Opened in the spring of 2015 with Fantastic BBQ, Fried Catfish , Froglegs and some of the best entertainment possible Proud Mary BBQ is an indoor/outdoor restaurant and event center. Featuring some of the best food, drinks, and local sounds in the Bluegrass.
Mellow riverfront mainstay with basic Southern seafood & BBQ fare, plus an outdoor bar.
Bryan Whitaker
Very cool sitting, Don’t let the parking lot fool you they were what looked to be very packed. But when we went in half of the tables were still open very large platform they have room for any size group and some nice patio heaters and fireplaces. But the food was very good. Follow us on all platforms @2WheelWhit for more
… moreAsh
Excellent place to eat and enjoy live music! Waiting to be seated was a breeze with the sandpit for the kids to play & music to listen to. Food was great, too. Staff was kind. We will be returning in the future! Unfortunately the photo I got of my brisket sandwich was really dark, but it was yummy, and so were the fried pickles.
… moreTanner Triplett
I had a really great experience today at Proud Mary’s barbecue. The food was absolutely excellent and very great for the price! Service was on point and they weren’t too busy at noon when we went. It says they have live music every night and there’s tons of patio space and it’s right on the river for a nice relaxing view. I know they can get busy at night for sure, but please don’t let that sway coming to this place. It’s an absolute gem and the best barbecue that I’ve had in Lexington Kentucky!!
… moreTony Skeans
Proud Mary’s rests along the Kentucky River, tucked quietly between the past and the present—one foot beside the old single-lane bridge that creaks with memory, the other brushing against the thrum of I‑75’s modern sprawl. It’s a timeless spot. You feel it as you sit riverside with a plate of smoke-kissed ribs, the sun slipping low over the water.
The barbecue? Exceptional. Ribs, pulled pork, brisket—each bite speaks to long hours over low heat. There’s no rush in this food. The sides run bold and unapologetic. Spicy beans, tangy slaw, fried okra with bite. Seasoned with confidence. Nothing shy. Pricing feels more than fair for the atmosphere: live music, river air, and a venue that holds character in its bones.
Crowds gather for good reason. Families, bikers, river folk. The energy builds as the band tunes up. It’s the kind of place you remember. But with popularity comes the only real drawback—service can get stretched. You might need to make eye contact and ask firmly. It’s not rude here; it’s survival.
Still, the wait doesn’t sour the charm. Proud Mary’s stands in a sliver of time, caught between iron and asphalt, past and present. And if you’re lucky enough to grab a seat by the rail as dusk settles in, you’ll understand why people keep coming back.
… moreVanessa Berboso
I’ve been wanting to check this place out since I moved to Kentucky 4 yrs ago. Busy is an understatement for this establishment. Is it worth it? ABSOLUTELY!
I opted to cancel my requested table and go for a TO GO order but while in the process of doing so, a spot at their indoor bar opened up so I decided to stay for a bit and grab a drink and appetizers while I wait for my ridiculous “All NIne” order
Bartender was fun, approachable and a delight! She recommended AMAZING drinks and appetizers! Her original recommendation for dessert was not available so she opted in giving me the chocolate cake.. that’s the least favorite thing I had at this place..not that it’s bad or anything..it just didn’t WOWed me like the rest of the food that was recommended to me. My receipt said her name is Ashley. So if you are ever there, don’t be a snob and refuse to sit at their indoor bar. Ashley is AMAZING! I had her make all my order choices for me yesterday and she’s on point!
It absolutely has its charms..great to bring any type of crowd! Kids will absolutely enjoy this place as they have a kids sand play area for them and parents will love it since the kids can stay in one place and absolutely manageable and visible that you won’t lose your kids! A live band and an outside bar and sitting are available – deck, under deck or river view. Or you can opt in sitting inside if you aren’t a fan of loud music and want to watch any games that might be playing or even a horse race. And same as you go everywhere in Kentucky…keno or a little gambling is also available to partake in!
Parking can be a bit rough. I lucked out and found a spot at the very edge. Have patience with the crew when you do visit and maybe don’t be so super hungry cause you might be looking at a 30-60 minute wait time. They are worth it. Just be kind and be patient with them 🙂
… moreSarah Stemen
This place….. It is off the highway and not necessarily just found. I was adventuring and discovered this loveliness. First thing. I pass this little ‘park’ where I can look up and see the massive overpass. Cool. But not as cool as finding my next adventure. And that is Proud Mary BBQ. This place has every type of atmosphere for every type of person. Live music every night they are open. Then, you get to have a table right by the water. The bartender was phenomenal. The people that were at the bar seemed like the Cheers sitcom crew. Loved every minute.
… moreJan Mader Roberts
Such a cool place!!! Had a really good band playing and the food was absolutely delicious! Our server was the best! Had such a great personality and I’m sorry I didn’t get her name. I should have. She deserves a shout out!! The atmosphere is incredible. Highly recommend!!!
… moreDario Restrepo
We recently had a holiday lunch buffet for our team of 50 employees, and I couldn’t be more impressed with the experience. The owner was a pleasure to work with and the staff was incredibly attentive and accommodating. The food was absolutely delicious and we received great feedback from everyone in the group. Proud Mary’s truly goes above and beyond to take care of their customers. Highly recommend them for any event!
… moreS N
Proud Mary is by the river, complete with live music and a sandpit for kids, offers a fantastic blend of relaxation, fun, and good food. The riverside setting brings a serene backdrop, with the gentle flow of water and the open air enhancing the experience. The BBQ provides hearty, flavorful food, perfect for a laid-back afternoon or evening. The live music adds a lively vibe, whether it’s acoustic tunes or more upbeat rhythms, creating the ideal atmosphere for unwinding. For families, the sandpit for kids is a brilliant touch—parents can enjoy their meals and the music while the little ones stay entertained in a safe, fun environment. This type of event is perfect for family outings, gatherings with friends, or anyone wanting to enjoy the outdoors with great food, music, and activities for all ages.
… moreTammy Roberts
The fried catfish, Mahi with a seafood baked potato, and fried shrimp were very good. Cool atmosphere with live music. Our server was very efficient! It was a little chilly outside, so we sat inside. We will be back during the summer months!
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