Thoroughbred Restaurant Lexington
Thoroughbred Restaurant Logo

Thoroughbred Restaurant

4.61826 reviews

Thoroughbred Restaurant sits at 1483 Leestown Rd in Lexington, KY. This American eatery delivers a blend of Southern hospitality and local flavors. Its inviting atmosphere and room for groups make it ideal for various occasions, whether casual dinners or lunch breaks. The restaurant excels in providing a quick yet delightful experience to all who visit. Well-known for its excellent coffee and vibrant cocktails, Thoroughbred celebrates regional cuisine with dishes like fried mushrooms, Hot Brown, and jambalaya. Customers rave about friendly staff who create a welcoming environment. This vibrant spot has become a community favorite, drawing in bustling crowds throughout the week. With accessibility options for everyone, it’s a place where all can enjoy good food together.

About

Thoroughbred Restaurant reflects Lexington's rich culinary culture. Located on Leestown Road, it connects with the heart of the community. The interior features a relaxed ambiance, with decor that hints at local racing traditions, creating a history of its own. Long-time residents appreciate its offerings, passing down tales of satisfying meals and warm gatherings. The owner, often seen chatting with patrons, keeps that sense of connection alive. Each dish tells a story, inspired by the Southern heritage. Guests can often be found sharing experiences while savoring scrumptious bites. This restaurant not only serves food but serves as a gathering place that fosters community spirit. An evening here feels like mingling with family, where laughter and conversation enhance the dining experience.

Get in Touch

1483 Leestown Rd, Lexington, KY 40511, United States

Opening Hours

  • Monday Closed
  • Tuesday 11:00-21:00
  • Wednesday 11:00-21:00
  • Thursday 11:00-21:00
  • Friday 11:00-22:00
  • Saturday 14:00-22:00
  • Sunday Closed

Where to Visit

Get Directions

Customer Reviews

"This place is really neat! Make sure you check out the specials menu on the back wall. The printed menu is limited. I had the lamb chops with green beans and fried green tomatoes. The tomatoes were on point and the lamb chops were good. The flavor of the green beans reminded me of a southern comfort home cooked meal. My husband had the fish and chips, (sorry he had ate same before the photo) he said they were basic but good. Both dishes came with a potato or cornbread pancakes (not sure) and were tasty with the whipped spread. But what really stood out was how nice all the staff were! Very welcoming atmosphere!"

- Kendra K.

"Went once before and could not get in. Everytime in passing it has always been pretty busy. I was finally able to get in and I wasn't disappointed. It cooks to perfection, I had ordered the lamb dish with some sidings. I loved how the meat was medium rare, gravy and mashed potatoes home scratch flavor, corn was as expected and I was actually surprised with the fried cornbread. Everything was great experience. I personally did not like the sweet sauce the lamb had but I made up with that with adding some lemon. For the price and the service. I really have no complaints. Thank you and looking forward to another experience at this place."

- Christian S.

"I had an incredible dining experience at Thoroughbreds Restaurant in Lexington, Kentucky! The crab-stuffed flounder was deliciously--perfectly cooked, with a generous, flavorful crab filling that elevated the dish to a whole new level. The sauteed mushrooms were a great side, bursting with savory goodness and complementing the flounder. I also ordered the jambalaya, which was a spicy, soul-warming treat packed with bold flavors and just the right amount of kick. The atmosphere was filled with local warmth and inviting, the service was super attentive and very friendly, and every bite was a testament to the kitchen's skill and passion. Thoroughbreds is a must-visit for anyone craving exceptional seafood and Southern-inspired cuisine in Lexington. I can't wait to return!"

- Billy

"The desk at our hotel suggested we try this place. When we got there it was packed and it took a few minutes before someone acknowledged us. The staff made us feel like we were locals. The owner came up and introduced himself and made small talk with us while we waited. I had the Hot brown, which I had never heard of. It was fantastic. My wife had the meatloaf, and said it was unique but very good. Great experience overall"

- Phillip S.

"BEST JALAPENO POPPERS IVE EVER HAD. Stop here! Seriously, take the time, make the time this place is worth it. Smitty Melt was perfectly grilled , the pork loin sandwich was crispy & not greasy! Will definitely stop back on our way out of town. 11/10"

- Kayla M.

"Amazing food. The meatloaf was amazing. My friend lives within walking distance and i think I have a new place to demand when we hang out."

- Matt

"A group of 10 went from work, was not a problem. Food was great. Service was fantastic. Atmosphere was that of an older bar, and was really nice.everything was super fresh. I had the open roast beef sandwich. The desert was to die for, fantastic strawberry Cheesecake. Planing to take the family there this Friday..."

- Choy J.
Write a Review

Why Visit

Visiting Thoroughbred Restaurant guarantees a delightful dining experience. Start with their famous Hot Brown; it’s a local favorite you won't want to miss. Many go for lunch or dinner, so arriving at off-peak times can help avoid long waits. Tuesday at 11 AM or Saturday at 2 PM works well for those seeking a quieter meal. Enjoying drinks during happy hour can also elevate your experience; their special cocktails and local beers are astounding. The atmosphere is family-friendly with high chairs available. For those who prefer a quick bite, delivery and take-out options are convenient. The range of savory dishes accommodates anyone's palate. Plus, patrons often rave about the fried mushrooms and jalapeno poppers. Staff here really makes an effort, so friendly service enhances any meal. Overall, Thoroughbred offers an experience worth enjoying.

Most Liked things

The Hot Brown and jambalaya top the list. Fried jalapeno poppers get rave reviews for their flavor. Customers love the inviting staff and relaxed atmosphere. Many treasure the accessibility features, ensuring every guest is comfortable. The generous portion sizes provide a great value within the $10-$20 price range. Happy hour specials often catch patron's attention too.

Overall, the dining experience stands out with delicious food and great service.

Most Disliked things

Long wait times during peak hours frustrate some diners. While popularity speaks volumes, some reviews mention inconsistent service on busy nights. A few comments highlight that certain dishes don't always align with personal taste, like the sweet sauce on lamb. Although it’s a bustling place, this might lead to occasional lapses in attention from staff. Overall, the vibrant environment makes it easy to overlook minor drawbacks. Seasonal menu changes can also lead to less availability of favorite items. Some suggest that if the printed menu were larger, it wouldn’t hurt. However, these grievances remain minor in the face of all Thoroughbred offers.

FAQ

What types of cuisine does Thoroughbred Restaurant offer?

Thoroughbred Restaurant specializes in American cuisine. The menu includes burgers, salads, and various appetizers. It also features local specialties to showcase the region.

What is the price range at Thoroughbred Restaurant?

The price range at Thoroughbred Restaurant is affordable, ranging from $10 to $20. Great value for the delicious food and drinks offered.

Does Thoroughbred Restaurant have outdoor seating?

Thoroughbred Restaurant currently focuses on indoor dining. The ambiance is casual and welcoming, perfect for family and friends.

Is there a happy hour at Thoroughbred Restaurant?

Yes, Thoroughbred Restaurant offers happy hour specials. Enjoy discounts on food and drinks during designated hours.

What amenities are available for accessibility?

Thoroughbred Restaurant is wheelchair accessible. It has accessible seating, restrooms, and parking to ensure comfort for all guests.