“Eat” listings
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Bellini’s
Feel like a celebrity at this trattoria, one of the city’s most glamorous restaurants, Indulge your craving for Italian fare with delicious spaghetti alla marinara and tagliatelle bolognese and order a drink at the elegant bar that looks like it's straight from a movie set. $$ (09/2011)
115 W Main St
859-388-9583
bellinislexington.com -
The Merrick Inn
This elegant eatery's leafy urban setting gives it a country inn feel, with a menu described as “signature Southern.” Make sure to try the fried banana peppers, a Lexington tradition. $$ (08/2011)
1074 Merrick Dr
859-269-5417
thermerrickinn.com -
Nick Ryan’s Saloon
The buzz surrounding the opening of this American bistro has lines winding around the block for dinner service. So far it's living up to the hype, with regional favorites like cornmeal-dusted catfish and shrimp and grits served in a cozy neighborhood atmosphere. $$ (06/2011)
157 W Jefferson St
859-233-7900
nickryans.com -
Greentree Antiques & Tea Room
Enjoy high tea at this classic British-style tea room in the heart of downtown. Nibble benedictine-and-chicken pesto tea sandwiches while you sip Darjeeling tea. (Remember to keep that pinky raised.) Pre- or post-tea, shop for high-end merchandise in the adjoining antique shop. $$ (03/2011)
521 W Short St
859-455-9660
greentreetearoom.com -
THE TULIP BISTRO & BAR
The name and location have changed, but the loyal clientele and the inventive menu have stayed the same at this busy eatery. Nothing tops the steamed PEI mussels in garlic anise cream sauce appetizer, and the entrée is a tough call between the duck au poivre with green onion risotto and the traditional croque monsieur. $$$ (01/2011)
355 Romany Rd
859-367-6687
thetulipbistroandbar.com -
LE DEAUVILLE
At this true French bistrot, a relaxed, Parisian attitude prevails. There’s no rush to turn over tables, and diners sip wine at tables scattered across the sidewalk before moving inside for more substantial fare. Escargots, charcuterie platters and mussels served the French way (with thick pommes frites and mayonnaise for dipping them in) stand out. $$ (11/2010)
199 N Limestone St
859-246-0999
ledeauvilleresto.com -
DUDLEY’S ON SHORT
Dudley’s is always buzzing with local celebs (it’s a favorite with Gov. Steve Beshear and First Lady Jane) and those who want to rub elbows with them. If you’re hungry, go for the herbcrusted rack of lamb with black olive-tomato confit. If not, try a small plate like tuna sliders with cucumber and wasabi mayonnaise. $$ (09/2010)
259 W Short St
859-252-1010
dudleysrestaurant.com -
CHEAPSIDE BAR & GRILL
Head to this happy-hour hotspot—which has an interesting jungle mural on the patio—for its “social grazing” items. The shrimp bowl, giant stuffed pretzel and white veggie pizza are delicious and fun to share. $ (08/2010)
131 Cheapside St
859-254-0046
cheapsidebarandgrill.com -
A LA LUCIE
Don’t let the silly décor—faux zebra banquettes and red lamps with tassels—fool you: This restaurant is serious about food. Creative treats include a lobster corn dog with Asian hot mustard dipping sauce. $$ (05/2010)
159 N Limestone St
859-252-5277
alalucie.com -
ALFALFA
This downtown joint, open for more than 35 years, specializes in meatless fare like vegetable coconut tempura and alfalfa and avocado sandwiches but also caters to carnivores as well with club sandwiches, chicken quesadillas and hand-breaded chicken fingers. $ (04/2010)
141 E Main St
859-253-0014
alfalfarestaurant.com -
PORTOFINO
The updated Italian classics (fried ravioli stuffed with Angus beef and goat cheese) at this refurbished downtown warehouse restaurant will have you kissing your fingers and shouting “Amore!” $$$ (03/2010)
249 E Main St
859-253-9300
portofinolexington.com -
JONATHAN’S AT GRATZ PARK INN
Jonathan Lundy’s acclaimed cuisine features high-end riffs on such Kentucky classics as boiled peanuts (in hummus) and the Hot Brown sandwich (which comes with scallops, country ham and bacon). $$ (02/2010)
120 W Second St
859-252-4949
www.jagp.info
