Restaurants, Breweries & Bars
Our Favorite Bites, Just Steps Away
Our curated recommendations from Lexington, KY's downtown dining scene, gathered over years of exploring the city. Several of the finest restaurants are within walking distance of Chez Lyndon Manor, with others just a short drive away. Dinner reservations are suggested, but not required.
Casual Cuisine
Exploring and expanding the Kentucky tradition of smoking meats. Closed Mondays.
555 Jefferson St.
(859) 389-6555
This is one of my favorite places for a brisket sandwich and a beer.
A Rustic Urban Bourbon Bistro
362 Main St.
(859) 309-3039
This is a rowdy, fun place to eat; I love Mark’s Bacon Jam & Swiss Burger with a West Sixth IPA.
A modern interpretation of Latin cuisine.
101 W. Shore St.
(859) 317-8796
Jonathan’s bartenders are amazing. The last time I dined with them, I had their Margarita special; it included cucumber and melon, a great combo with my tacos!
Upscale Cuisine
A rustic-chic steakhouse with a great bourbon selection.
185 Jefferson St.
(859) 254-2491
I love the Pan-Seared Salmon with artichoke hearts & sun-dried tomatoes, and the chef put it over a Parmesan risotto. This was a nice meal!
A Southern Bistro & Bourbon Bar.
157 Jefferson St.
(859) 255-0002
I highly recommend the Goat Cheese Ricotta Ravioli with a creamy basil beurre blanc - an explosion of flavors!
One of Lexington’s favorites, going strong after 45 years!
259 W. Short St.
(859) 252-1010
Nancy’s place is a great start to a date night. I recommend trying the Seared Duck Breast drizzled with red wine & blackberry gastrique. Memorable!
Contemporary Italian with a robust wine list.
160 Main St.
(859) 407-5100
I fell in love with Jonathan’s gnocchi quattro formaggi. The cheese mix is incredible - asiago, parmesan, pecorino, goat cheese. You gotta have a glass of Chianti with this amazing dish!
Craft Breweries
Brewed fresh, minimally processed, and using the finest ingredients.
436 Chair Ave.
(859) 554-6200
Local brewery.
German lagers & British ales brewed with traditional ingredients.
610 W. Third St.
(877) 928-2337
Local brewery.
Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.
Both Brewery & Distillery; brewers of Kentucky Ale.
401 Cross St.
(859) 255-2337
Local brewery.
The beer is never the same but always local.
501 W. Sixth St.
(859) 705-0915
Just around the corner from the Manor, their IPA is my favorite.
Bourbon Bars
A true bourbon destination located within The Campbell House hotel, featuring over 300 bourbons and 11 curated tasting flights.
1375 South Broadway
(859) 519-1329
A traditional pub offering beer on tap, classic cocktails, and a large selection of bourbons.
1228 Manchester St.
(859) 523-5280
Premium Bourbons & craft brews plus live music in Henry Clay’s former residence.
112 Upper St.
(859) 300-0017
