Bites of the Bluegrass Cocktails & Bites Tour

Explore Lexington’s East End with a Food and Drink Tour

The Bites of the Bluegrass Cocktails & Bites Tour offers a lively 3-hour journey through Lexington’s East End, highlighting the area’s best food and drink spots. Priced at $105 per person, this tour is highly recommended, with a perfect 5.0 rating from 84 reviews and 100% recommendation rate. The tour departs from Lucia’s World Emporium at 4:30 pm, and includes visits to three carefully selected locations, each showcasing Lexington’s local flavors and culture.

Designed to be wheelchair-friendly and welcoming to service animals, this experience is accessible to most travelers. The group size is limited to 14 participants, ensuring an engaging, personalized atmosphere. While the tour is popular and usually booked 18 days in advance, it is a flexible option for those interested in exploring Lexington’s culinary scene with a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Three expertly curated stops highlight Lexington’s East End food and drink.
• Learn about local history while sampling food and cocktails.
• Guide-led experience with entertaining stories and fun facts.
• Food by local chefs and craft cocktails at each venue.
• Wheelchair-friendly with service animals welcome.
• Most travelers find it suitable, with a maximum of 14 participants.

Discovering Lexington’s East End: The Starting Point at Lucia’s

The tour begins at Lucia’s World Emporium, located at 328 N Ashland Ave, making it easy to find and accessible via public transportation. Participants gather here at 4:30 pm to start their exploration. This meeting point sets the tone for the evening, as the guide introduces the neighborhood’s history and the unique character of Lexington’s East End.

The initial welcome creates an inviting atmosphere, allowing participants to settle in before heading to the first stop. The tour’s structure keeps the pace lively, with each venue offering roughly 30 minutes for food, drinks, and stories, making the most of the 2.5-hour itinerary.

Farm-to-Table Flavors at Epping’s on Eastside

The first stop is Epping’s on Eastside, a site with a fascinating past as an old bottling plant. Here, local chef Cole Armes prepares farm-to-table dishes that highlight local ingredients. Guests enjoy a signature cocktail crafted to complement the flavors of the food, adding a delightful touch to the tasting experience.

While at Epping’s, the guide shares stories behind the building’s history, giving context to the neighborhood’s evolution. The setting allows for a relaxed atmosphere where participants can savor their meal while absorbing local lore. This stop provides an excellent introduction to Lexington’s culinary scene and the area’s heritage.

Watch Art and Sip Craft Cocktails at Trifecta

Next, the tour visits Trifecta: Glass – Art – Lounge, a creative hub where guests can peruse the studio and observe hot works glass being made. This stop blends art with drinks, as guests sample craft cocktails inspired by the creative spirit of Lexington’s East End.

The guide discusses the neighborhood’s artistic culture while participants enjoy their drinks and witness glass-blowing demonstrations. The venue’s lively ambiance and visual interest make it a memorable part of the evening, emphasizing Lexington’s vibrant artistic community alongside its food scene.

Savor Spirit Choices at The Void Sake Company

The final stop is The Void Sake Company, where guests can choose from spirits such as beer, seltzer, or sake. Alongside their drink, participants receive a plate from a gourmet food truck, offering a casual yet refined tasting experience.

The guide provides insights into the different spirits and their production, giving a taste of Lexington’s diverse beverage offerings. This location caps off the tour with a relaxed environment, perfect for reflecting on the evening’s sights, tastes, and stories.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The Bites of the Bluegrass tour is designed to be wheelchair-friendly and service animals are welcome, ensuring accessibility for many participants. The tour’s mobile ticket system allows for easy entry, and the small group size enhances interaction with the guide.

The tour operates in the evening, starting at 4:30 pm, which is ideal for those who want to combine this experience with other Lexington activities or dinner plans afterward. The total duration of approximately 3 hours allows for a relaxed yet engaging exploration without feeling rushed.

The Guide’s Role in Making the Tour Special

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable and engaging guides, with mentions of a guide named Dr. Kat who is described as witty, entertaining, and passionate about Lexington’s history and culture. The guides keep the group entertained while providing informative storytelling, making each stop both fun and educational.

Guests especially appreciate how guides explain the history behind each location and how they foster a lively, welcoming atmosphere. The tour’s success hinges on this personal touch, making it more than just a food crawl.

Value and Booking Experience

At $105 per person, the tour offers a solid value considering the variety of experiences packed into just 3 hours. The cost covers food, drinks, guide services, and access to interesting venues, with no extra charges at the stops.

Booking is typically done 18 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The tour’s free cancellation policy allows for peace of mind, with the option to cancel at least 24 hours earlier for a full refund.

Final Verdict: A Delightful Taste of Lexington

The Bites of the Bluegrass Cocktails & Bites Tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Lexington’s East End, combining local food, inventive cocktails, and engaging stories. It appeals most to those interested in culinary experiences, local culture, and lively guides.

The tour’s small group size, accessible venues, and varied stops ensure a personalized, enjoyable experience. While it’s a quick immersion, the combination of good food, creative drinks, and neighborhood history makes it a rewarding way to spend an evening in Lexington.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who enjoy walking between stops, are curious about local lore, and appreciate delicious bites and cocktails crafted with care. Whether you’re exploring Lexington for the first time or want a fun, informal way to learn more about the area — this experience hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility challenges?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair-friendly, and service animals are welcome.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket price covers all food and drinks at the stops, guide services, and access to the venues.

How long does each stop last?
Each stop lasts approximately 30 minutes, allowing enough time to enjoy the food, drinks, and stories.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves moving between venues on foot.

Is this tour appropriate for children?
The experience is geared toward adults, especially since it involves alcohol at some stops. However, children are welcome if accompanied by adults, but check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 14 travelers, ensuring an engaging experience.

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins at Lucia’s World Emporium at 328 N Ashland Ave in Lexington.