The Yummiest Diners in Lexington

The Governor Modern Diner

★★★★☆ 4.4 (315) • $$

"We have made the Governor a staple for our weekend brunches because of the amazing food. It is definitely not your ma-and-pa greasy spoon, but rather a place that serves refined dishes with a cozier atmosphere. The modernized takes on classic dishes offer some intriguing new flavors packaged in a familiar appearance to all...especially the "fromlettes" (frittata / omelette hybrid). The service is consistently great for a diner and willing to run the menu with you. Always follow their advice and you're in for a treat. P.s. don't miss out on the lobster roll, when available. Higher price tag, but absurd amounts of lobster and delicious."

Pats Kountry Diner

★★★★☆ 4.1 (15) • $$

"So glad we came here for supper. The country fried steak was some of the best ever and we are from the South where you grow up on country fried steak! Everything was delicious! We felt we were dining in our favorite place back home. The customers were so friendly and made our night! We really enjoyed meeting the owner and she has a wonderful staff. We feel like we were accepted into her restaurant family. Thank you for such a warm welcome and great food!"

Peking Dragon

★★★★☆ 3.5 (26) • $$

"Paintsville and I go way back and I've tried just about every fast food joint and restaurant from Salyersville to Prestonsburg. I must say that this is the best choice for the best food around. It used to be called Mandrin House, but it seems about the same to me. Great service, great food, and great locals in the midst. I noticed that they had a posting for a discount on carryout. That offer isn't to be mistaken with your average Asian food carry out though. This is a top notch buffet, so if you're already there, the underpriced buffet is what I recommend.I started with the cold salad options... first of all, I've never experienced a buffet that chops the broccoli... I for one, don't like huge chunks of broccoli, so I usually skip it. Not here. I appreciate that minor to most detail. The cucumbers were peeled... these people need to give tips to buffets in Lexington because I never see that there either. The hot options are beyond amazing. With at least five large rows of options, there is no way that you would walk away hungry. Don't pass up those sauteed mushrooms... my favorite on the entire bar and the best I've ever had. You're lucky, Paintsville."

Colby's

★★★★☆ 4.2 (157) • $$

"Another Great Restaurant in Downtown Owensboro !!!I had heard about Colby's and always wanted to try it. I finally had an extra night in which I had the opportunity to try Colby's and went there for dinner. Colby's has been around since 1987 and is a staple in Owensboro. Their menu has many comfort foods, American Classics, Bourbons, Cocktails, some craft beers and a whole lot more. On my visit, I tried 3 dishes and a 'Wheat' Bourbin from a local distillery. First up was a glass of Green River Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon which set the course for my meal. My first choice of the evening was Colby's Classic Shrimp Louisianne which was Six large shrimp sautéed in cajun butter and served sizzling hot in a skillet with a side of Cheesy Garlic Bread. The shrimp were plump, juicy and full of flavour and a great starter. Next up was Colby's take on New Orleans Gumbo made with a blend of shrimp, scallops, chicken, onions, peppers, andouille sausage and rice. The 'cup' size was almost a meal itself with big chunks of andouille sausage and a palatable spice level. For my main course, I had the 8oz center-cut aged filet mignon served medium-rare with sides of mashed potatoes, brown gravy, sauteed mushrooms and veggies. The streak was a little overcooked but tender enough to be able to enjoy. The servers and the food were really good and I see why people flock to Colby's after all these years. Another great place to try when you are in the Owensboro area."

JK's At Forest Grove

★★★★★ 4.7 (37) • $

"Seems small but the food has a big taste. I ordered the open face roast beef with coleslaw and a little peanut butter pie for dessert. Everything was served quick by friendly people and the food was delicious. Give this place a try."

Howie's Diner

★★★★☆ 3.5 (46) • $$

"Service very friendly and quick. Food was great and plentiful. Pancake lopped over the edge of the plate, goetta was crispy. Recommend!"

Melisa's Family Diner

★★★★★ 4.9 (72)

"It's like eating home cooked breakfast at grandmas house! The biscuits are soooo FLUFFY! Can't wait to go back to try their famous burgers! I would 100% recommend! Melisa is such a kind soul and makes you feel comfortable"

Kitchen 1883

★★★★☆ 4.3 (275) • $$

"Great find near a Kroger. 3-6pm is happy hour with a nice array of appetizers. The $5 beer cheese with pretzels is great. Hubs had the ribs with smashed herbed potatoes. The ribs are rubbed and sauce is on the side. I had the chicken and waffles. It came with a cayenne maple syrup. The spice level was not too much. They were sandwiches that looked really good and the salads were huge. Stephanie our server kept our tea full. We have enough for a midnight snack or lunch tomorrow."

The Farmhouse Diner

★★★☆☆ 3.3 (4)

"Wonderful atmosphere! The Farmhouse platter is enough for two and so yummy. The fish and chips are also great"

Christi's Cafe

★★★★☆ 4.1 (174) • $$

"9 years and one day later, I'm back for a return visit!! Honestly, I don't get through here very often.My most pleasant server was Kinnidi B. She made a perfect Arnold Palmer for me and then took my order. I was gettin' hungry, and that country fried steak was callin' my name from the kitchen (yep, all the way from the kitchen!).I obliged the call, and my two side were cauliflower covered in cheese, and a (loaded) house salad.The salad came out quickly. I put a packet of Bleu cheese dressing on my salad and proceeded to get to work on it. What a hugely filling salad!Unfortunately, my country fried steak came out soon thereafter. I was already running out of room, but I knew I had to soldier on. I wanna tell ya, despite my lack of internal space, I had to hold back and refrain from licking the plate. It was soooo good!Kinnidi B. is a bright and sparkly breath of fresh air. Such a sweetheart, she did a great job of checking up on me. Actually, not to disparage any of the other wait staff (I used to call them waitresses), everyone was helping everyone else. They really worked well as a team!On the way out, when I paid my bill, I somehow felt compelled to hand my card to Kinnidi. I saw a big smile take over her face. I hope she remembers me when I return.I highly recommend!!"

Casa Grande

★★★★☆ 4.4 (72) • $$

"We are from Texas and used to good Mexican food. Casa Grande did not disappoint. The pork carnitas were "Miyazawa Rico". The kids meals were more than they could eat so the adults helped. My simple tacos were flavorful and fresh. Good job!"

Rocco's Little Italy

★★★★☆ 4.3 (76) • $

"One of Huntington's biggest gems. Food is excellent especially the baked spaghetti. Cannot say enough about this place. One of the best Italian restaurants in the area."

The Echo

★★★★☆ 4.2 (463) • $$

"The Echo in Hyde Park Square is everything you need for brunch or a traditional diner ambiance. The Echo is the same as it has been, and you can expect the food to be consistently amazing!Cost effective and large portions!There are no reservations, it is first come; first serve. Sundays are very busy, and the tables turn quickly. The earlier you arrive, the less likely you'll have a wait. Arriving, download the Park Cincy app for on street meter parking prior to arrival. Parking lot - off Edward's, small entrance for parking lot, multiple non pay spots on street around the square Enter The Echo through two doors into a vintage diner complete with a horseshoe bar optionSelf seating until busyFull menu and cocktails available including mimosa buckets Must haves - lumberjack special, pancakes, egg white and spinach omelet Crave worthy - biscuits and gravyWe did not order anything that we would recommend against! We ordered a total of 6 meals, 10 beverages, and were in and out in under 60 minutes Tea - options quite limited with paper bag tea. Of importance, Earl Grey and English Breakfast available Coffee - diner drip coffee was amazing, mixed coffee drinks were great!Cocktails - Bloody Mary was delicious, we sampled others *finding drink options was hard on the menu. They're in the middle of the menu!Service - incredible, fast, effective, and they all worked together so no food sat and waited for "your server"Restrooms - small. One stall with door, floors were somewhat slippery getting to them. I nearly fell so be aware Volume - talkative folks, no music, great in the early morning, quite loud as the morning wears onNo dress code, but it's at The Square, so wear something that you won't mind running into most folks you know!"

476 Diner

★★★★☆ 4 (1)

"Best burgers in town fast and friendly service. I would definitely recommend this restaurant"

Brick Street

★★★★☆ 4.3 (8)

"I discovered this place my second to last day in town. Very nice atmosphere. Lots of antiques and curios. The service was spot on, and the food absolutely delicious. What more needs said?"

Reeds Place Steak & Chop-shop

★★★★☆ 4.1 (33)

"One of the best meals I've had in a long time. Definately one of the best pork chops I've ever had. Great food, great service, amazing bar upstairs."

Burger Girl Diner

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (232) • $$

"Now that is what I call a delicious burger! We went to Burger Girl for the first time yesterday and really enjoyed our visit. The service was very friendly and the food was delicious. My husband and I both really enjoyed the seasoned fries and the burgers. We both opted for the "Burger Boy Combo" and had zero regrets. My extremely (!) picky four year old ate his entire Burger and then asked for a second!! Believe me when I tell you that this is an extremely rare occurrence. Today he has already asked to go back to Burger Girl."

Urban Stillhouse

★★★★☆ 4.1 (14)

"Great service for opening. Super friendly waiters. Foods probably the highest quality you'll get around Somerset."

Tony York's On Main

★★★★☆ 4.3 (53) • $$

"We came here for a large family lunch. We had about 15 -16 people. It was all arranged prior to our arrival. We were seated at a large table that seated the entire group. We had the option of fried chicken or meatloaf, green beans, mashed potatoes, salad. They did accommodate me with a gluten free option. I got the white fish. Most of the group got the fried chicken. A few got the meatloaf. Everything was served quickly. The food was tasty. The owner checked on us several times. The house was really cute and quaint. Would recommend for a group lunch."

Bite

★★★★☆ 4.2 (301) • $$

"we walked in right when they opened at 11 and were immediately sat for a table of 7. we started with the bite flight which is one of our favorites for when we have more than 4 people. i got the pickled goat salad with chicken and it was super tasty and served with balsamic vinaigrette. would rank 8.7/10. my husband got the cuban sandwich and it was crispy outside and so much flavor. would rank 10/10. some other people in our group got the greek sandwich and tomato basil pesto soup. the soup they said was amazing but the sandwich lacked flavor. soup is 9.2/10. greek sandwich was 7/10."

North of Bourbon

★★★★★ 4.6 (216) • $$

"A bit overrated and overpriced. The "delta wet salad" is literally romaine drenched (literally dripping) in oil and vinegar with 4 cherry tomatoes. The catfish nuggets are (well) fried catfish covered in sweet and sour sauce. The best part of the dish were the boudin balls and the crab gemmeli - I would come back for the gemmeli alone. The gumbo was basically a pozole and the only gumbo thing about it was the sausage. We ordered a side of rice to balance all the flavors and were surprised to learn a small portion of plain white rice was $10!! ... it was honestly such a disappointment. Drinks were watered down as well. No reservation needed if you're ok dining at the bar. But the service may be better at a table."

Kayla’s Diner

★★★★★ 5 (8)

"My family and I recently visited here! The diner itselfHas a super cool vibe. Like stepping in a time capsule back to a simpler time! We ate on the picnic table on the side of the building. We got an assortment of items And it was ALL delicious and HOT. This was a huge hit for my family that was visiting that wanted a restaurant they couldn't find at home! I highly recommend! I personally recommend the bacon cheeseburger and onion rings or waffle fries"

Billy Rays

★★★★☆ 4 (68) • $

"Enjoyed breakfast at Billy Ray's. Good biscuits and gravy with nice service and good pricing."

Cam's Ham

★★★★☆ 4.1 (85) • $

"I loves me a good cams hams sammich!! Their onion rings rock on.... I can't wait to smell the aroma upon entering the building the next time we visit WV!!!"

4 Speed on 50’s Diner

★★★★☆ 3.8 (44)

"The culinary offerings were exceptional, and the service was impeccable. The ambiance was particularly captivating."

Velma's Diner

★★★★☆ 4.1 (21) • $

"It's a great local diner with your expected diner fare. Very good taste and the service is spot on. Only drawback is they only take cash (maybe checks and I had neither). They do have an ATM inside. I will return but I will have cash next time. Support local whenever you can!"

Bus Stop Diner

★★★★☆ 3.8 (5)

"We were trying to find a place to eat before 8a between slade and booneville ky and no where was open except this diner (or if google said they were there, they wouldn't answer their phone to confirm). And this place was OPEN! Interior is nicely done with southern charm decorating. Staff is very friendly and nice, place is clean. Food portions are a great size and affordably priced. Desserts are DELICIOUS. I had the peanut butter pie because it was made in house and it was so so good. A must stop if you are in the area!"

South Main Grocery & Grill

★★★★★ 4.5 (4)

"This is the last of the few small neighborhood stores. They sell random odd and end items that you might need at any given time. This specific one is located right in my back yard. It is owned by a very nice elderly lady. They often have hot plate meals and sandwiches here for sale. If they are cooking, you want to eat here. I swear. Please note they do not take credit cards. She will randomly let you fill out an IOU. Where do they still do that? I love this store and the ones that run it. Thank you for being the heart of america and every small town. If you are in the area, go in and see her. Buy anything. You will fill like you just came home. I know I do."

Lizzie’s Diner

★★★★☆ 4.2 (17)

"This place is great!! I had the stuffed French toast it was delicious. Bacon and grits yummmm."

Down Home Diner

★★★★☆ 3.5 (11)

"I am a huge fan of Truck Stops so I was excited to try The Down Home Diner at Eagle Travel Plaza. This is a small little Diner inside the Travel Plaza. I've been in twice so far and the crew consisted of a cook and waitress both of which were friendly. The Coffee is always hot and strong. Better that I'm used to around here. There are always specials and this Sunday morning was no exception. I ordered The Country Fried Steak which comes with 2 eggs and your choice of Biscuit or Toast. I added a side of hashbrowns just to round out the hearty meal. Just looking around I can see that the portions are definitely above average. I can't imagine anybody leaving hungry. I sure didn't. I really enjoyed my Breakfast this morning. I'm in the area for a while and you can bet I'll be back to The Down Home Diner at Eagle Travel Plaza."

The Dinner Bell Restaurant

★★★★★ 4.5 (21)

"Loved this little hole in the wall restaurant. A simple menu and the locals flock to this place. I had the Dinner Bell Omelet, and the wife had the oatmeal. Both of us said the food and service were excellent. My coffee never cup got near empty. The menu has the basics, which is all that is needed. If you're in town and want a great breakfast, stop on in."

Mammy Frog's Diner

★★★★☆ 4.4 (22) • $

"Was on a girls trip to the Longest garage sale on route 127. We decided to stop here because we love to go to little diners. The ladies that owned and worked in there were great!!! We sat down and ordered some different things and all was great, nothing fancy but good!!!"

Grumpy's Diner

★★★★★ 4.5 (2)

"Best potato skins in the area! Great service and it's always great to have a place who cares about its food in this area."

Straight From Texas Bar-B-Que

★★★★★ 4.7 (99) • $

"Straight From Texas had really good BBQ. I got carry out and the lady that checked me out was very nice. I ordered the combo with brisket, ribs, pork, and turkey. When she took the lid off of the pork I saw smoked bologna under the same lid and immediately changed my order. I told her to forget the turkey and I would substitute the smoked bologna for that. I had the macaroni & cheese (very good) and the chuck wagon beans (mid) as my sides. They let you pick your sauce and give you the option of onions, pickles and jalapeño. I got some of the sweet and some of the spicy sauce with jalapeño and pickles. My son did the same except he got onions too and instead of the beans he got the tater salad, which he really liked. When I got back to his place with the food I found out she substituted my ribs for the bologna (only reason for no fifth star) but the food was so good it didn't bother me as much as it would have otherwise. The portion sizes were also good and if you enjoy bbq I definitely recommend."

The Tulip Bistro & Bar

★★★★☆ 4 (91) • $$

"I really love this local, neighborhood restaurant with an excellent chef and wonderful atmosphere. We have been there 4 or 5 times and we always enjoy it. Outside or inside, both are quaint and great. It's off the beaten path, in a way, but right in the middle of a great old neighborhood. There is plenty of parking and it is consistently busy on the weekends. Tonight Iris was our server and was fantastic. She was busy as can be but attentive and even made drinks to decrease the wait time when the bartender was busy. She also was bold enough to offer her favorites and recommendations with confidence which I really appreciated. My wife had the short rib sliders and I had the short rib special with mashed potatoes, green beans and fried onions. They were both excellent! My wife had the cheddar broccoli soup and I had the grilled Caesar and we weren't that impressed, but our entrees made up for it for sure!Can't wait to go back."