Hello, fellow food enthusiasts! Allow me to take you on a culinary journey through Lexington, Kentucky – a place where Southern hospitality meets a craving for world-class cuisine. This vibrant city is a gastronomic haven blooming with a diverse array of dining destinations, from elegant establishments serving up haute cuisine to cozy, family-owned eateries offering a taste of the region’s history. Let’s embark on this delectable adventure and discover what makes Lexington a must-visit destination for every food lover.
In Lexington, you’ll find yourself immersed in a rich tapestry of flavors. It’s a place where tradition and innovation converge on your plate, offering culinary creations that are as delightfully diverse as the city itself. The food scene here is all about ‘Celebrating the Authentic’, and by that, we mean authentic Southern cooking, the kind that conjures up memories of grandma’s kitchen, while also embracing the city’s innovative spirit with a creative twist on classic dishes.
Lexington’s culinary landscape boasts an impressive array of restaurants, each with its unique vibe and signature dishes. From robust barbecues to sublime vegan delights, craft beer hubs to sophisticated wine bars, local farmer’s markets to international cuisine restaurants; your taste buds are in for a treat!
Join me as we explore Lexington’s vibrant food scene, highlighting the best the city has to offer and uncovering hidden gems along the way. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a meat lover or a vegan, a passionate foodie or someone just looking to experience a slice of Lexington’s culture, this gastronomic journey is sure to leave you craving for more. So grab your fork and let’s dive in!
Most Popular Restaurants in Lexington
If you’re exploring Lexington, it’s essential to savor the culinary delights of this unique region. One such jewel is Coevashén. Nestled in the heart of downtown Lexington at 133 East Main Street, this gem offers a tantalizing fusion of Southern and European cuisines. With an elegant and sophisticated ambiance, Coevashén is the perfect place for a romantic dinner or a casual gathering of friends. Head Chef Samantha Fore’s Sri Lankan heritage integrates seamlessly into their unique menu, offering dishes brimming with bold flavors and beautiful presentation.
Directly adjacent to the University of Kentucky’s campus is the popular Sutton’s, located at 110 North Locust Hill Drive. Sutton’s is a cozy Italian eatery that quickly became a favorite amongst locals and students alike. The restaurant is famous for its mouthwatering pizzas and pasta dishes, all made from scratch with locally sourced ingredients. Sutton’s also offers an impressive wine selection to perfectly pair with your meal. Their warm and welcoming atmosphere serves as an added bonus, making you feel right at home.
For an elevated dining experience, you can’t miss Lockbox. Located at 167 West Main Street in the 21c Museum Hotel, Lockbox provides a unique dining atmosphere with art installations surrounding the dining area. Their menu features innovative takes on classic dishes, focusing on farm-to-table ingredients. The restaurant also houses an impressive bar, offering craft cocktails, excellent wines, and a selection of local beers. The crispy fish sandwich and the beef tartare are must-tries when visiting.
Lexington isn’t complete without mentioning its BBQ scene. Blue Door Smokehouse, located at 226 Walton Avenue, is a must-visit for BBQ enthusiasts. Rated as one of the best BBQ joints in Kentucky, Blue Door Smokehouse serves up generously portioned, smoked-to-perfection meats that will have you coming back for more. Their brisket and pulled pork are local favorites, and their sides, such as the mac ‘n’ cheese and baked beans, are the perfect complement to their hearty main dishes.
And lastly, for those with a sweet tooth, Spalding’s Bakery is a must-visit. Located at 760 Winchester Road, Spalding’s has been a staple in Lexington since 1929. Famous for their donuts, they also offer a selection of pastries, cookies, and cakes. Their glazed donut, in particular, is not to be missed. Their treats are all homemade daily, guaranteeing you a fresh and flavorful dessert.
Most Unique Restaurants in Lexington
One of the most unique dining experiences I have encountered in my culinary adventures is at Middle Fork Kitchen Bar. Located in the heart of the Lexington Distillery District at 1224 Manchester St, Lexington, KY, this restaurant offers a stunning blend of new American cuisine with an industrial-chic feel.
From innovative dishes like pork belly with pickled peaches to the traditional Southern fare like shrimp and grits, Middle Fork is a culinary experience that transcends ordinary dining. The atmosphere is fantastic with high ceilings, exposed brick walls, and an open kitchen providing dinner and a show.
Next on our list is Dudley’s On Short. You’ll find this Lexington gem at 259 W Short St, Lexington, KY. With its long history dating back to 1981, Dudley’s has reinvented itself time and again, always maintaining a high level of quality and innovation.
The ambiance of Dudley’s On Short is exquisite, thanks to the beautiful renovation of the historic Northern Bank building. On the menu, you will find an array of dishes that blend traditional Southern cuisine with international flavors. Highlights include the duck confit pasta and the seared scallops.
Finally, we can’t talk about unique Lexington eateries without mentioning Windy Corner Market and Restaurant. Just a short drive from the city center, located at 4595 Bryan Station Rd, Lexington, KY, this is a place where you will experience the true essence of Kentucky.
Windy Corner Market prides itself on serving dishes made from local ingredients. They offer terrific sandwiches, salads, and seafood, and they serve breakfast all day with Kentucky classics like the Kentucky Boy—fried bologna, eggs, and American cheese on a brioche bun. Their extensive menu also features a selection of the famous Kentucky pies. The location adds to the charm, with beautiful horse farms all around.
Regardless of the restaurant you choose, you’re sure to experience a meal that’s as unique and vibrant as the city of Lexington itself. Bon Appétit!
Best Casual Restaurants in Lexington
If you’re looking for a taste of Lexington, Kentucky, there’s no shortage of incredible casual dining experiences awaiting you. Here are some of the best casual restaurants that Lexington has to offer:
Winchell’s Restaurant & Bar is a Lexington institution offering Southern-inspired comfort food and live sports. Located at 348 Southland Dr, Lexington, KY 40503, this neighborhood favorite sports a wide variety of appetizers, sandwiches, entrées, and desserts, all made from scratch. The Kentucky hot brown and fried banana peppers come highly recommended.
Next, for those who love international cuisine, The Athenian Grill is the go-to spot. It offers classic Greek dishes that transport you straight to Athens right from the heart of Lexington. You can find them at 115 N Locust Hill Dr #110, Lexington, KY 40509. The best part? All their dishes, from moussaka to souvlaki, are made with locally sourced ingredients.
For a unique Kentucky experience, visit the Dad’s Favorites Deli located at 820 Lane Allen Rd, Lexington, KY 40504. This place is known for their delicious cheese spreads, gourmet sandwiches, soups, and salads. A must-try here is the Ugly Tomato Sandwich, made with slow-cooked beef and caramelized onions. Dad’s Favorites Deli also offers great vegetarian options.
If pizza is your thing, then Goodfellas Pizzeria is a must-visit. Their address is 110 N Mill St, Lexington, KY 40507. They serve delicious thin-crust, New York-style pizzas by the slice or the whole pie. The Wiseguy Lounge upstairs offers a fantastic selection of bourbon and craft cocktails that perfectly compliment their pizza menu.
Let’s not leave out the burger lovers. Tolly-Ho is a legendary fast-food joint popular among the locals and students offering delicious, customizable burgers, milkshakes and much more. It’s a Lexington classic located at 606 S Broadway, Lexington, KY 40508.
Whether you’re a Lexington local, a visitor passing through, or a student, these casual Lexington restaurants surely won’t disappoint!
Best Family Restaurants in Lexington
First on our list is the iconic Malone’s. This restaurant is a crowd favorite, located at 1920 Pleasant Ridge Drive, Lexington. Known for their prime cuts of steak and fresh seafood, they also offer an impressive array of starters, salads, and desserts. It’s the perfect spot for a family dinner, where both adults and children can find something delicious to satisfy their cravings. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, with the staff ensuring that you feel at home from the moment you step inside.
Up next is Saul Good Restaurant & Pub located at 123 N Broadway, Lexington. This is a charming spot that serves comfort food in a cozy and family-friendly atmosphere. They have a variety of delicious dishes, from burgers and pizzas to hearty salads and flavorful sandwiches. For the little ones, they offer a dedicated kids’ menu. The decor and ambience are as excellent as the food; making it a definite must-visit for families.
Another must-visit spot is Windy Corner Market. Nestled at 4595 Bryan Station Road, Lexington, it is a gorgeous eatery that’s perfect for a family day out. They specialize in dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, from scrumptious sandwiches to delectable desserts. They also have all kinds of beverages to quench your thirst. The setting is quaint and rustic, with an atmosphere that encourages you to relax, enjoy good food, and make great memories with your family.
For families who love Italian cuisine, the Bellini’s Ristorante & Bar located at 115 West Main Street, Lexington, is hard to beat. The restaurant offers an array of tantalizing Italian dishes, each beautifully presented and extremely delicious. Adults can savor a glass of wine from their extensive collection, while kids dig into pasta or pizza. The setting is warm and refined, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
Last but not least, we have the Doodle’s Restaurant, located at 262 North Limestone, Lexington. This restaurant offers a unique twist on traditional southern breakfast and lunch dishes. Their menu boasts of creative dishes like the Cajun Scrambler and Biscuits & Vegetarian Gravy, ensuring that every member of the family finds something to enjoy. The colorful, vibrant decor combined with the casual vibe makes it perfect for a family meal.
These restaurants offer a wonderful blend of delicious food, excellent service, and inviting ambiance that will provide a memorable dining experience for your entire family.
Best Takeout Food in Lexington
One of the top spots for takeout food in Lexington, Kentucky, is undoubtedly Sahara Mediterranean Cuisine. Located at 3061 Fieldstone Way, this eatery serves authentic Mediterranean dishes that are incredibly flavorful and healthy. It’s the perfect option for vegetarians and meat lovers alike, with menu items ranging from delicious veggie wraps to juicy, seasoned lamb kabobs.
The restaurant’s falafel is a standout item, characterized by its perfect crunch on the outside and soft, flavorful inside. Don’t forget to try the hummus and baba ganoush! These creamy, garlicky dips are perfect with the fresh, warm pita bread served on the side. For meat enthusiasts, the shawarma is a must-have. Juicy, marinated strips of meat (either chicken or beef) served with a tangy garlic-yogurt sauce will have your mouth watering in no time.
Moving on, we can’t fail to mention J. Render’s Southern Table & Bar. Located at 3191 Beaumont Centre Cir, this restaurant is known for its exceptional smoked meats and southern-style dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for a generously filled pulled pork sandwich or a flavorful smoked brisket, J. Render’s has you covered.
Their award-winning Smoked Chicken Wings are a must-try – smoked to perfection and served with your choice of house-made BBQ sauces. Looking for some comfort food? Their Southern Mac & Cheese, loaded with three kinds of cheese and topped with toasted breadcrumbs, will leave you craving for more. Their takeout service is flawless, ensuring fresh, hot dishes ready for you to devour at home.
For Asian cuisine lovers, Han Woo Ri Korean Restaurant is a must-visit. Nestled in at 371 South Limestone, this family-run establishment serves the best Korean food in the city. Expect menu items like classic Bibimbap, a spicy-sweet stir-fried chicken known as Dakgalbi, and the hearty and delicious Jjamppong, a spicy seafood noodle soup.
The food is packed with flavors, and the portion sizes are generous. Considering the quality and quantity of the food, the prices are reasonable, making it a great option for students and families alike. Their takeout service is prompt and efficient, ensuring you get a piping hot meal to enjoy at your convenience.
What Foods is Lexington Known For?
No journey to the Bluegrass State, Kentucky, is complete without savoring the culinary delights the region has to offer. Heralding from the heart of Kentucky, Lexington has a gastronomic heritage that is as rich and seasoned as its history. From succulent Southern barbecues to sweet sorghum treats, the distinctive flavors of Lexington have a genuine charm of their own. Now, let’s dive into some of Lexington’s famous dishes, and where to find them.
Firstly, the Kentucky staple that no one should miss out on: the iconic Bourbon-soaked Cuisine. The heartland of America’s native spirit, Lexington sits in the heart of Bourbon Country. Here you can find dishes infused with bourbon in a myriad of ways.
An excellent place to enjoy such culinary delights is at Carson’s Food & Drink located at 362 E Main St, Lexington. They serve bourbon-infused dishes such as Bourbon Barrel Chicken and Bourbon Glazed Salmon that are an absolute treat to the palate. Their mixologists also craft unique bourbon cocktails that beautifully punctuate any dining experience.
Next up, let’s move onto the legendary Burgoo. This thick and hearty stew, traditionally made with mutton, beef, chicken, and a heap of vegetables, has been warming the hearths and hearts of Lexingtonians for countless generations. A stop at Ramsey’s Diner at 151 W Zandale Dr, Lexington, is a must to sample this savory delight. Their Burgoo, laden with lima beans, okra, tomatoes, corn, and potatoes, is comfort in a bowl.
While you are still in southern comfort food territory, don’t miss the Hot Brown. This open-faced turkey sandwich drenched in Mornay sauce, topped with bacon, and broiled until crispy, is a Lexington classic. You can relish this dish at Connie’s Kitchen located at 2227 Nicholasville Rd Suite 112, Lexington. The bubbly cheese atop the bacon and turkey makes this dish an unforgettable one!
Finally, your culinary exploration of Lexington would not be complete without a taste of the sweet, nutty Transparent Pie. This classic custard pie is a delicacy that’s difficult to find anywhere else. Miguel’s Pizza, nestled in the Red River Gorge at 1890 Natural Bridge Rd, Slade, highlights this dessert on their menu, which is served best with a dollop of whipped cream.
All in all, Lexington, Kentucky, is a paradise for food lovers, offering a rich variety of culinary delights that are steeped in tradition and the unique Southern charm of the Bluegrass State.
Eating Your Way Around Lexington: A Detailed Food Trip Itinerary
Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Doodles, a laid-back eatery serving southern comfort fare. It’s located at 262 North Limestone, Lexington, KY 40507. Their biscuits and gravy, and shrimp and grits are a must-try.
For lunch, enjoy a meal at Windy Corner Market, a casual country-style store and restaurant located at 4595 Bryan Station Rd, Lexington, KY 40516. Famed for Po’ boy sandwiches and Kentucky Proud products, this place will make your taste buds dance.
Craving for a mid-afternoon snack? Head over to Sugar Circle, a bakery and cafe situated at 319 Cedar St, Lexington, KY 40508. Don’t miss out on their macarons and latte.
Dinner should be an unforgettable experience. Make a reservation at Middle Fork Kitchen Bar, a trendy American eatery located in the heart of the Distillery District at 1224 Manchester St #110, Lexington, KY 40504. Their inventive dishes and craft cocktails are crowd pleasers.
Looking for some late-night eats? Enjoy some unique hot dogs, bourbon, and craft beer at Local Feed, located at 214 S Water St, Georgetown, KY 40324. The Local Feed’s chef-driven menu will leave you wanting more.
When you need an energy boost, grab a cup of coffee from Coffee Times Coffee House. This eclectic and cheerful café is located at 2571 Regency Rd, Lexington, KY 40503 and is the perfect spot to unwind with a good book or simply people-watch.
Lastly, I can’t let you leave Lexington without trying the ice-cream at Crank & Boom Ice Cream Lounge. Located at 1210 Manchester St, Lexington, KY 40504, their handcrafted ice cream is the best way to beat the Kentucky heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What are the top restaurants in Lexington, Kentucky?
A: Lexington, known as the “Horse Capital of the World”, also boasts a robust and diverse culinary scene. Some of the top restaurants include Honeywood, a local restaurant focusing on farm-fresh ingredients, Middle Fork Kitchen Bar, known for its innovative and artistic cuisine, and Coles 735 Main, offering a mix of modern and traditional American dishes. There’s also The Merrick Inn, a treasured Southern cuisine eatery, and Bourbon n’ Toulouse, a favorite spot for Creole food lovers.
Q2: Where can I find the best Kentucky-style BBQ in Lexington?
A: Blue Door Smokehouse is a local favorite when it comes to authentic Kentucky BBQ. They are known for their smoked meats and signature BBQ sauce. There’s also Red State BBQ, which offers traditional smoked meats and unique options like smoked bologna.
Q3: What are the best vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Lexington?
A: Many restaurants in Lexington have adapted to offer creative and delicious vegetarian options. Good Foods Co-op is a popular spot, serving a variety of organic and vegetarian-friendly food. Alfalfa Restaurant is another great choice with a full menu of vegetarian dishes. The Sage Rabbit and Third Street Stuff & Coffee also offer an array of vegetarian choices.
Q4: Are there any unique dining experiences in Lexington?
A: Yes, there are several unique dining experiences to explore in Lexington. One is the Kentucky Castle, where you can enjoy a fine dining experience in a breathtaking castle setting. The Lockbox, located in the 21C Museum Hotel, allows you to dine amidst contemporary art installations. For bourbon lovers, OBC Kitchen is a must-visit with an extensive bourbon list and carefully curated menu.
Q5: I’m a foodie, what local specialties should I try?
A: Lexington has a rich culinary tradition with many local specialties. ‘Hot Brown’ – a traditional Kentucky dish with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce is a must-try. Don’t miss a chance to try ‘Burgoo’, a hearty stew with a mix of meats and vegetables. And of course, you can’t leave without trying the Kentucky Bourbon Pie.
Q6: What are some of the best dessert places in Lexington?
A: For the sweet lovers, Lexington is a dessert heaven. Martine’s Pastries is an institution for cakes and pastries. For an ice cream treat, visit Crank & Boom Ice Cream Lounge or Sorella Gelateria for artisan gelato. And if you’re a fan of doughnuts, make sure to stop at Spalding’s Bakery, a local’s favorite.
Q7: Which restaurants in Lexington offer a good view?
A: Several eateries in Lexington offer stunning views to compliment your dining experience. Dudley’s On Short, located on the rooftop of a historic downtown building, offers sweeping views of the city. The Kentucky Castle’s restaurant not only serves delightful dishes but also boasts gorgeous views of the surrounding castle grounds and landscape.
Q8: Are there any good spots for late-night food in Lexington?
A: Absolutely! Tolly-Ho is a Lexington institution serving up burgers and shakes 24/7. The Beer Trappe also serves a late-night menu till the wee hours, including a range of craft beers. And if you’re in the mood for pizza, Goodfellas Pizzeria is open late and serves gigantic slices.
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