Carson’s on Main also appears on the Diners’ Choice: Best Ambiance restaurants in Lexington list. | Photo by Alexis Baker | LEXtoday
It’s official: Lexington diners have spoken.
Each month, OpenTable — a popular restaurant reservation platform — releases a list of the most booked restaurants in major US cities. Based on “nearly 500,000 new global diner reviews,” these are some of the most-booked restaurants in Lexington.
Carson’s on Main | Truly a local favorite, Carson’s original downtown location is the perfect outing for $10 old fashioneds during happy hour, classic steaks, and signature entrees like the Sweet + Spicy Ribs. Pro tip: Weekday reservations are fairly easy to come by, but you will need to plan at least a week in advance for a weekend reservation.
Malone’s — Hamburg | A classic dinner spot known for its great food, Malone’s offers a lively, laid back environment. It’s the perfect spot to catch a game or bring friends after the races this spring. We’re never getting tired of the Malone’s Lexingtonian salad. Pro tip: It’s best to make a weekend reservation a week in advance, but be mindful of UK Athletics schedule.
The school’s campus sits on 83 acres. | Photo provided by Currey Ingram Academy
Preparing students for the future starts with the right foundation. Enter:Currey Ingram Academy.
Located in Nashville, the JK-12 day and boarding school empowers students with learning differences to achieve their fullest potential. With a 100% college acceptance rate, here are just some of the ways students find success:
Small class sizes and individualized learning plans for each student
Strong arts, athletics, and extracurricular activities for all skill levels
Postsecondary preparation, including college counseling and workplace readiness
Grammy, Tony, and Emmy Award winner Barry Manilow is making a stop at Rupp Arena on March 9 as part of his six new tour additions. You may be familiar with Manilow’s top hits like “Copacabana (at the Copa),” “Looks Like We Made It,” “Even Now,” and others. Artist presale opens today at 10 a.m. and all tickets go on sale Friday, Jan. 16 at 10 a.m. (WKYT)
Sports
Kentucky men’s basketball guard Jaland Lowe will not return for the remainder of the season due to a shoulder injury requiring surgery, according to an announcement from Head Coach Mark Pope this week. Watch Pope explain the decision on The Mark Pope Show.
Edu
Fayette County Public Schools has begun early budget planning, reviewing a draft budget ahead of the district’s tentative and working budget approvals later this year. The district estimates SEEK funding will range from $100-$103 million next fiscal year, with overall revenue expected to increase by roughly $8-$10 million. (ABC 36)
Opening
Blue Sage Dispensary, Central Kentucky’s second medical marijuana dispensary, is opening in Nicholasville the week of Monday, Jan. 26. Speakeasy Dispensary in Hamburg opens Thursday, Jan. 15 at 10 a.m. Registered medical patients are invited to the grand opening. (Lexington Herald-Leader)
Eat
Did you know The Greenery has grab-n-go goodies made by some of the tastiest local businesses around Lexington? Grab a winter special drink and try treats from Nourished Folks, Natalia’s Pastry Shop, The Empanada Company, and more.
Outdoors
Lexington Parks & Recreation gave a shoutout to Jacobson Park as the park to visit this month, noting its wide open green spaces, scenic lake, and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy walking + jogging on paved trails, birdwatching, fishing, and fun at the dog park.
Read
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Community
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Featured Deal
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Home
Dreaming of a new bathroom in 2026? Make it a reality with a one-day walk-in shower installation. HomeBuddy conveniently connects you with trusted local contractors, complete with customer reviews to help ensure a smooth, hassle-free project. Enter your ZIP code for a free estimate.*
Editor’s Pick
Reservation tips for Valentine’s Day
Unfortunately, “most-booked” wasn’t an understatement. All of the previously mentioned restaurants are booked solid on Valentine’s Day. If your plans are still up in the air, here are Editor Alexis’ recommendations.
Honeywood still has multiple evening reservations available. Both Palmer’s and Bella Notte haven’t opened their Valentine’s Day bookings on OpenTable yet, so there is still a chance of securing a table. Pro tip: Call these restaurants directly to confirm availability.
The Buy
Bragworthy deals from local restaurants, spas, salons, gyms, and more. If one of your resolutions in 2026 is to spend less + save more, Groupon is your No. 1 resource. Uncover up to 70% in savings on experiences right in your own backyard.
Editor Alexis should consider branching out. | Photo by LEXtoday
I knew I would have a picture of my go-to Carson’s order. Their burgers + sandwiches make for a great lunch, and in my case dinner, because I’m stuck on the pork belly beer cheese burger.
