If your fall travel plans include a trip to the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Lexington, chances are you’ve already got a hotel room booked and tickets bought. But have you sat down and given thought to where you’re going to dine during your stay? Award-winning travel writer Patti Nickell shares some of her favorite bluegrass establishments, as told in her Horse Lover’s Guide to Kentucky.

Lexington
Atomic CafŽ A little bit of the Caribbean in Lexington, with its wall murals, funky dŽcor, tropical courtyard, tiki lights, reggae music, and drinks with paper umbrellas. The food, however, is anything but a clichŽ. Try the jerk chicken, conch fritters, and Cuban pork. 265 North Limestone. (859) 254-1969. www.atomiccafeky.com.

Buddy’s Bar & Grill Named for a beloved cocker spaniel, it is the ultimate comfort food spot, whether you’re in the mood for one of the daily omelet specials, fish and chips, a vegetable plate, or the double Buddy burger. 854 East High St. in Chevy Chase Village. (859) 335-1283. www.buddysbarandgrill.com.

Cheapside Bar & Grill The second-level patio bar (named Lexington’s best by a local magazine) is what you notice first. With its faux palm trees festooned with lights and splashy colors, it looks like a psychedelic dream from the ’60s that you never woke up from. The extensive menu, however, has all the usual choices Ñ burgers, salads, wraps, and what they call “the social grazing items” Ñ a shrimp bowl, giant stuffed pretzel, and white veggie pizza among others Ñ that are meant to be shared. This place is always lively, especially when UK students are in town. 131 Cheapside. (859) 254-0046. www.cheapsidebarandgrill.com