Alabama fans traveling to Lexington, Kentucky for the September 12 game at Kroger Field will want more than just a seat in the stands. The city’s Bluegrass setting, famed horse farms, and burgeoning bourbon scene make it a perfect weekend stop for families and friends.
Breakfast: Wild Eggs Lexington
Located at 3735 Palomar Centre Drive, Wild Eggs offers a creative menu that satisfies any morning appetite. Local recommendations include the Kelsey KY Brown—toasted sourdough topped with roasted turkey, applewood‑smoked bacon, diced tomato, white cheddar mornay, a fried egg, and smoked paprika. The Farmer’s Market Skillet piles bell pepper, onion, zucchini, yellow squash, wild mushrooms, home fries, broccoli, oven‑roasted tomato, melted cheddar‑jack, two basted eggs, and an Everything muffin. For classic comfort, the Mad Platter serves three eggs cooked to order with bacon, sausage, home fries or stone‑ground grits, a choice of bread, and a large buttermilk pancake. Don’t miss the house‑made cinnamon roll, baked in a cast‑iron skillet and finished with sweet vanilla‑bean icing.
Lunch: Joe Bologna’s Pizza
At 120 W Maxwell St, Joe Bologna’s is a local favorite that the author’s boss describes as “not to be missed.” The menu’s standout items include the garlic breadsticks, which a group‑chat participant warned not to skip. Pizza lovers can choose between the meat‑laden Joe B’s Meats (sliced meatballs, pepperoni, bacon, salami, sausage, capicola, sauce, and mozzarella) and the Supreme Sicilian. Sandwich fans split between the hearty Joe B’s Stromboli Sub—sausage, ground‑beef patty, pizza sauce, grilled onions, green peppers, and provolone—and the Italian Sub, stacked with capicola, salami, pepperoni, mortadella, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion, and house Italian dressing. Be sure to order two cannolis for a sweet finish.
Dinner: Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse
For a fine‑dining experience, head to 101 W Vine St. Jeff Ruby’s offers USDA Prime steaks, an extensive wine list, and upscale décor. The Bourbon Filet—a tender 8‑ounce filet mignon with chive potato purée, bourbon‑garlic shrimp, and crispy onions—has earned high praise from the author’s cousin. Large groups can share the signature sides: macaroni and cheese, grilled asparagus, Brussels sprouts, roasted mushrooms, classic creamed spinach, and truffle‑cream corn. Save room for dessert; the Wildcat Cake and three‑layer carrot cake are crowd‑pleasers.
Top Three Attractions
- The Arboretum, State Botanical Garden of Kentucky – A 100‑acre public garden on the University of Kentucky campus, perfect for a leisurely stroll among native flora.
- Kentucky Horse Park – Visitors can engage with the state’s equine heritage through exhibits, live demonstrations, and interactive experiences that celebrate the strength and spirit of the horse.
- The Distillery District – A walkable entertainment area built around the James E. Pepper Distillery, offering tours, tastings, and a lively atmosphere for bourbon enthusiasts.
With these dining options and attractions, Bama fans can enjoy a full weekend of good food, family‑friendly activities, and a taste of Kentucky’s unique culture before cheering on the Crimson Tide at Kroger Field.
Original reporting: The Tuscaloosa Thread — read the source article.
