Restaurants in Lexington
Best Restaurants
Sushi • $$
Chicken • $$
“Yo straight up. This is the spot . I under estimated this places hottest chicken sandwich it really is a reaper . GREAT FOOD awesome heat. Time to go drink some milk, MAC AND CHEESE WAS FIREE , that hot chicken incase yall wondering , is HOT I love it , most places have “”Hot”” chicken.
NOOO this is the real. HOT CHICKEN,
Dave’s hot chicken”
American • $$
“The food was really good but what really made the experience was the staff, Clark is Great, top notch service and such a great personality, he really made the evening”
Steak House • $$
“Just left a group luncheon of 12 retired educators Everyone’s meal was excellent and the service provided by our server Barbara was a 10. She was helpful, efficient and humorous……absolutely will return…”
Italian • $$
“A very pleasant atmosphere, very delicious food, good customer service, very polite and attentive waiters. I definitely recommend this restaurant, which also bears my father's name. I will return as many times as I can. More than five stars.”
American • $$$
“We ate for the first time at the Andover location and had the best meal we’ve had in a long time. Service was excellent. We both had the chopped wedge salad, wagyu burger, broccoli topped with smoked Gouda sauce, macaroni with smoked Gouda, and shared a slice of peanut butter pie. Every bit of our meal was amazing! We can’t wait to go back and try something else on the menu.”
Restaurants by Cuisine
Gastropubs • $$
“During our visit to Kentucky’s Bourbon Country, we had the distinct pleasure of dining at what has quickly become our favorite restaurant in the area. From start to finish, the experience was exceptional. The food was nothing short of outstanding—flavorful, expertly prepared, and perfectly paired with a diverse and impressive collection of bourbons. What truly set this restaurant apart, however, was the warm and welcoming atmosphere, which made it feel like more than just a meal out, but rather an experience shared with friends. The staff’s hospitality and dedication to making every guest feel at home contributed to what was undoubtedly a memorable evening. We are already eagerly anticipating our next visit and look forward to enjoying another fantastic meal, discovering more exceptional bourbons, and sharing the experience with some great friends. Highly recommended for anyone visiting the Bourbon Country region—whether you're a bourbon enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates great food and service.”
Seafood • $$$
“I cannot speak highly enough of Mileta and the owner Dallas. I planned a surprise birthday party with 25 guests and Dallas worked hand in hand with me to make it so special. Every single person was blown away by the food, the servers were incredible, the rose room was an absolute DREAM and it left us all excited to come back. Mileta is the roaring 20s meets Italian delicacy and it’s done for vibrantly and authentically. They even printed up off menus that had happy birthday _______ on them. I’m still just blown away. Thank you so much.”
Brewery • $$
“Michael was a FANTASTIC tour guide for our large group. Kept us entertained and provided a great deal of info on all of the distilling and breweing process. Highly recommend for bourbon trail option🥃”
Restaurants with Delivery
Himalayan/Nepalese • $
“The food was great! Service was great! Would definitely go back and dine ! What to experience the buffet in the weekends! My grandson loved the food!”
Sushi • $$
“The best sushi I had in KY. Service and presentation were exquisite. A little gem in Lexington.”
Cajun • $
“Great service it was my first time ever going and They were very friendly and ready to help with whatever I needed and all her samples and they have an array of sauces.”
Breakfast • $
“This place is the best! You cannot beat the prices or amazing service and how friendly they are. I have made it my goal to stop in every time I'm in town since I live several hours away. If you're in the mood for a unique sweet treat, I highly recommend stopping by Ranoush ASAP! You will not be disappointed. :) The fruity crepe is my go to, but I plan to try something new during my next visit.”
Burgers • $
“Everything on the menu is awesome, the prices are great, and the portions are huge!”
Chicken • $$
“Yo straight up. This is the spot . I under estimated this places hottest chicken sandwich it really is a reaper . GREAT FOOD awesome heat. Time to go drink some milk, MAC AND CHEESE WAS FIREE , that hot chicken incase yall wondering , is HOT I love it , most places have “”Hot”” chicken.
NOOO this is the real. HOT CHICKEN,
Dave’s hot chicken”
American • $$
“The food was really good but what really made the experience was the staff, Clark is Great, top notch service and such a great personality, he really made the evening”
Steak House • $$
“Just left a group luncheon of 12 retired educators Everyone’s meal was excellent and the service provided by our server Barbara was a 10. She was helpful, efficient and humorous……absolutely will return…”
Italian • $$
“A very pleasant atmosphere, very delicious food, good customer service, very polite and attentive waiters. I definitely recommend this restaurant, which also bears my father's name. I will return as many times as I can. More than five stars.”
Cocktail Bar • $
“Hands down one of the best dining experiences I’ve had! Quick & exceptional service. Every employee I came in contact with was friendly and helpful! Highly recommended!”
American • $$$
“We ate for the first time at the Andover location and had the best meal we’ve had in a long time. Service was excellent. We both had the chopped wedge salad, wagyu burger, broccoli topped with smoked Gouda sauce, macaroni with smoked Gouda, and shared a slice of peanut butter pie. Every bit of our meal was amazing! We can’t wait to go back and try something else on the menu.”
Gastropubs • $$
“During our visit to Kentucky’s Bourbon Country, we had the distinct pleasure of dining at what has quickly become our favorite restaurant in the area. From start to finish, the experience was exceptional. The food was nothing short of outstanding—flavorful, expertly prepared, and perfectly paired with a diverse and impressive collection of bourbons. What truly set this restaurant apart, however, was the warm and welcoming atmosphere, which made it feel like more than just a meal out, but rather an experience shared with friends. The staff’s hospitality and dedication to making every guest feel at home contributed to what was undoubtedly a memorable evening. We are already eagerly anticipating our next visit and look forward to enjoying another fantastic meal, discovering more exceptional bourbons, and sharing the experience with some great friends. Highly recommended for anyone visiting the Bourbon Country region—whether you're a bourbon enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates great food and service.”
Steak House • $$$$
“WOW!!! Mother's Day evening was spent at the one and only Jeff Ruby's in Lexington. There are no words to describe just how incredible this restaurant truly is! From the minute you walk in and are personally greeted by GM Farris Huehls, to the fabulous staff that attends to every detail, it was a night to be remembered. Over and over again Jeff Ruby's exceeds my expectations. I highly recommend this restaurant! You will not regret it! Treat yourself and loved ones today to the one and only Jeff Ruby Experience.”
Fine Dining • $$$
“Cole’s is a beautiful dining experience with educated staff and a lovely menu!”
American • $$
“The food was fresh and so good. We had crab cakes, mahi mahi and chicken marsala. The portions were generous. We sat at the bar and had phenomenal service from Carrie. She is a Rockstar! The drinks were so different from what I had had anywhere else. Definitely going back!”
Online Reservation Available
Seafood • $$$
“I cannot speak highly enough of Mileta and the owner Dallas. I planned a surprise birthday party with 25 guests and Dallas worked hand in hand with me to make it so special. Every single person was blown away by the food, the servers were incredible, the rose room was an absolute DREAM and it left us all excited to come back. Mileta is the roaring 20s meets Italian delicacy and it’s done for vibrantly and authentically. They even printed up off menus that had happy birthday _______ on them. I’m still just blown away. Thank you so much.”
Tacos • $
“absolutely delicious! so many options and wonderful service!”
Steak House • $$$$
“WOW!!! Mother's Day evening was spent at the one and only Jeff Ruby's in Lexington. There are no words to describe just how incredible this restaurant truly is! From the minute you walk in and are personally greeted by GM Farris Huehls, to the fabulous staff that attends to every detail, it was a night to be remembered. Over and over again Jeff Ruby's exceeds my expectations. I highly recommend this restaurant! You will not regret it! Treat yourself and loved ones today to the one and only Jeff Ruby Experience.”
Japanese • $
“Absolutely delicious. I've been coming here for years and it's hard to beat. The place is a little small so you may have to wait a bit for a table on a busy night but it's worth it. Very reasonably priced and high quality. The portion size of their sashimi is the largest of any sushi place I've been to. They give you big slabs of fish and I love it.”
Fine Dining • $$$
“Cole’s is a beautiful dining experience with educated staff and a lovely menu!”
Italian • $$
“Had a great lunch. Our server, Travis, was excellent. He answered all our questions. The cappuccino was delicious. Great experience.”
Southern • $$$
“Great meal-outstanding space, impeccable service and perfectly prepared food. Well worth the hour and a half drive.”
American • $$
“J. Alexander's offers a great dining experience with excellent service and a delicious menu. The steaks are perfectly cooked, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Highly recommend for a quality meal.”
Coffee Shops • $
“The drinks are great. We love being able to try so many good games before buying them. It’s becoming a regular atop in Lexington. Though I’m spending way too much on MTG😂”
American • $$
“Harry’s Twin Filets (+ side) is hard to beat for the price ($27.99). Somehow the food seems to get better with each visit. Had the pleasure of being served by Caleb tonight, awesome UK student working his second straight year for BHG. Also worth noting: you can order from both the Harry’s & Malone’s menus while dining at Harry’s!”
Steak House • $$$
“It was an outstanding experience with a very good friend! The food was perfect and the atmosphere chill. I look forward to another visit.”
Italian • $$
“Had a great lunch. Our server, Travis, was excellent. He answered all our questions. The cappuccino was delicious. Great experience.”
Southern • $$$
“Great meal-outstanding space, impeccable service and perfectly prepared food. Well worth the hour and a half drive.”
Italian • $$
“Attended the Springtime Dinner tonight. It was wonderful. The service was great! Zach and Shannon were just amazing. We are looking forward to the next one.”
24 Hour Restaurants
Health Food • $$$$
“Great food, fast delivery, competitive pricing. Meals are healthy and well balanced, all this without compromising taste! Highly recommend giving them a try, you won’t regret it!”
Breakfast • $
“Very good! Our waitress Tayler was fantastic. Was really fast and very nice!!”
Bar
“This place is awesomeness!! From the start of reserving a table, to entry into the building, to the drinks and service was just great. Ryan the owner served us. He explained the drink menu to us and detailed the process in how they make their drinks. I tried drinks I’ve never had before. The description of each drink is spot on the way it tastes. The drinks are stout. Definitely worth the time and money. Oh and the restroom were immaculate! Would ? be going back.”
Breakfast • $
“Me and a friend was starving, so we came here to grab a bite to eat...We had the best server!! Her name is Rayne, and she is the sweetest girl!! We also chatted with another server named Lisa, who is also the nicest lady, she was so kind...the food was great as well, those 2 servers made us feel right at home. I definitely recommend this Waffle House. Very clean and orderly. Please ask for Rayne or Lisa, they are the best!! Thanks ladies for a pleasant experience!!!”
Breakfast • $
“Great food and service, but way too expensive. 30 bucks for 2 2-egg breakfasts and 1 large coffee.
Parking: Right off exit 113 and next to the highway...
Kid-friendliness: There were kids inside and they seemed to be enjoying their food.
Wheelchair accessibility: Yes”
Breakfast • $
“I travel the Country transporting Pets. I eat at a lot of Waffle Houses! This was the cleanest, brightest & friendliest one I’ve been to in some time! Awesome Job!💖”
Fast Food • $
“I go to the dr down here in Lexington and it is a 3 hour trip for me but yet I always come to this sonic to eat. The food is always great, service is fantastic and if I could give more than 5 stars I would. Thanks guys!”
Fast Food • $
“We come here when we're in Lexington very busy and need clean but understand they were working hard trying to take care of ther customers due to dinner time bathrooms were dirty and ”
Fast Food • $
“Thanks Joe for the respect 👍... 10mins ago at the drive thru! Don't know who the female was that you were working with but she should've just pulled you to the side if there was a problem, or she had a question. I shouldn't have to remind people of how uncomfortable things are right now, for everyone. So offending a customer is not in the best interest of anyone. Too little your hear about the good in folks, thanks again!”
Sushi • $$$
“We had an incredible experience celebrating my fiancé’s birthday. Rekai? was great and explained all the items of our set as well as providing pairing suggestions. Truly a memorable experience.”
Wineries • $$
“Did a wine tasting and bluegrass blush was delicious. Highly recommend this winery.”
American • $$
“Harry’s Twin Filets (+ side) is hard to beat for the price ($27.99). Somehow the food seems to get better with each visit. Had the pleasure of being served by Caleb tonight, awesome UK student working his second straight year for BHG. Also worth noting: you can order from both the Harry’s & Malone’s menus while dining at Harry’s!”
Takeout Restaurants
Salad • $
“My family, and I just found this place. All 5 of us are DELIGHTED. We almost didn’t stop, because we were expecting a big building. THANK GOD, we took a chance and went in! This food was nothing short of AMAZING. The owner was beyond hospitable, the food was fresh, the kitchen was clean (97% recent Health Inspection) the prices were reasonable and the quantity of food was double portioned! We are still talking about this dining experience. Nothing makes us happier than finding authentic jewels like Zaki. We can’t wait to get back to Lexington.”
Sandwich Shop • $
“Came here for the first time with my son. I cannot speak highly enough about not only how great the food is but how great the staff was as well! They welcomed me and answered any questions I had and gave me recommendations on what to try! Phemominal job!! I will be back!”
Mediterranean • $
“delicious plenty of food friendly staff reasonable price”
Cajun • $
“The service was great, very efficient and helpful. The food awesome. Very big portions as well. I got the Jambalaya, and it was amazing. Will def be coming here more often!!”
Coffee Shops • $
“Old School Coffee is a must-visit spot in Lex! The baristas are so fun and love to chat whenever you visit. This coffee shop is in a beautiful "old school" building that is fun to explore. All of their drinks are school-themed, and they always have a drink of the week that is a must-try! Definitely give this place a try!”
Bakery • $$
“Cookies are always good. But ordered through the app and they were apparently out of the normal cookie so they gave us the minis of that one. And the amount of minis given compared to the size of the normal cookie was definitely not equivalent.”
Coffee Shops • $
“I have become a regular at the Leestown Coffee House. Fantastic coffee. Very friendly people who seem to really take pride in their work. My favourite drink so far is the Butterbeer Latte.”
Bakery • $
“I had been wanting to visit DV8 for quite some time now, not only for my love of trying out new places, but because of the background of this place. Let me first say, I visited the Broadway location on 1/19/25 and cannot wait to come back. The environment was great including the decor and the staff. Everyone was friendly and helpful. I had the breakfast tacos and took home the chicken salad and it was amazing. I couldn't leave without snagging a couple cups, hoodie, and a sticker. Having a passion for those in recovery (I have 12.5 years myself) I couldn't wait to get myself in this place and now I can't wait to come back!!”
Bakery • $
“10/10 EVERYTIME! I can’t wait to try more of their delicious treats!”
Korean • $
“Han Woo Ri Han Woo Ri is a gem for Korean cuisine! I recently dined here and was thoroughly impressed by the quality and authenticity of the food. Shrimp Tempura The shrimp tempura was perfectly crispy and light. The batter didn’t overwhelm the shrimp, letting the natural sweetness of the seafood shine through. Paired with the dipping sauce, it was a great start to the meal. Gyoza The gyoza were delightful—pan-fried to golden perfection with a tender, flavorful filling. The balance of textures, from the crispy exterior to the juicy interior, was spot on. Dol Sot Bibim Bap The highlight of the meal was the Dol Sot Bibim Bap. Served sizzling in a hot stone bowl, the rice formed a perfect crispy layer at the bottom. The mix of fresh vegetables, marinated beef, and a perfectly runny egg, made for a hearty and satisfying dish. The ambiance of Han Woo Ri complements the food well, with a cozy and welcoming vibe. The service was attentive without being overbearing, making the dining experience even better. If you’re looking for high-quality Korean food, Han Woo Ri is a must-visit!”
Brewery • $
“What one of our team members said: "We love Rolling Oven! Their pizza + sandwiches are so delicious. Their staff is so friendly. Can't recommend more!"”
Mexican • $
“Great food with large portions and fast, friendly service. Best Mexican Restaurant we’ve found in Lexington, KY.”
Asian Fusion • $
“Always tasty and generous portions! Clean restrooms and friendly service.”
Steak House • $$$
“It was an outstanding experience with a very good friend! The food was perfect and the atmosphere chill. I look forward to another visit.”
Brewpubs • $$
“Great beer! They’ve got something for everyone. The bartender was so nice and recommended other breweries to try while we’re in town. We’ll be back!”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
Hamburger • $
“What can I say? Quick friendly service. Affordable food. Smoking hot burgers and fries. Absolutely delicious. The fried Oreos are insane. We came for a quick lunch and had Aaron as our server. He made our experience amazing. Will definitely be back.”
Coffee Shops • $
“Love Everything about my Dutch brothers here in Lexington, Kentucky the staff, the atmosphere and of course, the great drinks!!!!”
American • $
“Great local spot- that maintains an atmohsphere respectful of its' neighborhood and the familes that live there.”
Mexican • $
“We love Viva and try to go at least once a week. The servers are so friendly and the food and drinks are delicious”
Coffee & Tea • $
“stopped in on my visit to lexington and got the special. was probably the best coffee I have ever had. the purple marshmallow fluff on top is absolutely delicious. the art was amazing, the jewelry is so cute. Will definitely come back next time im in lexington.”
Chicken Wings • $
“the service is very friendly and good hospitality”
Diner • $
“My husband and I just ate at the Lexington location. 10 out of 10 recommend!!! Great service and great food. We will be back next time we come to town.”
Sushi Bar • $
“This was our first visit to Zen Sushi and it was excellent. The waitress was excellent, she was super prompt and very professional. The food was delicious. We will return.”
Bakery • $
“I had been wanting to visit DV8 for quite some time now, not only for my love of trying out new places, but because of the background of this place. Let me first say, I visited the Broadway location on 1/19/25 and cannot wait to come back. The environment was great including the decor and the staff. Everyone was friendly and helpful. I had the breakfast tacos and took home the chicken salad and it was amazing. I couldn't leave without snagging a couple cups, hoodie, and a sticker. Having a passion for those in recovery (I have 12.5 years myself) I couldn't wait to get myself in this place and now I can't wait to come back!!”
Breakfast • $
“Mackenzie was our server and she was the best. Very attentive and so so sweet. Definitely recommend!”
American • $
“Breakfast burrito, need I say more? Been conning for years and bringing my 5 children during their senior year in high school, also meet brother here once a month. Love it!!!!”
Mediterranean • $
“great food, best fries ive had.. did get a fountain drink that had black chunks floating in it... lost appetite”
Steak House • $$$
“4 stars----The place was decorated well and the staff was outstanding. We dined on Sunday and unfortunately a good many items on their limited menu was not available. The 4 of us decided to stay and the food was good but we felt "let down" by the restaurant not providing adequate replacements.”
Fine Dining • $$
“Luke was so enjoyable to have as our server. He was very knowledgable of the menu, amazing personality and very personable. I will ask for him upon our next visit. Thanks!”
Seafood • $$
“I hadn't been to this location before, but it was easy to get a table and the service was great. The food was well prepared and tasty. Our server had food runners, so we didn't have to wait for anything. It was an overall nice meal.”
Fine Dining
Steak House • $$$$
“What one of our team members says: "My husband and I tried Tony's this past weekend for the first time, and it might be our new favorite steakhouse in Lex! The service and atmosphere was incredible, and the food was some of the best we've ever had! The restaurant itself was beautiful, and we had a stunning view of downtown lex from our table. The service was also some of the best in Lex. Next time you plan on visiting, request Mason, he was our favorite server! This steakhouse is a must-try spot!!"”
Bakery • $$$$
“I had the pleasure of ordering a custom cake for my birthday from The Bourbon Bakery and could not have loved it more! I wanted a black on black iced vanilla heart cake with vintage styling. They gave me everything I was hoping for visually (elegant, goth) AND all of the taste of a great cake was there too. It was DELICIOUS. The cake got lots of compliments; it was a huge hit with me and my guests. Pricing is fair and communication is a breeze. I look forward to ordering from here for any future cake needs!”
Bakery • $$$$
“We passed by today and decided to stop in for a treat, but it was too hard to pick just one! 😅 Amazing customer service and delicious baked goods! We’ll definitely be back! 💛”
American • $$$
“Best steak and salad I’ve had at any restaurant! Waiter was great too!”
Cuban • $$
“Very good! Food and staff were wonderful. Try the croquettes!”
Cheap Eats
Mediterranean • $
“The #6 is AMAZING. Both times I’ve gotten it it’s been made perfectly and the staff is extremely friendly 🙂😋”
Pubs • $
“I went to Villainous to participate in the Valentine’s Day Cat Trivia contest. My team came in second, but we really enjoyed the food and the atmosphere. I live close enough to go back. Oh and the servers were great!”
Ice Cream Shop • $
“This place is a must visit each time we are in Lexington! In addition to delicious gelato, it's always great chatting with the kind staff.”
Cajun • $
“We had Gumbo ya-ya cater our son’s graduation party and it was fabulous!! We had multiple cajun options from the restaurant for guests to choose from and at the end of the night people had gone back for 3rd and 4th servings!! We were so pleased, the owners were amazing and made sure our special event was enjoyed by all. No one walked away hungry and everyone complimented us on the food!! We will definitely use them again. Thank you so much!!”
Mexican • $
“Best tacos and burritos around! Helped us pull of this Valentines Day surprise!❤️❤️❤️”
Mediterranean • $
“Best Mediterranean food we’ve ever had!! Falafels are great. Shawarma is amazing. And the dips are wonderful. Will definitely be back soon! The owner is very kind and helpful!”
Coffee Shops • $
“A wonderful coffee shop!! Great atmosphere and a delicious cappuccino!!”
Bakery • $
“OMG Donuts is the best, semi-hidden secret! They have an array of sweets and breakfast foods, and the most delicious drinks. The best part is the staff. Sofia is such a joy! Every time I go in she knows my drink order better than I do 😂. My coworkers and I frequent OMG just about every day, except Mondays, when we mope around waiting for Tuesday for the OMG doors to open again! There hasn’t been a single time that Sofia hasn’t gone above and beyond, had a beautiful smile on her face, and just been so incredibly joyful. It makes a difference in our mornings. Thank you OMG Donuts for my (almost) daily fix of deliciousness and joy! ☺️🍩🧋”
American • $
“Saturday night we had a 70th surprise birthday party for my mother. Mark (the owner),Jessica, Mike and the crew at Thoroughbreds were unbelievable. Everyone could not stop talking about how great the party was and how great the food tasted. Jessica took control and made sure that everything ran as smoothly as possible. If there was an issue that needed to be solved or if I needed something she was always there to handle it. Mike provided incredible service behind the bar serving up great cocktails and making sure nobody left thirsty. Mark Smith the owner served up brisket sliders, potato skins, a beer cheese platter, and what party goers described to be one of the best mini hot browns they had ever put in their mouths. Words can't describe how grateful I am to call Mark and the crew down at thoroughbreds my friends. They truly are amazing people. If you have not experienced the hometown cozy atmosphere of Thoroughbreds I strongly recommend you stop by and say hi to everyone and enjoy a great meal or cocktail. Verified Customer Chad Faris”
Korean • $$
“Today my bestie and I tried Korean BBQ for the first time and it was AMAZING!!! First off the staff (I didn’t get the young ladies name) was BEYOND amazing she helped us choose our food and showed us all that we needed to do with cooking our own food. She was super sweet. The food was freaking amazing! We had the meat and seafood. Our first time trying squid and it was pretty good. We felt warm and welcomed here and it was truly an authentic experience. We definitely plan on returning to try more things.”
Brewery • $$
“West 6 is a super favorite of the Old Guys Pub Crawl. We've have crawled here more than any other bar/pub from the 80-90 places we've been over the past two years. We bring first time guests to West 6. I don't mention food much but the seafood here is one of our top choice places.”
Sushi • $$
“My husband and I having family night with our sons at Blue Sushi Sake Grilled”
Korean • $$
“Came in with my fiance for her first time. Wait staff was fantastic! Great atmosphere and even better food. 10/10”
American • $$
“J. Alexander's offers a great dining experience with excellent service and a delicious menu. The steaks are perfectly cooked, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Highly recommend for a quality meal.”
American • $$
“Harry’s Twin Filets (+ side) is hard to beat for the price ($27.99). Somehow the food seems to get better with each visit. Had the pleasure of being served by Caleb tonight, awesome UK student working his second straight year for BHG. Also worth noting: you can order from both the Harry’s & Malone’s menus while dining at Harry’s!”
Tapas • $$
“This is the second time I’ve eaten here. And both times were outstanding. This time we had the paella -we couldn’t wait to dive in. That’s why the pictures show that most of it is gone, but you can look at their pictures. It was fantastic!
If you’ve never been make a reservation and go. a lot of the appetizers are tapas style so don’t think it’s all you can eat hog trough. Hint— if you make reservations tell them you want yo have the paella ready about 30 -40 minutes after you arrive to give you time to sample some appetizers. We ordered the small which fed two people but should have ordered the large to have leftovers. Prices are very reasonable and the quality of the food that I’ve had has been tremendous. Show them some love.”
Japanese • $$
“The gyozo was absolutely delicious. Husband and I both had ramen that was perfect!”
American • $$
“We ate for the first time at the Andover location and had the best meal we’ve had in a long time. Service was excellent. We both had the chopped wedge salad, wagyu burger, broccoli topped with smoked Gouda sauce, macaroni with smoked Gouda, and shared a slice of peanut butter pie. Every bit of our meal was amazing! We can’t wait to go back and try something else on the menu.”
Cafe • $$
“Had an absolutely delightful brunch at Bella Cafe today. Our server was fantastic and the European Bar is so delicious. If this isn’t on your list of best brunch spots in Lexington, it should be💜.”
Steak House • $$$$
“What one of our team members says: "My husband and I tried Tony's this past weekend for the first time, and it might be our new favorite steakhouse in Lex! The service and atmosphere was incredible, and the food was some of the best we've ever had! The restaurant itself was beautiful, and we had a stunning view of downtown lex from our table. The service was also some of the best in Lex. Next time you plan on visiting, request Mason, he was our favorite server! This steakhouse is a must-try spot!!"”
Seafood • $$
“I LOVE WALT'S FAVORITE SHRIMP. I TELL ALL MY FRIENDS THE STORY OF WALT.”
American • $$
“Great salad and shrimp flatbread was yummy. Prices are great. I felt comfortable and safe dining alone (traveling through).”
Diner • $$
“Stoofvlees ( house fries, beer braised beef sirloin, creme fraiche and herbs) Belgian endive salad with a creamy herb dressing, gala apples, muir apples, scallions and topped with pumpkin sunflower seeds. Please give this place a try you will have a great food experience. You can get cocktails from. Arcadium next door to have with your meal.💗 #lexingtonkentucky #eatbetterfood #eatfavor #lexingtonfoodscene”
Indian • $$
“The Best Indian Restaurant In Lexington, KY
Best flavors and lots of unique dishes Not found at other Indian Restaurants. Do yourselves a favor and go here to eat sometime. If you've never been to an Indian Restaurant go during the buffet and sample small amounts to figure out what you like the best. I was there again last weekend and I will be going back today or tomorrow, it's That Good!”
Brewery • $$
“I had an absolutely amazing time this evening! The atmosphere was the perfect blend of industrial and casual, creating such a cool and inviting vibe. The food was incredible—I had the pizza, which was delicious, and paired it with a #23 strawberry hard cider that was just perfect. Fred, the bartender, was fantastic—so personable and helpful in guiding my selections. His recommendations made the experience even better. I truly had such an enjoyable evening and can’t wait to come back!”
Brewpubs • $$
“Great beer. dog friendly. spent a nice afternoon there.”
Bar • $$
“If you like Cole’s you’ll love this place. Excellent food. Great service. Nice atmosphere.”
Steak House • $$
“My husband and I came in tonight for an early Mothers Day celebration. they were PACKED but still provide amazing service! We got seated quickly, our server was amazing, our drinks and apps came out within a few minutes, my margarita was delicious and not skimping liquor, and our food was amazing! The manager came by and we praised our experience. 10/10 would recommend.”
Cideries • $$
“I first tasted Wise Bird Cider at the GOSHEN TAPROOM, right on the edge of Metro Louisville. It’s on tap and in cans! The Pomme Pomme Cider is SO DELICIOUS! The others are great too, but the PP is my favorite. If you can’t make it to Lexington (an amazing place to visit), make the shorter trip to Goshen.”
Bar • $$
“Everything was amazing the manager Brittany was amazing. We were in from Ohio and had a great time! Too notch service.”
Bar • $$
“The girls and I visited Harvey's over the weekend. We came fairly early (5pm) hoping to get parking and a seat in the bar for all of us -- it was already busy with one lonely seat available. Nevertheless, the crowd was coming and going quickly enough to snag good seats without a lot of waiting. The drinks were delicious and well prepared, and our bartender, Erin, was lovely to work with. She made us a finale drink that she called an Andes Mint Martini that was really yummy and perfect for the holiday season. Other drinks we had were Elwood's Old Fashioned, Tequila Mockingbird, a Cosmo, and the Nate-spresso Martini. All were delicious! There's also a charcuterie station in the back that prepared a beautiful spread of meats, cheeses, fruit, nuts, and sweet and savory condiments, and worth the $65 to feed our group. If you haven't visited Harvey's yet, don't wait!”
Cocktail Bar • $$
“We hosted a friends wedding shower here on a Saturday afternoon and it was the PERFECT venue for our party! It was spacious yet intimate, the decor is elegant, and the drinks are fantastic and reasonably priced. The manager/owner was easy to work and communicate with. We ordered charcuterie boards from the restaurant for snacking and brought our own desserts. Highly recommend Georgie’s for an event like this.”
Health Food • $$$$
“Great food, fast delivery, competitive pricing. Meals are healthy and well balanced, all this without compromising taste! Highly recommend giving them a try, you won’t regret it!”
Health Food • $$
“If you miss classic health food stores, this is the place to go in Lexington. Excellent variety and very good prices, including a nice selection of teas. Recommended.”
Steak House • $$$
“We arrived early for our 8:30 reservation for 8 people and were seated immediately. The staff was wonderful. Very attentive and friendly. Water and bread was brought to our table and our drink ordered was taken. No waiting! Appetizers and drinks arrived quickly. Our food was prepared exactly as ordered and was delicious! We highly recommend Malone's!”
American • $$
“Great start with our waitress Kimberly. Kimberlee. She was absolutely the best. This was my first steak at Ted's. I would rate it as the best steak I have had in a longtime. Forget get the high priced steak houses in Lexington as this was far and away the most perfectly cook steak ever. Adding to the perfect meal were wonderful onion rings. They were as close to perfection as you can get. My compliments to the chef. we were too full to try the deserts but I am sure they would have been great. We will make Ted's a regular stop for a great meal.”
Bar • $$
“Every Thursday, I make it a point to visit Bluegrass Tavern, and it’s consistently the highlight of my week. From the moment I walk in, I feel right at home. The true star of the night is Jordan, the bartender. Jordan's friendly demeanor and engaging conversations make the experience truly special. The rest of the staff are equally fantastic. They are attentive, courteous, and always go above and beyond to ensure every guest feels valued. Highly recommended for anyone looking to enjoy a fantastic evening out!”
American • $$$
“2nd time here and I can’t say enough about the pecan crusted pork tenderloins!!! Have to try this dish when I return home. Desserts were huge! Loved the carrot cake!”
American • $$
“First timing trying this place. Fill place, feels like a neighborhood spoke with some unique dishes on the menu.
I got the Lumberjack burger. It came out raw, ordered it medium. They took it back I expected a new burger, the simply further cooked the burger. This time it was well done. Not a big deal flavor was still there, juicy and well seasoned. However, I think much of the Beer cheese had cooked off.
We got the salad with orange vinaigrette and it was very good. The squash soup was also nice on a snowy day.
Service was excellent and enjoyed the experience. The only negative was the burger cook and the not getting a new burger. Just kind of pointless to ask for how I’d like it cooked.
Would eat here again though”
American • $$
“Wonderful atmosphere and delicious food. Service was excellent. Definitely recommend.”
Italian • $$
“The food and service were exceptional from start to finish. The entire restaurant team went above and beyond to insure we had a wonderful dining experience. They were very busy and had two large groups in the restaurant, yet the staff did not miss a beat. The staff was kind and attentive. The pace of service was perfect! The food was outstanding! We look forward to returning soon.”
Italian • $$
“One of our team members says "ItalX is a gem in downtown Lex! The interior design/vibe is picturesque, the Italian food is incredible (I recommend the focaccia with whipped ricotta, the lasagna, and the tiramisu), and the drinks are also a 10/10! Perfect place for a date night or girl's night!"”
American • $$
“Incredible atmosphere. Christopher the bartender treated me like family. I’ll always visit when I’m in town.”
Steak House • $$
“My family ate here while on vacation; Chelsea S. was our waitress and she was excellent! The food was great, too.”
American • $$
“Love this place! One of our favorites in Lexington!”
New American • $$
“My mom and her fiancé drove in from Gulf Shores, AL to attend my son’s (her grandson’s) college graduation from UK. I was able to book them 2 night at the Clarion for the event. After Saturday’s commencement, we wanted to celebrate. My mom and her fiancé were so impressed with Sedona Taphouse from the previous evening, that they treated us to an early dinner along with some drinks there. It was amazing from the appetizers to the drinks to the entrees. Our server was a delight, but we also had the pleasure of meeting the GM, Ben as he came over to not only check on us, but to shake my son’s hand and personally congratulate him on his achievement. He really made a big deal about his accomplishment and even went as far to pay for his meal, drinks and dessert. So unexpected! Ben went above & beyond and that food and atmosphere was outstanding. We frequent Lexington often, I’ve found my new spot for lunch or dinner. Thank you Ben!! We can’t thank you enough for making Mason’s special day even more memorable.”
Steak House • $$
“Hostess was friendly but probably not the best personality for a hostess.
Sever (Isaac) was absolutely awesome. Friendly and helpful. Food was an 8/10. The salad and Brussels sprouts were both really good. The medium rare steak came out medium well. Isaac took it right back and had a fresh steak prepared which was closer to medium rare at the thick end but dried up at the thinner end. For the money, I would have appreciated a more even cut of steak that could be prepared more consistently.
Atmosphere is nice and I'll be back.”
Seafood • $$
“I have been on a crab kick lately so we tried Shaking Seafood and Wings tonight for the first time. It was phenomenal! The seafood (snow crab, head on shrimp, headless shrimp, crawfish) was all cooked perfectly and the crab legs were HUGE. Nothing was overcooked or rubbery and the sauce is delicious. The crawfish were really good and clean, too, and not tough even though I’m sure they had to have been frozen. The restaurant is very clean, everyone is friendly and service is fast and friendly. We will definitely return. Thank you for a great meal!”
Japanese • $$
“Absolutely delicious, and well worth the all-you-can-eat price!! But be warned, the rolls are HUGE, so don’t order too much at once🤣🙌🏻”
Korean • $$
“I go here when I have cravings for authentic Korean Chinese food. It never fails to hit the spot everytime.
My favorite is Ghan-Jajangmyun and Tang soo yook (not sure that'show they spell it), or sweet and sour pork. It's too delectable. The owner lady is very nice and the food comes out in perfect taste and temperature. Thank you!”
Japanese • $$
“I had sushi and it was great. Fresh flavors, tight rolls, good rice. The appearance was good as well. The mango mojito or Fuji apple tini were very good with the meal. Service kept up with our drinks and food was served promptly. The atmosphere was simple for just a booth for sushi. The hibachi was much more lively and appeared worth a try seeing things from a distance.”
Bar • $$
“They offer great small dishes, including some of the freshest sashimi you can get in Kentucky. Although my favorite drink is an ice-cold bourbon highball, there's also a wide and thoughtful selection of Japanese sake — offering a deep and authentic taste of Japan in the heart of the South.
SRO isn’t just a casual dining spot (though it might be the most casual place around); it’s a shared space where strangers quickly become friends. The atmosphere is warm, relaxed, and refined — a place where conversations flow freely between guests and the chefs, and where food and drinks are often passed around the room. With no assigned seats, everyone shares the space — the floor, the table, the dishes, and their stories. That said, don’t worry if you’re not in the mood to chat — it’s just as easy to mind your own business and enjoy your meal in peace. I say all this to express just how welcoming and comfortable the atmosphere truly is.
SRO is like a small portal to Japan, where Kentucky’s southern hospitality blends beautifully into something truly unique. The room is always full of good people, good energy, and an inviting air that quietly encourages connection. It was a real joy to see the lovely owners again. I hold fond memories of SRO from when I lived in Lexington, and my recent quick visit brought it all back. Happy 7th anniversary to SRO — I look forward to returning for more stories soon.”
Italian • $$
“We love everything about this place! The servers are sweet, knowledgeable, and on the ball, the atmosphere is old-world but clean, and the food is so good I'm pretty sure if I peeked into the kitchen I'd see a team of Nonas stirring all the pots. Our new favorite in Lexington 💚”
Mexican • $$
“food was really good and fresh also the waitress was very nice and polite defiantly coming back”
Bar • $$
“June 7th I received exceptional service from a male bartender (didn’t catch his name) my flight was delayed due to weather, and I was sure to miss a connecting flight. Total bummer, but to make the best of it I got some burgers (delicious) my father even said this was the best meal all week. But the kind bartender recommended some whiskey on special which helped melt all the troubles away.”
Mexican • $$
“The desserts are wonderful, and don’t miss the full dining menu! We had the chilaquiles, tamales, tacos, and a torta. It was all fantastic. The staff was super friendly too. Don’t miss this little gem!”
Steak House • $$
“Big shout out to all of the employees! They helped me out when my husband was having diabetic issues. They got me a quick coke, ice cream and then a fast burger. You are the best!”
Cocktail Bar • $$
“If I could give this place 10 Stars I would! My husband and I were traveling back home to Michigan after our trip to Mammoth Cave National Park. We had a fun afternoon of burbon drinking after camping and Desperately needed something to eat. Unfortunately, it was so late everything was closed. In a last ditch effort we spontaneously asked a passing local of ANY WHERE we could eat He immediately pointed us to Minglewood. We arrived an hour before close and quickly and apologetically ordered a couple cocktails and some food. I had the pimento hamburger and GIRL LEMME TELL YOU!!! Iv never had a hamburger more delicious in my entire life! It doesn’t stop there, we then had the absolute pleasure of meeting the LADY BOSS (maybe the owner? I was pretty tipsy by then lol) She was AMAZING and after bonding of chef life and hearing how much I love chicken wings, she suggested they had the BEST and proceeded to make us an order HERSELF even tho they were pretty much closed! OH. MY. ACTUAL. GOSH…SHE WAS NOT WRONG! I can’t tell you how serious I am when I tell you these were the BEST wings Iv ever had!! We are going to be camping in Smoky Mountains National Park for New Years weekend and have planned our trip specifically to include a stop here again for those wings! Do your mouth a favor and eat here. -Rose & Todd”
American • $$
“Everything at Honeywoood is done with such beautiful intentionality, like all of a Ouita Michel’s creations. It is no accident that you feel surrounded by Kentucky history, agriculture and the arts when you enter any of her establishments. The food is no exception. While she could not possibly be in all restaurants at the same time, she selects the best team members to represent her vision and values. We loved every part of our experience at Honeywood. Food: creamy grits and polenta, slow cooked greens, risotto, local beef and quail, fresh seasonal vegetables, crispy country ham, deviled eggs stuffed with lump crab???? AND those damn sweet potato beignets!!! Never disappoint. service is top notch, without all the fanfare of a fine dining restaurant. Wine list and craft cocktails are legit. Anything goes and we felt comfortable in fancy duds and blue jeans with a T-shirt (which you can purchase in any of her places as well as her cookbook). Thank you, Ouita, and her cool a** hubby, Chris.”
Gay Bar • $$
“My husband and I had such a great time there during Pride last weekend. Great bartenders who were working hard dealing with the packed crowd and great entertainment. This will definitely be our place to go next time in Lexington”
American • $$
“The steak, potatoes and broccoli were AMAZING! Compliments to chef Rena!! The bartender/server Tyler was really great too. Overall an awesome experience! Very happy I decided to come here for dinner.”
Tacos • $$
“We stopped in here for a quick bite in between distillery tours. The service at the tables was ok. The bartender was great. The food came out super quickly and was perfect. The textures and flavors were unique and amazing. I tried the fried avocado, the birria tacos, the pork belly taco, and the corn. Not a single bad thing. Highly recommend this spot for something delicious and quick.”
Barbeque • $$
“Wow!! Stopped on the way home from Asheville on the recommendation of a friend and well worth every calorie! Quintessential hole in the and wall look with some of the best BBQ, side dishes & desserts!”
New American • $$$
“The best restaurant in bardstown by far! The best steaks and bourbon selection around! Super cool atmosphere and the most personable staff and professional staff. 5 stars definitely recommend for any occasion.”
American • $$
“I loved going to the market to get to try new foods with my children IT WAS A BLAST!”
Bar • $$
“Wheelchair accessibility: Although it's a tight arrival from the sidewalk, the bar is open and obstacle free, with easily accessible seating along the walls. The bathroom is open enough for a wheelchair.”
Cafe • $$
“Great gas prices! The self scan option is awesome! Other retailers should follow this model to save time for shoppers. Love it!”
Chicken Wings • $$
“ordered a 32 piece and were not disappointed! got Nashville hot and santa fe. Nashville wasn't very hot but still tasty. wings were great size and cooked perfectly. so juicy. fries also good. just needed a tad more seasoning. 8 out of 10 will order again!”
Mexican • $$
“Very good authentic Mexican. The food is different than the traditional Mexican restaurant but great in it's own way. Best bang for your buck is the lunch and dinner buffet. This time we came in before the buffet and got our food within 10 mins. Some of it packs some heat so be sure to ask if it is spicy. Friendly staff and the owner is the sweetest. Try the in house horchata and michelada they are the best.”
Seafood • $$
“This restaurant was amazing heard it’s been there since 2020 but I think much longer seen names on the booths of the year 2019 that’s amazing I love the store the people and the food was top tier will for sure go back again.”
Steak House • $$
“Thank you, Columbia's Steakhouse!!!! ❤️
Your competition, Le Deauville, across the street really dropped the ball and totally mismanaged several couples Valentines reservations. Thanks so much for graciously saving the day and providing us a wonderful alternative! Great staff, great food, and great service 👍 There's a reason you've been a Lexington institution for so many years.....”
Sushi • $$
“best 🍣 sushi. best service. absolutely loved these ppl. the food was amazing. hands down best place I've been.”
Southern • $$
“Chris was wonderful with my reservation. Very nice, adult-oriented restaurant to have a drink. The vault room was a hit with our guests. Thanks Chris! If you like a fresh, lemon, invigorating not-too-sweet drink, try a French 75. Delicious!”
American • $$
“Absolutely amazing. Very good steak! Servers were good and on top of drinks. Not too fancy but the atmosphere was still quite nice. You can dress casual or fancy, they don't care at all. Food was plentiful and great. I didn't have any cheesecake so I can't speak on it, but I've heard their cheesecake is really good.”
Chinese • $$
“We love doing drinks and Minne appetizers at the bar for happy hour. The quality of the food is always awesome and our server and bartender at the Lexington mall location is terrific. She is so nice and always happy and smiling and very engaging to talk to you. This location service both at the bar, happy hour, and sit down is always terrific. Clearly the managers and the general manager are doing a terrific job.”
American • $$
“We always enjoy sitting outside at Palmers! Wonderful food and fantastic service!!!”
Steak House • $$$
“The absolute best meal. Everything on the salad bar was fresh and flavorful. The meats were varied and very tender. The lobster bisque was the best I’ve ever eaten. The server was top notch and very attentive. Try this - you won’t be disappointed!”
African • $$
“Absolutely the best! I normally get the tilapia meal, but got jerk chicken this time! Their meals are so good and flavorful. They never disappoint! This meal had plantains with it, but ate them before this pic lol.”
Latest Reviews
American • $
“We had dinner tonight at the bar. What a wonderful expert. Our bartender/waitress was Bethany. What a delight, so ground willing to help. Extremely knowledgeable with the menu and so happy to help us with our meal selection What a wonderful meal, the ribs, salad and potato were perfect. She was so attentive and personably, a t treat. We will be back Thanks Brittany for a wonder evening out Lance and Maryann”
Thai • $
“This was our 2nd time eating here. The food is excellent. My husband loves THAI HOT. I like spicy but don't like my lips on fire. They customize your spice level perfectly.”
Bar • $
“Congratulations on the staff you have in place at Cocktails Chris, the GM, sets the example others follow, this entire staff cares about the customers the food quality and the cleanliness of this Bar and Grill Keep doing what you are doing And thanks to ALL the staff at Cocktails It’s why we are here, and of course the drinks and food are great Cheers Lance and Maryann W”
Restaurant • $$$
“2nd time here and I can’t say enough about the pecan crusted pork tenderloins!!! Have to try this dish when I return home. Desserts were huge! Loved the carrot cake!”
Wine Bar • $$
“This restaurant was 10/10! The service was superb! We are from Indiana and just came for a quick trip. We would highly recommend our family and friends when in the area!!! Thank you!!”
Health Food • $
“The Press is amazing. I love healthy food & they have such unusual & delicious choices.”
Restaurant • $
“Had lunch here for my very first trip. It was absolutely amazing. The Tofu Satay was fabulous. And the vegan brussel sprout dish was delicious. They Thai spiced it for me, wow! So good.”
Mexican • $
“Our favorite! Food is hot, fresh and perfectly seasoned. The staff is professional and friendly. Prices are in line with other similar restaurants, but they do not compete when it comes to friendliness, cleanliness, the quality and freshness of their food. Yes, I'm a regular customer!”
Pizza • $
“We have eaten here several times and have enjoyed our meals very much. Unfortunately, last night did not go as well. We sat in a booth where I had a clear view of the food prep area as the swinging door into the area did not close when a staff member entered. As we were waiting for our food, I watched and an employee sitting inside the door was on his phone and vaping the entire time, until he finally got up and moved out of sight. The service was slower than we have experienced in the past, seemed very disorganized. Not to mention that the metal wall next to our booth was filthy.”
Caterers • $$
“Cauliflower buffalo bites were awesome!! Classic Burger and fries were great too.”
American • $$
“I loved going to the market to get to try new foods with my children IT WAS A BLAST!”
Caterers
“I used the Queen to cater a work function. Everything was amazing. She delivered on time food was hot and looked amazing. All our employees were so excited that I didn't get a chance to take a picture. I cannot recommend The Empanada Queen enough! I will defiantly be visiting her store front!”
Restaurant • $$
“Place is awesome, drinks are awesome. The owner was amazing. We were in from Ohio and would go back anytime in the area.”
Cafe
“Precious place! Food is always excellent and Feed and Supply offers frozen meals to take home that are delicious. A secret, awesome place to take friends, family, and out of town guests!!!!”
Most Popular Restaurants
Pizza • $
“Dope pizza joint in the famous Distillery District of Lexington. Great pizza in a historic building. Upstairs is particularly cool. Good fellas has several locations in town, but this one is the most popular. In the summer months, it has seating right up against the creek. The line is often out the door.”
Cocktail Bar • $
“Hands down one of the best dining experiences I’ve had! Quick & exceptional service. Every employee I came in contact with was friendly and helpful! Highly recommended!”
Bakery • $$
“Cookies are always good. But ordered through the app and they were apparently out of the normal cookie so they gave us the minis of that one. And the amount of minis given compared to the size of the normal cookie was definitely not equivalent.”
Pizza • $
“Got a Really Big No Brainer Deluxe and a small keto cheese. Both were hot and delicious. Great pizzas guys!”
Himalayan/Nepalese • $
“The food was great! Service was great! Would definitely go back and dine ! What to experience the buffet in the weekends! My grandson loved the food!”
Barbecue • $
“An absolute MUST VISIT if you're in Lexington. GREAT atmosphere, great people, and BBQ to die for (not to mention you can buy their BBQ to take home!) Served with wonderful local beer, this place kicks ass!!!”
American • $
“We had Michele today as our server and she was amazing! We absolutely loved everything about our visit today!”
Burgers • $
“Everything on the menu is awesome, the prices are great, and the portions are huge!”
American • $
“Store #77 in Lexington, Kentucky was great! Our waitress, Nevaeh, was amazing!!”
Tacos • $
“absolutely delicious! so many options and wonderful service!”
Hamburger • $
“What can I say? Quick friendly service. Affordable food. Smoking hot burgers and fries. Absolutely delicious. The fried Oreos are insane. We came for a quick lunch and had Aaron as our server. He made our experience amazing. Will definitely be back.”
Mexican • $$
“Awesome atmosphere and beer! Margaritas are fantastic and so are the staff! Highly recommend!”
Cajun • $
“Great service it was my first time ever going and They were very friendly and ready to help with whatever I needed and all her samples and they have an array of sauces.”
Brunch • $
“Biscuit Belly is a great spot for brunch! The service is always fantastic and their biscuits are DELICIOUS! Great coffee and cocktails too!”
New Restaurants
Health Food • $
“I love the atmosphere and the 8th Ave is the best! We use to have to wait until we went to Boca to get a Playa Bowl but now they are right up the street and we love it!!”
Mexican • $
“First time eating there and I can say they have best tacos in town by far. The staff was incredibly friendly and made our visit a delight. I will certainly be returning”
Cafe • $
“Outstanding all around! Food, service, staff/owners...all top notch!”
“The best sushi I had in KY. Service and presentation were exquisite. A little gem in Lexington.”