Best Restaurants in Lexington KY

Lexington has more going on restaurant wise than most people expect. For a city this size you get an unexpected range: steakhouses, international cuisine, local institutions that have been around for decades, and newer spots that keep things interesting. Whether you're going out for a special occasion or just grabbing lunch, you won't have to look far for something good.

Except if you're a Tennessee fan. There's some excellent gas station sushi just off I-75 I'd recommend.

Fine Dining

Carson's Food and Drink

Carson's Food and Drink is one of Lexington's nicer dining experiences. Upscale but not intimidating, with entrees generally in the $20 to $30 range. Good bourbon selection and a Sunday brunch that locals genuinely love. If you're looking for a special occasion spot that feels upscale without going overboard, Carson's is worth it.

Malone's

Malone's is one of the best steakhouses in the region. The kind of place you take someone when you want to impress them. If you go, do not skip the Lexingtonian salad. It is a signature Lexington dish and one of the best salads I have ever had. Creamy, bacon, lettuce and tomato with a tangy house made dressing. Trust me on this one. Unless you are a Duke fan, then I'm lying.

Azur Restaurant and Patio

Azur Restaurant and Patio has been on my list for a while. Mediterranean influenced menu from a German trained chef. That combination alone has me curious. Located just outside downtown on Lakecrest Circle. Check their website for current menu and pricing.

Middle of the Road

County Club

County Club on Jefferson Street is a BBQ spot I somehow haven't made it to yet, but the reviews are hard to ignore. Smoked meats, rotating monthly menu, and a relaxed outdoor patio near the Distillery District. Open Wednesday through Saturday evenings and Sunday brunch. Check their website for the current menu.

Middle Fork Kitchen Bar

Middle Fork Kitchen Bar is located in the Distillery District on Manchester Street. Local ingredients, seasonal menu, and a reputation that keeps coming up when Lexington locals talk about their favorite spots. Check their website for current menu and pricing.

Doodles

Doodles on South Limestone has been around since 1985 which tells you everything you need to know. A Lexington institution known for breakfast and brunch. Check their website for current hours.

OBC Kitchen

OBC Kitchen on Mercer Road brings Charleston inspired Lowcountry cuisine to Lexington. Not technically downtown but close to the Andover neighborhood. Check their website for current menu and pricing.

Stella's Kentucky Deli

Stella's Kentucky Deli on Jefferson Street has been a downtown lunch staple for years. Massive sandwiches, no frills, exactly what you want for a quick lunch downtown. Check their website for current hours.

Comfort Food

Goodfellas Pizzeria

Goodfellas Pizzeria in the Distillery District is the real deal. Classic New York style pizza where one slice is literally as big as your head. The breadsticks are massive and the flavor is there. Oh and there is a bourbon bar inside which is very on brand for Lexington. This is one of my personal favorites and I keep going back. Check their website for current hours.

International

Eppings on Eastside

Eppings on Eastside brings German food to Lexington with schnitzel, spätzle and an impressive beer selection. Check their website for current menu and pricing.

Corto Lima

Corto Lima at 101 West Short Street is one of the more unique spots in downtown Lexington. Chef Jonathan Lundy brings Latin inspired cuisine covering Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America and the American Southwest. The margaritas have a reputation for being some of the best in Lexington which is reason enough to go. Check their website for current menu and pricing.

Bangkok House

Bangkok House on South Limestone has been serving authentic Thai food to Lexington for years. I have been several times and it never disappoints. The chicken pad thai is excellent. And if you are ever under the weather their wonton soup is the move. Highly recommend. Check their website for current menu and pricing.

Pho BC

Pho BC on West Third Street serves Vietnamese pho and fresh spring rolls in a casual setting. Check their website for current menu and pricing.

Local Institutions

Columbia's Steakhouse

Columbia's Steakhouse on North Limestone has been a Lexington institution since 1948. A classic old school steakhouse that has stood the test of time. If you go, the Nighthawk Special is legendary. I highly recommend it. Check their website for current menu and pricing.

Dudley's on Short

Dudley's on Short at 259 West Short Street is a downtown Lexington staple that has been around for decades. Known for Sunday brunch and a patio that is perfect for people watching. Check their website for current menu and pricing.

Josie's

Josie's in Chevy Chase is a Lexington breakfast and brunch institution. Located at 821 Chevy Chase Place, open daily 8 AM to 2 PM. Known for fresh made omelets, eggs benedict, pancakes and homemade soups. I have been several times and the breakfast is excellent. If you go, try the grouper fingers. Highly recommend. Next time I go back I'll write a full review. Expect a wait on weekends. Check their website for current menu.

Gray Goose

Gray Goose on North Mill Street serves upscale comfort food in a renovated historic space. Check their website for current menu and pricing.

Lexington's restaurant scene is always growing and changing. New spots open, old favorites keep going strong, and there is always something new to try. If I missed your favorite spot let me know at info@lexingtonky.com and I'll check it out!