Lexington is set to bid farewell to __Azur Restaurant and Patio__, a pillar of the dining scene on its south side, which will close after 20 years of service. The restaurant, located at 3070 Lakecrest Circle #550, announced the closure via a Facebook post, stating its final dinner service will take place on December 31, 2024.
The decision to close stems from recent challenges, including a significant rent increase that co-owner Bernie Lovely described as “untenable.” The restaurant expressed gratitude for the support from its loyal clientele over the years and encouraged patrons to dine in during its final month, stating, “We would love your support to make our final month the best it can be for our staff.”
Azur Restaurant, known for its woven shrimp, pimiento cheese fritters, Brussels sprouts, and bourbon fried chicken, opened in 2004. Chef Jeremy Ashby, who joined the founding team in 2006, aims to ensure a meaningful closure for both staff and guests. In recent years, the restaurant gained recognition for its commitment to locally sourced ingredients and themed culinary events, including wild game dinners and world cuisine celebrations.
Throughout its tenure, Azur has also fostered a vibrant community atmosphere, particularly with its expansive patio that hosted a local farmers’ market and live music events on weekends. Despite the impending closure, customers can still make reservations for dining until the end of the year.
The food industry is mourning a recent loss within the Azur family, as Kentucky native Chef Austin “Popcorn” Popplewell tragically passed away a month prior to the announcement of the restaurant’s closure.
As Azur prepares to close its doors, it leaves behind a legacy of culinary excellence and community engagement that has touched the lives of its patrons over the past two decades.
Location: 3070 Lakecrest Circle, Suite 550
Hours: Monday through Thursday 5 to 9 p.m, Friday and Saturday 5 to 10 p.m., Sunday brunch 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., dinner 5 to 9 p.m.
Online: azurrestaurant.com
