The Best Lexington Restaurants

Known as the "Horse Capital of the World," Lexington, Kentucky, is also home to some of the South's best restaurants. From seafood to southern fare, you can find a great catch, steak or salad at the restaurants included below while getting a feel for the city.

Malone's

Whether you are in the mood for steak, sushi or a good glass of wine, Malone's is one of Lexington's best steakhouses. The food is southern style (including fried chicken), but also features Aqua, the restaurant's sushi division that also offers plenty of ahi tuna and other fresh fish selections. While Malone's is open for lunch, for a real experience you should go at night when you won't feel badly about ordering the biggest steak on the menu.

Malone's
3347 Tates Creek Road
Lexington, KY 40502
(859) 335-6500

deSha's

Pronounced (duh-Shays), this Lexington hot spot is famous for its prime rib. Located at the corners of Main and Broadway streets, the restaurant with its Victorian architecture is the perfect backdrop for prime rib, seafood and salad selections. Also close to the University of Kentucky's Rupp Basketball Arena, this is the perfect pre-game spot for meeting friends or family.

101 North Main
Lexington, KY 40507
(859) 259-3371

Jonathan at Gratz Park

Featuring a to die for brunch menu, Jonathan at Gratz Park is also home to a delightful slate of southern fare, such as King Crab Cornbread Cakes and Shrimp and Grits. The restaurant of the Gratz Park Inn, the chef uses apples from the trees in the backyard to include in the salads. If you are feeling adventurous, order the bourbon flight, featuring six Kentucky bourbons.

Jonathan at Gratz Park
120 W. Second St.
Lexington, KY 40507
(859) 252-4949

Regatta Seafood Grille

Featuring a patio for warm weather seating, Regatta Seafood Grille features fresh fish, crab legs and oyster selections. One of the best parts of eating at Regatta is the atmosphere. A band plays there most weekend nights. Guests choose the fish, then tell the chefs how to make it--well worth the stop.

Regatta Seafood Grille
161 Lexington Green Circle
Lexington, KY 40503
(859) 273-7875

Dudley's

Housed in a restored school building dating back to 1881, Dudley's is a romantic restaurant ideal for an anniversary or even first date. The fare is mostly French, such as the Steak Frites or the Chicken Galadriel, mixed with some surprising Asian-Fusion fare, such a Szechwan Pepper Crusted Tuna. The open airiness of the restaurant also make it a great place for "ladies who lunch."

Dudley's
380 South Mill Street
Lexington, KY 40508
(859) 252-1010

Resources

Dudley's Restaurant

Article Written By Rachel Nall

Rachel Nall began writing in 2003. She is a former managing editor for custom health publications, including physician journals. She has written for The Associated Press and "Jezebel," "Charleston," "Chatter" and "Reach" magazines. Nall is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Tennessee.

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