Kentucky Restaurants and School District Recognized for Support of Local Agriculture Through Kentucky Proud Program

Lexington, KY – The Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) has recognized several local restaurants and a school district for their commitment to supporting the state’s agricultural economy through the Kentucky Proud program. This summer, three Lexington restaurants—Dudley’s on Short, Ramsey’s Diner, and Stella’s Kentucky Deli—achieved the lifetime purchasing cap of $36,000, highlighting their dedication to sourcing ingredients from local farms.

The Kentucky Proud program incentivizes restaurants to buy locally grown food by reimbursing up to 15% of eligible purchases. Since its inception in 2014, the program has led to over $14.4 million in local food purchases, fostering stronger connections between farmers and chefs. Notably, both Gralehouse and Holy Grale, Mayan Cafe, and Red Hog in Louisville, along with Madison County Schools, have also reached this milestone, marking a significant achievement in promoting local agriculture and healthier food options.

Dudley’s on Short, known for its fine dining with a local twist, regularly incorporates seasonal ingredients into its menu, while Ramsey’s Diner, a longstanding supporter of the local food movement, has built deep-rooted relationships with various farmers over two decades. Stella’s Kentucky Deli further emphasizes local sourcing by featuring a diverse range of farm-fresh products, including grass-finished beef and locally made cheeses.

The success of these establishments not only enriches the dining experience but also strengthens Kentucky’s farm economy, bringing fresh, high-quality ingredients to the table. With the continued growth of the Buy Local program, the future of Kentucky’s farms and eateries looks promising.