casual elegant, and a shirt and slacks are required. Reservations are not necessary and the restaurant will put together orders for takeout.
JW's Steakhouse
1800 Newtown Pike
Lexington, KY 40511
(859) 288-6155
www.griffingatemarriott.com/dining
Jonathan's at Gratz Park
This restaurant is located in the historic Gratz Park Inn, a three-story hotel that features spacious suites with French décor, a grand library and English gardens. Jonathan at Gratz features a formal dining room, a bar reminiscent of an English hunting club, or a patio for courtyard dining. The menu offers regional ingredients served in fusion dishes, such as black-eyed peas served with scallops and fried green tomato salad. The restaurant has been featured in magazines such as Southern Living and Conde Nast Traveler.
Jonathon at Gratz Park
120 West Second Street
Lexington, KY 40507
(859) 252-4949
www.jagp.info/
About The Author
Tracy S. Morris has been a freelance writer since 2000. She has published two novels and numerous online articles. Her work has appeared in national magazines and newspapers, including "Ferrets," "CatFancy," "Lexington Herald Leader" and "The Tulsa World."
