Best Restaurants in Lexington, Kentucky

When visiting the home of the University of Kentucky, you might want to venture from the bland campus fare and fast food dining. But to where you ask? Your choices won't be what you find in bigger metropolitan cities, but quality Lexington dining isn't nonexistent. Here's a couple of my favorite Lexington restaurants.

1. Atomic Cafe boasts a menu with Caribbean-influenced dishes that are as colorful as the tropical murals covering the walls. Try the mahi-mahi, jerk chicken and a basket of the sweet potato chips. Atomic Cafe is one of the most interesting restaurants in Lexington.

2. Hanna's on Lime is only open till 2 p.m. Monday through Friday, but that's plenty of time to enjoy a home-cooked meal on South Limestone. A favorite spot for downtown employees on lunch break.

3. Stella's Kentucky Deli focuses on local ingredients: Kentucky meats, cheeses and veggies are brought together to create tasty sandwiches and burgers. I recommend the Apple and KY Blue Cheese or, a Kentucky favorite, the Hot Brown.

4. Lexington vegetarians know which restaurant is geared toward them. Alfalfa Restaurant on Main Street serves up yearly favorites like their Hoppin' John and a delicious seasonal menu.

PS: They serve meat too.5. You don't have to venture too far from campus to find Bangkok House, a Lexington restaurant that's been servicing Thai foodies for years. The curries are delicious, and the pad thai might be one of the best I've tasted.