A great bar scene tends to make visiting a new city all the more fun, and in Kentucky, it also means the best bourbon. These best bars in Lexington serve great cocktails and an even better selection of bourbons.
From craft cocktail bars to historic watering holes, you’re sure to find a spot for a tipple or two here. Check out our top picks to get you going..
The best bars in Lexington
How do these rankings work?
1. West Main Crafting Co.
It truly is impossible to get tired or bored with West Main Crafting Company. This rustic yet sleek bar bring quality ingredients to their seasonal craft cocktails and absinthe selection. The menu rotates regularly and is presented in themed volumes, so don’t get too comfortable with your go-to order.
2. ONA
This sleek and modern bar with exposed brick and a mid-century modern vibe serves balanced cocktails with fast service. Dimly lit and cozy, this bar’s inviting atmosphere makes leaving hard. Order the Black Sugar Darlin’ which is rum, black peppercorn, rosehip, lime and salt.
3. Henry Clay’s Public House
Set in a historic 1805 residence, this bar serves great cocktails, top-shelf bourbon and craft beer. Friday and Saturday nights feature live music, and the outdoor seating makes for a comfortable place to settle in for the night. Order a Kentucky Godfather.
4. Creaux
This New Orleans-inspired bar shakes craft cocktails and often has music perfect for dancing or taking in live jazz. Go for the happy hour specials and take a seat outside during fair-weather days.
5. Chevy Chase Inn
This chill dive bar has some of the best drink deals in town, but the bar is also known for its games. The mixed drinks are potent and the beer options are great too.
6. Arcadium Bar
Naturally, this is an arcade and bar all in one. They have craft beer on tap, tons of bottles and cans to choose from and mixed drinks–like mezcal margaritas–also. Enjoy the vintage atmosphere or take a seat outside for a pleasant evening.
7. Bluegrass Tavern
The Bluegrass Tavern is a traditional pub serving beer on tap and classic cocktails. But what sets it apart is its menu of more than 450 bourbons. This wooden tavern is certainly the place to order a bourbon flight or perhaps take your bourbon in a milkshake.
Good picks, Bourbon On RYE is by far the best/coolest bar in Lexington though. Kinda A shame it’s not on here.