SoulFeast Week: Black owned Lexington & beyond !!
- Martinique Lewis
- Jun 12
- 9 min read
Updated: Jul 7
I met Martina Barksdale, Director of Communications for Visit Lexington, last year at the Black Travel Summit. I remember being excited to learn more about her because I knew how important it was to have someone who looks like me in a role like hers, where she could drive real change in tourism. Research shows Black travelers are 80% more likely to visit a place where they see themselves reflected, and millennials especially are drawn to destinations that celebrate Black culture, offering experiences like Black cultural events and local Black-owned culinary businesses.
If there's an event, we're showing up! So when I received the invitation to support SoulFeast Week, the brainchild of Martina and her twin brother Marcellus, I couldn’t get to Lexington fast enough! SoulFeast Week is a celebration of culture, cuisine, and community that highlights Lexington, KY as a soulful destination for flavor, cultural expression, and shared joy. Built around the Juneteenth holiday,
SoulFeast honors tradition, fosters connection, and invites all to experience something unforgettable. Celebrating five years of impact, the Barksdales have created something truly remarkable, providing Black businesses with the resources and support they need to thrive in Lexington.
From June 19-22, you can experience SoulFeast events throughout Lexington, and from June 23-29, you can taste the experience during Black Restaurant Week. I had the pleasure of previewing some of the experiences and restaurants, and whether you're visiting for SoulFeast Week or not, here are some of my must-try experiences in supporting Black owned Lexington.
Eats
Created and operated by Pastor Tabet, this spot is all about good country eating! And I’m not talking about basic Southern cuisine, but that homemade, love-filled food from your granny down in the backwoods , Athens, Kentucky to be exact! Genesis Coffee House & Eatery is Lexington’s first Black-owned coffee shop, and what originally started as a concept for a Christian bookstore has now become a beloved all-day brunch spot for locals and visitors alike. With an extensive menu (I mean, choices on choices), I went for the fried green tomatoes, potato hash, and a Cinnabon latte. When I say everything was excellent, I mean that. The service was fast, and what I loved most was Pastor Tabet’s sense of community. She’s not only creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs through her marketplace, but she’s also providing jobs and teaching great customer service to the youth. Enjoy Genesis during Black Restaurant Week and try their special item for just $15.
Chef Isaiah Screech
Whenever you need an event catered in Lexington, Chef Isaiah Screech should be the first person you call. Known as the former head chef of the Spark Community Café in Versailles, a "pay what you can" restaurant, he was also a semifinalist for the James Beard Awards 2023. A laid-back and observant chef, he may not say much, but his food speaks for itself, Everything from the dinnerware to the music, serving platters, and silverware, your Chef Isaiah experience is a beautiful display of culinary art. You can catch him at the ''Chitlin’ Circuit Farm-to-Table Dinner'' on Thursday June 19.
Wing KYng started in 2017 as Thomas “TO” Williams’s side hustle, cooking wings from his Lexington apartment. What began as a passion for cooking and sharing delicious food soon turned into something bigger. When the pandemic hit, he made the leap and dedicated himself full-time to his business. Winning over the hearts of the community, Wing KYng moved from his house to a community kitchen, and now, he proudly operates his own restaurant at the Grey Line Station.
Crafted with love and rooted in community, Wing KYng’s secret sauce? The sauces! With 11 regular sauces, 7 blended sauces, 6 dry rubs, and 9 signature sauces, I had a hard time deciding. But when I asked TO for his recommendation, he told me I couldn’t go wrong with the blended spicy garlic and the signature dirt bowl classic, so I went with both! Let me tell you, I cleaned my plate, and the bones. I'm talking Finger-licking good. And don’t even get me started on the famous potatoes.
What I loved most about my experience at Wing KYng was TO’s appreciation for Martina and Marcellus and the role they've played not only in creating SoulFeast Week but in his business. Hearing him say, “It’s because of you, I’m here,” really highlighted how much this event and its creators mean to Lexington. I quickly came to learn It’s more than just food; it’s about the community and support that makes places like Wing KYng thrive.
Sip
Recognized by the state of Kentucky as the first African Americans to produce Kentucky Bourbon since slavery, Sean and Tia Edwards know exactly what they're doing! With a newly opened chic and sexy tasting room, the experience will have you losing track of time. Ambient lighting, gold finishes, sleek design, and plush seating make you feel like you’re in a speakeasy, and it’s all about you. The tasting experience is set apart as you not only learn about Bourbon but awaken your senses in the process. You can even make your own cocktail based on your preferences. Now It took me some time to get acquired with Bourbon, but after this tasting I understood my palette a lot better. Because of Fresh Bourbon, I understood why people adore the spirit. You’ll also get the chance to taste Fresh Bourbon during SoulFeast throughout the weekend.
Sable Burbon is a new spirit introduced to us by familiar faces Harold Perrineau , Malcom D Lee, Taye Diggs and Morris Chestnut. Born from a shared passion for storytelling and whiskey making, each sip celebrates friendship, heritage , and the spirit of camaraderie.
In a collaboration with Bespoke Whiskey owned partially by Derek Jetter, Sable is known for its deep golden-brown color and tasting notes that include burnt sugar, pear compote, allspice, and nutty marzipan, with flavors of mocha and dark chocolate fudge. Now keep in mind I'm not a Bourbon drinker, but I did enjoy tasting Sable and having it in a cocktail. Attendees of SoulFeast will have the chance to meet the men behind Sable and get autograph bottles of the spirit during '' The Finale: A Sable Bourbon Experience'' on Sunday, June 22.
Stay / Play
Located just five miles from Lexington in the heart of horse country, Silver Springs Farm Equine and Vineyard is owned and operated by Mr. Allen and Leslie Carter. I was immediately drawn to their story and impressed by how they’ve created multiple products for the spirits and tourism industries. Once home to another distillery, their property has horses, a rentable accommodation, the vineyard and a wonderful tasting experience.
I must admit, as a California girl, I was skeptical about wine in Kentucky, but after my tasting I understood exactly why they were award winning! When it comes to Silver Springs, It's not only about the wine, but the people who created it. Getting to learn more about the Carters in an intimate setting was a highlight highlight for me for multiple reasons. As a former athlete learning that they both played collegiate sports excited me and their love story made me started writing love letters lol. But even more so, I realized Mr. Allens passions to tell stories that've never been told just like me. So when I learned the story of ''Tucker'', the first and only Negro Storekeeper ever in the state of Kentucky and his role at Silver Springs Distillery over 150 years ago, I smiled. Without the Carters Tucker would never be given his flowers. The Carters are literally our ancestors wildest dreams, not only do they welcome you for their experience during SoulFeast, but whenever you’re in town.
Experiences
Though I didn’t get to visit Coleman Crest Farm in person, Mr. Jim Coleman will take you there through storytelling alone. I could listen to him for hours about his family legacy and how he’s preserving it through the farm. Learning about the programs he’s created for everyone to experience is nothing short of amazing especially as Kentucky’s First African American Owned USDA Certified Organic Produce Farm. Martina and Marcellus have done an amazing job including everyone in the culinary industry, whether you're supplying, making, or selling the food. Mr. Coleman's Farm is the host location for the ''Chitlin’ Circuit Farm-to-Table Dinner'' on Thursday June 19, this experience is not one to miss!
Black Soil KY is exactly what we mean by group economics. Created by Ashley Smith, this establishment not only supports Black farming communities but is helping to save Black communities. It’s no secret that urban areas where Black and brown people live often lack access to fresh produce, but Black Soil has worked hard to change that.
Their efforts are vital, and their commitment to empowering local communities is remarkable. Seeding change, harvesting impact is their mission and the goal is to reconnect Black Kentuckians to their heritage and legacy in agriculture. In 2024 they fed over 18,000 families with produce from local Black owned farms and have implemented their mobile ''Farmacy markets'' that bring the produce to you! Most of the restaurants who participate in SoulFeast week source their produce from Black soil and support their efforts.
As a alto turned soprano who grew up singing in every choir imaginable, as soon as I learned I'd get to experience the YMBBA choir in their debut performance I was ecstatic. I love when I can see a passion for people and praising and you feel that as soon as they start singing. Founded by multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated, and BMI award-winning producer and songwriter Nemo Achida , he's brought his talents back home, to create a sound and commitment thats undeniable. I loved that everyone is in included no matter, age, creed or race. The way the community showed up for him was incredible and we settled with standing as all the seats were taken. It's inspiring to see Black men uplifting the community in such a way and I look forward to how they grow! The YMBBA choir will will be performing at the Soulful Sunday Gospel Brunch Sunday June 22.
Officially set to open June 30, The Melroy orivate social club will be a mecca for likeminded culture shifters. Founded by Iesha Allen, former owner of Creaux , the 6,000 square foot private social club suitable for refined, yet relaxed dining, conscious conversations, and exclusive entertainment experiences. Members are adult professionals over the age of 35 looking for curated entertainment options and a social home they can work, play, and innovate in. With membership intake happening now, expect to experience a SoulFeast week event in some capacity there.
The Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild, (KBBG) is a pioneering organization dedicated to celebrating and honoring the significant contributions of minorities throughout bourbon history. At the heart of the Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild, there’s a deep commitment to honor and elevate the often hidden minority involvement in bourbon’s rich history. They strive for a more inclusive future driven by education, community building, and celebrating diverse legacies in the bourbon industry. Their board is a collective of passionate industry professionals and enthusiasts committed to preserving the heritage and future of inclusive Bourbon appreciation and education. I had the opportunity to break bread with their founder Robert Beatty. A wealth of information, he is about his business and community. I appreciated his zest for the space and the way he's curated community and events that keeps the interest of his members and supports the wider community.
It's up to you which of the events you want to experience but here's an overview
1. Chitlin’ Circuit Farm-to-Table Dinner
Date: Thursday, June 19, 2025
Location: Coleman Crest Farm
Highlights: Inspired by the historic Chitlin’ Circuit, this country-themed dinner features live music from The Kentucky Gentlemen and Tee Dee Young, a farm-fresh meal by Chef Isaiah Screetch, and plenty of boots-on-the-ground energy.
2. Cocktails & Cigars
Date: Friday, June 20, 2025
Location: The Void Sake Company
Highlights: Step into a night of smooth vibes and bold flavors at Cocktails & Cigars, SoulFeast Week’s ultimate grown-folks block party! This high-energy event brings together the perfect mix of premium cigars, handcrafted cocktails, and the best local food trucks—all set to the sounds of a live DJ.
3. SoulTeenth Fest
Date: Saturday, June 21, 2025
Location: Moondance Amphitheater
Highlights: Experience the heart of Juneteenth at SoulTeenth Fest, a celebration in Downtown Lexington! Enjoy live music from national and regional artists, cooking demos by top chefs, art, vendors, and more. General admission is free.
4. Soulful Sunday Gospel Brunch
Date: Sunday, June 22, 2025
Location: Manchester Events (formerly La Brasa)
Highlights: End SoulFeast Week with a powerful family-style gospel brunch curated by Chef Danielle Conner and Chef Antoinette Johnson, with live gospel from YMBBA Choir led by Grammy-nominated Nemo Achida. Arrive at 11AM for the full experience.
5. The Finale: A Sable Bourbon Experience
Date: Sunday, June 22, 2025
Location: Lexington Marriott City Center
Highlights: The last and biggest party of SoulFeast Week! Sip Sable Bourbon, dance to R&B with DJ Always, enjoy crafted cocktails and bites, and celebrate with Lexington’s grown and fly crowd. One lucky guest will win the chance to meet the stars behind The Best Man — and signed bottles will be available
SoulFeast Week is truly a labor of love, and Martina and Marcellus have my utmost respect. Witnessing firsthand how they continuously work to support and uplift their community was nothing short of inspiring. With over $300,000 reinvested into Black-owned culinary and spirits businesses in Lexington, this initiative is monumental! A model that other cities can and should follow. Well done to the Barksdales, I can’t wait to celebrate with you all in person next year. With many other Black owned restaurants participating in the celebration, they've additionally created a Black owned Lexington Directory for everyone to access. You can also find these businesses in your ABC Travel Greenbook App, ands don't forget to leave a review.
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This is such a powerful and inspiring initiative! SoulFeast Week sounds like more than just a celebration—it's a movement that uplifts Black culture, community, and entrepreneurship in a meaningful way. Events like this not only enrich the local economy but also educate and connect visitors to the deeper cultural roots of a city. For students passionate about cultural tourism or event planning, managing academic responsibilities while staying engaged with such movements can be tough—that’s where online class helpers can truly offer a valuable hand.