Commerce Lexington reports that there are about 600 dining and drinking establishments in Lexington, KY. Thousands of people visit the city annually to enjoy the local food while exploring attractions.
The best casual restaurants in Lexington, KY, offer a vibrant dining scene for anyone touring the city. They’re great spots for chilling with your loved ones or group and solo dining.
Each of the options offers savory meals, and you’ll also enjoy great atmospheres and explore Southern culture. Let’s discuss the ten standout spots defining Lexington casual dining.
1. Carson’s Food and Drink
Carson’s Food and Drink is where Southern hospitality meets elevated comfort food. It’s one of the top restaurants in Lexington, KY, with a welcoming vibe at two locations, 362 E Maine ST and 3450 Todds RD.
Menu highlights include the following:
- Southern fried chicken
- Bourbon brisket burger
- Spicy shrimp
With its relaxed yet stylish atmosphere, Carson’s Food and Drink is an excellent choice for back dining. The restaurant is open every day of the week up to 10 pm or 11 pm.
2. Minton’s at 760
Minton’s at 760 is a true gem for those seeking affordable restaurants in Lexington. It specializes in handcrafted cuisine, delivering big flavors at wallet-friendly prices.
The menu ranges from hearty breakfast items to indulgent burgers. It also has vegetarian and vegan options, making it perfect for group dining.
Here are a few items from Minton’s at 760 extensive menus:
- Sriracha tempeh salad sandwich
- Lentil & black bean burger
- Bacon burger
- Elvis pancakes
The fun part about dining at Minton’s at 760 is its rotating weekly specials featuring local ingredients. You’ll also enjoy a fantastic experience with Chef Ashley, who’s also happy to share some of her favorite recipes. The restaurant is open Tuesday to Friday from 11 am to 3 pm and 9 am to 3 pm on weekends.
3. County Club
Are you a barbeque lover looking for a casual joint in Lexington? County Club is among the best places to eat in Lexington, KY, thanks to its slow-smoked meats and seasonal sides. Locals also love it for its rotating beer and wine list featuring Kentucky brew and natural wine.
The joint opens Wednesday to Saturday, 5 pm-9 pm, and has patio seating perfect for evening dining.
4. The Local Taco
If you’re looking for a fresh spin on tacos, The Local Taco offers bold flavors in a casual, inviting setting. Now, in two locations, Hamburg and Limestone, the restaurant embraces the southern culture and distinct flavors.
It captures the local dining spirit by combining Tex-Mex favorites with Kentucky-inspired ingredients. Some of its famous tacos include:
- Tequila lime chicken taco
- Korean BBQ taco
- Vegetarian taco
- Steak taco
- Smoked brisket taco
The Local Taco also features a rotating seasonal menu highlighting local produce. The two locations open at different times but operate all days of the week.
5. Ramsey’s Diner
Ramsey’s has been a staple in Lexington for decades and serves hearty portions of Southern comfort foods. Its daily specials and welcoming atmosphere make it a top choice for anyone who wants to try out local food in Lexington, KY.
The restaurant opens daily and offers seasonal dishes and special holiday meals. The menu includes tasty burgers, a broad selection of sandwiches, veggies, and meats. Some of the customer’s favorites are hot brown and freshly baked homemade pies for dessert.
6. Joella’s Hot Chicken
Joella’s Hot Chicken is a local favorite known for its Nashville-style fried chicken. Whether you like your chicken mild or extra hot, the joint delivers flavor and fun. The heat levels range from ‘Southern’ (no heat) to ‘Fire-in-da-Hole.’
Its menu includes:
- Chicken nuggets (NUGGZ)
- Fried pickles
- Fried tenders
- Chicken and waffles
The food truck restaurant operates in four different locations in Kentucky. The one in Lexington is at 2305 Sir Barton Way and opens daily from 10:30 am to 9:00 pm.
7. Blue Door Smokehouse
When trying to find the best barbecue in town, check out Blue Door Smokehouse. Known for its award-winning brisket and smoked turkey, the eatery is a must-stop for Lexington casual dining enthusiasts. Its dine-in and carry-out menu includes:
- Sandwiches
- Meat combo plates
- Sliced beef brisket
- Smoked sausages
- Homemade sides and fresh salads
Blue Door Smokehouse opens Monday -Thursday from 11 am to 3 pm and at the same time on Fridays and Saturdays but closes at 8 pm.
8. Tolly-Ho
Tolly-Ho is a university-area joint known for its burgers, fries, and milkshakes. It’s perfect for casual meals, making it a top choice for locals and visitors.
Since it is open 24/7, Tolly-HO is a convenient option for early morning and late-night dining. It offers cooked-to-order meals and fresh meat burgers with generous portions.
9. Bella Notte
Bella Notte delivers classic dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere for Italian cuisine lovers. It features authentic pasta dishes like Spaghetti Bolognese and an extensive wine list to enhance any meal.
The chef prepares all meals with quality, fresh ingredients to enhance the natural flavors. The restaurant is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 am to 9 am, and you can also dine on Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm.
10. Merrick Inn
Merrick Inn is a Southern dining gem blending comfort food with refined flavors. Housed in a charming historic building, it’s one of the best places to eat in Lexington, KY, for those seeking a touch of elegance.
The main menu features dishes like the following:
- Fried chicken
- Walleye pike
- Angus ribeye
- Filet mignon
- Fresh Canadian salmon
With a dinner reservation, you can enjoy the restaurant’s ambiance from 4 pm to 9 pm any day of the week.
Explore the Best Casual Restaurants in Lexington, KY
The best casual restaurants in Lexington, KY, offer great food with a blend of the city’s unique culture and charm. From barbecue joints to retro diners, there’s no shortage of options to satisfy your cravings. You can find the perfect spot and enjoy a memorable dining experience anytime you’re in the city.Bites of the Bluegrass offers a unique chance to discover the Kentucky food culture. With our tours, you can explore the city and enjoy four to five generous and carefully selected dishes from the top local eateries. Schedule your tour here.
