HIStory
The 7th District
District 7 takes its name from Kentucky’s historic Seventh Internal Revenue District, the federal tax district that once encompassed Lexington and much of the surrounding Bluegrass. Beginning in the nineteenth century, distilleries were identified by both a registered distillery number and their revenue district—a system that became an enduring part of Kentucky bourbon history.
Lexington’s Manchester Street corridor was once home to some of the region’s most important whiskey operations. The James E. Pepper Company took over its historic distillery site in 1879 and developed it into a major bourbon complex, eventually building warehouses capable of holding nearly 50,000 barrels. After decades of silence, distilling returned to the restored James E. Pepper Distillery in 2017.
Nearby, the Ashland Distillery—established in 1865 and later associated with William Tarr—was recognized as Lexington’s first federally registered distillery, Registered Distillery No. 1. The surviving bonded warehouse from the former William Tarr operation is now home to Manchester Music Hall, preserving another visible piece of the neighborhood’s distilling past.
We intentionally chose the name District 7 to honor that legacy. Located among the buildings, rail lines and warehouses that helped shape Lexington’s whiskey industry, District 7 celebrates the neighborhood’s history while creating a new place to gather, dine, drink and play.
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Our restaurant is not just a place to eat and drink but a social hall, a gathering spot, and a source of entertainment suitable for any celebration, corporate outing, or event.
About the owner
Rebecca is a highly successful entrepreneur based in Lexington. She has made a name for herself across various industries and is the proud owner of District 7 Social and other popular eateries in the area.
In addition to being a skilled architect with an impressive portfolio of unique and inviting spaces, she has left her mark in the Distillery District by designing establishments such as Goodfellas Pizza, Ethereal Brewing, and Crank & Boom.
Rebecca is known for her passion for bourbon and its history, which often inspires her to incorporate this traditionally rustic motif into her interior and exterior designs.
Her dedication to her craft and community has earned her the respect and admiration of many, and she continues to be a driving force in Lexington’s vibrant dining scene.
