A Kentucky Dining Experience so Exceptional, It’s Nationally Recognized

I love all types of restaurants, from casual diners to food trucks to fine dining restaurants. When looking for an upscale experience with a great atmosphere, impeccable service, and top-notch food, I often look for awarded restaurants. Prestigious awards are as sure a sign as any that it will be a meal to remember. You might think you have to go to a bigger city out of state—Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Nashville, or Chicago—to visit a restaurant with national awards, but there is one right here in the Bluegrass State. Coles 735 Main in Lexington, Kentucky, has won several awards, including a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, Best Romantic Restaurant from Restaurant Guru, and a Diners' Choice award from Open Table, signs of the excellent experiences served up at this eatery.

Cole Arimes, the restaurant's founder and executive chef, opened Coles 735 Main in 2012. The restaurant, located on the corner of Main Street and South Ashland Avenue, is housed in a 1930s building with distinct architectural elements. The furnishings are upscale but comfortable, with tables covered in white tablecloths, upholstered seating, and images of horses adorning the walls. Three English hunt scene murals are a centerpiece of the restaurant's decor; they were painted by a local art teacher in the 1940s and restored.

Coles 735 Menu showcases quality ingredients, focusing on local meats, seasonal ingredients, and fresh-baked bread. The dinner menu features an array of starters, including Spanikopita, Honey Cajun Glazed Shrimp, and Truffle Infused Lobster Bisque. Coles 735 Main's entrees include Scottish Salmon, Chicken Saltimbocca, Asian Brisket, and Beef Shoulder Tender. The restaurant also serves steaks like Filet Mignon and New York Strip. Salads and sides round out the dinner menu, each sounding more mouthwatering than the next, from Garlic Mashed Potatoes to Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts with Smoked Olive Oil. There are also incredible desserts, like a Woodford Reserve Creme Brulee and Butterscotch Pecan Cookies.

Diners can sit indoors or outdoors. A covered gazebo offers an outdoor dining experience, often with fresh flowers and plants to create a beautiful atmosphere. Coles 735 Main takes reservations and online orders.

For more information, visit Coles 735 Main website and Facebook page.

Lexington is a fantastic city to visit. Keeneland is a historic horse track that offers a quintessential Kentucky experience. Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate, is a beautiful place to learn about the state's history. There are also incredible parks and trails, like the Raven Run Red Trail, with stunning scenic views and wildlife.

The next time you're in Lexington, consider staying in this adorable two-bedroom cottage Airbnb, which has convenient access to downtown.