Lexington’s first medical marijuana dispensary may open at former Frisch’s Big Boy location

LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) — A former Frisch’s Big Boy in Lexington may soon transform into the city’s first medical marijuana dispensary, nearly a year after Kentucky started its medical marijuana program.

FOX 56 spoke with the management company behind the project, who said they hope to provide affordable access to cannabis products for patients in need.

Arkansas entrepreneurs, Casey Flippo and Sean Clarkson, have launched and operated multiple cannabis companies over the past five years.

The pair is now helping KYLX Acquisition Company- a Kentucky-based company- launch its own at the former home of the Frisch’s Big Boy Burger on Alysheba Way.

“We want access,” said Flippo. “We want affordability. And we want to ensure that the product selection being presented to a patient population, that needs it, is one that is going to provide solutions and not problems.”

KYLX Acquisition Company acquired the dispensary license originally awarded to ZenLeaf, Inc. during a lottery drawing in December.

Flippo said they plan to call the new store Speakeasy Dispensary and intend to carry any and all products they can.

“Because each individual application in each individual medium really speaks towards and helps different ailments and different situations that people may be experiencing,” Flippo said.

Edibles, oils, vapes, and raw plant material are all approved products under Kentucky’s program, but state law prohibits smoking raw plant material.

Flippo said their vision is to create a dispensary that offers patients supportive care, equipped with dozens of employees who are knowledgeable and ready to answer questions.

In addition, taking advantage of the leftovers from its former burger joint, a drive-thru option will also be available.

“Patients that have trouble getting in and out of their vehicle, elderly patients, patients that may be are experiencing some form of ailment that would prevent them from being able to be on their feet for an extensive period of time, or, frankly, just for privacy purposes.”

The building is currently under construction, Flippo noting they are working on getting city approval to finalize the project.

City leaders said they have not received the required paperwork yet, but Flippo said they are hopeful to welcome customers in November.

“I truly believe that the sky is the limit for the Kentucky Medical Cannabis program because of the foundation that they laid.”