Lexington's Top 5 Local Food Spots

By Bob Sophiea

Founder and CEO of New Home Collective, established the company in 2014 with a mission to revolutionize the real estate industry.

Where can you find the best food in Lexington? I asked the locals, and they didn’t disappoint. They recommended five must-visit spots. I’m excited to share these places with you, where they are, what’s on the menu, how much they cost, and most importantly, if they’re truly worth it.

1. South of Wrigley. Their menu features classic Chicago-style food, and my favorite is the Italian beef sandwich, loaded with thinly sliced beef on a soft roll. They also serve Chicago-style hot dogs topped with mustard, bright green relish, onions, tomatoes, pickles, peppers, and celery salt.

Ordering is easy, and everything is prepared fresh to order, so it might take a little longer than your typical fast food, but the quality is worth the wait. For $10 to $15, you can savor authentic Chicago flavors.

Located off Nicholasville Road in the Southland District, it’s easily accessible for students and nearby workers. Parking is usually fine, though you might need to circle around during lunch.

2. Dad’s Favorite Deli. This simple deli specializes in sandwiches and has a clear, easy-to-navigate menu of classic deli options. It’s particularly famous for its beer cheese, which appears in many of its dishes.

Their sandwiches cost about $9 to $12, and while they’re not the cheapest, you’ll never regret it. If it’s busy, be prepared to wait a bit; great food takes time.

It’s just ten minutes from downtown, tucked away in a small shopping plaza, so you might miss it if you’re not looking for it. Locals say it’s one of the best sandwich spots in town.

3. Pasta Garage. They specialize in fresh, authentic pasta with a fun mix of classic and creative dishes. You can pick from spaghetti, fettuccine, or rigatoni, and choose sauces like marinara, pesto, or Alfredo, or go for a build-your-own pasta bowl.

It’s not a fancy Italian restaurant, but the food quality shines. Prices range from $12 to $18, a bit more than your average pasta place, but you’ll be getting authentic flavors. Just note this isn’t it if you’re looking for a full-service dining experience with wine and appetizers. But if you’re looking for quality casual pasta, Pasta Garage is your go-to spot.

Located just eight minutes from downtown and close to the UK campus, it’s a laid-back place where you order at the counter, get a number, and take your food to your table.

4. Wheeler’s Pharmacy /Buddy’s Diner. This classic diner serves all your favorite breakfast and lunch staples. The menu features diner classics like pancakes, bacon, biscuits and gravy, eggs, and coffee. You can dig into burgers, sandwiches, onion rings, and soups for lunch.

This sit-down diner has a charming, old-school vibe and offers table service for quick meals. The best part? A full meal here costs around $10, which is a steal deal these days.

Wheeler’s is just five minutes from downtown and uniquely located inside a pharmacy. If you’re craving an authentic diner experience, this charming spot won’t disappoint. Just keep in mind that it closes early, so late-night breakfasts aren’t an option. But for a fantastic morning meal or lunch, it’s one of the best in town.

5. Windy Corner Market. You’re in for a delightful dining experience focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. I tried the shrimp, and it was amazing. The crispy shrimp, soft bread, and zesty remoulade were perfect. The menu also includes burgers, sandwiches, and homemade pies made with quality ingredients.

Prices range from $12 to $20, so it’s not the cheapest, but you’re paying for exceptional quality and a unique experience.

Located just 20 minutes outside of downtown, it may be a drive, but you’ll enjoy the stunning views of horse country. Would I drive out here just for the food? Definitely! The fantastic dishes and beautiful Kentucky scenery make for a relaxing outing.

Lexington has an amazing food scene, and there’s still more to explore. Some spots surprised me, and while a couple might not be everyone’s cup of tea, that’s part of the fun of discovering local eats. Whether you’re after hidden gems, classic comfort food, or something totally unique, there’s always another place to check out.

If you’re considering buying, selling, or investing in real estate, reach out! You can work with me or one of the experienced agents on our team by booking a call using the link: callnhc.com. You can also contact us at (859) 721-2200 or bob@nhc.com. The work we’ve done and the people we’ve helped are only the beginning.