Last updated: 2025-05-06
Best Upscale Restaurants in Lexington-Fayette
Lexington’s culinary scene blends bluegrass tradition with contemporary dining elegance. From bourbon-infused steakhouses to intimate bistros, the city’s restaurants capture Kentucky’s rich gastronomic heritage with sophisticated local flavors.
Discerning diners can explore a remarkable range of upscale dining experiences, where locally sourced ingredients and chef-driven menus transform classic Kentucky cuisine into memorable gourmet adventures across downtown and historic restaurant districts.
Discover Lexington’s most exquisite dining destinations now!
Featured Fine Dining Spots in Lexington-Fayette
- Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse - Lexington (Lexington)
- Carson's on Main (Lexington)
- Tony's of Lexington (Lexington)
- Frank and Dino's (Lexington)
- Dudley's on Short (Lexington)
- Granddam (Lexington)
- ItalX (Lexington)
- Coles 735 Main (Lexington)
- The Blue Heron Steakhouse (Lexington)
- Tulip Bistro and Bar (Lexington)
Carson's on Main (Lexington)
What to Expect
Multi-year winner of OpenTable's Diner's Choice Award
Description
Carson's on Main offers an elegant dining experience in Lexington, featuring award-winning cuisine in a sophisticated setting. The restaurant boasts multiple accolades, including OpenTable's Diner's Choice Award and recognition as one of Kentucky's finest restaurants. Their menu showcases carefully crafted dishes with a focus on local flavors and culinary innovation.
Restaurant Details
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Coles 735 Main (Lexington)
What to Expect
Restored historic downtown Lexington dining space with original art murals
Description
Nestled in a restored 1938 historic landmark, Coles 735 Main offers an intimate dining experience featuring locally sourced meats, house-cured ingredients, and seasonal dishes. The restaurant showcases three restored English hunt scene murals and boasts an award-winning wine program with hundreds of bourbons, creating a sophisticated Southern dining atmosphere.
Restaurant Details
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Dudley's on Short (Lexington)
What to Expect
Half-priced oysters and champagne every Sunday
Description
Nestled in downtown Lexington's historic Short Street, this elegant restaurant showcases farm-to-table Southern cuisine in a refined setting. Candlelit dining rooms feature locally sourced ingredients prepared with exceptional technique, including nightly chef's specials like seared sea scallops and bone-in ribeye. Valet parking and a sophisticated lounge complement the restaurant's commitment to Bluegrass hospitality.
Restaurant Details
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Frank and Dino's (Lexington)
What to Expect
Signature 16oz Veal Chop with marinara, prosciutto, and melted mozzarella
Description
An elegant Italian restaurant nestled in downtown Lexington, Frank and Dino's offers sophisticated Mediterranean cuisine in a refined dining setting. Their menu showcases expertly prepared classic dishes like Lobster Ravioli in vodka sauce, Osso Bucco with mushroom risotto, and Branzino Almondine, emphasizing premium ingredients and traditional Italian cooking techniques.
Restaurant Details
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Granddam (Lexington)
What to Expect
Expansive Bluegrass dining hall with versatile culinary programming
Description
Granddam offers a sophisticated Bluegrass dining experience in downtown Lexington, featuring an expansive dining hall with flexible menus spanning brunch, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant showcases Executive Chef Paula Endara's culinary vision, complemented by a daily lobby bar and lounge menu that provides a refined yet approachable dining atmosphere.
Restaurant Details
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ItalX (Lexington)
What to Expect
Scratch-made pastas with contemporary Mediterranean bistro aesthetic
Description
An innovative Italian restaurant nestled in downtown Lexington, ItalX reimagines traditional cuisine through scratch-made pastas, elegant small plates, and contemporary Mediterranean-inspired design. The restaurant features an extensive Italian wine selection and inventive cocktail program, with an interior that blends laid-back luxury and sculptural elements overlooking the historic Courthouse.
Restaurant Details
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Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse - Lexington (Lexington)
What to Expect
Art Deco-inspired steakhouse with rare Wagyu beef selections
Description
Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse in downtown Lexington delivers a luxurious Art Deco-inspired dining experience featuring award-winning U.S.D.A. Prime steaks and fresh seafood. The sophisticated restaurant offers impeccable service in a glamorous setting, with perfectly dry-aged steaks, rare Wagyu beef selections, and an expansive raw bar that elevates the traditional steakhouse experience.
Restaurant Details
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The Blue Heron Steakhouse (Lexington)
What to Expect
Locally owned steakhouse with extensive bourbon selection
Description
This sophisticated downtown Lexington steakhouse offers an intimate dining experience with locally sourced premium steaks in a chic, comfortable setting. Featuring an impressive bourbon and whiskey selection, the restaurant provides tableside cocktail preparation and curated wine pairings that highlight Kentucky's culinary sophistication.
Restaurant Details
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Tony's of Lexington (Lexington)
What to Expect
Premium aged steaks from renowned Kentucky culinary destination
Description
Tony's of Lexington offers an elegant steakhouse experience in the heart of downtown, featuring prime cuts of premium beef in a sophisticated dining room. Signature dishes include a 14-oz Sir Barton prime New York strip and a 24-oz bone-in Porterhouse, prepared with meticulous attention to culinary craftsmanship and served with white-glove hospitality.
Restaurant Details
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Tulip Bistro and Bar (Lexington)
What to Expect
Locally-sourced ingredient-driven cuisine
Description
Nestled in Lexington's Romany Road, this bistro offers an intimate dining experience with a sophisticated bar menu. The restaurant features locally-sourced ingredients and a carefully curated lighter fare menu during early evening hours, creating a refined yet approachable dining atmosphere.
Restaurant Details
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