Lexington, Kentucky Spots Serving Country-Ham Biscuits Worth The Drive
There’s something about a country-ham biscuit that feels like home on a plate. Salty, smoky slices of Kentucky-cured ham meet layers of golden, buttery biscuit for a breakfast that’s equal parts comfort and craft.
In Lexington, chefs and bakers have turned this humble Southern classic into an art form – serving up sandwiches so good, they’re worth every mile of the drive to get there.
1. Winchell’s Restaurant & Bar
Morning regulars swear by the hearty Lexington country-ham biscuits at this beloved sports bar and restaurant. The kitchen doesn’t skimp on quality – using locally sourced ham with just the right salt level.
Each biscuit arrives golden-brown with steam still rising, split open to showcase generous ham portions. The contrast between fluffy interior and crisp exterior makes these worth setting an alarm for.
2. Biscuit Daddies
Lexington newcomer Biscuit Daddies has quickly earned a devoted following for their artisanal approach. Their country ham undergoes a special brown sugar and black pepper cure before being thinly sliced onto scratch-made buttermilk biscuits.
A light brush of honey butter adds unexpected complexity that balances the ham’s saltiness. Weekend lines form early, so plan accordingly – these biscuits frequently sell out before noon.
3. Windy Corner Market
Saturday and Sunday brunches at this charming Lexington market feature biscuits that taste like grandma’s kitchen. The secret lies in their partnership with local farms for ultra-fresh ingredients.
Ham comes from heritage-breed pigs raised just miles away, sliced thick and pan-fried until the edges caramelize. Paired with their impossibly flaky biscuits, it’s worth planning your weekend around these special-occasion treats.
4. Critchfield Meats
Sometimes the best biscuits aren’t actually biscuits at all. Critchfield’s butcher shop serves their legendary country ham on fresh-baked yeast rolls that locals line up for.
The family-owned operation cures their own ham using a generations-old recipe. Each roll comes warm from the oven, sliced and stuffed with paper-thin ham. Simple perfection that proves sometimes the traditional ways remain unbeatable.
5. Midway Bakery & Cafe
Good things come in small packages at this quaint bakery in nearby Midway. Their miniature country ham biscuits arrive by the basketful – perfect two-bite wonders that showcase Lexington flavors.
The biscuit dough incorporates local sorghum for subtle sweetness. Aged country ham gets thinly shaved before nestling inside these delicate creations. Ideal for sharing, though you might be tempted to keep the entire basket for yourself.
6. Doodles Breakfast & Lunch
Breakfast innovators at Doodles take the humble ham biscuit to new heights. Their signature version features thick-cut country ham alongside unexpected companions like apple butter or pepper jelly.
The scratch-made biscuits achieve that elusive balance – sturdy enough to hold fillings yet tender enough to practically melt. Early birds get rewarded with biscuits still warm from the oven, though they’re worth visiting any time before the 2pm closing.
7. Tudor’s Biscuit World
Size matters at Tudor’s, where the country-ham biscuit could almost count as a full meal. These hand-formed beauties practically overflow with thin-sliced, salt-cured ham that’s been lightly griddled.
Locals appreciate the consistent quality and value – a hearty breakfast that won’t empty your wallet. The drive-thru option makes these perfect for busy mornings when you need substantial fuel without the wait.
