Lexington, Kentucky, a city steeped in horse racing history and Southern charm, boasts a culinary scene as vibrant and diverse as its cultural landscape. The sheer number of impressive restaurants nestled within its city limits presents a delightful dilemma for locals and visitors alike: should one return to a cherished favorite, a dependable source of gastronomic satisfaction, or venture into the unknown, taking a chance on a new establishment promising exciting flavors and experiences? This abundance of choice creates a competitive environment where restaurants must consistently deliver exceptional quality and service to be considered among the best restaurants in Lexington. Narrowing down the options to a definitive list is no easy feat, a testament to the city’s thriving food scene.
To curate this selection of the top ten dining destinations, we’ve focused exclusively on locally owned and operated businesses situated directly within Lexington. From the fiery spices of authentic Mexican cuisine to the comforting embrace of Southern comfort food, from the simple pleasures of a well-crafted deli sandwich to the refined elegance of fine dining, these establishments all possess a unique quality that sets them apart from the crowd. Whether you’ve spent the day exploring the breathtaking natural beauty of the Red River Gorge or immersing yourself in the rich history of Fort Boonesborough State Park, these eateries promise to tantalize your taste buds and leave you with a lasting impression. Lexington is waiting to satisfy your palate.
1. Best for Dinner: Carson’s Food & Drink
When discussing the best restaurants in Lexington, it would be a serious oversight to exclude Carson’s Food & Drink. This establishment strikes a remarkable balance, offering food quality and presentation that rival fine dining establishments while providing portion sizes that are anything but dainty – they’re truly generous! The menu is a testament to versatility, encompassing a broad range of delectable choices to cater to every mood and dietary preference. Families dining with children will appreciate the thoughtfully curated children’s menu.
The atmosphere at Carson’s is characterized by its open, airy, and casual ambiance, infused with a touch of understated class. The restaurant boasts a compelling selection of Prohibition-style craft cocktails, a robust bourbon selection befitting Kentucky’s heritage, and one of the few patios directly overlooking Main Street, making it an ideal destination for a downtown happy hour. After indulging in a satisfying dinner, a leisurely stroll across the street to Thoroughbred Park offers a perfect opportunity to soak in the city’s ambiance. Carson’s Food & Drink is an ideal place to visit in Lexington.
Address: 362 E Main St, Lexington, KY 40507, USA
Phone: +1 859-309-3039
2. Best for Lunch: Bourbon n’ Toulouse
Finding a restaurant in Lexington with a more devoted following than Bourbon n’ Toulouse would be a considerable challenge. This beloved Cajun restaurant, tucked away on Euclid Avenue, has earned the unwavering affection of its patrons for good reason. The interior is a vibrant explosion of color, and the kitchen staff expertly dishes out delicious comfort food with impressive speed, barely giving you time to find a seat and select your preferred hot sauce. In addition to creative twists on classic Cajun dishes, the menu thoughtfully includes gluten-free and vegetarian options. The spicier selections pair exceptionally well with a locally brewed craft beer or an Ale-8-One, a uniquely Kentucky soft drink infused with the refreshing zest of ginger. Adding to the restaurant’s appeal is its personable owner, known for hosting lively festivals and consistently giving back to the local community.
Address: 829 Euclid Ave, Lexington, KY 40502-1741, USA
Phone: +1 859-335-0300
3. Best for Southern Food: Ramsey’s Diners
Rob Ramsey ignited Lexington’s culinary scene with the opening of the original Ramsey’s Diner at the corner of Woodland and High Street in 1989. Although that initial location was sadly forced to close, the four remaining locations, strategically scattered throughout Lexington, continue to thrive thanks to their loyal clientele – and a fifth location is currently in the works, further solidifying the restaurant’s presence. The menu is priced with remarkable affordability and overflows with Southern classics, including the iconic Kentucky Hot Brown, comforting chicken n’ dumplings, crispy catfish, delectable fried green tomatoes, and a multitude of other regional specialties. The unpretentious décor and well-worn tables at Ramsey’s Diners serve as a constant reminder that the restaurants’ primary focus is on what truly matters: the food.
Address: 151 W Zandale Dr, Lexington, KY 40503, USA
Phone: +1 859-259-2708
4. Best Deli: Stella’s Kentucky Deli
Nestled within a charmingly quaint house on Jefferson Street, Stella’s Kentucky Deli prioritizes sourcing ingredients for its delicious offerings from local farms and bakeries whenever feasible. The menu is refreshingly transparent, meticulously detailing the origin of each ingredient; even the cheese is produced locally. The menu features several vegetarian options, including the highly popular lentil burger. Seating is limited both inside and outside on the cute patio, but squeezing in is definitely worth the effort!
With bottomless, locally roasted, organic coffee for just $2 and one of the best Kentucky Proud burgers in town for less than $9, Stella’s is a top choice for a recovery brunch after a night out.
Address: 143 Jefferson St, Lexington, KY 40508-1755, USA
Phone: +1 859-255-3354
5. Best for Pizza: Joe Bologna’s
Lexington offers a multitude of pizza variations, so a shop needs to bring something special to stand out, or in the case of Joe Bologna’s, something old. Joe Bologna’s has been a Lexington institution since 1973, but in 1989, they moved into their current location, an iconic building that dates back to 1891. The original hardwood floors and stained-glass windows of the former Jewish temple were meticulously preserved, lending Joe Bologna’s a unique "old" atmosphere. All soups, sauces, and pizza dough are made in-house, ensuring the freshest and most authentic flavors. Customers consistently rave about the homemade breadsticks and garlic butter.
Sicilian-style pan pizza is the specialty, boasting a thick and satisfying crust, but thin crust is also available as an option for those who prefer it. The menu is replete with other Italian offerings, but locals flock to Joe Bologna’s for the pizza and perhaps a chance to meet the legendary man himself.
Address: 120 W Maxwell St, Lexington, KY 40508, USA
Phone: +1 859-252-4933
6. Best for Small Plates: Corto Lima
Chef Jonathan Lundy maintains a busy pace with his many successful ventures in Lexington, and Corto Lima stands as one of his most popular. Since its opening in 2017, Corto Lima has focused on Latin-inspired small plates, offering a vibrant and diverse menu. Corn tortillas are made on-site, ensuring the freshest possible flavor and texture. The selection of top-shelf tequila and mezcal is impressive, making it an ideal destination for connoisseurs. Whether you prefer tacos, tamales, or tiger-prawn ceviche, Corto Lima is an excellent place to nibble and socialize before heading out in downtown Lexington.
With seating for only 45 guests, Corto Lima isn’t very big, and reservations aren’t accepted. You’ll have to arrive early or opt to enjoy some people watching from a sidewalk table. Corto Lima is well situated at the busy corner of North Limestone and West Short Street.
Address: 101 W Short St, Lexington, KY 40507, USA
Phone: +1 859-317-8796
7. Best for Seafood: Palmers Fresh Grill
Finding affordable fresh seafood in landlocked Kentucky can be challenging, but Palmers Fresh Grill delivers. Lakeside seating near an artificial lake in Lexington Green makes enjoying fresh fish and oysters on the half shell that much better. For a very filling Southern option celebrated by locals, try the shrimp and grits.
The atmosphere inside Palmers feels sophisticated but unpretentious. Inexpensive cocktails, small plates, and live music from 4 to 6:30 p.m. draw an early crowd to socialize on the "pier." Pass through Joseph-Beth Booksellers on your way out to peruse the local art and souvenirs.
Address: 161 Lexington Green Cir C-8, Lexington, KY 40503, USA
Phone: +1 859-273-0103
8. Best Mexican Food: Tortilleria Y Taqueria Ramirez
For a truly wonderful, no-frills Mexican meal, Tortilleria Y Taqueria Ramirez offers one of the best. The shelves, fluorescent lighting, and utilitarian ambiance are reminders that Ramirez is a Mexican shop expanded reluctantly into one of the best restaurants in Lexington. As the tortilleria in the name suggests, corn tortillas are made in-house, as are the sauces. Tacos and burritos are simple, inexpensive, and delicious – what you would expect to experience in Guadalajara. A cool glass of agua fresca pairs perfectly with the pickled jalapeños.
Address: 1429 Alexandria Dr, Lexington, KY 40504, USA
Phone: +1 859-455-9237
9. Best for Fine Dining: Merrick Inn Restaurant
Expectations are high for fine dining in Lexington, but the Merrick Inn has successfully delivered exquisite experiences for decades, owned and operated by the same family for over 43 years before changing hands. The menu at Merrick boasts Southern fare such as buttermilk fried chicken along with fish and steak good enough to lure people away from the many choices downtown. Even better, prices are comparatively fair for such an exquisite experience.
With the charming ambiance of an old house, dining at the Merrick Inn feels more like eating in a friend’s home. The gorgeous patio, extensive wine list, and bourbon selection seal the deal. Reservations are required.
Address: 1074 Merrick Dr, Lexington, KY 40502, USA
Phone: +1 859-269-5417
10. Best for Date Night: Kentucky Native Café
Fine dining is nice, but what could be more romantic than getting to know someone while eating and drinking in a greenhouse garden? Kentucky Native Café enjoys a sort of "secret spot" vibe thanks to its cozy location behind Michler’s Greenhouse. Even when busy – as it often is – the restaurant rarely gets too loud. The lush, garden setting inspires people to speak in hushed voices. Kentucky Native Café’s rotating menu is written on a blackboard and is very vegetarian friendly. The wine list may be limited, but the green setting and gelato from Sorella’s are on point. Kentucky Native Café is 100 percent outdoors – go when the weather is nice, and be sure to admire the impressive greenhouse on the way through.
Address: 417 E Maxwell St Unit B, Lexington, KY 40508-2703, USA
Phone: +1 859-281-1718
