Lexington, KY – Cajun lovers on the west side of Lexington are in for a treat as local favorite Bourbon n’ Toulouse opens its new location on December 10 at 11 a.m.. Situated at 1781 Sharkey Way, the restaurant is set to bring its popular Creole and Cajun dishes to the Townley Center area.
Owners Cameron and Kevin Heathcoat, who already operate the long-established Euclid Avenue location, have transitioned their South Broadway branch to this new site, which has become vacant after the closure of Vinaigrette Salad Kitchen. This shift comes as part of a larger effort to meet the growing demand for local dining options in what has been described as an “underserved part” of town.
“We are a local Cajun and Creole ‘dive’ restaurant,” Cameron Heathcoat stated, adding that their menu caters to a wide range of dietary preferences, providing options from vegan to hearty meat dishes. Highlights from their offerings include etouffees, jambalayas, and gumbos.
Developer Dennis Anderson, who was instrumental in the restaurant’s relocation, expressed enthusiasm about Bourbon n’ Toulouse joining other popular establishments in the area such as Drake’s, Ramsey’s Diner, and Osaka Sushi. He noted, “The restaurants out there are doing a great business…”
The west side location boasts features that previous eateries did not, including a drive-thru, set to open in January. It will also offer pickup and delivery options through Door Dash, enhancing convenience for local diners.
Customers can look forward to exclusive daily specials, such as lemon pepper chicken and vegan Thai peanut sauce served over rice. With a goal to expand their children’s menu in 2025, the Heathcoats plan to continue prioritizing vegetarian and vegan options throughout the week.
The restaurant’s signature dish, chicken etouffee, is expected to be a hit, often outselling other menu items. Kevin Heathcoat mentioned the massive appeal of their culinary staples, including jambalaya, red beans, and gumbo.
The establishment plans to feature special dishes for University of Kentucky game days and traditionally celebrates Fat Tuesday with popular Cajun cuisine items like crawfish. Seasonal specialties will also be available, including a turkey etouffee served around the holidays.
Bourbon n’ Toulouse’s new location will be open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., aiming to enrich the local dining landscape and cater to both new and loyal customers alike.