Lexington, Kentucky, is in the central part of the state and is one of the largest cities in Kentucky. Approximately 90 miles east of Louisville, Lexington has a population of about 282,000 people. There are a plethora of golf courses throughout Lexington that appeal to both the advanced golfer and the beginner. In all, there are 11 golf courses in and within 10 miles of Lexington. After hitting the fantastic greens that Lexington's courses offer, there are numerous dining options. If you are looking for Southern Creole cooking, there are several spots in Lexington to choose from.
Gumbo Ya Ya
Only three blocks from Big Elm Country Club and only seconds from the University of Kentucky, Gumbo Ya Ya is a Creole fan favorite that offers the type of Southern Cajun feel so strong that you know the food is going to be good. With a name like "Gumbo Ya Ya," there is no doubt that one of their specialties is the Gumbo and, of course, it is. Perhaps the second most popular on the menu would be its Crawfish Creole, which comes served with a delicious red sauce with tomatoes, garlic, green onions, green bell peppers and crawfish. The menu is large and the scene is hip.
Gumbo Ya Ya
1080 South Broadway Road
Lexington, KY 40504-4108
(859) 252-9292
Bourbon and Toulouse, a Cajun & Creole Joint
Bourbon and Toulouse is located about 10 blocks West of Idle Hour Country Club and about four blocks east of the University of Kentucky. This is a fairly large restaurant fully capable of accommodating you and all of your golfing partners. The ambiance of the "Cajun & Creole Joint" is colorful and gives off the feeling that you are on Bourbon Street in New Orleans. The food is also just as great. Local recommendations include the top selling Chicken Etouffee, which is a spicy roux-based dish and also the award winning Cajun Red Chili, which contains low carb red chili loaded with beef and pork. This is a definite hot spot.
Bourbon and Toulouse
829 Euclid Ave.
Lexington, KY 40502-1741
(859) 335-0300
Joe's OK Bayou
On the Southwestern part of Lexington is the popular Creole/Cajun restaurant; Joe's OK Bayou, which is not only a local hangout, but also a statewide favorite Creole hot spot. Owner operated, Joe's OK Bayou has been serving up what some say is the best Creole chili in Kentucky since 1995. Along with the Cajun beers and cocktails, there is nothing quite like the atmosphere at Joe's. Alligators and Louisiana colors adorn the walls while smiling staff adhere to all your Creole wishes. The food is traditional Cajun tastes, but the special at Joe's is definitely the "Gator Tail," which has 12 pieces of lean and tender tail meat battered in a special blend of Cajun seasonings, served with a special honey mustard. Every occasion at Joe's is sure to be another amazing experience.
Joe's OK Bayou
3061 Fieldstone Way
Lexington, KY 40513
(859) 219-0110
About The Author
R. Seth Mossman publishes a monthly alternative news and entertainment newspaper designed specifically for the local venue in Cedar Rapids, IA. He has experience in political, military, entertainment, cuisine, financial, publishing and other areas of literary concern. Mossman studied business at Olympic College.
