First Location of Vinaigrette Salad Kitchen Closes Down Off Leestown, Lexington
The Popular Lexington-Based Salad Restaurant Shuts Its Doors After a Decade
After a decade of service, Vinaigrette Salad Kitchen’s first location in Townley Center, off Leestown road has closed its doors permanently. This revelation was announced via a heartfelt post on the restaurant’s social media platforms on April 23, 2024.
The Reason Explained
According to co-owner Bryce Anderson, the decision was a difficult one to make — driven by unsustainable lease renewal terms. He stated, “We weren’t able to renew our lease at a number that made sense financially and made the tough decision to go ahead and close. We’ve loved being a part of the Meadowthorpe community and the Townley area… we hope those residents and businesses will come visit us a short 2 miles away at our downtown location.”
Continued Services and Employee Transition
The restaurant officially closed its doors on April 19, 2024, but pledged to continue serving its healthy salads at their other locations around Lexington and Louisville. Anderson assured that all employees of the now-closed Townley Center would be offered jobs at their other branches, ensuring no worker was left unemployed due to the closure.
Vinaigrette Salad Kitchen’s History and Operations
More than just salads, Vinaigrette has been known for its soups, grain bowls, lemonades, teas, and icy treats — part of a healthy fast-food menu inspired and aided by chefs Ouita Michel and Sara Gibbs. Started in 2014 by contemporaries Bryce Anderson, Jason Thompson, Evan Morris, and Jeremiah Sizemore, the chain grew from a single Lexington outlet to seven locations spread out in Lexington and Louisville. The founders strived to provide a healthy alternative to the typical fast-food setup, focusing on quality, local ingredients and customizable options for their guests.
From Local Chain to Community Staple
Over the years, Vinaigrette Salad Kitchen had not only proven to be spot-on in its vision but also became a favorite lunchtime spot for Lexington and Louisville locals. Despite the closure of its first location, there are still three branches serving Lexington and three in Louisville — continuing their mission to provide healthy, tasteful options for food enthusiasts in the area.
Looking Ahead
While the news of closure is undoubtedly a disappointment for the regulars of the Townley Center branch, the other branches are ready to welcome them with open arms. Co-owner Bryce Anderson expressed his hope that the other stores, especially the downtown location which is just 2.3 miles away, will continue to serve those in the Meadowthorpe community and Townley area. As the curtains come down on one chapter, a new one begins, with the +promise of the same dedication, quality, and freshness in their beloved salads and more.
