Thoroughbred Restaurant in Lexington Reopens After Health Department Violations and Successful Reinspection

Lexington has witnessed the reopened doors of one of its historic dining establishments, the Thoroughbred Restaurant, located at 1483 Leestown Rd.. The popular destination for traditional meat and vegetable offerings was recently shut down for two days due to health department violations, closing its doors on October 9.

According to health department records released on October 10, the restaurant received a failing score of 83 on its latest inspection, which included four priority violations related to cold- and hot-holding temperatures, use of time as a public health control, and pest control. Notably, this marked the second consecutive failed follow-up inspection for the establishment, with prior scores of 84 and 80 recorded on September 18 and October 2, respectively.

The closure required a red sign to be placed on the restaurant’s entrance, signaling to potential customers that food service had been suspended. The health department’s protocols dictate that restaurants are closed when there is an imminent risk to public health, such as severe pest infestations or significant sanitation violations. Notably, any establishment scoring below 60 on an inspection is immediately closed.

After a thorough reinspection on October 10, Thoroughbred Restaurant achieved a passing score of 95 and was allowed to resume operations. The owner, Mark Smith, has not been available for comments regarding the matter.

Established in 1954, Thoroughbred Restaurant holds the distinction of being Lexington’s second-oldest continuously operating restaurant, right behind the original Columbia Steakhouse on North Limestone. The restaurant is renowned for its diverse menu that includes daily specials of favorite comfort foods such as meatloaf, baked chicken, ribs, and burgers, alongside fresh, in-house made desserts.

It is essential to note that the health department does not publicly announce closures or provide detailed reasons on its website. Inspection scores, however, can be obtained from the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department’s site, though these scores may not always reflect the most current inspections.

In 2022, Thoroughbred Restaurant’s score placed it on the health department’s Enhanced Regulatory Enforcement list, which subjects it to more frequent inspections due to having scores below 80. Following a score of 94 on another recent inspection, the restaurant continues to serve its long-time customers, indicating a commitment to improving compliance with health regulations.