Summer Nights on AZUR Patio

In the hospitality business, there are many, many wonderful nights but some just stand out. Last night was one of those memorable summer evenings on the AZUR patio. After weeks of high temperatures and humidity, the weather finally cooperated. Not only did the temperature drop about 15 degrees but we also had a talented band booked for our Friday patio guests' entertainment. Let's just say that it was the "perfect storm." Every table was seated throughout the restaurant & patio and we even placed into service an area of just seats for the overflow of guests. Definitely an evening that will be talked about in AZUR lore.

OpenTable Goes Online at AZUR

This past Tuesday, AZUR went online with OpenTable. You are now able to book reservations using the OpenTable link on the AZUR website home page, through the OpenTable website, by using the iPhone app and very soon through the AZUR Facebook page. We are pleased to add this free service which allows confirmations 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Especially with the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2010 here in Lexington, Kentucky in just a few months. Remember: OpenTable membership is at no cost.

AZUR Upper Patio Before and After Sails

Before (above) and After (below)

Several years ago, AZUR needed a solution to the afternoon sun on the upper patio area. We didn't feel that the conventional patio umbrellas were the solution so we began searching for a solution that fit our European-styling. The search resulted in the AZUR shade sails. When hung, they look like inverted boat sails suspended in the air. Every year we install them in the summer and remove them in the fall. In our area, the wind really gusts during the fall, winter and spring. We feel that they really make the upper patio and hope you agree. It's the details that count. See before and after photos.

AZUR Bazaar?

We realize that restaurants (especially fine dining) don't typically host a bazaar for a specialty dinner but that's okay. AZUR enjoys introducing all types of foods, ingredients and culinary concepts. Hosting a food bazaar is like mixing all these things in one big bowl. So for one night, we are going to attempt to recreate those wonderful community bazaars one finds in cities and villages abroad on our very own patio. As an independent restaurant, we do step "outside of the box" and we do things "off the wall." And yes, sometimes they are not well received, but we say to ourselves, "At least we tried." If we ever stop being inspired and energized by our conceptual dinners, then the spark for AZUR will most likely be lost as well.