News Summary
Lexington’s beloved Krafty Draft Bar will close on May 3, 2025, and reopen as the Lexington Tap House on May 10, 2025. New owners will honor memberships and revamp the venue. Many familiar staff will remain, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere. The new bar will feature a large selection of beers and comfort food, marking an exciting new chapter for Lexington’s nightlife amid industry challenges.
Big Changes Coming to Lexington’s Bar Scene!
Exciting news for the lively folks of Lexington! The beloved Krafty Draft Bar is about to undergo a significant transformation. As announced on April 19, this popular watering hole will be closing its doors on May 3, 2025, but don’t fret! Just a week later, on May 10, 2025, it will rise anew as the Lexington Tap House.
A Fresh New Start
The new owners have big dreams for the establishment and aim to create a vibrant atmosphere that will draw in both loyal customers and new faces. They’ve made it clear that this isn’t just a simple name change; they envision a fresh beginning with new leadership, which is sure to add some excitement to the local bar scene. The address remains the same at 269 Charter Oak Rd., making it easy for Krafty Draft fans to find their way to the new venue.
Honoring the Past
In a lovely gesture, the new management has announced that they will honor memberships, reward points, gift cards, and previously booked events from Krafty Draft at the Lexington Tap House. So, if you’ve got a gift card tacked up on your fridge or those reward points waiting to be redeemed, you can rest easy knowing that they won’t go to waste!
Staffing Changes with a Familiar Touch
While the bar will welcome new personnel as part of this exciting transition, many of the familiar faces from Krafty Draft are expected to remain, helping to maintain that cozy and welcoming atmosphere that regulars have grown to love. Fans of the previous establishment can continue to enjoy their favorite hangout spot while experiencing some new talent behind the bar.
A Thank You to the Community
The owners of the new Lexington Tap House have expressed heartfelt gratitude to the community for their unwavering support of Krafty Draft over the years. This dedication and connection to the community are sure to play a large role in the success of the reopening.
A Familiar Flavor
For those who have cherished Krafty Draft, you can still expect some of the things you loved about it. Known for its impressive selection of over 120 different beers and wines, along with a menu filled to the brim with homemade comfort food, Lexington Tap House will carry on the legacy while adding their own flavor to the mix.
The Bigger Picture
It’s worth noting that Krafty Draft’s closure reflects a broader trend currently hitting bars across the state. Many establishments are grappling with challenges such as staffing shortages and increasing liquor liability insurance rates. However, the new management at Lexington Tap House seems undeterred, embracing the challenges ahead with optimism.
Mark Your Calendars!
So, mark your calendars, Lexington! The transformation from Krafty Draft to Lexington Tap House is set for what promises to be a bustling 2025. Whether you’re a long-time customer or new to the area, there will surely be something for everyone at this revamped local favorite.
The future looks bright for the Lexington Tap House, and we can’t wait to see what this exciting new chapter brings to the town’s nightlife. Keep those beer mugs ready—it’s time to celebrate a new beginning!
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Krafty Draft Bar Close & Reopen
- Boston.com: Robert Kraft and Draft Prospects
- Cola Daily: Krafty Draft Brew Pub’s 100 Beers
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bar Management
- Google Search: Lexington SC Bar Scene

Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.


