Rise and Dine in Bluegrass Country

Americans are in love with breakfast. Not the dainty European tradition of a croissant and a demitasse but the stomach-satisfying bonanza of eggs, bacon, ham, pancakes, fried potatoes, toast, grits, biscuits, and jam. Together, these soul-soothing delicacies are a recipe for mealtime bliss, and especially when they're found on an all-you-can-eat buffet or an anytime menu, they're a guarantee of consummate excess.

How fitting, then, to enjoy the morning meal in Lexington, Kentucky, which serves generous helpings of both breakfast bounty and hospitality. Not quite the Midwest, not really the South, this loftily-named "Athens of the West" eats heartily with both regions in mind, taking delight in sausage, grits, pastries, hash browns, and everything in-between. The reach is broad; the delight is sure.

No mention of breakfast in this part of the Bluegrass State would be complete without acknowledging Ramsey's Diner. Although it now has four locations, the original restaurant on East High Street is the much-visited standard. Its superb meat 'n three menu offers plenty of options, from chicken livers to pot roast, but an all-day-breakfast always manages to get lots of business. Omelets are lovely, and so are steak and eggs, but Ramsey's traditional breakfast plate is the clear winner. It delivers up to five eggs (yes, for one person), along with pancakes, hash browns, bacon, sausage, and toast – all for less than nine bucks. How do you deny that?

Another long-lived favorite is Keeneland Track Kitchen, which ably feeds early risers while granting an inside glimpse of Lexington's horse industry. Beginning at 6am, bright-eyed folks grab plastic trays and hit the cafeteria line to partake of biscuits and gravy, pancakes, sausage, eggs, and all the usual suspects. A cup of piping hot coffee and a good friend help the cause as diners scope out the room in an attempt to spot jockeys, trainers, and owners. Don't forget to browse the framed photographs of past competitions and equine race stars while you enjoy the basic, affordable fare and real-life horse-training ambience.

Building a solid name for itself of late is Stella's Kentucky Deli, which proudly promotes local ingredients and gives downtown a laid-back hangout for enjoying well-priced breakfast mainstays. Tuck into quiche, a sausage biscuit, cheese grits, or something as simple as a bagel or muffin. Fair trade, organic coffees aptly complement the menu, and regional food sources get a shout-out from the owners. When you can eat well and support small farms, the psychic pay-off is terrific – definitely a recipe for success and for sustainability.

Another pillar of the Lexington morning meal is Alfalfa Restaurant. Exhibiting an alternative vibe, the popular place is an across-the-board fan favorite. It champions environmental causes, takes care of local vegetarians, and opens early each day for breakfast or brunch. Weekends are especially busy, so arrive quickly if you can. That way, you can leisurely savor a veggie-laden omelet, sample one of the many eggs benedict variations, tackle a hefty pancake sandwich, or nibble on breakfast (or tofu) burritos. Well-crafted sandwiches and salads also appear on the brunch menu, along with refreshing, Saturday-only mimosas.

If plans demand a more refined affair, Lexington can accommodate that as well. In town, Jonathan at Gratz Park serves a three-course, set price Sunday brunch. Prime your palate with burgoo, a Kentucky stew featuring bison, pork, and beef, before you dive into cornmeal waffles with sweet onion bratwurst or maybe salmon croquettes with dill hollandaise. Finally, cater to your sweet tooth with a variety of handmade sorbets and ice creams, like chocolate bourbon brownie. They're a restaurant highlight and are making a name for themselves beyond Jonathan's walls. Gracious service and a beautiful, understated dining room make the event even more memorable.