Lexington’s comfort food scene blends Bluegrass hospitality with bourbon-country soul—think hot browns, buttermilk biscuits, silky grits, and slow-smoked barbecue.
Whether you’re pre-gaming a UK game or winding down after a horse-country tour, these local favorites deliver belly-warming plates with genuine charm.
DV8 Kitchen
More than a restaurant, DV8 Kitchen pairs mission-driven heart with seriously good Southern comfort.
The star is their house-baked bread—pillowy, buttery, and the foundation for indulgent breakfast sandwiches layered with eggs, bacon, and cheddar.
Their cinnamon rolls and sticky buns are legendary: soft spirals, caramelized edges, and generous icing.
Lunch leans cozy with fried chicken sandwiches, tomato bisque, and pimento cheese on toasted sourdough. The vibe is bright and hopeful, the coffee is strong, and everything tastes homemade.
Winchell’s Restaurant & Bar
A true Lexington staple, Winchell’s is the kind of neighborhood hangout where the menu reads like a greatest hits of Southern comfort.
Expect meatloaf with rich gravy, chicken-fried steak, and country ham with red-eye gravy.
Brunch is a major draw—biscuits and sausage gravy, shrimp and grits with a peppery kick, and fluffy pancakes that arrive bigger than the plate. Portions are generous, service is friendly, and there’s always a game on.
Athenian Grill
Greek comfort meets Kentucky hospitality at Athenian Grill, where slow-roasted meats, warm pita, and creamy dips feel like a hug.
The lamb and chicken gyros are juicy and well-seasoned, bolstered by garlicky tzatziki and crisp fries.
Moussaka and pastitsio deliver baked, custardy comfort, while avgolemono soup offers a lemony, restorative bowl.
Don’t skip the loukoumades—honey-drizzled doughnuts that seal the deal.
Minglewood Downtown’s
Minglewood serves polished comfort with a Southern accent.
Think fried chicken with hot honey, bourbon-braised short ribs over mashed potatoes, and a cast-iron cornbread that’s crisp at the edges and tender within.
The mac and cheese is extra creamy with a golden crust, and seasonal sides—collards, roasted roots—round out the plate.
It’s a relaxed, date-night-friendly spot that still feels like a neighborhood favorite.
County Club
Part smokehouse, part modern Southern kitchen, County Club leans into wood-fired comfort.
Brisket and pulled pork are smoke-ringed and tender, while the hot chicken sandwich brings heat without sacrificing juiciness. Sides matter: vinegary slaw, skillet beans, and tangy pickles cut through the richness.
There’s craft beer, a laid-back patio, and a menu that balances indulgence with balance and brightness.
Get the All-American Travel Secrets!
Don't miss out on America's hidden gems!
