LEXINGTON, KY. — University of Kentucky is kicking off basketball season with their annual Big Blue Madness, the event is drawing thousands in town to flood restaurants and bars.

UK basketball fans packed Rupp Area Friday night but before heading over for the exhibition it was the restaurants that saw the fans filling their seats, including Dudley on Short. 

What You Need To Know

  • Big Blue Madness is back after being canceled in 2020

  • Rupp Arena requires masks, no proof of vaccinations for exhibition

  • UK Basketball will play Kentucky Wesleyan College Oct. 29

  • Dudley on Short serves up 200 fans Friday evening

 

“Liked to have a little sunshine to do outdoor dining tonight but we will take what we can get,” said Branch.

Last year there was no business for restaurants in downtown Lexington for Big Blue Madness because it was canceled, even with the rain Dudley on Short is happy to have 200 reservations of smiling faces.

“Horses and basketball, throw in bourbon that is the three things we [Kentuckians] do best, what a better way to close out a rainy day. Had a good day at the racetrack and got the guys practicing at Rupp Arena,” said Branch.

With owner Debbie Long by Heath Branch’s side, the two are unstoppable, whether it is horses or basketball fans, Dudley on Short is known for its hospitality and rich 40 year long history.

“For a long time this has been their [fans] home away from home as a local restaurant to go to. We treat them like royalty, we treat them like family,” said Branch.

Treating hundreds of fans with impeccable service comes with a waiting staff that can adapt.

“We all work together so I know I can always depend on my co-workers when it is like ‘hey you know I need some break can you help me out with that’? I feel like all of my co-workers are very reliable so I feel like we are unstoppable honestly. I am very excited for this task we have at hand,” said Peterson.

Dudley on Short staff wants to welcome any horse or UK basketball fan a seat at the table even without a reservation.

“We will take some walk-ins as we can get them, have the horse racing on, watch a little practice and just take care of people,” said Branch. 

Fans at Rupp Arena are required to wear a mask but not required to show proof of vaccination to enter the facility. University of Kentucky will face Kentucky Wesleyan College Oct. 29 at 7 p.m.

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