AZUR is Solo-Friendly!

When AZUR states we are solo-friendly, we mean that we welcome individuals who are dining by themselves. We are accustom to serving single business travelers or someone who just wants some "me time" with a book or magazine. In fact, we have many regulars that come to just relax and read which we understand perfectly. The AZUR servers adjust to this situation with less frequent interruptions but with the same courtesy and respect as a couple or group. From our perspective, a single diner is more likely to focus on our cuisine and presentation without other distractions.

Fall at AZUR

As usual with Kentucky weather, we did not have much transition time between Summer and Fall. After six days of rain, the temperatures dropped into the 60's which triggered AZUR's Fall Mode or AFM. During AFM, we prepare for the Keeneland Fall Meet (thoroughbred racing) by replacing the patio plants with colorful Fall plantings, preparing the patio heaters and releasing our Fall menus to take advantage of produce available in the cooler months ahead.

Feeling Good Despite the Rain

For the last several days, the Autumn rains have arrived in Lexington, Kentucky but despite the off and on again rain, AZUR is feeling good. Not only are we seeing many of our equine customers in for the horse sales but we're also in a good place. In just three months, AZUR will celebrate it's five year anniversary on December 31. Plus, the economy is showing the first signs of an upward trend. And best of all, AZUR is still staying true to our original mission of fine dining in a casual atmosphere. So we don't mind a little rain.

Amphitheater Coming to Southside of Lexington

AZUR is pleased to learn that the amphitheater in Beaumont Centre is nearing reality. The planning has been in process for years. Not only does it add a venue for the performing arts on the Southside, it also provides another level of entertainment to the area. We realize that a vibrant downtown is important for the community and AZUR supports that but we also support alternatives which strengthen the whole - Lexington. More diversity in culture, food and arts = healthier, progressive community. Read more http://www.bizlex.com/Articles-c-2009-09-16-89532.113117_Beaumont_Brings_Amphitheater_to_Lexingtons_South_Side.html

Running Out of Time for Pluots

What exactly is a Pluot? It's a cross between a plum and an apricot. First introduced in 1989, they have been gaining popularity ever since. Pluots have approximately 25 varieties now and are mainly grown in California. They're flavor is intensely sweet and is accompanied with a strong fragrance. The growing season is nearing the end so visit your local neighborhood market and give one a try. It's a new taste waiting to be savored.

AZUR Restaurant Takes No.1 in Lexington Fine Dining

AZUR first appeared in Ace Weekly's Readers' Poll in 2005 as a new restaurant. After five years, AZUR restaurant & patio has not lost it's edge. We received the top fine dining spot in the 2009 poll as voted by the readers of Ace Weekly.

http://www.aceweekly.com/pdfs/uploads/bestoflex09.pdf

Thank you Lexington, KY for voting us one of the Best of Lex.

AZUR and Technology

Over the years, AZUR has embraced technology in keeping with our innovative and progressive nature so when the service provide for our 3G network had issues today. We could not communicate in real time as we have become accustom such as: e-mails and twitter. It's like having the gas turned off to our kitchen stoves. AZUR is looking forward to the return of these critical links to our fans. We apologize for the inconvenience.

AZUR Posts on YouTube

Over the last several weeks, AZUR restaurant & patio has been posting videos to visually share our passion for food. We currently have four videos from the AZUR episode of the Secrets of Bluegrass Chefs which recently expanded coverage of chefs to the central Kentucky area. They are all labelled AZUR - Secrets of Bluegrass Chefs - Parts 1 through 4. We also have a video called The AZUR Experience which is a collection of photos which gives the viewer insight into what to expect when dining at AZUR. All of which may be viewed from our website by following this link http://azurrestaurant.com/azurinvis.aspx Not only are we proud, we are Kentucky Proud. http://www.kyagr.com/KDAPage.aspx?id=7738

Pawpaws Are Coming into Season

The first of this years pawpaws or paw paws are coming into season. This native fruit of the United States which has a taste combination of bananas, mangos and pineapple has been lost for a time but once again organic growers are renewing interest. Plus, Kentucky State University is leading the way in pawpaw research. You've heard the jingle, now taste the fruit. It's America's own.

AZUR Turns Up the Volume in Fall

Many restaurants see the Fall as a slow down period but AZUR sees Fall as a period of activity with increased social interaction and many events to be celebrated. There is Keeneland, UK Football, Chef Series dinners and great Kentucky weather ahead. In terms of the patio, we'll be operating patio service until the last AZUR fan comes inside for the winter. Meanwhile, it's racing, friends, food and music.

Labor Day Holiday at AZUR

The Labor Day holiday at AZUR is like most businesses in the United States - CLOSED in observance of the holiday on Monday, September 7. Yes, we are confident that many restaurants will remain open but sometimes "a day of rest" is worth so much more. Today, our staff will be able to spend the day with their families or friends. And tomorrow, it will be business as usual. We are virtually opened in terms of www.twitter.com/azurrestaurant, www.azurrestaurant.com or Facebook (type AZUR restaurant & patio in the search line). We encourage you to visit one of these sites and learn more about AZUR and why we do what we do. Happy Labor Day from AZUR restaurant & patio! Thank you for following us.

AZUR in the Media

Just posted photographs of Executive Chef Jeremy Ashby from his interview with The Bourbon Review fall issue on www.azurrestaurant.com/default.aspx as well as a link to YouTube Part 1 of The Secrets of Bluegrass Chefs featuring the AZUR chefs preparing AZUR entrees in the kitchen. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-KL5Gefk4ow Enjoy the visuals. Hint: The recipes are available on the web as well.