It’s true — Lexington loves to eat! We love to eat well, supporting a thriving local restaurant scene that rivals that of much larger cities. We here at Smiley Pete would put our culinary scene up against any other. Fortunately for those of us who like to enjoy a fine beverage with our meals, we are also the epicenter of bourbon, and our cocktail culture does not disappoint.
On the following pages, we spotlight those who are doing their part to contribute to the quality food, great service, unique ambiance, and amazing value to our dining and hospitality community. Read on to see who our readers have voted as their favorites in dozens of culinary categories!
Best Bagels
- Southland Bagel
- Great Bagel and Bakery
- Pearl’s
- Bluegrass Baking Co.
Best Bakery
- Martine’s Pastries
- European Delights Bakery
- Olive’s Apron
- Bluegrass Baking Co.
Best Bar-B-Que
- Blue Door Smokehouse
- Big Kahuna BBQ
- Red State BBQ
- Proud Mary
Best Beer Cheese
- Dad’s Favorite
- Hall’s On the River
- Kentucky Beer Cheese
- Critchfield Meats
Best Bourbon Selection (Restaurant)
- OBC Kitchen
- The Kentucky Castle
- Epping’s on Eastside
Best Breakfast
- Beau’s Cafe
- First Watch Daytime Café
- Wild Eggs
- Winchell’s
Best Brunch
- OBC Kitchen
- Bella Cafè and Grille
- First Watch Daytime Café
- Stella’s Kentucky Deli
Best Burger
- Drake’s
- Bella Café and Grille
- Shamrock Bar & Grille
- Banners
Best Cajun
- Bourbon n’ Toulouse
- Gumbo Yaya
- Proud Mary’s
- Louisiana Passion
Best Cakes/Cupcakes
- Martine’s Pastries
- European Delights
- Caramanda’s
Best Cheap Eats
- Big Kahuna
- Rosemont Station
- Goodfella’s
- Sahara
Best Chef
- Chef Cole Arimes (Epping’s on Eastside, Cole’s 735 Main, and V at the Vine)
- Chef Ouita Michel (Holly Hill & Co.)
- Chef Alex Green (Mileta)
Honorable Mentions:
- Chef Jonathan Lundy (3TEN and Corto y Lima)
- Chef John Foster (Sage Rabbit)
Ode to the Official Aroma of Lexington: Jif Peanut Butter
Smiley Pete Staff Salute…