This story originally appeared in the Dec. 23 edition of the weekly LINK Reader. To get these stories first, subscribe here.
I’ve mentioned in previous Streetscapes that sometimes I visit an area, thinking I know it, but when I get there, I’m shown a new world. There are so many businesses in this area that I simply couldn’t visit them all in one trip. For now, this segment focuses on the most popular and suggested spots on Alexandria Pike.
Four Mile Pig: 7962 Alexandria Pike
I could smell the smoky BBQ before I stepped through the door. The decision to eat here was easy, but I found narrowing my options challenging. I dined with a friend, and we opted for the special of the day – a classic Cuban sandwich with a side of fries.
Within minutes, our food arrived, and we ate it just as quickly.
For those who have never enjoyed a Cuban sandwich, this lunchtime classic features two kinds of pork, loads of melted swiss cheese, pickles and mustard. It’s a tangy favorite, and it’s just not the same without pickles. In my opinion, the world is divided into those who enjoy pickles and those who do not. We both enjoy them, and finished our sandwiches – pickles and all – before we could take a picture.
The fries were seasoned and had, to my surprise, sugar on them. The little pinch of sugar made these a top-tier side that this Kenton County girl would drive 30 minutes for just one more sweet, salty, fried potato.
Their menu of sides were mouth-watering. The offer Southern favorites to fit their BBQ options, like white cheddar macaroni and cheese, cole slaw, baked beans, and those seasoned fries. With four kinds of barbeque sauce for your choice of smoked pork, brisket, turkey and chicken, this is true comfort food.
Four Mile Pig offers drive-thru and carryout, but we enjoyed grabbing a seat in the dining room for the full experience.
Brass Key Coffee: 8109 Alexandria Pike Unit 9
Brass Key Coffee has been on my radar for months. Their cute interior, spacious seating and gorgeous lattes have been calling to me.
Brass Key is tucked into a strip mall on Alexandria Pike, but once you’re inside you’re transported to a quiet, calm atmosphere that you’ll get lost in for hours.
Christmas décor and music welcomed us just as brightly as the barista did. I opted for my personal staple drink, a vanilla latte, and to match the cozy environment I switched from my normal iced to a hot latte.
The drink was the perfect balance of subtly sweet with a rich espresso topped with frothy foam. There were several guests chatting at the bar, while come customers studied with headphones on or, like me, caught up with a friend over a cup of joe. We sat for hours by the fireplace and Christmas tree, drinking copious amounts of caffeine, each drink just as delicious as the ones prior.
For anyone who likes their coffee with plenty of atmosphere, Brass Key is worth the visit.
Alexandria Brewing Company: 7926 Alexandria Pike
Nothing warms me up on a cold night more than a nice, local beer.
Alexandria Brewing Company is a local favorite, and those who have been here before know why.
I love a good beer as much as the next person but I find brewery beers often have a strong bitter aftertaste as well as a very staunch smell. This can take away from the refreshing beer you just sampled, so I’m a bit hesitant when trying new breweries. To my delight, the aftertaste and intense smell aren’t present at ABC and they still deliver some of the best beer.
If you aren’t a beer drinker, breweries can seem redundant. At ABC, they know beer is an acquired taste, and offer alternative, including an entire mule menu that features their house-made ginger beer.
They also have one of the best cocktail menus I’ve ever seen at a brewery, so everyone in your group can have their drink of choice. Their space is large and offers a variety of entertainment options for guests, from arcade style games to live music. Combine this with their ample drink menu, and it’s clear why ABC is more than just a local favorite.
Have a street, city or business you want me to check out next? Email me at [email protected] and it could be featured on the next installment of LINK streetscapes.