An Absolute Standout in Lexington Dining We decided to give Blue Heron Steakhouse a try after noticing it shared a name with another restaurant in a neighboring county--though it quickly became clear this is a completely different (and exceptional) establishment. Encouraged by strong local reviews praising its cozy, rustic, and intimate atmosphere--along with consistently attentive, friendly service--we walked in with high expectations. Blue Heron exceeded them at every turn. From the moment you enter, the original rustic design and softly ambient lighting set the tone for a dining experience that feels warm, inviting, and effortlessly refined. There's an intimacy to the space that makes it ideal for both special celebrations and elevated everyday dining. Service was outstanding, with special recognition going to our server Carlo. He was friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in making the evening exceptional. The entire staff demonstrated professionalism and confidence, offering thoughtful recommendations and personal touches that enhanced the experience without ever feeling intrusive. The menu reflects a clear commitment to farm-to-table dining, showcasing some of the finest locally sourced ingredients available. Every dish balanced innovation with comfort, allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine. We began with the baked brie, which was luxuriously creamy and indulgent in all the right ways, followed by West Coast oysters--a smart sourcing choice by the owner. They were impeccably fresh, beautifully plated, and delivered that perfect briny finish oyster lovers crave. For the main course, we selected the Porterhouse Steak for Two, which proved to be the most cost-effective option and an outstanding choice overall. Charbroiled to perfection, melt-in-your-mouth tender, and deeply flavorful, the steak was a true centerpiece of the meal. It's served with four sides and accompanied by house steak sauce upon request, with excellent optional additions such as green peppercorn sauce, béarnaise, grilled onions and mushrooms, or bordelaise. The creamed spinach deserves its own praise--it was unlike any we've had before, rich and perfectly executed. The kitchen clearly understands steak preparation at a serious, professional level. Dessert was the perfect finale. Though not typically a carrot cake enthusiast, this version was exceptional--moist, warmly spiced, and beautifully balanced. It was, quite literally, just what the doctor ordered. The cheesecake was equally impressive: silky, restrained in sweetness, and refined. A word of advice: don't forget your wallet. Blue Heron Steakhouse delivers premium quality food and top-tier service, and prices reflect that level of excellence. That said, the experience justifies every dollar. Blue Heron is the kind of restaurant you return to with confidence. Whether marking a milestone or transforming an ordinary Tuesday into something memorable, it consistently delivers. For those who appreciate exceptional steaks, thoughtfully sourced ingredients, impeccable service, and an atmosphere that feels both intimate and elevated, Blue Heron Steakhouse is an absolute must-visit. read more

Blue Heron Steakhouse - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

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Old school Lexington insiders with some horse money and some taste might be seen at the wood bar here on the weekend talking with the owner in this restaurant carved from an old neighborhood brick home. With the upper floor cutaway and its beams used to support the soaring ceiling, you are well positioned to dive into the rich steaks and fish and occasional crab cakes. They know their business. Burgundy soaked mushrooms and glorious steak fries to accompany a 4 Roses bourbon and roquefort wedge salad with thick smoked bacon chunks - maybe overhear a hushed conversation about horse racing - and those that might have known too much back when. Best of Lex with a classic smooth bartender. read more

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Took my son for his birthday and it was wonderful! Everything was perfect...nice and cozy atmosphere for coming out of the cold, service was impeccable and food was delicious (and large portions)!Son is celiac and they took great care by speaking with the cooks. Also gave him a complimentary (gluten-free) bday yummy chocolate mousse! We will be back! read more

Blue Heron Steakhouse - Salmon on risotto with asparagus - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

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First and foremost, The Blue Heron Steakhouse is locally owned and operated. It's been my experience that locally owned and operated is always a wonderful event. More inviting, great service, delicious meals/drinks and an overall "take care of the customer" attitude. The Blue Heron Steakhouse hit all of these marks. A very charming old home that's been renovated with original fireplace, and stately bar and seating area. The Loaded Baked Potato soup is an understatement. There was so much toppings you couldn't see the soup! (See pic). And what flavor. I'm so glad I took the servers recommendation on the "Commanders Fish of the Day" what a fabulous dish and a virtual taste bud explosion! Lol. And what 5 star review would be complete without mentioning what great service that was provided and well crafted cocktails they have. read more

When I say this is the best filet in town I mean it. Maybe even in the state. Everywhere we go I try their steaks, and this one is hard to beat. The environment is perfect with the fireplace going, and the service is fantastic as well. Make sure to hit this place up! read more

My wife and I made some last minute plans to spend our anniversary in Lexington. There was a UK game going on and the city was busy. We were able to secure later dinners reservations at Blue Herron and I'm glad we did. You're smack dab in a neighborhood hood, so parking could be a challenge, but definitely a local vibe which we always seek out. Our server was attentive, joking and professional all at the same time. Our cocktails were delicious and the baked Brie was awesome. Steak for me and salmon for my wife. Both came out fresh tasting and cooked to our liking. A nice little piece of cheesecake made it to our table with wedding anniversary compliments from the house. read more

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Let me start by saying we did not stay nor did we order food. The old fashioned we did happen to receive was lovely, but the table of 20+ birthday party goers screaming and cussing in a small sunroom porch and discussing crude jokes next to tables with families and children was absolutely ridiculous. The hostess was an absolute peach she was so sweet and apologetic about the situation and even comped the drink we ordered, she truly deserves serious praise from management. I'd say we'd hope to try it again sometime but a plate sharing fee of $20? I can get better quality for a better price with a/b tier service down the street. read more

I will preface this with saying that I have every mixed feelings on what rating to leave here since the food quality and service/ambiance are on opposing ends. I'll share about both. We unfortunately had our hopes up for getting an amazing steak dinner by trying the porterhouse for two for the first time. Sadly it did not live up to expectations and even after remaking our dinner it wasn't much better than the first round. There were four of us and we ordered two separate porterhouse for two dishes. After two rounds of steaks and sides, it was just disappointing in terms of dinner. Four steaks in all and they barely had any seasoning and were all more fatty and tough than they should have been. The sides as well as the steaks in the first round were all lukewarm and not very flavorful. I really wanted to love this meal but just didn't and our whole party had the same feelings. The crab cake appetizer was the only highlight and it was delicious. Despite our disappointment in the food, the service was wonderful. Our server was amazing and was on top of things in trying to ensure we got the best meal possible. The manager was also extremely apologetic and welcoming to us. We really think the service and ambiance were stellar. They handled everything so well and we are so grateful for wonderful service and a nice recovery from the food experience. We just don't recommend the porterhouse for two but the restaurant is still a fantastic spot and hopefully some other dishes would stand out if we return. read more

Blue Heron Steakhouse - Porterhouse for two - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

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First time at Blue Heron. Our waiter, Carlo was fantastic. We began with drinks. I had the Proper Old Fashioned and my wife had a Ketel One Dirty Martini. Both were great. The frog legs appetizer was cooked perfect. Plenty of frog legs for 2 people. For entrees I had a medium rare filet with baked potato and my wife had the pan seared salmon with asparagus. Both were delicious. Dessert was the cheesecake with a blueberry compote. One of the best cheesecakes I have ever had. We were in the side dining area and it felt more intimate than the main dining room. read more

Blue Heron Steakhouse - Cheesecake with blueberry compote - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

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This place has a great chef. The crab cake special is to die for if you can get it. Very highly recommended. read more

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My girlfriend and I visited on an afternoon where we were looking to try something new. Our reserved table was not prepped on arrival, and we were prompted to wait at the bar. The service at the bar was great. Our meal was not impressive and felt rushed. I usually take photos but I just was not impressed. Maybe I was having an off day but I am going to have to hear better things before I come back. Hopefully our reservation is taken more seriously next time. read more

I once bragged about this place. I even shared this picture all over social media saying this was among the best steaks I've ever had (real pic Circa 2022). But tonight, the only thing worse than the two grey, medium-well porterhouses they delivered to my table ($120 each), was the manager who tried to blame it on me (saying I ordered medium-rare, when I should have ordered charred rare). My server was embarrassed and tried to fix it, but the manager insisted that my medium-well steak was actually a perfect medium-rare and that I was to blame. Trust me. Stay away from this place. Tim Miller - circa November 2024. read more

Blue Heron Steakhouse - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

Five star dinner that Blue Heron! Reservations were honored immediately. We had the Old Fashioned cocktail. Made very well! We started with the shrimp Cocktail...very nice. Also had the onion rings...they were huge!! Dinner was the porterhouse lamb and the cowboy ribeye. We asked for both medium rare and they cooked both of them perfectly! Dessert was the cheese cake...nice! And the warm Apple Crumble topped with vanilla ice cream and some kind of bourbon sauce. Excellent. We were stuffed!! Our waiter, Tom, couldn't have been better. Attentive without too much attention...knowledgeable about the menu and very pleasant. Very good dinner and atmosphere...would definitely go back read more

Blue Heron Steakhouse - Porterhouse lamb with fingerling potatoes, green beans and tomato chutney & Red Wine Balsamic reduction. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

I had a wonderful birthday experience! A winter storm was brewing and not many restaurants were open. The food was great and drinks!

Great steakhouse experience in Lexington, located in a quiet neighborhood not far from downtown. Steaks done to near perfection with excellent accompaniment of sides. Medium rare tenderness with well marbled cuts of beef served by well informed and friendly staff. Small but exquisite selection of wines to complement the steaks, worth going back to on future trips. read more

The food was terrible, the staff had poor manners, and one of the workers was smoking out front creating an unsafe environment for my friends and I. Unclear parking signage and refused paying patrons from using their lot. read more

Anniversary today, so we finally tried The Blue Heron. The Baked Brie Appetizer was average. My wife ordered the petite filet medium. It came out mid rare and, to be blunt, bland. I ordered the lamb chops, which were pretty good. What we found particularly annoying was that we each upgraded a side and instead of charging us the $2.50 additional cost for each side they charged us the full $8 for each one. Note that each entree came with two sides included and we both only ordered one regular side so they actually ripped us off $11.00 as each side is priced at $5.50. Instead of conning your customers just be up front with them. read more

...and for a brief moment in time i was true southern belle. Thank you to Wes and the staff at Blue Heron for such a lovely night out. everything was superb. That's it. That's the review. everything was perfect so why nit pit? please go out of your way to dine here. there are plenty of places to chose from by you will miss out on this experience if you go some place else. cheers. read more

This is a charming little steakhouse hidden away on a Lexington side street. We came here for my graduation celebration and I'm so glad that we did. We started with the Grilled Thick Cut Bacon as our appetizer. The bacon was cooked perfectly, not crunchy just perfectly firm and marbled. For dinner I got the Two Grilled Freedom Run Farms Lamb Porterhouse and he got the fish special which was grouper. The lamb was cooked to perfection and served with a side of potatoes and green beans. I am not a fan of green beans but my partner is so he ate them. He really enjoyed his dish which was on the spicier side (how he likes it). For dessert we got the Dark Chocolate Mousse with Cocoa Nibs. The dessert was amazing. The one serving was plenty large enough for two people so there was no need for both of us to order a dessert. We will definitely be back. read more

Food was amazing, service was also great. We split the porter house for two - the best I've ever had & will be going back for it again! Went for early dinner & there was barely anyone there but staff was still very attentive & helpful. read more

Uggggghhhh.....super disappointed with my birthday dinner here last night. When making the reservation, I noted that it was for a birthday. When we were seated and making welcome chit-chat with the server, I reminded him that it was my birthday. My husband and I got the porterhouse for two that comes with four sides. The size of their sides is ridiculously small. See the photo. In Chicago, steakhouse sides are good for 2-3 people easily. These sides were barely enough for one person. We then ordered a slice of cheesecake and some chocolate mousse for dessert. After specifically mentioning it was my birthday, you would think the cake would have a candle or they would write "happy birthday" in chocolate sauce on the plate. It had nothing. He didn't even say happy birthday. So essentially, he completely forgot. You would think that ordering the most expensive dinner would get you one free (tiny) piece of cake on your birthday. Nope! We were charged for both desserts. And neither were great. In fact, the mousse tasted like instant pudding mix. Good steak and nice atmosphere. Shitty sides and they don't care about birthdays, even though the restaurant was only half full and we had a reservation. We left not stuffed and with zero leftovers, which is something I have never said before after leaving any steakhouse, let alone one that thinks so highly of itself. Hard pass read more

Blue Heron Steakhouse - Great steak. Teeny tiny little sides of mediocrity. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

We recently tried the Blue Heron for our wedding anniversary and all I can say is "it was ok" not off the charts for the price you are paying. Our waiter was very personable however he forgot the sauce for my steak and our dessert took forever. The veggies were all under cooked even the potato wasn't done. My husband's halibut on the other hand was terrific! Ambience was quite nice as well! So might've been an off night and I would give it another chance. read more

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We went for a group birthday party. The manager was kind enough to provide a few bonus items with our meal/drinks. All was enjoyed. Oysters were awesome. read more

Dinner was delicious. Service was very good and the setting is a beautiful find in a neighborhood. Cozy inside with a deck that we would expect is quite nice in the spring. read more

BEST crab cakes EVER!! They have just the right amount of crisp on the outside AND not filled with a bunch of bread crumbs and such. Forgot our waiters name but he's from New Jersey and was very attentive and made some great recommendations for the entrées. Price point was a little high . read more

Blue Heron Steakhouse totally lived up to our expectations and then some! It's cozy and quaint and Lacey took great care of us. The food was amazing. The steaks were high quality and grilled exactly as we liked. The sides were delicious as well. The dark chocolate mousse was heavenly and paired nicely with the remaining Cabernet Sauvignon I had left after supper. We were seated by the fireplace, and upon closer inspection, the chandelier is made from old Maker's Mark bottles. I love the exposed brick as well. read more

We planned ahead and came for a very special occasion, yet not recognized by staff even though it was asked on the reservation site, and every table around us were asked by their server. I requested quiet seating eith minimum traffic for ADA purposes. We were seated near a loud birthday party of ten in an already loud room, in a busy area with people coming and going. If the requested seating wasn't available, the reservation staff should have responded accordingly. Food was not cooked to order. I ordered a Ribeye steak and specifically expressed I wanted mine very well done. My steak was rare, definitely NOT done. Server offered to take it back to be cooked well-done. I declined. *never, ever send food back, then eat it. Just a suggestion. I didn't eat a single bite. A $60 steak.. We were informed by the server that the dessert item that led us to choose this restaurant, had not been on the menu for 6 months, although it's featured all over the internet and Is still on the Google Reviews questionnaire and ironically the menu listed here on Yelp! Overall, a lousy experience. I left hungry and disappointed. Happy 17th Anniversary to us! The Merrick Inn will always be our place, it just happened to be closed for renovation this year. We would not recommend. We will not be going back. read more

Service was decent and it's a cute little spot. However, the wine list is lacking, the presentation was poor, the baked Brie was cold, and the filet didn't have much seasoning. Would not recommend overall. read more

This place is consistently good! If I could give 4.5 stars, I would. I'm stingy with 5 stars because there's always room to improve. But I really like the feel of the place. Rich, dark wood with a warm, cozy vibe. On both recent cold weather visits , I sat beside a wood burning fireplace and I recommend that. Other visits sitting at the bar afford the opportunity to watch the expert bar staff, chat with other patrons or simply get a seat on a full night when you didn't make a reservation. Get the Porterhouse for two if two of you want steak. It is a good deal and an excellent meal. read more

I came here on a night of the dreaded "outdoor dining only". Because what else better to do in December than eat outside!! As we continue to try and support our locally owned restaurants, the Blue Heron made us forget we were sitting in the cold in the first place! To start we ordered Gin and Tonics to help take the edge off the cold! The shrimp appetizer was great. I ordered the Salomon entrée for dinner and it was very good. I eat a lot of salmon ( a lot), and this was some of the best I've had in a while. The purée it was served on was full of flavor but didn't overpower that of the salmon My roommate ordered the filet. She was very happy with it and said it was one of the best steaks she's had in a while. If you want it cooked medium make sure you emphasize medium! (As hers came out a little undercooked). All in all it was a wonderful meal. Personally, although not located on Main Street, the Blue Heron should be ranked in line if not above that of Tony's or Jeff Ruby's. The food is always great, the service impeccable, and the price not near as steep. The staff was so happy and appreciative for our business. The owner even came and talked with us for a while, extending his appreciation for our support and about how tough business has been. Despite the circumstances get out and support local restaurants, and if you haven't been here, make a reservation ASAP!! read more

Blue Heron Steakhouse - Grilled Salmon - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

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This place is wonderful, The food all the times I've been there has been fantastic the atmosphere inside is super cozy and comforting. The wait staff here is also wonderful I've had a couple different servers now and they all have been wonderful. For starters I always get the thick cut bacon it's simple and delicious and they make some of the best crispy bacon around, For my entree I've had a few different things from the NY strip, the pan seared salmon or the Lamb porterhouses they have all been delicious. All around one of the best restaurants in the area highly recommend. read more

The food was outstanding. The manager was not. We were denied two additional seats, yet there were three tables empty all evening. Two guest had to eat at the bar. Bartender was awesome!! She was highlight of evening. Manager left a really bad taste. Probably won't return because so many more accommodating restaurants in area to deal with his rudeness. read more

Blue Heron Steakhouse - Side dishes - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

Restaurant is unique and interior both appearance and the smell of firewood was pleasant. Tonight's feature was Grouper with fingerling potatoes and asparagus. The Grouper was well prepared and flavorful. The potatoes and asparagus were un-eatable due to the sauce poured into the bowl. The taste of the sauce spoiled the sides. The asparagus was huge therefore not a great choice.. Fortunately the Grouper was sitting on top. I had the apple crumble for dessert, was good but could have been great if the apple base had been severed hot with the ice cream on top. The house salad was a win with an ranch dressing. Tip and all for one person $$$60. Will ome back and try the steak next time I'm in town. Hoping the side dishes are better next time read more

Went to Blue Heron for dinner on 8/17/23. First thing I will say is OUTSTANDING! Food, service, and atmosphere . Everything was cooked perfectly. There was 4 in our party. You will need reservation. They have a very nice outdoor patio that is enclosed, but can be opened. I'm only sorry I did not take pictures. We had onion rings for an appetizer. They were cut thick and had a Chipotle sauce for dipping. We had 2 filets, a New York Strip, and a Cowboy ribeye. Sides were grilled asparagus, grilled green beans, and French fries. We also had THE BEST gouda mac and cheese that I have ever had! The have a very nice bar and plenty of bourbon to pick from. I highly recommend for a special occasion or really anytime. I am already planning another visit. read more

Met some friends here for dinner and it was a really cool atmosphere. Ordered an old fashioned to start the dinner and it was very good. Service was good and the waiter we had was very personable. I ordered the NY strip with a baked potato and Brussels sprouts. My steak was good but the potato was not very warm and the Brussel sprouts were just ok. My wife got the fried chicken and said it was very good. However she had the creamed spinach and didn't like it and I tried it and I have to agree with her. Definitely not like the creamed spinach I am used to. Overall not bad but I guess for the money I was a little underwhelmed. read more

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First visit tonight, on a recommendation from a family member. Great experience. Beautiful venue; friendly & attentive service, excellent menu and reasonable prices. We had two wedge salads, one shrimp cocktail, one truly amazing crab cake, one shrimp and grits, one baked Brie, and one spinach salad with chicken. The food was outstanding! Three had creme brûlée; but there was an issue with the glaze and the restaurant removed them from the bill. We will definitely return .... The crabcake was the best I've had outside the Maryland shore! read more

I don't have enough space to write all the wonderful things I'd like to about Blue Heron Steakhouse. We selected this location to celebrate my dad's birthday, and I'm so glad we did. The atmosphere of the restaurant is very casual but elevated at the same time. The wait staff were incredible, our waitress was very attentive to our needs with a great personality and was constantly around checking in on us. Now on to the important stuff if the photos don't get your mouth watering blame the photographer and not the food. We started with a jumbo lump crab cake, baked Brie, and jumbo onion rings for the table. The crab cake was delicious, 99% crab without any bread-dy filler you get at some places. The onion rings were massive with a flaky light breading that kept its integrity while still being dipped. The Brie was good, especially with the fig jam but could've done with something more to the plate flavor wise. The porterhouse steak for two fed three people with leftovers! I would suggest asking for it to be cooked one level above your desired temperature, as 40 ounces of meat is difficult to gauge temperature for. Ours came out a bit pink for my liking but MAN was it good. I could cut it with a fork it was so buttery tender! Overall I would go back in a heartbeat. If you have a hankering for a large piece of steak, head over to Blue Heron! read more

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Came an hour before closing on Derby night and they said they were closed. Wait what?! . Wouldn't even let us grab a cocktail until we found an option B. Apparently they hate money and business. Boi to the Blue Heron read more

I have been to the Blue Heron years ago and it was good. Nice, quality, upper end steakhouse. Our recent visit was nothing special and definitely NOT worth the cost. You couldn't tell that the food had been seasoned at all; just very bland. It isn't often you need to add salt to a good steak just to give it some flavor. And I know good cooks never want to overcook a steak, but I had to send mine back twice because of how rare it was; like cold center rare when I had ordered it medium. read more

Greated by host and forewarned they were out of the special (6:30 on a Saturday) and only had bud light or mich ultra as beer options. My wife and I both got the filets. -quality of meat: C+ -over cooked Sides -broccoli- under cooked and had red pepper as the seasoning: D- -Brussels sprouts: C -baked potato: under cooked C -side salad: pitiful, lettuce wilted- F For $125 tab was very unimpressed. Too many great spots in Lexington to go here. read more