Distilled on Jefferson: Blending Heritage With Modern Dining.

Nestled in Lexington’s historic Jefferson Street, Distilled on Jefferson is more than just a restaurant; it’s a tribute to Kentucky’s rich heritage. Spearheaded by restaurant proprieter and chef Mark Wombles, the restaurant embodies a deep connection to the past while offering a fresh, modern twist on Southern cuisine. Wombles’ journey to create a dining experience rooted in history began long before the restaurant opened its doors.

The Exterior front of Distilled on Jefferson 157 Jefferson St., Lexington, KY

The Beginning: Gratz Park Inn and Its Historical Significance

Distilled originally opened its doors in 2014 within the historic Gratz Park Inn, a building that carries deep roots in Lexington’s history. Gratz Park itself is one of the city’s most beloved neighborhoods, known for its 19th-century homes and stately architecture. The Inn, a key piece of this historic district, provided Wombles with the perfect backdrop to launch his vision of blending modern cuisine with a sense of place.

The Gratz Park Inn was more than just a building; it was a gateway to the past, set amidst the charm of a neighborhood that had seen generations of Lexingtonians come and go. For Wombles, opening Distilled within this historic setting was an intentional choice. "We love being in the hotel, surrounded by so much history," Wombles shared.

The decision to situate the restaurant in such a historic building aligned with Wombles’ desire to honor Kentucky's heritage through his culinary creations

Preserving Heritage: The Significance of Jefferson Street

Jefferson Street is one of Lexington’s oldest neighborhoods, brimming with a history that dates back to the early 1800s. Once home to prominent African American jockeys, business owners, and the first African American female pharmacist, Harriet Marble, the area is a testament to resilience and cultural diversity.

For Wombles, choosing Jefferson Street as the home for Distilled was about more than just a prime location—it was about honoring this legacy. “We had the option to build new spaces, but we chose to create our restaurant in a historic site that pays homage to the heritage of Kentucky,” Wombles shared.

Distilled moved to Jefferson Street in 2020, following in the footsteps of other renowned establishments such as The Goose, Green Lantern, Apiary and Stella's.

GULF PICKLED SHRIMP edamame hummus, chili oil, flatbread, pickled vegetable relish - from Distilled on Jefferson, Lexington, Ky — GULF PICKLED SHRIMP

The Move to Jefferson Street: A Strategic Choice

The decision to relocate Distilled from Gratz Park (now The Sire) to Jefferson Street was both a challenge and a strategic move. “We made the move right after Covid hit, which was quite a process. We closed the old location down and moved everything over here within two weeks,” Wombles recalled. The decision paid off, and Distilled quickly became a standout in this historic district, adding to Jefferson Street’s growing reputation as a premier restaurant hub.

Wombles' commitment to preserving Kentucky’s history is evident in more than just the location. Distilled’s menu reflects his deep connection to both family and tradition, offering dishes that honor Kentucky’s culinary roots while introducing contemporary flavors.

A Menu with a Story

The Henry Burger

At Distilled on Jefferson, every dish has a story, but few are as personal as the Henry Burger. Named after Chef Mark Wombles’ father, Henry Wombles, this burger isn’t just a menu item—it’s a heartfelt tribute to the man who inspired it. Combining classic flavors with a touch of nostalgia, the Henry Burger has quickly become one of the most beloved dishes at Distilled.

The story behind the Henry Burger begins with a simple yet meaningful tradition. “When my father came into the restaurant, he always wanted a burger,” Wombles recalled. However, at the time, there wasn’t a burger on the menu. Not wanting to disappoint his father, Wombles created one just for him. What started as a special request soon became a permanent fixture on the menu after guests fell in love with its bold, comforting flavors.

The Henry Burger is a classic double patty burger, but it’s the attention to detail that sets it apart. Each bite offers the perfect blend of savory and sweet, thanks to the caramelized onions that add a rich depth of flavor. Melted American cheese, crisp lettuce, and B&B pickles provide the ideal balance of textures, while the special sauce ties everything together with a hint of tanginess.

Porcini Dry Rub Filet

Beyond the Henry Burger, Distilled is known for its upscale twist on Kentucky classics. The Porcini Dry Rub Filet, a signature dish, exemplifies Wombles’ ability to take traditional ingredients and elevate them to new heights.

In regards to the filet, Wombles says "the Porcini Dry Rub Filet...that dish is probably about ten years old, maybe a little bit more. It was something I initially concepted for weddings-- something upscale. We decided to add it to the menu and it was one of those dishes that was just like a hit. We ran a special one night and people absolutely fell in love with it and now we've had so much success with it, and people say it's our biggest thing. It has these beautiful Okinawa sweet potatoes on the bottom, asparagus, crispy country ham, herb butter and this amazing red wine sauce. I feel like the Okinawa Sweet Potatoes are kind of the unexpected showstopper. They're naturally really, really sweet and we just add butter and salt. That's all. We don't add any sugar inside of them"

Buttermilk-Brined Fried Chicken

When it comes to Southern cuisine, fried chicken is a staple that needs no introduction. Yet, at Distilled on Jefferson, Chef Mark Wombles has taken this classic dish and transformed it into something truly extraordinary. By combining traditional techniques with upscale ingredients, Distilled’s fried chicken has become one of the standout items on the menu, offering diners a familiar yet elevated taste of Kentucky.

Unlike the standard fried chicken you might find at a typical Southern eatery, Distilled’s version is a refined interpretation of the beloved dish. "We’ve put an upscale twist on it," Wombles explained. The fried chicken is served with a warm roasted tater salad, tangy gravy, and a side of roasted corn chow chow—"

Distilled’s fried chicken represents Wombles' commitment to honoring Kentucky’s culinary heritage while pushing the boundaries of traditional Southern cooking. "People really love it," Wombles said, and it’s easy to see why. This dish offers a nostalgic nod to the past while inviting diners to experience something new and exciting.

For Wombles, creating an upscale version of fried chicken wasn’t just about making it fancier—it was about respecting the tradition of the dish while showcasing his own culinary creativity.

Service and Atmosphere

Distilled on Jefferson offers an elegant and inviting atmosphere where Kentucky's heritage meets modern design. With its warm, earth-toned interiors, plush seating, and refined lighting, the restaurant effortlessly combines comfort with sophistication.

The custom chandelier, reminiscent of tree branches, adds an artistic flair that brings the natural world indoors, reflecting the deep connection to Kentucky’s landscapes. The soft, ambient lighting creates a serene dining experience, perfect for intimate dinners or celebratory gatherings.

The dining room, adorned with tasteful artwork and thoughtfully arranged tables, offers an intimate and peaceful environment. The room’s design allows for privacy, making it an ideal location for both casual dining and special occasions. Large windows provide plenty of natural light during the day and offer a cozy, candlelit atmosphere at night. The outdoor seating area also provides an additional option for guests who wish to dine in the open air, surrounded by the charm of Jefferson Street.

Distilled’s commitment to an elevated dining experience extends beyond its design and ambiance. Guests consistently rave about the attentive service, with many highlighting their servers by name. Whether you’re dining on a busy weekend night or enjoying a quiet Monday evening, the service is described as prompt, knowledgeable, and welcoming. Patrons mention the smooth service of "delightful and original preparations," and many have returned time and again, consistently impressed by both the food and the team behind it.

One diner noted, "We’ve been there many times and never had a bad dish or service," while another commented on the restaurant’s ability to "exceed expectations." Despite some temporary construction affecting the noise level, guests have praised the dining experience, noting that it only adds to their anticipation of the newly renovated seating area

With the addition of a new dining room coming soon, complete with a central fireplace and expansive windows, Distilled will soon offer even more for those looking to host private events or enjoy an intimate dining experience. Mark Wombles shares that this space will be available for private dining, wedding rehearsals, and special events while remaining open to the public for reservations. The expansion is expected to be completed by the end of September, making it the perfect setting for your next celebration

guests enjoying a meal at distilled on jefferson, lexington, ky

Plan Your Visit to Distilled on Jefferson

Distilled on Jefferson is open for dinner from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Monday through Thursday and 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM Friday and Saturday. The restaurant offers a relaxed yet refined atmosphere perfect for celebrating life’s special moments, whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or simply a memorable night out.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dining or private events.

To reserve your table