Carson's Food & Drink - On Main

Reviews

• KD

  Kayla Duncan

  2 days ago
  5.0
  ✨✨✨✨✨ If you're looking for a culinary gem in Kentucky, look no further than Carson’s! After a week of travels across three states, indulging in various dining experiences, I can confidently say that Carson’s provided the best meal of our entire trip. From the moment we walked in, the warm and inviting atmosphere made us feel right at home. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, making sure our dining experience was nothing short of exceptional. Now, let's talk about the food—it was absolutely phenomenal! Each dish was expertly crafted, bursting with flavor, and beautifully presented. It’s clear that a lot of passion goes into their menu. Every bite was worth every single penny and then some! The portions were generous, and we left feeling satisfied but not overly stuffed, which is a true testament to the art of great cooking. It was a fantastic dining experience that exceeded all of our expectations. If you’re in the area or passing through, do yourself a favor and make a stop at Carson’s. Trust me—don’t just walk, RUN there! You won’t regret it! I can't wait to return and savor more of their dishes. Highly recommended! 🍽️❤️
• BN

  Brian Nagy

  3 days ago
  5.0
  Came here on a 6 week trip around the country last year, and not only did it stand out even amoung the fine dining restuarants I visited, but I still tell stories about how amazing the food was. I had to return a second time in my short stay because it was that good. On both visits I met locals and tourists alike, showing how proud the locals are of this establishment that they seemingly recommend it to every tourist that stops in the area. The ribs were absolutely superb, and the teriyaki steak was a nice twist for an American restuarant and cooked to perfection. As someone that doesn't eat such things often, the grilled brie platter was a pleasant surprise. It was well balanced, and if it was for more than just me, an excellent start to the meal. The plating was immaculate as well. I will be returning to Lexington soon just to visit Carsons again! The chefs there understand that dining is with all senses, and the staff is truly welcoming.
• MK

  Marcell Knabe

  Oct 15, 2025
  3.0
  When I have quest from out of State I always make reservations at Carson. This time it was for a party of 8. We ordered drinks 2 vodka Bloody Meri's, 1 Virgin Bloody Meri, We asked which one was the one without vodka, they did not know. I tasted them to me they all tasted like there was no alcohol in them. We said we can not take a chance, please take them back. that seem to up set them, like it was our fault. As the brunch went on the waitress was not orffering to put things in boxes, she just wanted our to take our appetizers off the table. My sister got steak and shrimp biscuits it looked like the sauce was painted on, when we asked for a little more she said there would be an up charge. And she brought a little cup and charge $3.00. I got the Salomon and biscuits hardly any sauce at all. I just settled was not going to put her out of her way, then get charged more for something that should have been on there in the 1st place. For the table our bill total was over $300.00 I always brag about Carson, but sorry to say I was not impressed this time. It was not a good experience as it always was in the past. Its not about the cost, more about the quantity and the wonderful service that I expected when I come to Carson's. This time it was not
• BL

  Brooke Lambert

  Oct 12, 2025
  2.0
  Let me start by saying that our server, Alex R, was absolutely fantastic. He was attentive, professional, and did everything in his power to make our experience enjoyable. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the manager, Nico, whose attitude and handling of issues were downright disappointing. Appetizers: The Brie, truffle fries, and shrimp were all excellent — no complaints there. Entrées, however, were a different story. I ordered the filets Oscar style, medium. They arrived rare, so they were sent back to be “up-cooked.” When they returned, the mashed potatoes underneath were swimming in blood. Nico personally brought the dish out and informed me that this was “normal.” I can assure you, it’s not — and it was far from appetizing. My fiancé’s filet, ordered medium-rare, was also undercooked, and a friend’s rare steak was nearly raw, aside from a quick sear on the outside. Another friend ordered the salmon Oscar style, which was filled with bones — not one or two, but nearly one in every bite. When we mentioned it, Nico dismissively told us that “fish have bones.” While Alex went above and beyond to try to make things right, Nico’s lack of professionalism was astounding. At one point, he even stated, “It’s late and we’re close to closing. Sometimes the chefs get tired and lazy.” I’m sorry, but that kind of explanation is both unprofessional and unacceptable. We’re traveling and had multiple friends recommend this restaurant. I truly wish we had gone elsewhere. Nearly $150 later (even after my entrée was removed from the bill), we left unsatisfied — and still hungry. I can’t in good conscience recommend this restaurant based on our experience. The food had potential, but the management and execution left much to be desired.
• KB

  Kate Bowman

  Oct 11, 2025
  5.0
  Carson's was the first restaurant I went to in Lexington, and it did not disappoint! Every time my parents come into town we always come back here because it was just so good. I will say you definitely need to make a reservation beforehand because it is always packed, but for good reason. This does make the atmosphere quite lively which I don’t mind at all! I also love the chandeliers hanging down. Right as I walked in it totally felt like Kentucky to me. The service has been more than exceptional every time. All of my servers have been so friendly, I have had great conversations with them, and they genuinely care about making sure I have the best dining experience possible. They’ve also given me many fantastic food recommendations, every single dish I’ve tried has been absolutely heavenly. The appetizers? Amazing. The entrees? Amazing. The desserts? Amazing. I just cannot get enough!

Frequently Asked Questions About Carson's Food & Drink - On Main