I wasn't sure what to expect from this place. It's hidden almost like a speakeasy, tucked away behind Arcadium bar, and the reservation system is quirky, almost exclusive (this place does offer a monthly membership option, but it's limited availability). Favor is the passion project of chef Wyatt Sarbacker and features a small rotating menu. While the burgers and empanadas are always on the menu, other items change seasonally or according to availability. Wyatt prides himself and Favor on using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients and building an eco friendly, environmentally sustainable culinary experience. The space is intimate, mostly counter seating aside from one large community dining table in the adjoining room, but it's bright and welcoming. The kitchen is completely open and you can see everything Wyatt is doing as he prepares your meal. And this is an impressive one man show! It amazed us how Wyatt made it look easy (though I'm sure it's not). He was preparing multiple dishes from multiple orders simultaneously and delivered them promptly at a great pace that allowed us to enjoy each dish without feeling hurried. We ate almost every dish on the menu. Dish sizes vary, some small, some larger, but it worked out wonderfully that there were three of us, as we could eat in a tapas style, sharing all of the tasty foods. The empanadas were first, and come with a rotating sauce accompaniment. They were soft and hot, and the filling was delicious. I can't remember the filling, but I remember black beans were involved, and it was actually one of my favorite dishes. Such a compact, juicy, savory bite. We also had the lion's mane mushroom, made with pea shoots, lemon, and creole mustard. This is a mushroom served like a crab cake. You could really taste the earthy mushroom flavor and the creole mustard was the perfect addition. We also had the crispy Brussels, made with shishito peppers, onion, and maple miso dressing. Wyatt did Brussels sprouts incredibly well. Often you go to a place and they are burnt or charred and have that taste. These were cooked to perfection and had a smoky, yet sweet taste. And who could resist a giant plate of fries? These fries are fresh cut potatoes and my dinner companion compared them to the famous "Five Guys" fries that everyone raves about. The true star here is the curry ketchup. No ordinary ketchup, this thrills the tastebuds. We were excited to hear that Wyatt will hopefully be releasing some of his own sauces soon. We also had the cheeseburger, which is a smashburger. I have complained about the smashburger trend endlessly, as I tend to like a thick, medium burger. But this burger was VERY good. Melted with cheese, on his HOMEMADE buns, this one gets a pass as "one of the good ones." We finished up with chocolate chunk cookies, which were served hot with ooey gooey melted chocolate chips. Made with rye flower and bittersweet chocolate, as well as cranberries, poppyseeds, and sea salt, this cookie had such a unique savory flavor. The more we tasted them, the more we loved them. I'm not a "sweets" type of person, so this type of cookie is ideal for me. I wish I could have bought a dozen to take home to my husband. You can get cocktails from arcadium, right by the restaurant, which I've reviewed previously. They make light refreshing daiquiris and gin gimlets, which is what we ordered. My companion liked their old fashioned. Prices for Flavor are insanely well priced. Despite this experiencing being worth so much more, prices range from sub-ten dollars to 18 dollars. Wyatt was warm and welcoming and interesting. We had an amazing evening and have already discussed when we would come back, who we would bring, or whether we might have next year's birthday bash there as a private event. Thank you so much for a wonderful evening, Wyatt, I am glad I finally figured out the reservation system! read more

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I can't believe they're closed and the new building owners didn't keep this restaurant!!! . is it relocating? What's the latest? loved every single thing about this place. food location chef etc. lexington doesn't have enough of these places. Wonder what will take its place here. read more

So we were in the area of Lexington and were on the hunt for good places to eat. This place interest me based on raving reviews. Even though theres no menu on the website, we were excited to give it a try anyway & reserved online. We were debating between the French resto or this, but since their voicemail was full & we couldn't get a hold of anybody to cancel so we went ahead. BTW this place only requires reservations and needs a credit card to do so, otherwise a no show is $30 charge. Seating is limited, I'd say max of 15 people at a time. It was difficult to find this at night as this was at the back of a bar. We drove around the area and found the sign luckily. They don't serve alcohol but they are associated with the bar on the front so you can get your drinks there. The menu was very limited, it probably changes periodically bec I don't see the same food posted by other yelpers. The chef prepares as you order. We tried the rangoons, brussel sprouts, and mushroom campanelle. The dishes were just okay, we were not wowed. The campanelle (pasta) was creamy but lacks flavor and could use some salt. They're okay portions and can be shared (that's what we did) since there's not too many food options. read more

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Truly a unique experience! The chef came and sat at our table to take our orders. Mushroom rangoon was amazing, empanadas were great and sold out early. Plenty of parking both across the street and at the patio entrance. read more

Listen, This was the very first place I bookmarked since I moved to Lexington 5 YEARS AGO!!!! Favor is so awesome that they're closed Sunday-Tuesday so my personal schedule never worked out. I requested this spot to my posse for my birthday this year and man, totally worth the hype y'all. I was stunned when I first walked in and didn't see a bar but I was quickly prompted next door to retrieve my drink and come back with it. Nice, this diva needs a drank on her birthday okurr (cool bar btw--good prices) We sat at the only big table but next time I totally want to sit at the bar and spy on all the magic being made in that open kitchen. I love the casual but exclusive feeling vibe. I also feel awesome to be fed locally sourced food KY PROUD ALL DAY. --menu changes seasonally or whenever the chef feels like it. I support that. Entices us to keep coming back and we will... accordingly to my schedule :,( I think there was like 10 items on the menu, so for a party of 5, we ordered them all and then some. Seems simple but executed very Michelin, iykyk. EVERYTHING WAS AMAZING AND BLEW OUR MINDS. Chef Wyatt was kind enough to keep his hands busy since we needed more wings, empanadas, "crab cake" and obviously another burger. I've never had a crab Rangoon from any Chinese place and I ever will unless it tastes like the one here. Everyone should have standards. Whatever chocolate chip cookie you've had, forgetta'boutit! Get it here ok. It's warm, crispy on the edges and gooey on the inside. The end. read more

Love the open concept, cozy vibes. Burger was great, loved the curry dipping sauce w the fresh fries. Empanadas were good, had packed filling but mildly dry pastry. Love the Arcadium bar being next door. Main complaint is food feels overpriced read more

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This place is tiny but the food was fantastic! We stopped by on a Saturday evening (around 5:30ish) after a recommendation from a coworker. They were only taking reservations at that point but they offered to bring us food if we sat in the bar (Arcadium) which was super nice of them. The actual restaurant itself had about 6 counter seats and a larger table that sat maybe 6-8, so definitely plan ahead if you want a reservation. We tried the empanadas (black bean), chicky wings, and stoofvlees. The empanadas were cooked well but we wanted a bit more flavor from them; the chili sauce they came with was spicy and delicious though. The Chicky wings were SO GOOD! Perfectly crispy and had great flavor. The real star was the stoofvlees, which was reminiscent of a poutine without the cheese curds. It was amazing, the meat melted in your mouth, the fries were crispy, and it was a perfect meal for a cold night. We were both full after everything and the portions were pretty generous so you could definitely split a few things. I think the menu changes so I can't wait to try something else next time. read more

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Really an ex an excellent little place that we didn't expect would be much because it's so close to our home, but the pizza was very, very good and I ordered extra pepperoni which really was not necessary because it's so good to eat so much. But I strongly suggest it especially for our neighborhood which has very little else currently. Its wonderful! read more

I almost don't want to write a review for this place because if everyone else finds it, there won't be space for me! This is a very small place with limited seating (call/reserve ahead) but the food is new, local, unique and SUPERB. Really, an enthusiast's dream. Get your drinks going in the back door of Arcadia after you place your order. Don't go here because it is maybe the best food in town and there isn't much seating and I need space at the bar! Don't take my seat! read more

favor - New American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

THE gem of Lexington! Heard of Favor through word of mouth and blew expectations. Try every dish while you can since the menu rotates based on the passionate chef who you see perform on his stage (the kitchen) as you eat. The most perfect spot. read more

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Super good food for a reasonable price. The place is also pretty vibey. And staff is nice. Only down sides are that seating isn't the most comfortable and the water cups are really small and they get busy so we were waiting on water refills a couple of times. read more

My FAVOR-ite place to eat in all of Lex! Wyatt's food is nothing shy of fantastic. Everything I've tried is always delicious and makes me want to come back for more. If you're going there for the first time, the burger and fries are a must! You won't regret it! read more

This place is a little gem! I've seen several people talk about this place and it's been on the list. First off it's a really cute little place, indoor seating is small bar style seating and a newly built outdoor patio. The building is talk and the tree gives you a nice shade and a variety of tables allow small or large groups. There are two ways to order, first through toast or going in and ordering. The staff was super friendly, answered all of our questions, and checked on us several times. We tried a few items and everything we had was great with good pricing! I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of items there as I had really only seen people posting about the burgers. The tempura asparagus was delicious with a flavorful light batter and the sauce is the best tempura sauce I've had! The cheeseburger reminds me of an in and out style burger, perfectly cooked and crispy. Their special sauce mixed with what I think is a fresh bun, flavorful burger and crunch lettuce and onions was the perfect Friday night burger. Oooh the fries, thin and perfectly cooked with curry ketchup that I didn't expect to like put it over the top! I could have eaten the whole order by myself. The surprise of it all was the bunuelos, it took me straight back to being in San Antonio Texas for a perfectly cooked crispy and cinnamon treat. I highly recommend going if you haven't been. read more

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One of the most unique dining experiences in town! Small kitchen with one chef and one server. Definitely not a good place for big groups but it's an adorable place for a small date night or double date. Their burger was phenomenal, and their beet dip and watermelon salad were so fresh and light. You could tell everything was made from scratch read more

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Favor never disappoints. Small. Intimate. Delicious. Highly recommend the Compressed Melon and Sweet Corn Pasta. Luckily I was able to get the Mexican Hot Chocolate Ice Cream before the new menu change! Always a fantastic variety that is seasonally curated. read more

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Everything was delicious! Everything! The restaurant is quaint and situated behind Arcadium. The staff was friendly and helped to explain the menu with enthusiasm. The menu is small but packed with flavor and provides something for everyone. We tried everything on the menu. The burger was so good but the fries were even better and came with curry ketchup. We also had the lions mane mushroom, which was probably my favorite thing! Taste like a crab cake. The menu changes often so I will definitely being going back to try more options. read more

Best kept secret in Lexington with a rotating menu fresh from the farm. The burger and fries are excellent, but in multiple visits the entrees, empanadas and side dishes never disappoint. Great place for a secret 'private dinner' in their indoor alcove (reservations recruited) or eat outside while enjoying a drink from Arcadium! read more

Really good food at reasonable prices. I tried the cheeseburger and Lion's Mane Mushroom and they were both really good. Seasoned well, cooked perfectly and made with unique flavors. read more

What's good??? Well, let's start with the asparagus tempura! Light, not greasy, and the dipping sauce compliments the flavor perfectly! The fries, definitely a YES! If you are not into curry order a regular side of ketchup, no biggie. The empanadas were a yum, and again, not greasy because they are baked. The chickpea salad with all local ingredients, a must! The Porkstrami was by far the best sandwich!!! Just delicious! The roast beef okay, burger, okay. The patty of the burger wasn't that flavorful. Anyway, overall a great experience!!! If the weather is nice, sit in the patio. If you need a beer or bourbon, order at Arcadian. Remember this is a casual place where dogs are welcome! It is definitely a place to relax and have fun! Next time with my Fangalicious! Oh yeah, the desserts are worthy!!!! read more

First time eating at Favor. Owner/Chef Wyatt was awesome. Great attention to detail, spent time talking to us about his restaurant and how the menu comes together each week. Food was spectacular and the atmosphere even better. This is a must if you're visiting Lex or live here. We WILL be back. Thanks for the great experience! read more

What a phenomenal find on the Northside of downtown...the food was excellent in every way( with lots of healthy options including an endive salad/ butternut squash/ turnips all to die for) with meatier selections like my daughter's perfect burger and the best fries I have ever eaten served with curry ketchup. The empanadas with daily changes to the fillings and an ever evolving menu by chef Wyatt along with friendly staff ( Sarah and Sean) make this the best new restaurant in town! read more

favor - Yummy orange tart to top of a delicious meal! - New American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

*Review for experience only - did not eat here. This is not a friendly, just drop in and eat kind of place. I stopped by solo on a Saturday night around 8 while visiting Lexington for the night. It wasn't so easy to find.. tucked away behind a bar. Walked in the door and stood there for about 10 minutes - and was not acknowledged by anyone. Felt very awkward. It's a small place - there were about 6 people seated along the bar, with one person behind the bar.. which looked to be the chef. No one else seemed to work there. The vibe was not welcoming at all.. guess its just meant for people who make reservations ahead of time? Or locals "who know"? Honestly, I couldn't really tell. A shame, because Yelp photos and reviews looked great. Totally understand if it's a small, chef run place - love to support that - but wish it was more obvious how to dine here.. reservations only, no walk-ins etc. Or better yet, a "hey welcome, be with you in a moment" and then explain what's up if someone does just walk in. read more

This places weeniers are delectable! They're very warm , moist , never too hard And filled with delicious flavor! I'm always finding myself getting the weeniers to go and share by myself when I really need that enjoyable weenier at night. 10/10 everyone should come here with the family! read more

My husband and I purposely order different dishes at restaurants so we can taste as much as possible, so the small plates and snacks at Favor are perfect. We dance around the menu getting a little bit of this and that, and every little bit is yummy. I love that the menu changes and stays fresh. I also appreciate that Favor posts on Instagram regularly to let people know what's going on. And the outside patio, I mean, yes please. If you happen to be in Arcadium enjoying your beverage, may be lucky enough to get your food delivered to you there (thank you!). Love the concept, the thoughtfulness of dishes and the execution. read more

favor - New American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

What a gem! The menu is small but certainly doesn't disappoint. Do yourself a "favor" and check this place out!

Loved the atmosphere. It's like a little hidden treasure. Food was on point. Service was awesome. read more

favor - Empanadas - New American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

Went here as a part of Vegan Week and it was such a special experience. The staff is super attentive and mindful of everyone's safety. We had the roasted winter squash stew, turnips, and fries! One of the best vegetarian meals I've had at an "American" style restaurant in months. Parking is around back of Arcadium as well is the entrance. Don't miss out on this gem of a restaurant. read more

favor - Fried Manchego - New American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

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YUM Seriously good burger and home fries, I am so glad this place came to the neighborhood. Flourless cake with bananas was also amazing. We've been twice, once just for churros which were delicious. Staff is super friendly. Food came out quickly. Portion sizes are great. Lots of seating outside. Parking in the back. I'm a fan! read more

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Casual and amazingly tasty. An interesting variety of menu options, all flavorful. Outdor seating. Libations provided by he Arcadium. Also good. Will return. read more

favor - New American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

You can't ask for more: locally grown food, seasonal menus, delicious results, great staff, and fair pricing. We eat here every couple of weeks and are always eager to return. The burger is a classic Americana style (crispy and juicy with that umami we all love) and the rotating veggie dishes always keep the interest peaked... like roasted pear with whipped Gorgonzola, or asparagus tempura. read more

favor - Roast beef sandwich. It's worth dying for. - New American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

We happened to be staying near Favor and stopped by for dinner. We shared the stoofvlees and the lamb ribs. The ribs were amazing. The service was stellar. The restaurant is small so be sure to call for reservations, though it may not be necessary on weekdays. We're looking forward to going again. When we are back in Lexington. read more

WOW. is the first thoughts that comes to mind after that meal. From the simplicity of a homemade ketchup to hand cut shoe string fries to the different layers of flavor of the steak salad. The wings get a Buffalo stamp of approval from the locals of Buffalo. If you are in a 2 hour radius of this place even an 8 hour like us the drive is worth it. I feel like i'm in someone's house sitting on the other side of their island talking to them while they cook. read more

We were traveling through Lexington and managed to find this amazing restaurant on Yelp. This was easily a top 10 dining experience for me. Incredible service, an explanation of menu items, top to bottom custom service. We were incredibly to find a place with food this good. Do yourself a favor and go ASAP and order everything. The empanadas were on point, the lion's mane "crab" cake was a mind-bender and equally amazing. I cannot recommend this place enough. read more

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Great Burger Week Burger and fantastic sides. Easy online ordering, great social distancing. Super pleasant all around! read more

favor - Lexington Burger Week! Tasty burger, fantastic fries and delightful esquite. Ooh, and that curry ketchup with the fries! Yum! - New American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

Do it get the fries. Best fries I had ever tasted. The house made fry sauce was great too! A little hidden and maybe hard to find behind Arcadium but, a awesome place. I wish they had more inside seating but, given the space they have they used it effectively. read more

favor - New American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

Long time Yelper. First time reviewer. This spot is amazing in every aspect. The small chef inspired menu is impeccable. Lion's mane mushroom and cheeseburger are next level. Do yourself a favor and make a reservation. read more

Love favor! One of my favorite burgers in town and their fries are up there too. Get the curry ketchup and you will not regret! Great to-go packaging as well. read more

favor - Burger and fries - New American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

I've only ate here once so I could be judging the place too quickly, but If anything this place might be called "Favor," because you're doing them one by ordering, not yourself... I've never felt the need to leave an online restaurant review till now, so I downloaded "Yelp," just for this one... With hopeful excitement I ordered the most expensive dish on the menu that chalked up to 26 bucks before tax, which was a dressed up sweet-potato gnocchi platter. After waiting a little bit on the longer side for my order, it tasted wonderful and I could tell the ingredients were top notch quality, but the portion I received was a sad one, possibly only capable of satiating those who struggle from eating disorders... It was the size of a child's handful and the ambiance of the place was great, yet the menu was incredibly short of details necessary to understand the dishes adequately in order to choose one with confidence. Questions such as whether things were sides or entrees, what basic ingredients even were, and how many empanadas were in one order of them. Just maliciously vague enough to make everything sound appealing, yet also overwhelm you with so many dish questions that you can't decide which one to ask first, and feel it's pointless even trying to choose one, especially since there was only one worker in sight to take everybody's orders and he also happened to rush my partner and I on ours so we just figured we'd roll the dice on this one. Mind you this was also after we told him we were having trouble deciding because we were both starving and wanted to make sure we got orders that would be large enough for our appetites. Afterwards he claimed he would inform us if he felt like we wouldn't be choosing the right orders according to our stated simple goal, but we got zero feedback after our decisions and proceeded to wait in enthusiasm, just for it all to convert to disappointment once we finally got our food, because we left the restaurant with empty stomachs... Like I said, this is an expensive place too, so we were just very sad about the whole ordeal, and they make you pay for water too... The toilet paper in the bathroom was cool though!! read more

Fun menu that has a good amount of interesting choices to pick from. We tried tempura veggies and their take on poutine. We enjoyed the food and the servings were plentiful. I'll definitely go back and try some other things on the menu. read more

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Burger from burger week was pretty good, though not on the top of my list. Unfortunately we could not taste the ingredients on it that should've been vibrant and noticeable. Fries were great! Be warned, they charge a 10% "service charge" for eco friendly utensils that is mandatory. I'm not sure why this warrants a 10% fee because this is totally unheard of. I would rate higher but the 10% fee...and asking for a tip as well - is enough to not recommend. read more