Discover the Top 10 Best Bars to Sip and Socialize in Lexington, KY
Discover the best bars in Lexington, KY with our curated list of hotspots for craft cocktails, local brews, and live music. Cheers!
Lexington, Kentucky is known for its rolling hills, horse farms, and bourbon. But did you know that it's also home to some of the best bars in the state? Whether you're in the mood for a craft cocktail, a cold beer, or a glass of wine, Lexington has something to offer. From laid-back dive bars to upscale lounges, here are the top picks for the best bars in Lexington, KY.
First on the list is The Julep Cup, which is located in the heart of downtown Lexington. This chic bar is known for its extensive selection of bourbons and handcrafted cocktails. The atmosphere is classy and sophisticated, making it the perfect spot for a date night or a night out with friends.
If you're looking for a more laid-back vibe, check out The Beer Trappe. This cozy pub offers a rotating selection of over 500 beers, both local and international, as well as a variety of pub snacks and small plates. With its dim lighting and comfortable seating, The Beer Trappe is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day or catch up with friends over a pint.
For those who enjoy a good rooftop bar, Paddock Bar should be at the top of your list. Located on the eighth floor of the historic Campbell House hotel, this bar offers stunning views of downtown Lexington and the surrounding area. Sip on a craft cocktail while taking in the scenery and enjoying the company of friends.
If you're a fan of live music, then you won't want to miss The Burl. This rustic venue is located in an old train depot and features a stage that has hosted a variety of local and national acts. Grab a craft beer and settle in for a night of great music and good company.
Another popular spot for bourbon lovers is Belle's Cocktail House. This cozy bar is located in a historic building and offers a rotating selection of over 150 bourbons, as well as a variety of classic and contemporary cocktails. The atmosphere is intimate and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a romantic date night or a catch-up session with a friend.
If you're looking for a more upscale experience, head to Distilled at Gratz Park. This elegant bar offers a selection of craft cocktails and fine wines, as well as a small menu of elevated bar bites. The atmosphere is sophisticated and refined, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion or a night out with friends.
For a true dive bar experience, check out Two Keys Tavern. This legendary bar has been a Lexington institution since 1936 and is known for its cheap drinks, live music, and rowdy crowds. If you're looking for a wild night out, Two Keys Tavern is the place to be.
Another great spot for beer lovers is West Sixth Brewing. This local brewery offers a variety of craft beers, as well as a menu of delicious pub fare. With its laid-back atmosphere and spacious outdoor patio, West Sixth Brewing is the perfect spot to enjoy a cold beer on a warm day.
For a taste of the tropics, head to The Pearl Club. This tiki bar offers a selection of tropical cocktails, as well as a variety of small plates inspired by island cuisine. The atmosphere is lively and festive, making it the perfect spot to escape reality for a few hours.
Last but not least, we have The Village Idiot. This popular bar is known for its extensive selection of craft beers and creative cocktails, as well as its menu of gourmet pub fare. The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a low-key date night.
Whether you're in the mood for a fancy cocktail or a cold beer, Lexington has a bar to suit your needs. With its diverse selection of bars and lounges, there's something for everyone in this charming southern city.
Introduction
Lexington, Kentucky is a city known for its horse racing and bourbon distilleries, but it also has a thriving bar scene. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a craft cocktail or a lively atmosphere to dance the night away, there's a bar in Lexington that will fit the bill. In this article, we'll explore some of the best bars in Lexington, KY.The Julep Cup
If you're looking for a classic Southern experience, head to The Julep Cup. This charming bar is located in a historic building and serves up delicious food and drinks with a focus on bourbon. Try their signature Mint Julep or sample some of the many bourbons on their extensive list.Atmosphere
The Julep Cup has a cozy, intimate atmosphere that's perfect for a date night or catching up with friends over drinks. The decor is elegant and sophisticated, with dark wood paneling and plush leather chairs.Food and Drink Selection
In addition to their impressive bourbon selection, The Julep Cup also offers a variety of other cocktails, wine, and beer. Their food menu features classic Southern dishes with a modern twist, like shrimp and grits and fried chicken sliders.West Main Crafting Co.
For a more laid-back experience, check out West Main Crafting Co. This bar specializes in craft cocktails made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. They also have a great selection of beer and wine.Atmosphere
West Main Crafting Co. has a relaxed, casual vibe with a modern industrial decor. The bar is open and airy, with plenty of seating at the bar or at tables throughout the space.Food and Drink Selection
As the name suggests, West Main Crafting Co. is all about the cocktails. They offer a rotating selection of seasonal drinks made with fresh ingredients. Their food menu features small plates and snacks that pair perfectly with their cocktails.The Burl
If you're looking for live music and a fun atmosphere, The Burl is the place to be. This bar and music venue hosts local and national acts, as well as regular events like trivia and karaoke.Atmosphere
The Burl has a laid-back, dive bar vibe with a rustic decor. The space is large and open, with plenty of seating and a stage for live music.Food and Drink Selection
The Burl has a solid selection of beer and cocktails, but the real draw is the music. They also host food trucks and pop-up kitchens, so there's always something delicious to snack on while you enjoy the show.Belle's Cocktail House
For a more upscale experience, check out Belle's Cocktail House. This elegant bar specializes in classic cocktails made with high-quality spirits and fresh ingredients.Atmosphere
Belle's Cocktail House has a sophisticated, retro-inspired decor with a cozy lounge area and a spacious bar. The dim lighting and plush seating create a luxurious atmosphere.Food and Drink Selection
Belle's Cocktail House offers a variety of classic cocktails, as well as some unique creations of their own. They also have a great selection of wine and beer, and a small menu of upscale bar bites.The Green Lantern Bar
If you're looking for a laid-back spot with a fun atmosphere, check out The Green Lantern Bar. This dive bar has been a Lexington institution for over 90 years and is known for its cheap drinks and friendly crowd.Atmosphere
The Green Lantern Bar has a no-frills, dive bar vibe with a retro decor. The space is small and cozy, with plenty of seating at the bar or in booths.Food and Drink Selection
The Green Lantern Bar is all about the drinks. They offer a variety of beer and cocktails at affordable prices, as well as some classic bar snacks like popcorn and peanuts.Conclusion
Whether you're in the mood for a classic cocktail or a cold beer, Lexington's bar scene has something for everyone. From upscale lounges to dive bars, there's no shortage of great spots to grab a drink and enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife. So next time you're in town, be sure to check out some of these top-notch bars.Lexington, Kentucky is a city known for its southern charm, horse racing, and of course, bourbon. But did you know that Lexington also has a thriving bar scene? From cozy spots to rooftop oases, there's a bar for everyone in this city. In this article, we'll explore the best bars in Lexington, including A Tale of Two Bars: The Rusty Barrel vs. The Green Lantern, A Hidden Gem: The Secret Garden at Parlay Social, Bourbon Bliss: The Best Bourbon Bars in Lexington, A Night Out on the Town: Exploring Lexington's Brewery Scene, A Cozy Spot: The Fire Side Bar at The Village Idiot, Live Music and Drinks: The Burl's Bar and Music Venue, A Bourbon Experience: The Kentucky Bourbon Trail's Best Bars in Lexington, A Sports Fan's Haven: The Sports Page Bar and Grill, A Rooftop Oasis: The Belle's Rooftop at The Grey Goose, and A Speakeasy Vibe: The Old Fashioned at The Horse and Jockey.
A Tale of Two Bars: The Rusty Barrel vs. The Green Lantern
The Rusty Barrel and The Green Lantern are two bars located in downtown Lexington, but they couldn't be more different. The Rusty Barrel is a cozy spot with exposed brick walls and dim lighting. It's the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail or a glass of wine with friends. The Green Lantern, on the other hand, is a dive bar with a laid-back atmosphere. It's known for its cheap drinks and live music.If you're looking for a night out with friends and want to chat over drinks, The Rusty Barrel is the place to go. But if you're in the mood for a rowdier night with live music, head to The Green Lantern.A Hidden Gem: The Secret Garden at Parlay Social
Parlay Social is a popular spot in Lexington, but many people don't know about The Secret Garden. This hidden gem is located behind the main bar and is a cozy outdoor space with twinkling lights and lush greenery. It's the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown and enjoy a drink in peace.The Secret Garden is also known for its specialty cocktails, like the Lavender Lemonade and the Kentucky Mule. If you're looking for a unique drinking experience, head to Parlay Social and ask for a seat in The Secret Garden.Bourbon Bliss: The Best Bourbon Bars in Lexington
No trip to Lexington is complete without trying some bourbon, and there are plenty of bars in the city that specialize in this iconic southern spirit. One of the best is The Bourbon on Rye, which has over 400 bourbons available. It's a bourbon lover's dream come true.Another great option is The Bluegrass Tavern, which not only has an impressive bourbon selection but also serves up delicious southern food. And if you're looking for a more upscale experience, head to Lockbox at 21c Museum Hotel. Their bourbon list is curated by a certified bourbon steward and includes rare finds and limited editions.A Night Out on the Town: Exploring Lexington's Brewery Scene
If beer is more your thing, Lexington has plenty of breweries to explore. One of the most popular is West Sixth Brewing, which has a large outdoor patio and serves up delicious brews like their flagship IPA and their seasonal pumpkin ale.Another great option is Country Boy Brewing, which has two locations in Lexington. They're known for their diverse beer list, which includes everything from a peanut butter porter to a jalapeno blonde ale.A Cozy Spot: The Fire Side Bar at The Village Idiot
The Village Idiot is a popular spot in Lexington, but many people don't know about their cozy Fire Side Bar. This intimate space has a fireplace, comfy couches, and a laid-back atmosphere. It's the perfect place to curl up with a book or catch up with friends over drinks.The Fire Side Bar also has an impressive beer list, with local and regional brews on tap. And if you're feeling hungry, The Village Idiot serves up delicious pub fare like fish and chips and shepherd's pie.Live Music and Drinks: The Burl's Bar and Music Venue
If you're looking for a night of live music and drinks, head to The Burl. This bar and music venue is located in a converted grain elevator and has a rustic, industrial vibe. They host a variety of acts, from local bands to national acts like Sturgill Simpson.The Burl also has an impressive drink list, with specialty cocktails like the Burl Old Fashioned and the Bourbon Peach Tea. And if you're feeling hungry, they serve up tasty snacks like popcorn and soft pretzels.A Bourbon Experience: The Kentucky Bourbon Trail's Best Bars in Lexington
Lexington is located in the heart of bourbon country, so it's no surprise that some of the best bourbon bars in the state are located here. One of the must-visit spots is Belle's Cocktail House, which has a speakeasy vibe and an impressive bourbon list.Another great option is The Stave at The Barrel House Distillery. This bar is located inside a working distillery and offers visitors a chance to taste their award-winning bourbon while learning about the distilling process.A Sports Fan's Haven: The Sports Page Bar and Grill
If you're a sports fan, head to The Sports Page Bar and Grill. This popular spot has over 30 TVs, so you'll never miss a game. They also serve up delicious pub fare like wings and burgers.But The Sports Page isn't just for sports fans. They also have an impressive drink list, with specialty cocktails like the Bluegrass Mojito and the Kentucky Mule.A Rooftop Oasis: The Belle's Rooftop at The Grey Goose
If you're looking for a rooftop bar with stunning views, head to The Belle's Rooftop at The Grey Goose. This cozy spot has a fireplace and comfy couches, making it the perfect place to relax with a drink and take in the city views.The Belle's Rooftop also has an impressive drink list, with specialty cocktails like the Belle's Lemonade and the Southern Belle. And if you're feeling hungry, they serve up tasty small plates like charcuterie and cheese boards.A Speakeasy Vibe: The Old Fashioned at The Horse and Jockey
For a speakeasy vibe, head to The Old Fashioned at The Horse and Jockey. This cozy spot has a fireplace, exposed brick walls, and vintage decor. They specialize in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan.But The Old Fashioned isn't just for cocktail enthusiasts. They also have an impressive beer and whiskey list, with local and regional brews and rare finds on tap. And if you're feeling hungry, they serve up delicious pub fare like bangers and mash and shepherd's pie.In conclusion, Lexington has a bar for everyone, whether you're looking for a cozy spot to chat with friends or a rowdy night out with live music. From bourbon bars to brewery scenes, sports bars to rooftop oases, there's no shortage of options in this southern city. So grab a drink, sit back, and enjoy all that Lexington has to offer.Best Bars in Lexington KY: A Personal Perspective
Pros and Cons of Best Bars in Lexington KY
As someone who enjoys the occasional night out with friends, I have visited several bars in Lexington KY. Here are my personal pros and cons of some of the best bars in the area:
The Silver Dollar
- Pros:
- Great selection of whiskey
- Live music on weekends
- Cozy atmosphere
- Cons:
- Can be crowded on weekends
- Food can be hit or miss
West Sixth Brewing
- Pros:
- Wide variety of beer options
- Outdoor seating area
- Occasional live music events
- Cons:
- Can get noisy inside
- Not much food selection
Tin Roof
- Pros:
- Large outdoor patio area
- Live music almost every night
- Good drink specials
- Cons:
- Can get too crowded on weekends
- Food is average at best
Comparison Table of Best Bars in Lexington KY
Here is a comparison table of the three bars mentioned:
| Bar | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| The Silver Dollar |
|
|
| West Sixth Brewing |
|
|
| Tin Roof |
|
|
Overall, each bar has its own unique charm and drawbacks. It all comes down to personal preference and what you're looking for in a night out. Whether it's great drinks, live music, or a lively atmosphere, Lexington KY has something for everyone.
The Best Bars in Lexington, KY: A Comprehensive Guide
Thank you for taking the time to read our guide on the best bars in Lexington, KY. We hope that you have found it informative and helpful in your search for the perfect place to enjoy a night out in this vibrant city.
Whether you're a local looking for a new spot to frequent or a visitor hoping to experience the best of what Lexington has to offer, we believe that our guide has something for everyone.
From craft beer and cocktails to live music and sports, the bars in Lexington offer a diverse array of experiences that cater to a wide range of tastes and interests. No matter what your preferences may be, we're confident that you'll be able to find a bar that suits your needs.
If you're a fan of craft beer, we recommend checking out some of the local breweries in the area. Places like West Sixth Brewing and Country Boy Brewing offer a wide selection of unique and delicious beers that are sure to please even the most discerning palate.
For those who prefer cocktails, there are plenty of options to choose from as well. The Belle's Cocktail House and The Merrick Inn both offer expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish and sophisticated atmosphere.
Of course, no guide to the best bars in Lexington would be complete without mentioning the lively sports bars that are scattered throughout the city. Places like Two Keys Tavern and Tin Roof offer a fun and energetic atmosphere where you can watch your favorite teams compete while enjoying a cold beer or two.
Live music is also a big part of the bar scene in Lexington, and there are plenty of venues that offer great acts on a regular basis. The Burl and Cosmic Charlie's are two of our favorites, but there are many others to choose from depending on your musical preferences.
One thing that all of these bars have in common is their commitment to providing top-notch service and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're a regular customer or a first-time visitor, you can expect to be treated like family at any of the bars on our list.
It's also worth noting that many of the bars in Lexington offer food as well. From pub grub to high-end cuisine, there are plenty of options to choose from if you're feeling hungry during your night out.
We hope that our guide has given you a better understanding of what the bar scene in Lexington has to offer. No matter what your tastes or interests may be, we're confident that you'll be able to find a bar that suits your needs in this vibrant and welcoming city.
So why not gather up some friends and head out for a night on the town? With so many great bars to choose from, the possibilities are endless.
Thank you for reading, and we hope to see you out at one of the best bars in Lexington soon!
People Also Ask About Best Bars in Lexington KY
What are the best bars in Lexington KY?
Lexington, KY has a vibrant nightlife scene with many great bars to choose from. Some of the best bars in Lexington include:
- The Village Idiot
- The Beer Trappe
- West Sixth Brewing
- The Burl
- Al's Bar
What kind of atmosphere do these bars have?
The bars in Lexington, KY cater to different kinds of people and preferences. Some have a laid-back and casual atmosphere, while others are more upscale and sophisticated. You can find everything from sports bars to live music venues, craft beer bars to cocktail lounges.
What are the drink specials at these bars?
Drink specials vary by bar, but you can usually find happy hour deals on beer, wine, and cocktails. Some bars offer daily specials or themed nights, such as trivia night, karaoke, or live music. Check the bar's website or social media pages for more information.
What is the dress code at these bars?
The dress code varies by bar, but most have a casual dress policy. Some bars may have a dress code for special events or VIP areas, so it's best to check ahead of time. Dress comfortably and appropriately for the type of bar you plan to visit.
Do these bars serve food?
Many of the bars in Lexington, KY serve food, ranging from pub fare to gourmet dishes. Some bars have a full menu, while others offer snacks or small plates. Some bars also allow you to bring in food from outside restaurants. Check with the bar ahead of time to see what their policy is.