Gumbo Ya Ya
Gumbo Ya Ya has two locations in Lexington, the newest opened in November of 2009. The menu rotates on a daily bases, and features traditional Cajun fare. The assortment of creole sauces and etouffées are all served over rice or pasta. A complete section of vegetarian dishes are available. There are also some Mexican and Caribbean style stews. The maque choux is the noted favorite. Portions are generous and prices are low.
Red walls and New Orleans themed art gives this local favorite a fun atmosphere; a great place to hang out with friends and have a drink.
Gumbo Ya Ya (2 locations)
1080 S Broadway Ste 107
Lexington, KY 40504
(859) 252-9292
367 E. Main St
Lexington, KY
(859) 523-9292
http://www.gumboyayaky.com/joomla/
Furlongs
This upscale Cajun restaurant has been a staple in downtown Lexington for years. Its menu is extensive, with just about everything authentic to southwestern Louisiana. From oysters bordelaise to sauteed frog legs, there is something for everyone. It is open for dinner every night, and brunch on Sunday. Reservations can be made on their website, through OpenTable. There is live music on the weekends and a weekday happy hour. Catering is available. Furlongs has a Mardi Gras Club, free for patrons to join. It offers a 10 percent discount off every check and special discounts for birthdays and anniversary parties.
Furlongs
735 E Main St
Lexington, KY 40502
http://www.furlongs.com
Bourbon n' Toulouse
Located in the Chevy Chase area of Lexington, this local restaurant gives patrons genuine Cajun food at reasonable prices. The menu is simple, concise and classic New Orleans. For those who are unsure of what to order, just ask the friendly staff and they will gladly give you a free sample. The restaurant claims its best seller is the chicken etouffée. Batches of jambalaya are cooked up twice daily, and if you arrive too late in the day, it will be gone. The menu conveniently marks dishes that are lowfat or gluten-free.
The atmosphere is cheery, with a Mardi Gras theme; the walls are decorated with local art. Catering is offered, with various options based on your personal needs.
Bourbon n' Toulouse
829 Euclid Ave
Lexington, KY 40502
(859) 335-0300
http://www.bntlex.com/
Article Written By Kathleen Durkin
Kathleen Durkin is a photojournalist in Charlotte, N.C. where she shoots and edits the local news. A freelance writer on the side, Durkin's work has been published on AOL's CitysBest.com and other websites. She graduated with degrees in English literature and film production from University of North Carolina, Wilmington.