In this part of the Blue Grass state, great restaurants are as big and well known as college basketball and the Kentucky Derby. Among other attractions, Lexington is home of some of the finest eating establishments not only in the South, but the entire U.S. From Asian, Italian, and seafood restaurants to downhome Southern cuisine and fine Steakhouses, Lexington has something for every taste.
Lockbox
The Lockbox is set inside the 21c Museum Hotel in Lexington. With its marble floors, large windows and decorative plaster designs, it’s the perfect place for a romantic dinner for two. Rotating exhibitions of original, commissioned artworks add to the ambience. Dinner is served at communal tables in the lounge and dining rooms. With several rooms to accommodate patrons, the wait time to be seated is short. Dinner is served at communal tables in the lounge and dining rooms. The kitchen uses local ingredients that are of the highest quality, plus some of the finest Bourbons and Ryes in Kentucky.
167 West Main Street, Lexington, KY, Phone: 859-899-6860
Carson's Food & Drink
Carson's Food & Drink is a casual restaurant with a hip, rustic chic ambience. The décor includes oversized chandeliers, and elements of leather, brick, and wood that create a speakeasy vibe. Talented chefs prepare gourmet pub grub with a twist, and Prohibition-era cocktails make the perfect complement. The upscale menu includes lunch items like a delicious soft shell crab BLT, and brunches offer flavorful scrambles, breakfast potatoes, and Bloody Marys with generous garnishes. Diners can expect live jazz music on weekend nights and at Sunday brunch. The restaurant has TVs and outdoor patio dining. They also offer delivery.
362 Main Street, Lexington, KY, Phone: 859-309-3039
Azur Restaurant & Patio
Azur Restaurant & Patio has an open and stylish, yet organic atmosphere. Azur’s excellent service, unique cuisine, and romantic ambience provides guests with European flair. Although the restaurant is decidedly fine dining, it’s casual on the wallet. The wait staff is second to none, and the chef insists on high quality local ingredients and the freshest of foods. It is no wonder why this jewel is no longer a secret in Lexington. Whether you crave seafood or beef, the culinary team, headed by a talented chef, will have you pining for your next Azur Restaurant & Patio experience.
3070 Lakecrest Circle, Suite 550, Lexington, KY, Phone: 859-296-1007
Bella Notte
Bella Notte, a true romantic Italian Ristorante, is situated amidst several chain restaurants in Lexington. It has been a staple of romantic dining since its doors opened in 1996. This family-friendly restaurant serves authentic Italian cuisine in a casual atmosphere. With an array of menu choices, Bella Notte’s signature wood-fired seafood and meats have garnered loyal returning customers for more than two decades. Although there are three dining areas, the Patio Room is by far the most romantic. A warm fireplace and mood lighting make this the obvious choice for couples who are looking for an intimate dining experience.
3715 Nicholasville Road, Lexington, KY, Phone: 859-245-1789
The Blue Heron Steakhouse
Steak lovers have found their Lexington restaurant of choice at The Blue Heron Steakhouse. With its signature Porterhouse steak for two, the Blue Heron is the perfect place to take that special someone for a great romantic dinner. The ambience is southern chic in a renovated historic home on the bustling Jefferson Street corridor. The Blue Heron Steakhouse also serves fried chicken, oysters delivered fresh daily, fried white anchovies, Caesar salad, and premium beef that is a cut above the rest. The Blue Heron bar also has over 50 bottles of wine to choose from with wine specials on Monday nights.
185 Jefferson Street, Lexington, KY, Phone: 859-254-2491, See the Map
Palmers Fresh Grill
For that special breakfast, brunch, or dinner, Palmers Fresh Grill offers diners a romantic and tranquil ambience. Suspended over the water, every seat in the restaurant has an inspiring view. Whether dining outside on the patio to the sounds of lapping water at the pylons, or inside the upscale dining room, this is a relaxing choice for couples. Palmers serves fresh seafood and an extensive wine list, making it one of Lexington’s premier dining experiences. Guests can expect menu choices like Norwegian salmon, seared diver scallops, and Oriental mahi for dinner. Brunch favorites include Cajun shrimp hash, Palmers waffles, and bottomless mimosas.
161 Lexington Green Circle, Lexington, KY, Phone: 859-273-0103
Distilled on Jefferson
Diners at Distilled on Jefferson understand why this restaurant was voted one the 50 top restaurants in the South. When a romantic atmosphere is on the dining wish list, then Distilled is it. With its newly renovated interior, softer lighting, and new private booths, the restaurant creates the perfect setting for a special dinner for two. The menu ranges from tempura halibut to braised rabbit to porcini dry rub filet. Guests can complement their dinners with a wide selection of wines, whiskeys, and bourbons. Reservations are recommended, either by calling the restaurant or by using the Open Table app.
157 Jefferson St, Lexington, KY 40508, Phone: 859-255-0002
Dudley's on Short
Named one of the Blue Grass state’s best restaurants, Dudley's on Short is long on romantic ambience. Situated in the center of Lexington’s business district, the two-story restaurant was completely renovated in 2010. Dudley’s offers fine dining in an antebellum setting, which makes it an ideal choice for a romantic dinner for two. Originally built in 1889, it’s one of the most prominent structures in Lexington’s downtown area. Dudley’s on Short serves diverse dishes from oysters to their signature spring lamb. As with most downtown Lexington locations parking is premium, so Dudley’s offers valet parking Thursday through Saturday evenings.
259 West Short Street, Lexington, KY, Phone: 859-252-1010
Le Deauville
For a romantic, relaxed atmosphere with authentic French cuisine, Le Deauville is the place to be. Eating in the Bouchon Room will make you feel like you’re eating in the City of Lights, as will their tantalizing menu with entrees such as bouillabaisse, escargot and dijonnaise. It’s a perfectly romantic setting. If diners crave a more casual setting, then the choice to dine on the outdoor terrace overlooking Lexington’s historical section will fit the bill. The restaurant has a wine list of over three dozen bottles. Le Deauville is the quintessential French dining experience in Lexington.
199 North Limestone, Lexington, KY, Phone: 859-246-0999
Miyako Sushi & Grill
Miyako Sushi & Grill in Lexington offers both casual and romantic dining experiences. For couples, quiet, high backed booths provide space for a cozy dinner, and the restaurant’s overall ambience sets a romantic tone. Miyako Sushi & Grill’s highly trained hibachi chefs entertain diners with their incredible skills. They interact with guests while preparing their dishes tableside, adding to the fun. The Miyako’s menu is a tantalizing medley of flavorful dishes from tempura alligator rolls to fresh salmon to juicy filet mignon. There is something tempting for every diner. Miyako also offers a take-out menu for those wanting a tasty dinner at home.
2547 Richmond Road, Lexington, KY, Phone: 859-268-0708
Ramsey’s Diner - Harrodsburg Rd
Taste the best of Southern comfort food at Ramsey’s Diner - Harrodsburg Rd. The original Ramsey’s opened in 1989 and has grown to become a go-to destination amongst locals. With multiple locations throughout Lexington, customers return time and time again to the beloved diner for its delicious quality meals, homey ambiance, and welcoming staff. Their menu consists of classic dishes like meatloaf and country-fried chicken, and all their recipes are made with fresh, whole ingredients. During your visit, be sure to check out their pie shop for a variety of mouthwatering pies from the classic cherry pie to unique flavors like chocolate brownie.
4391 Old Harrodsburg Road, Lexington, Kentucky 40513, Phone: 859-219-1626
Harry’s An American Bar & Grill
Harry’s An American Bar & Grill is a popular Lexington dining choice for horse racing enthusiasts, since the restaurant pays homage to the rich racing history of Kentucky. The horse racing-themed décor includes jockey silks, saddles and countless pictures of famous jockeys and horses. Diners can also expect an array of flat screen televisions to catch every race. With fire pits and a glass perimeter, the ambience on the patio is warm and romantic on even the coolest months in Lexington. The menu offers everything from Aqua sushi to mini burgers, and of course, there’s a wide variety of bourbons. Harry’s assortment of beers rivals many breweries.
1920 Pleasant Ridge Drive, Lexington. KY, Phone: 859-264-8023
Malone's Lansdowne
When it’s time to impress a certain someone, Malone's Lansdowne is the place to do it. This Lexington steakhouse provides a wide selection of hand-cut prime steaks, making it one of the city’s premier steakhouses. Couples can tuck into a private booth and spend an intimate evening over a couple grass fed filet mignons cooked medium rare and a bottle of Steele Lake County merlot. The raspberry and blueberry fruits of this wine combine with notes of cocoa and coffee to complement the grilled steaks. Their seared ahi tuna makes a great substitute for those who prefer fish.
3373 Tates Creek Road, Lexington, KY, Phone: 859-335-6500
Coles 735 Main
Coles 735 Main is a popular restaurant in historic downtown Lexington situated in a restored landmark building. Local cured in-house meats, locally grown vegetables, daily fresh baked bread, and local seasonal ingredients form the basis for this restaurant’s New American cuisine. The Chef De Cuisine has put together a menu that includes delights like marinated lamb shoulder, Black Angus NY strips, and Udon vegetable stir-fry. The rustic-chic fine dining ambience of the 1938 restaurant space in downtown Lexington makes it the ideal setting for a romantic dinner for two. The space has been completely restored to take advantage of its historic significance, right down to the restored murals of English hunt scenes.
735 East Main Street, Lexington, KY, Phone: 859-266-9000
Jean Farris Winery & Bistro
The menu at Jean Farris Winery & Bistro changes with the seasons, so they’re always serving their dishes with the freshest seasonal ingredients. It helps that they grow their own apples, vegetables, and herbs, and have their own vineyard. Their products are all grown, produced, and processed onsite – a true farm to table experience. Diners can expect a menu laden with fresh produce alongside chicken, pork, and beef entrées. The restaurant is a Lexington favorite where locals come to pair beers, wines, and bourbons with their delectable meals. The winery provides a romantic ambience for couples, but is also a lovely space for a business lunch or a night out with friends.
6825 Old Richmond Road, Lexington, KY, Phone: 859-263-9463
Tachibana Japanese Restaurant
Taste and experience truly authentic Japanese culture at Tachibana Japanese Restaurant. Opened in 1987, this restaurant has grown into a popular destination for locals and visitors looking for genuine Japanese flavors. Every dish is delicately prepared by Tachibana’s masterful chefs from creating homemade dressings to cutting all vegetables by hand to deliver a flavorful and satisfying experience. Sample their wide selection of sushi, appetizers, tempura, noodles, and other traditional Japanese dishes. The restaurant’s atmosphere also parallels the minimalistic and peaceful ambiance commonly seen throughout Japan. With its excellent food, comfortable environment, and warm staff, Tachibana is definitely worth the visit.
785 Newtown Court, Lexington, Kentucky 40511, Phone: 859-254-1911
The Local Taco
Offering a fresh take on Mexican cuisine, The Local Taco is a vibrant restaurant independently owned and operated by Lexington locals. The menu plays on popular Mexican dishes by pairing them with distinct flavors of traditional Southern cuisine. Taste their creative take on chicken, beef, shrimp, and vegetarian tacos, along with other classics like burritos, enchiladas, and quesadillas. Firmly believing that clean food is good food, The Local Taco is committed to sourcing as many organic and locally-grown ingredients as possible and uses no preservatives or MSGs in its recipes. The restaurant’s lively atmosphere and passionate staff are ready to welcome diners to two locations in Lexington.
315 S Limestone, Lexington, Kentucky 40508, Phone: 859-523-3700
Merrick Inn Restaurant
The Merrick Inn, a romantic pre-Civil War manor home with a wide veranda, was once one of Kentucky’s premier horse farms. It’s named after the fabled thoroughbred, Merrick, a horse so esteemed that his likeness is etched in his gravestone located on the grounds. For over 40 years the Murray family has owned and operated this icon in Lexington. Merrick Inn Restaurant offers guests a taste of southern dining at its best. This romantic spot serves their signature southern fried chicken, walleye pike, pecan crusted pork tenderloin, and other southern fare. Guests can complement their meals with a huge assortment of Kentucky bourbons.
1074 Merrick Drive, Lexington, KY, Phone: 859-269-5417
The Sage Rabbit
With an award-winning New York chef, The Sage Rabbit will surprisingly tick all your Southern cuisine boxes. John Foster, owner and Executive Chef along with Nance Everts, his wife, welcome guests to one of Lexington’s most relaxed dining experiences. The restaurateurs are huge proponents of local growers who provide farm fresh goodness to area restaurants. They take advantage of the local bounty with traditional Southern, Italian, and seafood selections on their farm-to-table menu. Diners can expect entrées like house gnocchi, house-ground burgers, and local organic chicken. House-made desserts include a triple chocolate cake with a cabernet reduction.
438 South Ashland Avenue, Lexington, KY, Phone: 859-523-2095
Tulip Bistro & Bar
Tulip Bistro & Bar is not your typical Lexington dining experience. The restaurant appeals to an eclectic mix of patrons coming in for juicy burgers, lighter fare, or romantic dinners on their garden patio. This casual upscale restaurant serves a European fusion menu that includes appetizers like blistered shishito peppers, their Tulip taco, or Chesapeake Bay oysters on the half shell. Dinner entrées feature grilled yellowfin tuna, wild shrimp and linguini, and their Frenched pork chop. Saturdays, college football fans pack the house to watch games on their many TVs and enjoy casual pub eats like their Tulip burger with applewood bacon or beer battered haddock.
355 Romany Road, Lexington, KY, Phone: 859-367-6687
Tony's of Lexington
When romance is in the air, Tony's of Lexington provides couples with a great option. This restaurant offers plenty of opportunities for an intimate dining experience. Named one of the nation’s best steakhouses, diners can feel confident choosing Tony’s for their special night out. The restaurant offers a fresh modern menu with plenty of steakhouse classics, complemented by a diverse and an expansive list of wines and bourbons, plus an award-winning wait staff. Tony’s of Lexington is also a great choice for couples tying the knot who are looking for an intimate rehearsal dinner experience, or an upscale wedding reception venue.
401 West Main Street, Lexington, KY, Phone: 859-955-8669
Zen
Omakase is the tradition of letting the Japanese chef choose the meal. At Zen , diners can experience this Japanese tradition, or make their own selections. Either way, dinner at Zen is a must. Three days a week the restaurant flies in fresh fish from two prominent fish markets in Japan – Toyosu and Fukuoka. Freshness is the essence of Japanese cuisine, and Zen is no exception. With locally grown vegetables, fresh fish, and select meats, Zen brings the flavor of the Far East to the South. Diners can also expect Japanese-inspired soups, salads, and home-made noodles. What better way to end a romantic dinner at Zen than with a warm sake or Japanese whiskey ice cream?
3070 Lakecrest Circle, Suite 500, Lexington, KY, Phone: 859-219-2166
