When you visit the Horse Capital of the world, cowboys and barbecue come to mind. You cannot visit Lexington without eating some slow smoked meat on freshly baked soft bread. The city offers a great array of barbecue and grill but is not just limited to that, check out these 10 versatile restaurants that offer amazing food, your taste buds will thank you for this!
1. Blue Door Smokehouse
It is a crime to visit Lexington and not visit Blue Door Smokehouse, a barbecue joint. Situated on Walton Avenue, this amazing restaurant offers delicious food that will blow your mind! The brisket melts in your mouth, the greens are tender and go perfectly with the meat. Many believe that this is the best smokehouse in KY. Amazing smoked meat served by friendly staff equals a perfect day.
My suggestion? Get a Pulled Pork Sandwich with Ranch Beans, Vinegar Slaw and wash it down with Root Beer and of course you cannot leave the place without trying the Chocolate Fudge and Peanut Butter Brownie!
Blue Door Smokehouse
Address: 226 Walton Ave, Lexington, KY 40502, USA
Website: Blue Door Smokehouse
2. Alfalfa
Opened in 1973, Alfalfa is a big part of Lexington community. It is a cultural landmark that has served amazing food with an unmatched experience. It has held true to its values even when the ownership changed from time to time.
Large portions of food cooked with fresh local ingredients and friendly service. A must visit restaurant for brunch. Farmer’s Market Omelette, Pistachio Chicken Sandwich, and Black Bean Quinoa Burger are some of the things that I’d recommend. A must try in Lexington!
Alfalfa Restaurant
Address: 141 E Main St, Lexington, KY 40507, USA
Website: Alfalfa
3. Asuka Grill
Yes yes, we are in cowboy country but that’s no excuse to skip on this awesome Japanese restaurant! Asuka Grill has the biggest sushi bar in town. I’d recommend that you skip everything and head straight towards that sushi bar. It is delicious, I promise!
Asuka brings a Japanese experience to your table. Fresh local ingredients combined with rice, nori, and an array of delicious sauces. Hibachi stations, teppanyaki lunch, Asuka has it all. Go sushi!!
Asuka Grill
Address: 2300 Sir Barton Way #110, Lexington, KY 40509, USA
Website: Asuka Grill
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4. Azur
Located on Lakecrest Circle, Azur brings a whole new experience with their exquisite wine list and innovative menu. Be it lunch or dinner Azur never disappoints. Prompt service makes your evening go smoother topped with their delicious desserts.
At first glance the menu might seem farfetched but once you try their Lobster Crepes and Bourbon Fried Chicken, you’ll fall in love with this restaurant! Delicious food with quality service will create a memorable experience. You might ask for seconds but with that portion size, I highly doubt it! Once you visit Azur you’ll want to come back!
Azur Restaurant
Address: 3070 Lakecrest Cir #550, Lexington, KY 40513, USA
Website: Azur Restaurant and Patio
5. Buddha Lounge
A relaxing place in the heart of Lexington. Buddha Lounge offers Asian fusion food with exciting combinations. They have a full bar with a wide selection of over 120 bourbons, scotches & whiskeys along with local craft beers on tap. A family friendly restaurant with reasonable prices and enjoyable atmosphere.
It is a place where sushi meets bourbon. Try the amazing Bento box with Korean Taco and Seaweed Salad, you’ll be licking your fingers after that! A great place to enjoy Asian style tapas with your family.
Buddha Lounge
Address: 109 N Mill St #150, Lexington, KY 40507, USA
Website: Buddha Lounge
6. County Club
Steampunk décor and slow smoked meats, what more can you ask for! County Club serves a variety of smoked meats where local ingredients meet world wide flavors. You’ll never be able to decide if the Pulled Pork is better or the Brisket!
The meats are authentically slow cooked for around 13 hours using hardwood and low temperature. Super tender meats are served on fresh soft bread from a local bakery that makes ultimate comfort food. When you visit you must try their Burger with delicious hand cut Fries Poutin!
County Club
Address: 555 Jefferson St, Lexington, KY 40508, USA
Website: County Club Restaurant
7. Joe Bologna’s
Situated in a renovated church, Joe Bologna’s offers an Italian menu. The beautiful stained glass windows add to the 1920s atmosphere. A casual restaurant that brings a great family experience.
With to die for breadsticks which are soft and warm and come with garlic butter and parmesan! The salads are made from fresh ingredients with amazing dressings. The meatballs are juicy and go with just about anything! There’s a delicious array of pizzas with exceptional crust. Order a cold ale and you’ll have the meal of your life!
Joe Bologna's
Address: 120 W Maxwell St, Lexington, KY 40508, USA
8. Masala
The best Indian restaurant in Lexington, Masala delivers an authentic Indian experience. If you’ve never tried Indian food make sure you visit this restaurant! Be it Chicken Korma or Lamb Curry it will not disappoint you.
If you have a big appetite go for the lunch buffet or maybe opt for a date night with buttery garlic Naan! The perfect place for those who love spicy food. You can have yours regular, spicy or try the ‘Indian spicy’ which will make your tongue twist! I’d suggest that you try Kulfi for dessert, it is my absolute favorite!
Masala
Address: 3061 Fieldstone Way, Lexington, KY 40513, USA
Website: Masala Indian Restaurant
9. Village Idiot
A gastropub that offers a great selection of wines, beers and cocktails. Village Idiot is a locally owned restaurant slash pub within Lexington’s oldest surviving post office building. A favorite spot for those who love food and beer.
If you are looking for a normal burger then this ain’t your place. Every dish has a twist in it and every bite is an adventure. Try the Idiot Burger with a patty topped with onion rings and filled with pulled pork, mouthwatering! The bowl of fries comes with four types of sauces, house ketchup, wasabi mustard, sweet jalapeño and garlic cream. Take your taste buds for a ride!
Village Idiot
Address: 307 W Short St, Lexington, KY 40507, USA
Website: The Village Idiot
10. Tolly Ho
Perfect to-go place when you are drunk or hung over. Food at Tolly Ho might be deemed as fatty or greasy but it is never not delicious! Your midnight craving will be fulfilled by this 24 hour restaurant. The Gigantic Mega Ho Burger and Cheesy Chili Fries are a must try.
Made from fresh ingredients, authentic spices and lots of love, the food here will win your heart. During the busy hours in the evening there might be some waiting, but kill that boring time with some arcade games. A favorite spot for quick meals with huge portion sizes!
Tolly Ho
Address: 606 S Broadway, Lexington, KY 40508, USA
Website: Tolly Ho
Eating your way through Lexington
Lexington is the city of horse lovers and foodies. It houses a great many restaurant and if you go to check them all out, the chances are you’ll gain a few pounds. Well, a few meaning, a lot! Nevertheless, it’s impossible to pick a favorite. This list consists of locally renowned restaurants. These iconic restaurants offer a chance to enjoy Lexington’s food and drink culture as they are diverse with their food & drinks menus. Try the local craft beers, dishes made from fresh, local ingredients and immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience!