Welcome to Kentucky’s culinary capital, where Southern charm blends with gastronomic innovation. Lexington, located in the center of Kentucky, has a thriving eating scene that is enhanced by the state’s rich cultural legacy and agricultural riches. From small bistros to fancy eateries, this picturesque city has a wide range of dining alternatives to suit every taste and desire.
Take a tasty journey as we reveal the seven top must-try eateries in Lexington, Kentucky. Whether you want classic Southern comfort food, farm-to-table delights, or foreign cuisine with a local touch, these culinary locations will provide an outstanding dining experience. Join us as we explore the many flavors and gastronomic delights that make Lexington a haven for both food connoisseurs and epicurean adventures.
1. Sir Pizza KY, Lexington, KY
Sir Pizza is Lexington’s oldest pizza shop, having been open for more than 50 years. Calzones, pasta, and salads are among the dishes they serve. They also provide delivery and takeout. Sir Pizza, one of the state’s oldest pizza shops, is a family-owned business that has long served the Lexington neighborhood.
They are open on weekends and weekdays, and they stay open considerably later than most other pizza places in Lexington. The firm is also regarded for producing the finest pizza dough in Lexington. They use Caputo flour imported from Naples and are dedicated to the Neapolitan tradition of crafting the ultimate pizza.
2. Bella Note, Lexington, KY
Bella Note, an Italian restaurant in Lexington, Kentucky, is a popular destination. It is a traditional Italian trattoria that serves fresh fish and wood-fired meats. It is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant offers an extensive wine list and provides worldwide and regional beers. It also offers gluten-free choices. Bella Note is a prominent Lexington restaurant that serves romantic dinners for two. The main building has been refurbished to highlight its historical value. It boasts a rustic-chic yet refined eating atmosphere.
3. Storming Crab in Lexington, KY
If you’re looking for a dinner date or a place to eat lunch, Lexington has lots of possibilities. The Storming Crab serves moderately priced, highly filthy seafood. The hush puppies were a touch on the small side, but they were well cooked and full of flavor. I ordered the very hot Cajun buttered (on the side to dip) meal. Crayfish, crab, shrimp, sausage, potato, and maize. It was all delicious. The waiter was also quite polite and present, but not too much so.
4. Athenian Grill in Lexington, KY
Whether you’re in town for business or simply to visit, Athenian Grill is a great place to get a fast lunch in Lexington, Kentucky. This Lexington, KY restaurant serves Greek/Mediterranean cuisine and offers exceptional service. The cuisine is flavorful and visually appealing. For many years, Athenian Grill has been a Lexington, KY fixture.
The proprietor, Ilias Pappas, studied hotel management at the University of Kentucky and learnt Greek cuisine from his mother and grandmother. He then encountered numerous challenges, including financial ones, before establishing his own restaurant. His menu features typical Greek meals such as Moussaka and Spanakopitakia. He also serves Greek salads, dips, and kebabs.
5. Carson’s Food and Drink in Lexington, Kentucky
Carson’s Food & Drink, located in the heart of Lexington, Kentucky, is well-known for serving high-quality food and beverages. Carson’s is the place to go if you want an upmarket supper and a big belly laugh. The menu includes 39 meals, so there’s something for everyone.
The restaurant is also noted for its exceptional service, making it an excellent choice for a business lunch or an evening out with the ladies. Carson’s is also known for its gluten-free menu, making it an excellent choice for gluten-free diners. Carson’s menu provides something for both meat eaters and vegetarians, with prices ranging around the same.
6. ItalX Restaurant, Lexington, KY
ItalX, located in the City Center complex, is a must-try Italian restaurant. It is one of the development’s mainstays and a popular lunch and dinner destination. The ItalX menu features a variety of Italian cuisine and redesigned plates. The menu also features Italian wines and a wine wall. The Italian ambiance is strong, and the service is exceptional. It serves lunch and dinner on weekdays, as well as weekend brunch. It also offers a unique brunch menu.
7. Josies Breakfast in Lexington, Kentucky
Josie’s Cafe, known for its famed hash browns and a variety of other breakfast options, is one of Lexington’s best-kept secrets. Chef Shawn Hanna, who has worked at the Merrick Inn for many years, oversees the menu. His menu includes a good assortment of entree salads and an exceptional breakfast buffet. Josie’s is also renowned for their gourmet bottled meals. In addition to breakfast, the cafe offers lunch and dinner, with most meals priced under $15.
Final Words
Finally, Lexington is a shining example of culinary excellence in Kentucky, where history meets innovation on each plate. This quaint city has a varied range of dining options, from intimate bistros to upmarket restaurants, so there’s something for everyone. Join us as we explore the seven must-try restaurants in Lexington, Kentucky, which promise an extraordinary gastronomic adventure into the heart of the Bluegrass State.