OBC Kitchen Announces New Home at The Commons

Ryder Brown • June 12, 2026

Bluegrass Hospitality Group (BHG) has announced that OBC Kitchen will relocate to a new standalone home within The Commons as part of three major growth initiatives across Kentucky. The announcement was made alongside plans for a new Malone’s Prime Beef Steakhouse in Crestview Hills and the first standalone Harry’s American Bar & Grill in Richmond.


According to BHG, the projects represent a continued investment in Kentucky communities and reinforce the company’s long-term commitment to thoughtful growth, hospitality, and elevated guest experiences.


OBC Kitchen has been a Lexington dining destination since its 2014 opening as a small 13-table concept. Over the years, the restaurant has grown into one of the city’s most beloved dining establishments.


The move to The Commons will provide OBC Kitchen with a larger space that better reflects the brand’s identity and continued growth.


“We’ve outgrown our current space in the best way possible,” said Brian McCarty, Co-Founder of BHG. “OBC deserves a home that matches the experience and atmosphere we strive to create for our guests.”


The new location will be situated within The Commons, a mixed-use development near downtown Lexington.


The relocation reflects BHG’s broader approach to expansion, which focuses on long-term relationships, community impact, and operational excellence.


“These projects are exciting because each one represents growth in a meaningful way for our brands,” McCarty said. “We’ve always believed in expanding with intention, finding the right communities, the right partners, and the right opportunities to create something special for our guests and team members.”


Official opening dates and additional details will be announced as construction progresses.


About Bluegrass Hospitality Group

Bluegrass Hospitality Group (BHG) owns and operates six original restaurant concepts: Malone’s, Malone’s Prime Events & Receptions, Harry’s American Bar & Grill, Aqua Sushi, OBC Kitchen, and Drake’s. The company employs approximately 3,600 team members and operates restaurants across multiple states throughout the region.

Now Open at The Commons: RD1 Distillery

By Ryder Brown • May 21, 2025
We’re thrilled to officially welcome RD1 Spirits to The Commons—a major milestone not just for our development, but for the city of Lexington and Kentucky’s legendary Bourbon Trail. RD1 Distillery is more than just a tasting room. It's an immersive brand destination, research lab, and full-blown bourbon experience rolled into one. Clocking in at over 10,000 square feet—triple the size of their former Distillery District space—RD1 now anchors our 42-acre mixed-use development with a bold new chapter in Lexington’s bourbon legacy. What to Expect Inside Inside, guests are treated to: A wraparound bourbon bar Two private tasting rooms A VIP lab experience with R&D Master Distiller, Dr. Jarrad Gollihue A hidden speakeasy for private groups "RD1 Forest," an indoor zone focused on wood science and bourbon finishing A gift shop featuring exclusive releases only available at The Commons RD1's approach to bourbon is experimental, sensory-driven, and rooted in Kentucky heritage. With over 50 wood finishes tested on-site annually, their R&D setup invites you to explore new flavors—and maybe even bottle one to take home. Fueling Growth in West Lexington This isn’t just a new distillery. It’s a catalyst for tourism and economic growth on Lexington’s west side. As the official stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail here at The Commons, RD1 is projected to welcome 30,000+ visitors each year. The energy is real, the impact is tangible, and the experience is unforgettable. Plan Your Visit Come visit RD1 Distillery at The Commons: 113 Turner Commons Way, Suite 110 . Open daily with tastings, tours, and plenty of reasons to come back again and again. Check out their website to learn more.

Construction Progress Update: May 2025

By Ryder Brown • May 1, 2025
We're excited to share the latest construction milestones at The Commons! Our vibrant, mixed-use development continues to evolve, bringing our vision of community-centered spaces closer to reality. Here's what's new:
Pickleball Kingdom exterior building rendering

Pickleball Kingdom Is Coming to The Commons

By Ryder Brown • February 11, 2025
Pickleball Kingdom is coming to The Commons, bringing a premier indoor pickleball facility to Lexington. Set to open in the summer of 2025, the 42,300-square-foot space will feature 17 professional-grade courts, tournaments, leagues, and community events.