The 2020 Restaurant Scene in Lexington

The 2020 Restaurant Scene in Lexington

It seems like every year, there is big news on the horizon for the local restaurant scene. That is truer than ever for 2020. From old haunts getting new life to brand new establishments with thrilling concepts, here’s the scoop (as of the moment!) for what’s new, what’s coming and what’s rumored. Bon appétit, Lexington!

Now Open

Drake's Hamburg | 1880 Pleasant Ridge Drive | Central Kentucky’s favorite spot to come play is open in Hamburg! Burgers, beers and lots of fun can be found at this American eatery from the Bluegrass Hospitality Group.

Sav's Restaurant and Gourmet Ice Cream | 630 E Main Street | Sav’s has moved to Main Street, offering not only more parking but also the room for them to combine some of their longtime local favorite West African dishes with new offerings, including 20 flavors of Sav’s Chill ice cream.

McLeod's Coffee House | 376 Southland Driv | McLeod's is a non-profit café that employs people with special needs. Not only can you enjoy a truly great cup of coffee, but you can do so in an environment that is accessible and inclusive. It’s a gem in the growing Southland Drive community.

Not Your Ordinary Vegan (NYOV) | 1313 North Limestone | Freshly opened on December 5, NYOV takes a different approach to vegan fare, with exciting dishes like BBQ Sliders, Brat Dog Hoagies and Chili Cheese Fries on the menu.

Southland Bagel | 428 Southland Drive | Check out their handmade bagels and cream cheese in the growing Southland Drive community.

Southern Deli & Tavern | 207 South Limestone | Enjoy deli sandwiches with a southern spin, served alongside a full bar, on South Limestone.

Frank's Donuts | 549 East Third Street | Frank’s Donuts is already a local favorite in Paris, Winchester and Georgetown. The new Lexington location brings their old fashioned donuts to town.

Spark Community Café | 175 N Main Street, Versailles | Spark strives to provide an excellent dining experience to all customers, regardless of their means. This pay-what-you-can restaurant alleviates food insecurity by creating truly excellent food. They are located on North Main Street in Versailles.

Coming Soon

ItalX | City Center | Located at the corner of West Main and South Upper in the City Center block, ItalX will feature a menu by chef Jonathan Lundy. Expect house-made pasta, small plates and unique takes on Italian tastes.

Northside Common Market | 101 West Loudon | Also called the Julietta Market his 23,000 square foot year-round public market is slated to open in mid-2020. The NoLi Community Development Corporation considers it an extension of their popular Night Market, featuring multiple vendors and a community atmosphere where neighbors can shop, eat and connect.

Woke Junk Food Vegan | Various | Chef and Owner Anetra’s food appears all over town in popups. She’s expanding into catering and regular appearances at the Night Market in 2020.

The Greatroom Restaurant and Bar | 304 South Limestone | Located inside the Marriott City Center Hotels just off the main entrance, this eatery will serve as the hotels’ main dining area for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is slated to open just after the New Year.

East End Tap and Table | 333 East Main Street, Suite 180 | Featuring classic American fare with international twists, this casual eatery and tap house is perfect for after work drinks or dinner with friends.

Photo courtesy of East End Tap and Table

El Cid | 304 South Limestone | Located in the former Sav’s Grill & West African Cuisine spot on South Limestone, El Cid will feature tacos and Mexican street food.

Stings Lounge | 123 West Main Street| This bar and nightclub will be in the former Trust Lounge space. It is slated to open in early February.

Infi nity: Skybar & Café | 150 West Main Street | Executive chef Jonathan W. Henderson said that the menu for the Marriott City Center Hotels’ second eatery will feature flavors from the many places he has worked previously around the country, including the French Laundry, Kiawah Island and New Orleans. It should be opening in early January, serving lunch and dinner until midnight.

20|20 Rooftop | 161 North Limestone | From the owners of Centro, this beautiful glass-enclosed bar will be situated on top of the corner of Limestone and Church streets. Stylish interiors, incredible views, refined cocktails and snack fare will greet guests.