Support Us Button Widget

Where to get late-night bites around Lexington

Munchies? We don’t know her.

A neon sign that says "Order L8Nite" and has an image of a burger next to a menu.

The glow of a neon sign usually means good burgers are on the horizon. | Photo courtesy of L8nite

We’ve all been there. You’re leaving a late-night show or wrapping up a night on the town, and the midnight munchies hit. But it seems like the lights are off and the grills are cold at all your favorite restaurants.

Well, that’s not quite true — because there are definitely joints that cater to nighttime eaters with late-night meals of everything from pizza to burgers to hot chicken. Save this list for the next time you’ve got an after-hours craving.

L8nite | Open until 2 a.m. Sunday-Wednesday + 3 a.m. Thursday-Saturday
Located in the Cornerstone across from UK’s campus, your nocturnal nosh cravings are sure to be satisfied here. Try a Chkn Sandwich or a Burger Cr8 (featuring regular or halal beef) that comes with your choice of two sides including fries, tater tots, or onion rings + a cold Boylan soda or Ale-8.

girlsgirlsgirls Burritos | Open until 12 a.m. on Tuesday + 2 a.m. Thursday-Saturday.
El dorado burritos with a twist is the name of the game at this fusion spot. Explore options like its classic BFF burrito featuring smoked chicken or crispy tofu, or pair a large order of tots with one of 10+ dipping sauces and a margarita from the bar.

Two plates with burgers and cheese covered fries next to two milkshakes

Nothing says satisfying like a stop at Tolly Ho for some burgers and cheese-covered fries. | Photo by LEXtoday

Tolly Ho | Open until 12 a.m. Sunday-Wednesday + 3 a.m. Friday-Saturday
This treasure has been a staple in Lexington for 50+ years, serving up that diner fare that is necessary after a fun night out or an all-night study session. Whether you’re looking for all-day breakfast platters, a Ho Burger, or one of its piled-high milkshakes (we love the banana pudding), this restaurant is the epitome of late-night eatery.

Goodfellas Pizzeria | Mill Street location open until 12 a.m. Sunday-Wednesday + 3 a.m. Thursday-Saturday
Head to the tiny-yet-popular downtown spot for a bubbling-hot, New York-style slice of pizza. Fun fact: this is the brand’s flagship location which opened in 2006.

Shamrock Bar & Grille | Open until 1 a.m. Sunday-Thursday + 2:30 a.m. Friday- Saturday
Game went into over time? No need to stress over snacking here with Shamrock’s menu filled with all your favorite munchies. Think: nachos, wings, burgers, wraps, and more.

Al’s Jr. | Open until 10 p.m. on Wednesday + 11 p.m. Thursday-Saturday
There’s handhelds galore at this North Limestone spot. Grub on burgers, chicken sandwiches, and Thai catfish sandwiches with sides like fancy + boring tots.

More from LEXtoday
Got a hot new fling? Hoping to spice things up with your longtime partner? We’re here to help plan your next date in the Horse Capital of the World.
The popular AI chatbot had plenty to say about the Horse Capital of the World, but we didn’t let ChatGPT leave without saying something nice.
21c Lexington has transformed one of its rooms + is giving you the opportunity to stay the night in an interactive art installation.
Cats and public places, a purrfect pair.
Castle & Key Distillery harnesses solar energy as part of their ongoing plans to became an industry leader in sustainability.
The landscape is changing in Lexington, so we’re sharing the progress on various development projects happening around town.
We’re highlighting the 23 best parks that Lexington, KY has to offer — complete with splash pads, playgrounds, walking trails, and even a few dog-friendly spots.
Lexington muralist Wylie Caudill brings his artistic ability to the stage with ActOut Theatre Group’s “Torch Song” at the Farish Theatre.
If your sweetheart’s love language is quality time, this one’s for you.