The best restaurants in Lexington, no doubt, come in all sizes and styles.
From sports bars and family-style restaurants to formal-informal and fine dining, it’s all here in Lexington, Kentucky.
Interestingly, besides its number of southern dish specialty restaurants, it has quite a number of other restaurants that bring impressive international menus to the table.
Hence, whether you are visiting the blue grass nation for some spectacular bourbon, proud Kentucky dishes, or authentic international dishes, you can have them all.
Having said that, there are some hidden gems and interesting places you should not skip out on your Lexington food tour.
In fact, to help you make sure you don’t miss out on anything, below is a list of top choices to consider.
Best Restaurants in Lexington, Kentucky
1. Dudley’s on Short
Dudley’s on Short
New is not always better, especially when it comes to restaurants in Lexington.
In fact, a typical example of never aging elegance is Lexington’s 1981 Dudley’s.
Housed in a former northern bank building, this restaurant opened on Short Street in Lexington in 2010.
While this might explain why it effortlessly gives off a quintessential southern vibe, behind-the-scenes culinary skills account for its enviable progress after all these years.
Based on the Dudley experience, you cannot help but notice and appreciate the detailed Kentucky ambiance the restaurant is known for.
From a rooftop dining area to all the antic and horse racing history, you can expect a quaint yet fancy vibe around its four corners.
However, its wine menu is always the price for any wine lover any day.
Thriving on this philosophy of always delivering the best, the restaurant is also famous for sourcing farmers’ finest products.
In other words, their well-kept secret is somewhere between using fresh products in season and serving them tasty.
Having said that, it comes as no shocker that the food menu at Dudley’s on short is seasonal.
While this might sound like you are about to lead your taste buds on a risky journey, therein lies the true Lexington food experience.
From the best steak to the best seafood and so on, if it tastes better than good, it is the Dudley specialty.
In addition to this, the seasonal menus also come with popular signature dishes, to the delight of Lexingtonians and visitors.
Plan a visit to Dudley’s on Short every weekday except Friday from 5 pm to 10 pm and every other day from 11 am to 11 pm.
Address: 259 W Short St #125, Lexington, KY, United States
2. Tony’s of Lexington
Tony’s of Lexington
While his dream of having a place that will give his patrons the welcome feeling of walking into his home started in 2010, it only entered Lexington in 2015.
Nevertheless, its Italian owner Tony Ricci has since been redefining the beauty of pairing urban chic and southern charm.
In fact, in his own words, he just wants his patrons to get away from life for a couple of hours.
Hence, just like its rustic yet modern vibe, the menu at Tony’s of Lexington speaks classic steak house yet modern twist.
Some recommendations at this juncture are the crab cakes, Quinn’s bone in the fillet, and the USDA prime bone-in ribeye.
While this menu of steak, seafood, and culinary excellence is a great reason to warrant all the praise it gets, that doesn’t sum up the experience here.
This is because a huge part of that experience can simply be called Tony’s standard.
From serving only carefully selected farm produce to the legendary hospitality at the restaurant, it will be a miracle for anyone to leave in a sour mood.
In addition to that, like most restaurants in Lexington, Tony’s of Lexington also has a wine menu, but this is probably where the similarities end.
In other words, its vino selection is as interesting as it is extensive.
Speaking of the mood, there is also live music available that sets and keeps you in the mood for the Tonys in Lexington experience.
Plan a visit to Tony’s of Lexington any day from 5 pm to 9 pm or 10 pm.
Address: Victorian Square Shoppes, 401 W Main St, Lexington, KY, United States
3. Pies & Pints – Lexington, KY
Pies & Pints – Lexington, KY
While it is almost inevitable to crave times of pizza, beer, and some comedy on a vacation trip, there is no need to just settle when you are in Lexington.
This is because Lexington offers a location where you can go big with your expectations and not be disappointed.
As a matter of fact, you can stay traditional or enjoy pie options befitting your diet choices as long as you enjoy yourself thoroughly.
Hence, from crispy, hand-tossed pizzas to gourmet-style pies, pies and pints not only understand your cravings but also match them.
Add to that the experience of their char-grilled hot wings, sandwiches platters, and desserts and you are sure to keep coming for more.
Paired with that and worthy of mention also is the fact that they offer an extensive beer selection on about 36 taps, with 34 of those being craft beer.
Hence, this 2003-established Lexington gem is where you want to relax and be a proud member of the big blue nation.
What’s more?
The restaurant is strategically located within walking distance of interesting places in Lexington, so explore!
Plan a visit to Pies & Pints any day from 11 am to 9 pm, with happy hours running on weekdays from 3 pm to 6 pm.
Address: 401 W Main Street Suite 106, Lexington, KY, United States
4. Carson’s Food & Drink
Carson’s Food & Drink
Although you don’t know it yet, brunch is about to be your most anticipated meal of the day while in Lexington.
In fact, you might just get to learn more and appreciate Lexington’s history of horses, whisky, and basketball while at it.
Opened in 2016 as a lifetime career goal for Mark Fichtner, Carson’s food and drink take pride in being famous for hosting patrons in their groups and numbers.
However, six years later and counting, Carson’s food, and drink have become more than a personal goal to the Lexington community.
In fact, everything here, from its rustic atmosphere with a redefined twist to the chef-driven recipes delightfully paired, shows the true essence of a Kentucky dining experience.
In other words, if you are shopping for a restaurant to have awesome mac & cheese in an intimate setting with loved ones, look no further.
Having said that, bring your adventurous spirit along anytime you visit, as variety in food and drink is definitely the spice of Carson’s.
Plan a visit to Carson’s Food and Drink on weekdays from 11:30 am and on weekends from 10 am to 10 pm.
Specifically, brunch is served from Friday through Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm.
Address: 362 E Main St, Lexington, KY, United States
Right at the heart of America’s inland waterways is Paducah, Kentucky, and it’s exciting and creative things to do all year long!
5. Malone’s Restaurants in Lexington
Malone’s Restaurants in Lexington
Maybe it became a household name in Lexington because it is the first steak house in Lexington since it opened in 1998.
Or, its fame might be a result of consistent intentionality to have an awesome menu.
Regardless of the reason that takes you there, it is definitely one of the restaurants in Lexington to visit.
Typically a steakhouse with prime beef as their staple, Malone’s offers juicy steaks like no other, allegedly in the whole of Kentucky.
However, this restaurant that has become Lexington’s pride and joy offers more than just meat at its four locations in town.
From the crème brûlée and king crab cocktail to other signature favorites and chef features, Malone’s has something for everyone.
Having said that, it is noteworthy that not only do they offer quality dishes, but their fame also extends to consistency in service.
Hence, whether it is a business lunch or a celebration dinner, you will surely feel right at home at Malone’s.
Moreover, a warm and rich ambiance accentuated by satisfied patrons is always an ideal appetizer for any meal of the day.
Simply put, if you would love to try out the best of steaks and seafood in Lexington, you need no other excuse to visit Malone’s.
Plan a visit to Malone’s Hamburg any day from 11 am to 10 pm.
Address: 1920 Pleasant Ridge Dr, Lexington, KY, United States
6. Saul Good Restaurant & Pub
Saul Good Restaurant & Pub
While you might be familiar with jewelry stores and other buildings being repurposed as a restaurant, a restaurant in Lexington has turned the table.
Opened in 2008 by Rob and Diana Perez, Saul good restaurant & pub distinguishes itself from other restaurants in Lexington by its unique concept.
However, while this concept of a jewelry store turned restaurant & pub is definitely out of the box, serving an extensive range of flavors through a great selection of wait staff keeps things interesting here.
As a matter of fact, chef Jeff takes pride in how he delivers a sweet, spicy, and savory chef-driven menu with a wide variety of dishes.
Hence, think of your favorite comfort food and imagine adding a Saul good restaurant & pub twist to that.
Let’s just say the reality of that is always better at any of the Saul good restaurants in Lexington.
Having said that, some recommendations across the menu are pork chop, beer cheese & steak nachos, and banana foster waffle.
However, if you can, also try out the crab Rangoon, steak sandwich, chicken waffles, and chocolate fondue.
Also available are vegan and vegetarian options as well as a kid’s menu.
On the other hand, since there is no pub without a bar menu, you can expect an impressive list of local craft beer
Plan a visit to the Saul Good Restaurant & Pub on weekdays from 11:30 and weekends from 10 am to 10 pm.
Address: 3801 Mall Rd #120, Lexington, KY, United States
7. Josie’s Restaurant
Josie’s Restaurant
Apparently, breakfast can have more character than you give it credit for when you hurriedly make it yourself.
For this reason, you really should visit the heart of Chevy chase to eat breakfast at Josie’s restaurant.
Opened in 2010, Josie’s restaurant started as a family-oriented neighborhood café.
Today, Josie’s fame has spread out and about Lexington to welcome so many more patrons.
In fact, the best way to now enjoy the Josie experience is to see it from its three sides.
People, atmosphere and of course the food!
Speaking of atmosphere, an interesting emphasis at this restaurant will be the free flow of southern hospitality.
I mean, what’s an early morning good food without a corresponding early morning good vibe?
Having said that, while Josie’s restaurant started as a breakfast place, you can now also have lunch and dinner here.
From their bestsellers to your favorites, Josie’s is a popular local favorite in Lexington for good reasons.
In fact, while there seems to be a lot of fuss about some options, there are sure a lot more on the menu to love.
However, some recommendations are pancakes, egg benedict, omelet, burger, and even salad.
Plan a visit to Josie’s Restaurant from 8 am to 9 pm from Wednesday to Saturday and 8 am to 2 pm every other day.
Happy hours also run from Wednesday to Saturday from 5 pm to 6 pm.
Address: 821 Chevy Chase Pl, Lexington, KY, United States
8. Restaurants in Lexington- Coles 735 Main
Coles 735 Main
Specifically housed in an original 1938 building that has been a dining space for years, Lexington offers another interesting restaurant.
While opening in 2012 makes it a more recent addition to the restaurants in Lexington, Coles 735 main is definitely thriving being in this historical space.
More than that, it aims to honor the history of the landmark building through its presence while accentuation how good food and cocktails can be both palatable and artistic.
Hence it not only makes the best plates out of what is in the season but also brings the art of dining to every experience.
In other words, no matter the season, you will love taking pictures of not just your food when you visit.
Having said that, it is always great news for food lovers to realize his menu is as eclectic as they come.
In fact, ingredients used at this scratch kitchen are locally sourced to ensure fresh dishes with some proud Kentucky twist.
Hence, this is where you want to be when the whole group is in the mood for very different international dishes.
Plan a visit to Coles 735 Main from 5 pm Tuesday to Saturday to 9 or 10 pm.
Address: 735 E Main St, Lexington, KY, United States
While enjoying only the best in the world’s bourbon capital is enough motivation to visit Bardstown, Kentucky, here’s a list of other fun things to do in Bardstown!
9. Harry’s American Bar & Grill
Harry’s American Bar & Grill
Since one’s choice of restaurants in Lexington can be greatly influenced by your priorities, let’s talk proud Kentucky.
Located in Lexington, one of the popular concepts from the blue grass hospitality group is Harry’s American bar and grill.
While its name hints at its thorough appreciation of its American root, it is the way it embraces rich Kentucky history that is inspiring.
From Kentucky’s racing history, wines, adult beverages, and games, the place is a typical American comfort bar.
Also, it lists dishes suitable for any dietary preferences and you still get the 100% guest satisfaction it promises.
Hence, it comes as no wonder that this sports bar is the home of not just mini burgers and craft cocktails for Lexingtonians.
Interestingly, if you would like to try something different, you can always opt for a spot on the patio.
In fact, pairing this view with some recommendable options will explain why this place is suitable for any occasion.
some of those options are the delectable aqua sushi, bottomless salad, and the prime cut
Simply put, this is not just a place that excites your palate only, but also uplifts your mood.
Plan a visit to Harry’s American Bar & Grill any day from 11 am to 11 pm.
Address: 1920 Pleasant Ridge Dr, Lexington, KY, United States
10. Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse – Lexington
Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse
Being a steakhouse in Lexington is far from being a novelty, so what sets Jeff ruby’s steakhouse apart from other restaurants in Lexington?
A simple answer to this will is Jeff Ruby himself.
While opening his first restaurant in Cincinnati was definitely a milestone for the restaurateur, the buildup started for him at age six.
Considering this early start in the kitchen, one will think Jeff will credit his success in his career to his years of experimenting with flavors.
On the contrary, Jeff thinks his restaurant is a place to enjoy life and not a place just to satiate your hunger.
However, the products of the culinary skills across his restaurants have sure been attracting even celebrity customers since 1981.
From movie stars to rock stars and more, the wall in Cincinnati has a lot to say.
Interestingly, these visitor profiles early on in his business inspired what he calls the Jeff ruby experience.
In his own words, treating everyone coming to his restaurants like a celebrity is what separates him from other restaurants.
Speaking of making everyone feel special, Jeff takes it a notch higher for sports fans
In fact, his Lexington location has a blue room dedicated to wild cats!
However, if you will prefer some plush, lush and velvety reception, this upscale restaurant has just the room for you.
Plan a visit to Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse from Friday to Sunday from 4:30 to 11 pm and every other day from 5 pm to 10 pm.
Address: 101 W Vine St, Lexington, KY, United States
11. Restaurants in Lexington-Corto Lima
Corto Lima
There is absolutely no need to stick to the traditional American dishes simply because you are in Lexington, Kentucky.
As a matter of fact, if you intend to feed your eyes or just enjoy some Latin-inspired dishes, you will want to try out the Corto Lima restaurant.
Opened in 2017 in downtown Lexington, this restaurant takes pride in having found its niche among restaurants in Lexington.
While this is not to say it doesn’t do great across its eclectic menu, its forte is definitely the margarita.
However, from shrimp ceviche and smoked pork tacos to guacamole, it sure gives its distinct modern twist to classic dishes.
Hence, while sitting in Lexington, your taste buds get to take a tour of the classic kitchens of Mexico, the Caribbean, and even south and central America
Speaking of which, the menu also features vegetarian dishes everyone will love and, of course, meat choices.
Also, since it is a walk-in restaurant, you sure don’t need a reservation to beat the rush at lunchtime.
Notwithstanding, they sure will make room for private dining if you request a reservation.
Plan a visit to Corto Lima any day except Tuesday from 11:30 am on the weekends and 5 pm on weekdays to 10 pm.
Address: 101 W Short St, Lexington, KY 40507, United States
12. East End Tap and Table
East End Tap and Table
The most interesting thing about this restaurant is the fact that Lexington didn’t know it was missing something until it got it.
I mean, since the east-end tap table opened in 2019, Lexingtonians have not been able to get enough of it.
This is mostly because, unlike other restaurants in Lexington mentioned earlier, east end tap & table serves elevated pub food.
However, an equally notable contribution to its fame is definitely its interior décor and renowned hospitality.
And while you will really enjoy that part of the experience, let’s talk about its tap and table.
Specifically, let’s talk about what makes that table menu different.
From getting only the best available ingredients to following secret recipes in its scratch kitchen, they ensure that the experience is like no other.
In other words, you get the classic American pub fare with international twists and influences.
Hence, from appetizers to entrees and desserts, they set the bar so high it befits their name.
Plan a visit to the East end Tap and Tables from Wednesday through Sunday from 11 am to 10 pm.
However, brunch runs from 11 am to 4 pm only on Saturdays and Sundays.
Address: 333 E Main St, suite 180, Lexington, KY, United States
13. Merrick Inn Restaurant
Merrick Inn Restaurant
It is safe to say meals in Lexington don’t get more southern than those at the Merrick inn.
In fact, while this is not the famous KFC, this is the homestead of the best-fried chicken in Lexington.
Hence, not only is the Marrick inn restaurant synonymous with comfort on a historic farm but also with great chicken.
Speaking of its history, it is no news that Lexingtonians take great pride and comfort in appreciating their history.
Hence, while some restaurants in Lexington display memorabilia to this effect, some others are housed in historical buildings to the same effect.
One restaurant where you get both in Lexington is the Merrick inn restaurant.
To start with, the restaurant is named after a remarkable horse who was mostly on a winning streak in his 38 years alive.
On the other hand, the restaurant’s building dates as far back as before the civil wall and sits on a former thorough breed farm.
Having said that, it comes as no surprise that there is actually no Lexington vacation without at least a visit to the Merrick inn.
From homemade southern comfort food to steaks and seafood, the once impressive thorough breed farm is definitely now an impressive restaurant.
Pair that with any of the variety of craft beer, wine, or bourbons, and you end up with rich Kentucky essence in every bite and sip.
Plan a visit to the Merrick Inn any day except Sunday from 4 pm to 11 pm.
Address: 1074 Merrick Dr, Lexington, KY, United States
14. Restaurants in Lexington- Lockbox
Lockbox
While visitors usually plan for a place to stay when visiting, they usually experiment with finding the best restaurants in Lexington.
As interesting as that sounds, having a top-notch restaurant in the same hotel building as you can never go wrong.
Opened in 2016 as an addition to the 21c museum hotel, lockbox continues a legacy of celebrating history and art in Lexington, Kentucky.
In fact, if creative beauty were a dish, it would definitely be a signature dish at the lockbox.
However, this chef-driven restaurant is famous for both its taste in artistic décor and its taste on the plates.
In fact, it seems to effortlessly use colorful and tasty dishes to evoke nostalgia and interactions.
While its decor is by the Deborah Berke Partners, it credits those tasty dishes to using local high-quality ingredients.
So, from roasted pork to cheeseburgers, steak frites, and more, enjoy authentic southern hospitality in large servings and flavors.
In addition, although it appears as fine dining at first glance, you can visit in your most casual wear and still enjoy the complete lockbox experience.
Plan a visit to the Lockbox on weekdays from 7 am to 9 pm and weekends from 10 or 9 am to 10 or 9 pm.
In addition to that, breakfast starts every day at 7 am to end at 10 am or 9:30 am on weekends.
Address: 167 W Main St, Lexington, KY, United States
15. ItalX
ItalX
According to the menu of this next restaurant, there is more to Italian dishes than you know already.
In other words, while delighting patrons with Italian-inspired dishes is something, making them with a southern twist is more.
However, the secret recipe here stays hidden somewhere between the quality of fresh ingredients and the passion used in its scratch kitchen.
Hence, with a variety of reimagined plates and diet-influenced options, ItalX delivers on a promise of a unique experience.
Specifically, the ItalX experience marries Italian hospitality and traditional dining experience with Kentucky’s creativity.
Hence, from calamari and Italian liqueurs to linguine di gamberi, inventive cocktails, and al dente noodles, ItalX offers an interesting mix.
Speaking of the liqueurs, a notable part of the ItalX experience can be traced to the wine room and wine wall on site.
Plan a visit to ItalX any day except Monday from 4 pm to 10 pm on weekdays and from 11 am to 10 pm from Friday to Monday.
Address: 160 W Main St, Lexington, KY 40507, United States
As attractive as it is, with many diverse types of restaurants to visit, Lexington, also has many fun attractions and things you can do to best enjoy this city!
16. Restaurants in Lexington-OBC Kitchen
OBC Kitchen
With about six different concepts across Lexington, it is almost impossible to visit restaurants in Lexington without visiting any by the blue grass hospitality group.
In fact, with most of their restaurants having more than one location in Lexington, the odds are a lot lower.
However, one very popular one which interestingly has just one location is the OBC kitchen.
Before it was renamed in 1792, the state of Kentucky was in the territory of Virginia.
At this time, it was referred to as old bourbon county and usually written with the initials OBC.
Hence, Kentucky bourbon makers used these letters as a stamp to mark the barrels they sent down the Mississippi.
Eventually, OBC was used to refer to the best whiskey made in the United States.
Today, the old bourbon county kitchen is a staple for outstanding bourbon, bourbon history, and southern flair dishes.
Hence, not only were the words old bourbon county a mark of excellence back then, it still connotes excellence to date.
Having said that, it goes without saying that this American cuisine-type kitchen combines enough familiar produce to wow you.
In fact, if you are not a bourbon drinker, you will be impressed by the creative cocktails at the bar.
From bacon, chicken, and pork to vegetarian options, the OBC kitchen is definitely worth the fuss in Lexington.
Plan a visit to the OBC kitchen any weekday for lunch and dinner and any meal of the day on weekends.
Address: 3373 Tates Creek Rd, Lexington, KY, United States
17. Ramsey’s Diner & Restaurants in Lexington
Ramsey’s Diner
Lexington no doubt bleeds good food in all its corners.
However, home cooking in all its glory does not come to Lexingtonians any closer than at Ramsey’s diner.
Opened first in Lexington in 1989, Ramsey’s diner is a household name for locals and a destination restaurant for visitors.
In fact, there are currently about four locations scattered within Lexington to meet the growing increase in patrons.
Beautifully adorning its proud Kentucky wall are memorabilia perfumed with the aroma of country dishes.
In fact, walking in is definitely the first interesting thing about any Ramsey’s diner.
Next to that is the hospitality and the food.
From sandwiches to salads, signature missy’s pies, and hot browns, this place, in all honesty, gives a proper Lexington welcome.
Noteworthy at this point is the mention of numerous awards won by Ramsey’s diner over the years.
One such award that it won for ten years in a row is the best restaurant under $10.
In other words, even on a budget, it still says come one, come all, and come hungry.
Plan a visit to Ramsey’s diner from 11 am to 10 pm on weekdays and 10 am to 10 pm on weekends.
Address: 3090 Helmsdale Pl Suite 270, Lexington, KY, United States
18. Giuseppe’s Ristorante Italiano
Giuseppe’s Ristorante Italiano
If you have a favorite Italian food or are thinking of getting one, this next restaurant is where you want to make that experiment.
In other words, Giuseppe’s ristorante Italiano is somewhere you want to visit while in Lexington.
Lobster ravioli, masala, and scallops are some notable choices when you visit.
In fact, you will probably taste the goodness of over 25 years of perfecting recipes in anything you decide to go with.
From staple classics to modern Italian twists, it is always a wide host of stellar dishes adored by various taste buds.
Hence, it definitely serves an important purpose in its chosen niche among restaurants in Lexington.
Furthermore, even though it is fancy enough to impress, you can still find laid-back comfort and reasonable pricing high up on the menu.
Speaking of laid-back comfort, it offers patrons the choice between the main dining room, lounge, or patio any day.
Little wonder, it is both famous for intimate dining and hosting larger crowds.
In addition, just like its location, it lovingly tucks in the whole experience with great live music.
Plan a visit to Giuseppe’s Ristorante Italiano any day from 4 pm to 10 pm.
However, happy hour runs from 4 pm to 6 pm every day,
Address: 4456 Nicholasville Rd, Lexington, KY, United States
19. Restaurants in Lexington-Le Deauville
Le Deauville
Let’s get French fancy in Lexington, Kentucky!
Located in the historic part of Lexington, le Deauville offers the right ambiance to get you in the mood for some French delight.
In fact, if it had gone with the name having French words like Bienvenue à Notre pays, it won’t have been overstating it.
However, it perfectly represents everything authentic about France from start to finish,
Specifically, it offers a traditional French bistro at its finest in an old-school setting.
Hence, if you are craving some French onion soup or some confit de canard, A.K.A duck confit, you can’t do better.
In addition, its all-you-can-eat menu is enough reason to understand its popularity in Lexington.
Crepes, chocolate soufflés, crème brûlée, and margaritas are also recommendable choices here.
Another well-prepared list that is sure to impress you is its wine menu.
Plan a visit to le Deauville any day except Sunday and Monday from 5 pm to 10 pm.
Address: 199 N Limestone, Lexington, KY 40507, United States
20. Joe Bologna’s Restaurant & Pizzeria
Joe Bologna’s Restaurant & Pizzeria
Opened for over 48 years and counting, Joe Bologna’s restaurant & pizzeria has become more than just a food place in Lexington.
I mean, what else can you expect when the owner’s hobbies are cooking, taking care of people, and giving his patrons an overall great experience?
Nevertheless, what made it even more popular was the second location it opened in 1989.
From its beautiful 19th-century Victorian gothic brick structure with stained glass windows to eastern Kentucky pine floors, its grandeur and elegance are definitely impressive.
However, what’s even more interesting is the casual vibe that accompanies the food at this Italian restaurant.
Hence, whether it’s pizza, breadsticks, pasta, or salad, having it from Joe bologna’s restaurant& pizzeria makes the difference.
Having said that, this place is normally characterized by boisterous and hearty conversations here and there.
In other words, if you will prefer quintessential fine dining, you will want to check out another.
Plan a visit to Joe Bologna’s restaurant & pizzeria any day except Monday from 11 am to 10 pm.
Address: 120 W Maxwell St, Lexington, KY, United States
21. Winchell’s Restaurant and Bar
Winchell’s Restaurant and Bar
If you are a fan of anything, you will agree that when it matters the most, there is usually nothing relative about where you want to be.
For the big blue nation during a game, that place is Winchell’s restaurant and bar.
In 1992, Winchell’s restaurant opened on southland drive to serve fresh, local, and homemade food.
Since this was a great addition to the area, the restaurant quickly became popular in the area.
Unfortunately, it was not going to survive its owner’s death, which happened some years later.
Thankfully, the restaurant eventually got a timely save from its current owners Abe and Graham.
Since then, this place has been thriving on the community love that started it and modern twists that keep it relevant.
Hence, it is definitely not what it once looked like, but it is still a great place to make memories in Lexington.
Hence, when you think about breakfast, lunch, or dinner at a hidden gem in Lexington, you will definitely think of Winchell’s restaurant.
Add that reason to the fact that there are about 30 flat screens here to watch the games and be part of the big blue nation.
Plan a visit to Winchell’s Restaurant and Bar from 8 am to 9 pm on weekdays plus Sundays and 8 am to 10 pm on weekends.
Address: 348 Southland Dr, Lexington, KY 40503, United States
22. LaRosa’s Pizza Lexington – Richmond Rd.
LaRosa’s Pizza
By this time, you already know about some of the famous pizza restaurants in Lexington.
While they all offer pure goodness on a platter, there is a reason you must try LaRosa’s pizza while in Lexington.
Started in 1954 by its owner and namesake, Buddy LaRosa, LaRosa’s pizza first became famous in Cincinnati.
In fact, with over sixty locations in the area, it is a Cincinnati-based pizzeria.
However, since coming to Lexington in 2019, it has also taken root in the area as a place to have fun, be a part of Buddy’s legacy, and enjoy pizza.
In other words, with a thin crust, aunt Dena’s sweet pizza sauce, and provolone cheese, LaRosa’s pizza has become a huge part of the best casual hangouts and day offs.
In addition to its specialty menu, you can also enjoy delicious fresh salads, wings, desserts, and pasta.
Having said that, some recommended choices across its menu will include its meat deluxe pizza, pepperoni rondos, and steak hoagie.
On the other hand, you can also enjoy LaRosa’s pizzeria experience in the bar area.
Hence, whether you intend to have a whole family time out or just watch some games over drinks with friends, LaRosa’s pizzeria is a great place to visit.
Plan a visit to LaRosa’s pizza any weekday from 10:30 am to 10 pm and on weekends from 9 am to 11 pm on weekends plus Friday.
Address: 2890 Richmond Rd, Lexington, KY 40509, United States
23. Bourbon n’ Toulouse — Chevy Chase
Bourbon n’ Toulouse
While putting the customer first and always serving a great plate of food might sound like a basic idea, it is actually the business idea of one of the thriving restaurants in Lexington.
In fact, based on this, Bourbon n’ Toulouse has become synonymous with laid-back and maximum fun.
This is where Cajun and creole dishes, large servings, high quality, and low prices all come together in Lexington.
According to its owners and chefs Kevin and Will, it started as a huge leap of faith in 2004.
This is because these two men started a restaurant with literarily nothing to fall back on with the hope that after offering good food and cheerful love to the community, they will get back patronage.
As daring as it sounds, it not only worked, but it is still working for 18 years and counting.
In fact, in addition to its Chevy chase location, you can also find them in downtown Lexington.
From black beans & caramelized corn to jambalaya and Chicken Etouffee, it is always one delicious spicy bite to another.
Hence, this is where you can get Kevin and Will’s version of the French Quarter while in Kentucky.
Plan a visit to Bourbon n’ Toulouse any day except Sunday from 11 am to 9 pm.
Address: 829 Euclid Ave, Lexington, KY, United States
Although a small city in Kentucky, Williamstown has many fun things you will want to try out!
24. The Blue Heron Steakhouse
The Blue Heron Steakhouse
From all indications, being an interesting destination in downtown Lexington is the charm of one of the best restaurants in Lexington.
In fact, in addition to other provisions throughout the year, it actually has a wood-burning fireplace for the cooler months.
Hence, from its warm & cozy ambiance to its historic building of original bricks and woodwork, it definitely comes with a story.
In addition to that, another thing with a story is its menu.
Starting originally as a cocktail bar, the blue Heron steakhouse eventually evolved into what it is now.
Interestingly, it did not evolve into a bar-style food place but into a chic but informal place.
Hence, from the classic steakhouse and southern dishes to seafood, chicken, and lamb dishes, blue heron steakhouse offers patrons a great experience for their money.
Speaking of what to try out when you visit, the porterhouse steak, baked brie, crab cake, and margarita are always awesome choices.
Plan a visit to the Blue Heron Steakhouse any day except Sunday from 5 pm to 10 pm on weekdays and 5 pm to 11 pm on weekends.
Address: 185 Jefferson St, Lexington, KY 40508, United States
25. Restaurants in Lexington- El PATIO
El PATIO, Lexington
While it cannot promise you a trip to Mexico, it sure promises your taste bud a cuisine tour of Mexico.
Starting with a large patio, its owner Gustavo Camupio says El patio is in the business of making its customers happier with every visit.
Little wonder it witnesses the return of these customers and a growing number of new ones daily.
Hence, although this family-owned restaurant is quite a hidden gem when you find it, you are sure to love everything about it.
From its sweet-smelling environment to its personable and attentive service, the El patio experience is really a large one.
In fact, this is a restaurant where you cannot in all honesty say you are only returning back for the food and nothing else.
However, that food menu is a big motivation in itself to bring you back.
First, you cannot go wrong with the chef special anytime.
Next, you will be wowed by any of the fajitas whether it is veggies, chicken, or seafood.
To save you time reading about it here, I will let you savor the experience of the salsa, and burritos yourself.
Having had any of that, you will be no less impressed by their margarita or any other alcohol on the menu.
Plan your visit to El patio any day from 11 am to 10 pm.
Address: 2628 Richmond Rd, Lexington, KY 40509, United States
26. Bella Notte
Bella Notte
The last restaurant we will be talking about on this list is one that literarily says beautiful night.
Hence, if you are looking to impress with some fine dining and Italian cuisine, Bella Notte is the right place for that.
From a carefully created dining atmosphere of obvious yet not overwhelming details, Bella Notte gives off a rustic Italian feel.
However, that is not all you want to remember it for, right?
Opened in 1996, Bella Notte has become famous among Lexingtonians for intimate and even casual dining.
However, its secrets for years of relevance stay hidden in its commitment to serving fresh, wholesome, and authentic dishes.
In fact, as popular as it is for being pricey, it is even more popular for serving the best wood-fired grilled meat.
Also, its other specialties, like pasta, grilled salmon salad, grilled shrimp, and freshly baked bread, are delectable
In fact, it offers enough to make beautiful night memories any day.
One other thing that has obviously been carefully curated here is the wine menu.
However, in a bid to keep it simple and let you enjoy the experience yourself; I will leave you with these words; best thing ever!
Plan a visit to Bella Notte any weekday from 11 am to 9 pm and on weekends from 11 am to 10 pm.
Address: 3715 Nicholasville Rd, Lexington, KY 40503, United States
Final remarks.
In no particular order, Lexington offers quite an impressive list of restaurants.
However, while there are some that you will have to just love for the food or the service, there are others where you get both.
Hence, the list above is a compilation of the latter and restaurants I think make their mark just fine in Lexington.
Enjoy your meal!