Top 8 Places to Eat in Lexington, KY (2025)

Lexington is more than just the Horse Capital of the World—it’s a city with a rich, diverse culinary scene that blends tradition, innovation, and community. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, dining in Lexington means experiencing hospitality at its finest, with restaurants that take pride in their craft, their ingredients, and their guests.

At Distilled on Jefferson, we believe in more than just creating an exceptional dining experience—we believe in celebrating and supporting the incredible food scene that makes Lexington so special. We want you to dine with us, experience our take on fine dining, and return again and again, but we also want you to discover the community staples and culinary gems that help define our city.

This list highlights not just the best places to eat, but the restaurants that offer exceptional service, dedication to quality, and a true sense of place in Lexington. Whether you're looking for an elegant date night, an unforgettable steak, handcrafted pasta, or elevated Southern classics, these 8 must-visit restaurants guarantee a meal to remember.

1. Mileta - A Contemporary Italian Dining Experience in Lexington, KY 

• 3565 Nicholasville Rd Suite 932, Lexington, KY
• https://www.miletarestaurant.com/menu

Mileta is redefining Italian-inspired cuisine in Lexington, seamlessly blending seasonal ingredients, global influences, and refined technique. Helmed by Managing Partner Dallas Rose, Executive Chef Alex Green, and Director of Operations Aaron Wood, this restaurant offers an elevated yet welcoming experience, making it a true staple in Lexington’s fine dining scene.

The Experience: The interiors exude modern elegance, featuring a mid-century marble bar, plush velvet seating, and brass and wood accents, creating an atmosphere that’s both sophisticated and inviting.

The menu, inspired by Italy with worldly influences, showcases housemade pastas, seasonal small plates, and a curated raw bar selection, all crafted to highlight Kentucky’s rich agricultural bounty. Complementing the food is an impressive beverage program, featuring classic and innovative cocktails, a deep bourbon selection, and an array of Old and New World wines.

Whether you’re a pasta aficionado, a cocktail lover, or simply seeking a memorable dining experience, Mileta is a must-visit.

2. Coles on Main - Southern Elegance Meets Innovation - 

• 735 Main Street East Street, Lexington, KY
• https://coles735main.com/

Coles 735 Main seamlessly blends historic charm with modern culinary innovation, making it one of Lexington’s most beloved fine dining destinations. Set in a beautifully restored 1938 landmark, the restaurant honors its Southern heritage while delivering elevated, locally sourced cuisine that surprises and delights. Whether you're looking for a perfectly aged steak, an award-winning wine pairing, or handcrafted cocktails made with house-infused ingredients, Coles offers a refined yet welcoming experience for both locals and visitors.

At the heart of Coles is a commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with meats cured in-house, vegetables pickled onsite, and breads baked fresh daily. This dedication to quality extends beyond the food, with a thoughtfully curated wine list, extensive bourbon selection, and handcrafted cocktails featuring house-made infusions and syrups.

With its historic ambiance, incredible service, and an emphasis on fresh, seasonal flavors, Coles 735 Main remains a staple in Lexington’s fine dining scene—a must-visit for anyone looking to experience local hospitality at its finest. 

3. Distilled on Jefferson - Fine Dining with a Kentucky Soul 

• 157 Jefferson St, Lexington, KY
• https://www.distilledonjefferson.com

Distilled on Jefferson is a cornerstone of Lexington’s fine dining scene, offering elevated Southern cuisine, craft cocktails, and a warm yet refined ambiance. With its new private dining space and valet parking, it’s become a top choice for special events and upscale nights out. 

Must-Try Dish: The Henry Burger – A heartfelt tribute featuring double patties, caramelized onions, house-made pickles, and signature sauce

Nestled in the heart of downtown Lexington, Distilled offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere, impeccable service, and a menu that honors Southern tradition with elevated execution.

With a commitment to locally sourced ingredients, seasonal menus, and handcrafted cocktails, every visit to Distilled feels like an occasion. The restaurant’s dedication to hospitality and innovation is evident in every aspect—from its elegant private dining space and newly introduced valet parking to its warm and sophisticated ambiance.

The Experience:  Housed in a historically rich location on Jefferson Street, Distilled merges classic Southern warmth with an upscale, modern aesthetic. The dining room features soft lighting, refined décor, and an inviting atmosphere, while the newly expanded event space and open-air patio provide an ideal setting for everything from romantic dinners to private celebrations.

For bourbon lovers, the bar at Distilled is a must-visit, featuring a curated collection of Kentucky’s finest bourbons, expertly crafted cocktails, and thoughtfully selected wines.

Whether you’re visiting for a romantic dinner, a celebration with friends, or a curated bourbon experience, Distilled on Jefferson delivers an elevated, unforgettable dining experience that keeps guests coming back.

Reservations highly recommended via OpenTable.

4. Dudley’s on Short - A Lexington Institution Since 1981

• 259 W Short St #125, Lexington, KY
• https://dudleysonshort.com/ 

For over 40 years, Dudley’s on Short has been a pillar of Lexington’s fine dining scene, offering refined American cuisine with Southern and European influences. Originally established in Dudley Square, this iconic restaurant made its bold move in 2010 to the historic 1889 Northern Bank Building, solidifying its status as one of the city’s most distinguished dining establishments.

Led by owner Debbie Long, a true hospitality trailblazer, Dudley’s has mastered the art of blending tradition with modern sophistication. The restaurant boasts impeccable service, a thoughtfully curated wine list, and an elegant yet welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite for locals, horse industry professionals, and visitors alike.

Whether you're savoring a meal before a night at the Opera House, celebrating at Keeneland, or enjoying brunch with friends, Dudley’s offers an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of downtown Lexington.

Dudley’s on Short has stood the test of time by adapting while staying true to its roots. With a deep commitment to quality, tradition, and community, it remains a must-visit for anyone who appreciates timeless hospitality and exceptional cuisine.

5. The Merrick Inn - A Timeless Southern Dining Experience 

• 1074 Merrick Dr, Lexington, KY
• https://www.themerrickinn.com/
  

For more than four decades, The Merrick Inn has been a staple of fine Southern dining in Lexington, KY, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere, traditional Kentucky dishes, and impeccable hospitality. Originally built before the Civil War and remodeled in 1936, the Inn once served as the manor house of a historic horse farm, home to some of the most legendary thoroughbreds in racing history, including Exterminator, the 1918 Kentucky Derby winner.

Now, The Merrick Inn blends its rich history with an exceptional dining experience, known for its signature Southern classics, seasonal dishes, and famous fried chicken. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner, a gathering with friends, or a relaxed weekend brunch, this Lexington institution delivers an elegant yet inviting setting for any occasion.

Reservations recommended, especially for weekends and Fried Chicken Night!

6. Carson’s Food & Drink - Upscale Yet Laid-Back Local Favorite 

• 362 East Main St. Lexington, KY
• https://carsonsfoodanddrink.com/

Carson’s Food & Drink offers a unique fusion of rustic refinement and classic Kentucky hospitality, making it one of Lexington’s most celebrated dining destinations. Known for its chef-driven recipes, handcrafted cocktails, and generous portions, Carson’s has earned multiple awards, including OpenTable’s ‘Diners’ Choice Award’ from 2017 to 2024 and a ranking in OpenTable’s ‘Best 100 Brunch Restaurants in America’ in 2021.

With exposed brick walls, warm lighting, and vintage-inspired decor, the restaurant strikes a perfect balance between elegance and comfort. Whether you're looking for an elevated brunch, a hearty steak, or a well-crafted bourbon cocktail, the restaurant delivers an experience that feels both upscale and inviting.

With top-tier service, a thoughtfully crafted menu, and an atmosphere that blends old-school charm with modern sophistication, Carson’s on Main remains a must-visit restaurant in Lexington.

7. OBC Kitchen - Southern Small Plates + Bourbon Galore

• 3373 Tates Creek Road, Lexington KY
• https://obckitchen.com/

OBC Kitchen is a must-visit for bourbon lovers and food enthusiasts alike, offering chef-driven Southern cuisine, a rare bourbon collection, and a warm, rustic atmosphere. Named after “Old Bourbon County”, the restaurant pays homage to Kentucky’s bourbon heritage, making it one of the best places in Lexington to enjoy incredible food, craft cocktails, and an extensive whiskey selection.

With interiors lined with reclaimed barn wood, exposed brick, and warm lighting, OBC Kitchen strikes a perfect balance between rustic charm and modern sophistication. Whether you're indulging in candied bourbon bacon, perfectly seared steak, or a comforting plate of shrimp and grits, every dish reflects a dedication to bold, Southern flavors and exceptional ingredients. Pair it all with a rare bourbon flight or a smoked Manhattan, and you’ve got an unforgettable dining experience.

8. Bella Notte - Authentic Italian Cuisine With Local Flaire

• 3715 Nicholasville Rd, Lexington, KY
• https://bellalexington.com/

Bella Notte is equally suited for an intimate dinner, a lively family gathering, or a casual glass of wine with friends. The inviting, rustic interior, wood-fired aromas, and warm hospitality make it a place where guests feel at home—just as an Italian trattoria should be.

From seasonal seafood specials to classic Italian comfort food, Bella Notte continues to be a staple of Lexington’s dining scene, delivering handcrafted excellence in every bite.

Bella is Lexington’s go-to spot for comforting, authentic Italian cuisine with a dedication to fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. Inspired by the traditional Italian trattoria, Bella Notte brings a sense of warmth, community, and handcrafted quality to every dish, from its house-made pastas to wood-fire grilled meats and seafood.

What sets Bella Notte apart is its deep connection to both Italian tradition and Kentucky’s local farms, ensuring that every plate reflects thoughtful sourcing and exceptional execution. Whether you're savoring a rich plate of house-made lasagna, indulging in a grilled filet mignon, or twirling a forkful of creamy penne gorgonzola, you can expect flavors that are both soulful and refined.

Reservations highly recommended for weekends and peak dining hours.

Experience the Best of Lexington’s Culinary Scene

Lexington’s dining scene is a rich tapestry of flavors, traditions, and innovation, brought to life by chefs and restaurateurs who are deeply passionate about their craft. Whether you’re indulging in elevated Southern cuisine at Distilled on Jefferson, savoring house-made Italian pastas at Bella Notte, or exploring one of the city's top bourbon collections at OBC Kitchen, each restaurant on this list offers a unique, unforgettable experience.

What makes these establishments truly special isn’t just the food—it’s the stories, the hospitality, and the sense of community they bring to the table. From century-old buildings with historic charm to chef-driven menus that showcase the best of local ingredients, these are the places that define Lexington’s identity as a food city.

So, whether you’re a longtime Lexingtonian looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor eager to taste the city’s best, let this guide be your starting point. Make a reservation, try something new, and experience firsthand why Lexington’s culinary scene is worth celebrating.

Which of these incredible restaurants will you try first? Let us know about your experience and tag us in your dining adventures! @Distilled_On_Jefferson