From down-home Southern comfort dishes that’ll make you want to hug your plate, to innovative fusion cuisine that’ll have you questioning everything you thought you knew about flavor combinations – Lexington’s got it all.
But how do you know where to go first if you’re on a short timeframe? Luckily, we’re here to help. Loosen your belt, grab your fork, and get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through the best spots for culinary delights in this charming Kentucky city.
Read on for a food lover’s guide to Lexington KY.
Agave & Rye
Agave & Rye is a creative concept by Kentuckians Yavonne and Wade Sarber, where the tacos are the stars of the show, each one a culinary masterpiece.
The Epic Tacos section offers creations like the Rooster, which combines crispy chicken, mac and cheese, Nashville hot sauce, and sweet pickles.
In addition to their famous tacos, Agave & Rye offers an array of other delectable dishes. Their appetizers, like the loaded nachos and street corn, are perfect for sharing, while their bowls and quesadillas provide hearty alternatives for those seeking something different.
The drink menu is equally impressive, featuring an extensive selection of tequilas, craft cocktails, and specialty margaritas that perfectly complement the bold flavors of the food. Just make sure you save some room if Agave & Rye is the first stop on your food tour schedule!
The Grove
The Grove offers a collective of five different businesses, with two choices for food. Fable Charcuterie offers small to large grazing boards, each piled high with Kentucky’s farming bounty, and looking like their own works of art. Luna, their food truck, is another great option when you’re searching for something quick and easy. The pimento cheese sliders are served on Hawaiian rolls for an extra touch of sweetness.
You can add deviled eggs on the side for some extra protein, or switch to the avocado hummus for a treat on the healthier side. For something more fulfilling, the Italian Sausage Sandwich or the Veg Crunch sandwich are both helpful options.
While you’re at The Grove, don’t forget to stop at Harvey’s Bar or beer garden for a delicious drink after a long day of exploring Lexington!
Corto Lima
Corta Lima is a vibrant eatery that offers a contemporary twist on Latin-inspired cuisine. Start your journey with queso blanco, guacamole, and the salsa trio to share with the table. They’re each served with just-fried chips.
Seafood fans will love the mojo shrimp, which comes with pineapple mojo, garlic, crispy sweet potatoes, black beans and rice. Vegetarians can order the quinoa chaufa or the machete quesadilla.
And, of course, there are delicious tacos on offer at Corto Lima as well. The masa falafel taco is a fan favorite and their margaritas reigned supreme as the best in Lex for the last five years! Don’t miss the Prickly Pear!
Dudley’s on Short
Situated in the bustling Tandy Centennial Park District of downtown Lexington, Dudley’s on Short is a culinary landmark and a testament to true hospitality.
Dudley’s on Short prides itself on its seasonal menu, which features a delightful mix of classic dishes and contemporary creations, all made with the freshest ingredients. Start your meal with their signature crab cake. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, served with creamy andouille Weisenberger grits sourced from a six generation mill still operating nearby.
Another popular appetizer is the wilted brussel sprout salad, beautifully presented with manchego cheese, pine nuts, and aged balsamic. Enjoy these dishes and a glass from their extensive wine list on Dudley’s dreamy rooftop patio.
Lockbox
Next on the list of top restaurants in Lexington is Lockbox. Located in the historic 21c Museum Hotel, the restaurant’s chic and contemporary design is complemented by its focus on locally sourced ingredients and innovative culinary techniques.
Lockbox’s menu is a testament to the creativity and skill of its culinary team, featuring a range of dishes that highlight the best of Kentucky’s seasonal produce and artisanal products.
Begin your meal with the buttermilk biscuits, served warm with honey butter, or the pork belly, which is crispy and flavorful, paired with pickled vegetables and a spicy aioli.
To explore other options around Lockbox, you could stroll through the free art exhibits housed within the first two floors or book a Lexington food tour.
Zim’s Cafe
This welcoming café, founded by renowned chef Ouita Michel, is a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking a taste of home-cooked comfort food in the heart of downtown Lexington.
The menu at Zim’s Cafe is inspired by traditional Kentucky flavors, offering a variety of dishes that highlight the region’s agricultural bounty. Start your meal with their signature main street snack platter, which includes pimento cheese, marinated olives, bar nuts, crudites, fried bologna, country ham, toasted sourdough, and pickled pepper mustard.
For something more unusual, try out their fried banana peppers served with smoky tomato ranch.
Their take on the Kentucky Hot Brown is a must-try. Other local classics include their Kentucky proud catfish and shrimp and grits.
More standard options include their wide range of salads. Choices available include the Thermopolis salad, yes chef salad, or nice salmon salad. Plus, you can’t go wrong with any of the delicious burgers on offer at Zim’s.
Salt & Vinegar at Ethereal Brewing Public House
If you love beer, you’ll love Ethereal. From hoppy IPAs and rich stouts to refreshing lagers and unique seasonal brews, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
The knowledgeable bartenders are always eager to help you find the perfect pint, whether you’re a long-time beer fan or new to the scene.
The food menu at Ethereal Brewing Public House is equally impressive, featuring a variety of dishes that pair perfectly with their beers. Start with their delicious belgian frites, served with a variety of dipping sauces, or the pretzel and obatzda, a nod to Kentucky’s favorite snack.
For something more substantial, try the S&V Reuben, on delicious marble rye with Emmenthal cheese and Thousand Island dressing. Or, for something more creative, don’t be afraid of the bratwurst and mash.
Food Lover’s Guide to Lexington KY: Hit These Spots Today
With this food lover’s guide to Lexington, KY, you’ll be sure not to miss out on the top parts of the Lexington food scene.
Are you ready to book a walking tour to explore more of Lexington’s great food culture? Bites of The Bluegrass offers friendly, historically informative tours while you try some of the area’s best eats.
Book with us today.
