Lexington generated about $1.6 billion from tourism in 2023, according to Lex Today. One of the city’s main tourist attractions is its unique culinary experience. Lexington is a food lover’s dream destination, from diverse restaurants to vibrant food spots across the city.
So, are you looking for Instagram-worthy food spots in Lexington? Take a trip across the city and immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience that will blow away your palette. You can enjoy some of the best food on a tour while you take in the city’s rich history and architecture.
Discover stunning dishes and how to make memorable vibes in Lexington, KY.
Agave & Rye
Located at 123 N Broadway and Nicholasville Rd, Agave & Rye offers some of the best Tacos you can find in the city. Agave & Rye has a great menu with a wide selection of some of the best food in Lexington, such as:
- Carne Asad Egg Roll
- Swipe Right Taco
- Queso and small plates
- Birria Burrito
There’s an outside dining place if you prefer eating out for better natural light when taking pictures. The inside vibe is trendy, with contemporary art pieces hanging on the wall.
Thirsty Fox & Zim’s Café
Don’t just enjoy food; grab a cocktail or two during your tour of Lexington, KY. Thirsty Fox & Zim’s Café is among the best spots for craft cocktails and delicious food. The staff will help you choose the most Instagrammable food options, such as:
- Artichoke Fritters
- Burrata & bread
- Main Street snack platter
- Zimmerman’s Reuben
There are also numerous salads and sandwiches you can take on the go. The friendly and relaxed atmosphere at the Thirsty Fox & Zim’s Café makes it an ideal location to begin your tour of this vibrant city.
Corto Lima
Enjoy traditional Latin cuisine and unique dishes such as queso blanco, the salsa trio, and guacamole. If you’re a seafood fan, Corto Lima is the perfect place because it offers a generous serving of mojo shrimp.
There are great food photography spots at Corto Lima, and dining is available indoors and outdoors. The restaurant suits kids and features a trendy modern style that accentuates its Latin-infused cuisine.
With more than 79 million people visiting Kentucky annually, according to WUKY Associated Press, getting a head start on your tour is a smart idea. Corto Lima opens at 11:30 AM every day, and there are hour specials you can enjoy while on your trip.
Dudley’s On Short
Explore the culinary experience in downtown Lexington by visiting Dudley’s on Short. Founded in the early 1980s, this legendary establishment offers the best local cuisines representing Lexington, KY’s heart.
Some of the culinary offerings you should try are:
- Kentucky hot brown
- Bacon beignets
- Triple Crown, which features ham salad, crudité, house crackers, and Benedictine
What truly makes Dudley’s on Short one of the most iconic Instagram-worthy food spots in Lexington is their crab cake. Tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, Dudley’s on Short’s crab is a must-try dish if you tour this establishment.
Lockbox
Next on the must-visit sites for foodies in Lexington is Lockbox. Located in the legendary 21c Museum Hotel, it’s one of the Instagrammable places to eat, offering these cuisines:
- Buttermilk biscuits with warm honey
- Pork belly
- Pimento cheese biscuits
Lockbox’s aesthetic appeal is further enhanced by the stylish and striking art installations throughout the interior space. The use of locally sourced ingredients combined with contemporary techniques makes Lockbox one of the best trendy restaurants in Lexington.
An added advantage of visiting Lockbox is the free art exhibition at the museum. Lockbox is open every weekday from 7 AM until 10 PM.
Carson’s
Known for its sweet chicken and waffles, Carson’s is one of the Instagram-worthy food spots in Lexington. Its brunch menu is out of this world, and you have to take a picture of their fried chicken on top of Belgian Waffle.
The restaurant also offers craft cocktails, and the portions of their meals are pretty big. The interior design style is industrial, with large oversized chandeliers. Carson’s also features an outdoor dining space, allowing you to enjoy your meal as you take in the lively nature of the city.
The Grove
The Grove is an eclectic must-visit hotspot for any tourist. It combines delicious eats, wine, and cocktails, giving you an in-depth experience of Lexington’s food culture. You can enjoy a meal at Fable Charcuterie, which serves each plate on a large grazing board.
No Lexington dining guide can leave out The Grove. It offers a metamorphic experience where you can enjoy midday meals and a beer garden trip. You can also get Instagrammable food pics by shopping at Luna, The Grove’s food truck. Some of the offerings you can expect to find are:
- Deviled eggs
- Avocado hummus
- Pimento cheese sliders
If you’re vegetarian, The Grove has covered you with its Veg Crunch sandwich.
How to Capture the Best Photos for Social Media
According to the Pew Research Center, Instagram’s use rate has reached 47% in the United States. Uploading regular content is the best way to gain followers and grow your influence on Instagram.
With an excellent camera, here are some tips on taking incredible pictures while on a food tour in Lexington, KY:
- Experiment with various angles
- Consider using natural lighting, especially the golden hour
- Change perspective to get unique shots
Add your personal touch to each picture through editing or including a witty caption. You can also use hashtags to let your followers know where you’re getting your images. Doing so enhances your ability to reach a wider audience and could earn you an influencing gig.
Take a Tour of Instagram-Worthy Food Spots in Lexington Today
Dive into Kentucky’s diverse food scene by visiting Instagram-worthy food spots in Lexington. Whether you’re a resident or a tourist, there’s something for everyone in this great city.
Book a tour with Bites of the Bluegrass to fully explore Lexington’s culinary richness and learn the city’s history. Our tours are highly informative, accommodate dietary restrictions, and follow a strategic pattern with only one mile of walking on a three-hour tour. Reach out to us today and let us give you an unforgettable culinary journey.
