Lexington, Kentucky, a city steeped in history and brimming with culinary delights, offers a unique tapestry of flavors that reflect its rich heritage. While some of its iconic dishes trace their roots to Louisville and surrounding areas, others were born out of necessity, a testament to the resourcefulness of early Appalachian settlers who skillfully utilized the land’s bounty. Regardless of their origins, Lexington’s traditional foods share a common thread: they are hearty, filling, and undeniably comforting, promising a culinary experience that warms the soul.
The city’s food scene has experienced a remarkable transformation in recent years, thanks to the dedication of local chefs and restaurateurs like Outi Michel, Abe Lansdale, and Graham Waller, who have championed the farm-to-table movement. Lexingtonians are now blessed with an abundance of exceptional restaurants, each offering a unique opportunity to savor locally sourced, Kentucky Proud ingredients, expertly prepared and presented.
To truly immerse yourself in the local culinary experience, be sure to pair these delectable meals with a refreshing glass-bottle Ale-8-One, a Kentucky original soft drink infused with the invigorating zest of ginger.
Let’s embark on a gastronomic journey through Lexington, exploring the most iconic and must-try foods that define this vibrant city’s culinary landscape.
Kentucky Hot Brown: A Louisville Legend, Lexington Favorite
The Kentucky Hot Brown, an open-faced sandwich that epitomizes indulgence, is a culinary creation with a fascinating history. Born in 1926 at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, a mere 90-minute drive from Lexington, this iconic dish is a symphony of flavors and textures. Layers of toasted bread are generously topped with succulent slices of meat, typically turkey, ham, and crispy bacon, all smothered in a velvety, creamy Mornay sauce or a blanket of melted cheese.
While the Hot Brown may be a Louisville original, Lexington’s restaurants have embraced this classic and offer their own delectable interpretations. Be warned, however, that consuming a Hot Brown is guaranteed to induce a state of blissful satisfaction, potentially accompanied by a temporary dip in productivity. For an exceptional Hot Brown experience in Lexington, head to Stella’s Kentucky Deli, Ramsey’s Diner, or Winchell’s Restaurant and Bar, all local favorites renowned for their exceptional renditions of this iconic sandwich. These restaurants provide the best versions of The Best Foods to Try in Lexington, Kentucky.
Burgoo: A Hearty Stew with a Mysterious Past
Burgoo, a hearty Southern stew, boasts a history shrouded in mystery. Its precise origins remain unknown, but this culinary staple has been a beloved Kentucky tradition for generations. A true testament to resourceful cooking, Burgoo is a melting pot of flavors and ingredients. Multiple types of meat, including chicken, pork, and mutton, are combined with a medley of beans, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables, all simmered together in a massive pot. The result is a rich, flavorful stew that is guaranteed to feed a crowd and warm the soul, especially on a chilly day when Lexington’s weather is feeling particularly temperamental.
For an authentic Lexington experience, savor Burgoo prepared by the track kitchen at Keeneland after witnessing the majestic thoroughbreds complete their morning workouts. Alternatively, venture to the Elkhorn Tavern on Manchester Street, where they prepare Burgoo the old-fashioned way, incorporating rabbit and elk into their recipe. This traditional rendition is a perennial favorite among patrons, offering a taste of Kentucky’s culinary heritage. This is one of The Best Foods to Try in Lexington, Kentucky that you should not miss.
Barbecue: A Smoky Symphony of Flavors
While Owensboro, located in Western Kentucky, proudly proclaims itself the "Barbecue Capital of the World" and hosts the annual International Bar-B-Q Festival, Lexington holds its own with a collection of exceptional establishments dedicated to the art of slow-cooked, smoky barbecue. Finding mutton barbecue, a Kentucky tradition, can be a challenge in Lexington, but fear not, as the city offers a plethora of other delectable options. Indulge in the tender, flavorful brisket or the succulent pulled pork at Blue Door Smokehouse or Red State BBQ, two local favorites that consistently deliver exceptional barbecue experiences.
The aroma of slow-smoked meats wafting through the air is a siren song to barbecue enthusiasts, and Lexington’s barbecue joints deliver on their promise of smoky, tender perfection. Whether you prefer the rich, fatty goodness of brisket or the tender, pull-apart texture of pulled pork, Lexington’s barbecue scene has something to satisfy every craving. This smoky treat is definitely one of The Best Foods to Try in Lexington, Kentucky.
Fried Chicken: A Crispy, Golden Delight
Lexington’s Parkette Drive-In, established in 1951 when New Circle Road was still a dirt track, holds a special place in the city’s culinary history. In its early days, Parkette was renowned for its original recipe fried chicken, then known as "Kentucky Fried Chicken," alongside its popular Poor Boy sandwich. While the name may have changed hands, Lexington’s love for fried chicken remains unwavering.
Today, you can find memorable fried chicken at various establishments throughout the city. For a refined dining experience, head to Merrick Inn, one of Lexington’s top fine dining establishments, and savor their buttermilk fried chicken. Alternatively, for a quick and casual fix, visit the deli inside Critchfield Meats on Southland Drive, where you can indulge in their crispy, golden fried chicken without adhering to a dress code. The golden, crispy skin and juicy, tender meat of perfectly fried chicken is a culinary comfort that transcends generations.
Catfish: A Taste of Kentucky’s Rivers
Central Kentucky’s rivers and creeks teem with catfish, making it no surprise that fried catfish is a ubiquitous presence on Lexington’s menus. The finest iterations of this classic dish feature Kentucky Proud catfish, ideally prepared with hush puppies or batter crafted from Weisenberger Mill in Midway, Kentucky. Chef Ouita Michel’s restaurants consistently deliver on these criteria, offering exceptional catfish experiences. Sample Kentucky catfish at Smithtown Seafood or her popular restaurant in the Summit, Honeywood, both of which showcase the fresh, flavorful bounty of Kentucky’s waterways.
The crispy, golden exterior of perfectly fried catfish gives way to a flaky, tender interior, a delightful contrast that makes this dish a true Southern classic. Paired with hush puppies and a tangy tartar sauce, fried catfish is a culinary experience that embodies the spirit of Kentucky. This one is also a part of The Best Foods to Try in Lexington, Kentucky.
Lamb Fries: An Adventurous Delicacy
Lamb fries, or testicles, may not be for the faint of heart, but they were once a popular delicacy in Lexington. While finding lamb fries on restaurant menus can be a challenge these days, they remain a regular fixture at Colombia Steakhouse, a proudly old-school eatery that has been serving Lexington since 1948. If you’re not feeling as adventurous as your dinner companion, opt for the legendary Nighthawk Special, an 8-ounce tenderloin served with a refreshing Diego salad.
For those with a culinary curiosity and a willingness to step outside their comfort zone, lamb fries offer a unique and surprisingly flavorful experience. Their delicate texture and subtle gaminess make them a delicacy worth trying, especially at a Lexington institution like Colombia Steakhouse.
Kentucky Beer Cheese: A Spicy, Cheesy Delight
Kentucky is the birthplace of beer cheese, a creamy, spicy spread that has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of Kentuckians and visitors alike. Hall’s on the River, located in Winchester, a short 30-minute drive from Lexington, has been at the forefront of the beer cheese scene since 1965. Legend has it that Queen Elizabeth II, during a visit to Lexington for the thoroughbreds, developed such a fondness for Hall’s beer cheese that she departed with a tub in tow.
Since then, numerous other brands have entered the market, creating a competitive landscape for beer cheese supremacy. Keep an eye out for opportunities to order beer cheese as a starter on local menus or add it to a burger for a rich, slightly spicy enhancement. Benedictine spread, an even older Kentucky creation, is another spreadable delight. This creamy, white (or sometimes green) spread was originally intended for cucumber sandwiches but can be enjoyed on any sandwich or as a dip for vegetables.
Sticky Buns: A Sweet, Sticky Tradition
Sticky buns, an old-fashioned Pennsylvania Dutch breakfast treat, have found a devoted following in Lexington. The sticky buns from Spalding’s Bakery, open on weekends only, are particularly renowned. Whether you prefer a sticky bun or a doughnut, Spalding’s has been baking since 1929, using traditional methods to create their delectable treats. Their handmade doughnuts rise on birch boards before being fried to golden perfection. Locals eagerly line up at the door of this cash-only institution, often selling out early, a testament to the irresistible appeal of their baked goods. This sweet and sugary treat is definitely one of The Best Foods to Try in Lexington, Kentucky.
Appalachian Food: Comfort Food from the Mountains
Many of Lexington’s residents, or their parents, migrated to the city from Appalachia, located just a short drive to the east. These individuals brought with them their cherished food traditions, making Lexington a haven for classic comfort foods typically associated with home cooking. Dishes like pinto beans and cornbread, fried green tomatoes, and chicken and dumplings are readily available in Lexington, offering a taste of Appalachian hospitality and culinary heritage.
Lexington’s embrace of Appalachian cuisine reflects the city’s diverse population and its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. These simple, hearty dishes evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth, reminding us of the importance of family, community, and the comforting power of food. So next time you are in the area, give The Best Foods to Try in Lexington, Kentucky a try.
