Had the walleye, tasted great. Honestly, the green beans were the best I've ever had. Nice chill atmosphere with good cocktails

I've been here twice now and both times had the lamb chop, which was phenomenal. Also, if you're going to get an appetizer, I highly recommend the shrimp. Both times I also had a very friendly and very knowledgeable waitress that made the experience even better than it already was. I will definitely be coming back. read more

Horrible service. I got here at 5:45. It is now 7:45 and I just got my GRILLED CHEESE. It's not even that busy. Food is good though.

My fiancé and I went this past Friday, and we loved it. Our wait was about 30 minutes, we sat at the bar and had a drink before being taken to our table. I don't remember our servers name, but he told us he had been there for years, and was also a manager there. He was well versed in the specials and recommended the prime rib, and it was amazing. The bread was delicious, and the service was awesome. We definitely would love to come back. read more

Merrick Inn - Prime Rib, cooked Medium Rare in Au Jus - New American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

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Pure tradition and excellence! Southern specialities supremely prepared. The ambiance is fabulous and if you are looking for Kentucky tradition, look no further. The menu, while true to Kentucky traditions of fried chicken and beer cheese features specials that are creative and innovative. Tonight, I had a lightly Parmesan crusted grouper finished in a lemon beurre blanc that was wonderful. Impeccable service, and options to be seated in one of the dining rooms or in the bar or patio make for a meal steeped in all the best southern traditions. I appreciate the linen tablecloths, fresh flowers, candlelight, real butter and basket of rolls. It's how a fine dinner should be done! read more

We had heard this traditional restaurant with a long history is the place to eat. Parking is horrendous. We arrived early and seated at bar - bartenders friendly and great mixed drinks and reasonable selection of by the glass wines. We were seated and introduced to our waitress who was nice. However, after she took drink order disappeared for at least 12 minutes without bringing water. We noticed she brought other tables bread but we didn't get bread. Once returned with our wine she took our order. Place was busy and took about 40 minutes to get the main entrees. Our salads were brought out later than sooner but good - where else can you be er a historic classic green goddess salad. Our waitress did not attend to us to fill water and somehow messed up the bill. Again I think waitstaff needs to learn to be attentive be situational aware and listen to the customers. But for the important review - the food. i had fried chicken and wife had penne pasta with shrimp - both were wonderful. The side dishes of cut French style green beans needs help - don't recommend. The stewed tomatoes were a ratatouille moment for me as they were the best I have had since my mom made them. Wine prices reasonable and atmosphere is fun. Just train the wait staff to be attentive as she over charges on bill as she didn't properly listen to customer. read more

Jillian our server made the experience at the Merrick Inn wonderful. Super friendly and had great food option suggestion. I had the pecan crusted pork tenderloin which was out of the world. It is a favorite our server said and I would definitely get that entree again. I had the soup, shrimp bisque, small cup but flavors were good. My husband got the the ribeye with mushrooms, he said it was cooked perfect and the mushrooms were delicious. The bourbon selection was outstanding and reasonable. Only complainant is that it was uncomfortable warm in the room we had dinner. It won't stop us from coming back. read more

I met for a year end celebration with my family (13 of us). they seated us in the private dinningeoom upstairs. it was quiet so we could chat and the wait staff were very nice. The Merrick Inn had a fried chicken special - with 2 pieces of chicken and two sides (as opposed to the full dinner on the menu of 4 pcs). it was very good- reminded me of my mom's fried chicken when I was a little girl. the mashed potatoes and cream gravy were amazing too. on my next visit (there WILL be another visit), I will try the hot brown. when walking through the dinningroom, it was huge and loaded with morney sauce- just as it should be. which also ordered a selection of desserts and EVERYTHING was delicious. But the peanut butter pie was over the top - and I don't even like peanut butter pies! the only negative I can say is the staff was not very attentive and we had to ask for water multiple times when we could find our waitress. but we were the only ones upstairs and it was a busy night. I will definitely be back! read more

Easily my favorite restaurant in Lexington. Delicious food, great intimate setting, friendliest & most personable staff. Absolutely have to try the pecan crusted pork tenderloin! Definitely going to miss this place when I move! read more

Merrick Inn - Pecan Crusted Pork Tenderloin - New American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

The best steak I've ever had. And I'm a meat eater 100% I got the dry aged NY strip medium rare with asparagus and new potato casserole. For 2 my bill was 101$ not including tip. But well worth it. Service was outstanding read more

Merrick Inn - Didn't like the whip cream on top. Seemed like it was carbonated for some reason - New American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

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I have never had bad food here, this place is a must for everyone, had to make reservations, and you have wait outside til your table is ready, you have wear a mask going to your table, but once you're there then relax, drinks were made perfectly, food came out perfect. The environment was good although all the staff were wearing a mask , got to be safe, staff was very friendly. Can't wait to go back. read more

I thoroughly enjoy this place!! Love sitting outside on the patio and enjoying drinks and dinner. The ambiance is very chill. Spent our anniversary there last week. Started with our favorite app the Crab Lobster Nachos. They are the BEST!! Also try the grouper fingers...my absolute favorite! Great place to bring people from out of town! Always going to get a great meal read more

Merrick Inn - New American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

Merrick Inn is always a great experience and great food. On my wife's birthday a week ago, our babysitter called in sick. We decided to try taking our 4-year old out for a nice dinner, so we booked a table for three at Merrick Inn. I wasn't sure how this was going to work out, but we went for it. We arrived and were seated at a table next to the fireplace. My daughter loved sitting by the fire. We had no idea how the menu or experience would work for a kid there. As it turns out, they were very prepared and welcoming to the whole family. A new coloring book and full set of crayons were brought out. There is a kids menu there with typical kids foods, dressed up a bit. $5! This allowed us to relax, truly. My wife ordered a lobster tail, split and broiled. She loved it. I had a shrimp and grits special, which was spectacular, with giant fresh shrimp. All, with two glasses of wine, came to about $82 before tip. Excellent value for truly fine dining. One facet that always sets Merrick apart, though, is the service. Our server, Amy, was absolutely one of the finest servers we've encountered anywhere. Charming, anticipated every need, accomodating...just brilliant. I rarely go on and on about service; great service makes it easy. This wasn't just "easy," it was comforting and uplifting. We go to Merrick Inn once or twice a year for special occasions, and they never fail to make everything great. read more

Always classy and delicious with a knockout outdoor patio & bar near the pool! Outdoor dining during Covid is a must at this Lexington staple! read more

If you love fried chicken come here. It's amazing like grandma makes good. Merrick Inn is great Southern food and service. This is probably a family run business. The servers all worked well together and everyone was friendly and attentive as if they were well treated. When I called for reservations the hostesses was friendly. OpenTable showed them book. The call got our party of 6 in no problem. They have flawless valet service. The food has great flavor and was cooked perfectly. The sides were fresh indicating this is just top notch dining. The mixed drinks we're well made. This is great southern comfort food. I'll be back! read more

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This place was hopping on a Friday night when my mom and I were in town! We wanted reservations to be around 6-7p, but it was slammed until 8:30pm! We thought this was a good sign, and it was. There's a reason young and old patrons enjoy this spot. With a bar, patio, tv's, but also tables that sit in rooms with less bustle and a more romantic feel, it is a versatile place. The restaurant itself has an interesting history that you can read about on the back of the menu. Staff is warm and friendly. Plenty of choices. Mom and I shared the friend banana peppers (a Lexington classic per the description). They were good and reminded me of friend pickles. I had almond crusted chicken and so did she, but we each got different sides. Although the chicken was good, it was not great. A bit bland until I drenched it in the sauce it's served with. The sides, however, were excellent! Broccoli casserole, corn pudding, their homemade vinaigrette, and the greens, too, ALL were quite tasty! Portions are quite generous, too! We each got TWO breasts. And we each took one home. Overall, an enjoyable evening. I would certainly recommend this spot. read more

Merrick Inn - Almond crusted chicken-- a little bland, but once you add the sauce to each bite, YUM! - New American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

Another excellent meal at Merrick this week. Good service and excellent tastes in our steak, pork chop, and veggies. Still expensive as expected. read more

Food is mediocre at best, way better places to go for the prices that they have, but nice establishment good service

Merrick Inn was delicious! My family and I went there for our annual Christmas dinner. We got the muscles & crab/lobster nachos to start. They were both amazing! I had the fish special and it was amazing. The steaks were to die for, the salmon tender, & the lamb chops were exceptional. The serves was exemplary! Our waitress Kristin went above and beyond to meet our needs. It was a great night. read more

When my husband and I were planning our trip to Kentucky, one of the first things we searched for was "best fried chicken in Kentucky". Fried chicken is one of my favorite foods in the US and the southern states usually do it right, so I couldn't pass up the opportunity. The Internet is all abuzz about the Merrick Inn's fried chicken, and for all the right reasons. But let me tell you about the atmosphere and appetizers first. Merrick Inn has a cool, classy décor, yet flexible enough to be accessible and genuine. We ordered the "Southern Delights" (fried green tomatoes topped with pork belly and cheese) appetizer, which was so rich and flavorful! We enjoyed it a lot. I had the Shotgun Wedding beer by Country Boy brewing, a lovely choice. Then the salad with champagne vinaigrette, fresh garlicky ciabatta rolls and then finally the chicken, which is served with a cheesy broccoli casserole and honey. Mm! The first bites into the chicken was fabulous. It seems like it's their own homemade breading, not too salty, with enough flavor though not as much as to overpower the flavor of the moist, perfectly cooked chicken. It certainly lives up to the hype and if you are looking for good fried chicken, you can't miss the Merrick Inn. The portions are generous, so the 2-piece should be more than enough. I won't blame you if you get the 4-piece and bask in its deliciousness. Writing this review and thinking about that chicken makes my mouth water. An excellent experience overall, a bit pricey though. The photo I managed to get doesn't do justice. read more

Yum!!! I really like the champagne salad dressing lols,also the outside area is dope... lots of fires, heat lamps, lights, and ambiance. Live music and mood lighting and fancy food. Our server was really nice too! Would recommend, beware that most if the food is pricey though, but there are options if you are on a budget. read more

Merrick Inn - New American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

Food and service was very good, but a little pricey! Grouper dishes great, fried chicken was good but not outstanding, and hot brown good. Probably a one and done for the price but worth one visit read more

We were very excited to go here as my aunt had been going for many years and always raves about this place. She had not been here in about 5 years so we took her for a special birthday celebration. We started with the fried peppers as an appetizer. The peppers were over fried and rock hard. I told the waiter and he apologized and then sent over a manager. The manager came over and said I heard you weren't happy with the appetizer but noticed that 4 of the 6 were eaten.. My sister said that was because we each had one and then I tried another one that was bigger in the hopes it was better. He then said he would take it off our bill but was not nice about it. I ordered the Açaí bowl with the pastry of the day. The pastry was an obviousLu old croissant that had been microwaved. When I bit in to it, the croissant was so rubbery it would not break off. My sister got the grouper fingers which were very small strips that looked like clam strips and not good. My aunt got the Belgium waffle which she said was nothing special. Our waiter was nice but not very attentive. We had to wave him over and ask him to clear the plates. Also when I made the reservation they asked if it was a special occasion and I said yes, a birthday. The hostess acknowledged it when we got there but nothing else was said. We were afraid to order dessert after the terrible meal so maybe that is why. My aunt said it must be new owners because the food use to be good.. We will never go here again. read more

Great time on the patio. Took my mom for her birthday and it was amazing. Service was great and the food and drinks were great also.

We are visiting Lexington from Illinois and found this place on trip avisor. We made reservations for four for Saturday night on the same Saturday. We got right in and were seated in one on the several small rooms. The waiter and overall service and experience was excellent. We first shared the fried green tomatoes appitizer which was great. The soups and salads came next and were fresh and flavourful. All of the main courses of halibut, salmon and drenched pork chow were delicious and an appropriate size. The bread pudding for desert was rich and gooey. The main draw back was that is crowded and noisy but not enough to distract from a great dinner. read more

We went there for our friend's 80th birthday tonight. Party of 4. I asked for a quiet place to sit; was given a table right beside a huge party. Our server must have been one of the new "don't go above expectations at your job" bunch. Never did she offer refills; we had to ask each time. She barely checked on us at all and our food was really slow to come. Mine was fish and it was served lukewarm. The kicker was the fact that Merrick, although charging $160.00 for a meal for four people, which included only two drinks, there was no birthday dessert offered. Oh, no; they would "decorate a plate" while we paid for the dessert. This is absolutely the only restaurant I've ever eaten in that at didn't offer at least a small slice of cake or ice cream for the birthday person. The food was o.k., but between the server's "snitty" attitude and the lack of a birthday treat, this will be my fifth and last trip to this restaurant. It's overpriced , slow, hard to find parking (we did use the valet however) and the service is poor. read more

Heard great things. We got the beer cheese appetizer, which was fantastic. Our manhattans were nothing special. I got a spinach salad. It was too sweet, but that's on me for not getting the dressing on the side. I got the fried oysters (normally an app) as an entree. My lady got the fried chicken. Both were OK. I'll be back for the beer cheese, but probably not much else. Five stars for service, ambiance, and beer cheese. Two stars for everything else. read more

My family and I went today for a nice evening sitting on the patio of Merrick Inn, Food: first my son got delivered the wrong burger but then the waiter came and realized the error without us telling and fixed it: Chicken was very good yet sides came later. Tuna was a little bit tough. Barrel burger was really good and so were fries: Peanut butter pie was fulfilling: Bourbon slushi was great ! Overall a nice evening and somewhere between 3 and 4 stars. Would recommend and come again. read more

Outstanding meal. Both of us had the Walleye and it was fantastic. We sat in the back bar and enjoyed the atmosphere. This is one of my favorite stops when I come to Lexington. The food is always top notch and the staff is always pleasant. Love the ease of the valet parking too. You will not be disappointed. read more

Came in tonight on a first date. Had the halibut special with broccoli that was amazing. Old fashioned was also amazing. Sarah, waitress, was so attentive and friendly. The patio is gorgeous and I think this have one of the top experiences I've had in Lexington. I would most def recommend this place to anyone. read more

Poor service and cold food. This place was recommended as a Lexington landmark but was severely lacking in every area. Our waitress was slow to greet us, didn't come back for quite a while to take our order, didn't offer the specials until we had ordered, didn't refill water glasses or refresh drinks. She told us that she knew the service was bad and said it was OK to give a 1 star review. She couldn't have care less about our experience or representing the establishment. read more

A couple of friends and I had the pleasure of dining here last night. We had a reservation for 12 and even though a few of us were early we were all promptly seated. Parking as a whole in this area is a nightmare but they do offer free valet. The valet guys were pretty charming and gave us some quick insights on their favorite menu options. The entrance to the restaurant is beautiful. But unless there is a side entrance it didn't seem very handicap accessible. Walking in the decor is that of a well kept and high class bed and breakfast. Our party had a private room that was placed within a bedroom that was decorated with art and a beautiful table. Our server was a lady named Rachel who was quite a delight. She always got our drinks out promptly and made sure to check in on us. Our food took a very long time to come out but we are a large group so it was understandable. Most of our table ordered their famous fried chicken and let me tell you, they don't call it the best in Lexington for nothing. One of the best I've ever had, and I've lived a majority of my life in the Deep South. My partner got their filet and he told me it was heaven on a plate. The only real let down was the side dishes. They were all a bit sub par in comparison to the entrees. I got the fries, the side salad and the green beans. The side salad was light and fresh but the fries and green beans were something I'd expect from a chain restaurant quality. But back to that chicken. Yum. Just delicious. That alone is all the reason to come back. But the upscale environment without being snooty and pleasant staff including the delicious entrees proves why this place is a staple and favorite with so many here in Lex. read more

We were referred to this restaurant and couldn't be happier. The ambiance is wonderful. Small, intimate rooms but not crowded. Service was exceptional. Food was incredible. Crusted pork tenderloin was phenomenal. Perfect season and the peach compote was superb. Must try the fried green tomatoes. The only less than stellar dish was the Hot Brown. Way too much Mornay sauce and the strongest cheese I've ever tasted in a sauce. The salad dressings, cucumber and blue cheese were very good. We will definitely be back on our next visit to Lexington. read more

The Merrick inn is really nice go. Close to work and home. Good food and is really good.

Merrick Inn is my favorite summer spot, I enjoy the big patio on a nice night. You really can't go wrong with anything on the menu-I try to get something different each time. Tonight I got the crusted grouper with risotto, it was so good! I got a salad to start, they do drown the salads with dressing so beware before it comes out. There's a fun drink menu-I got the pineapple martini and it was delicious! I highly recommend Merrick-it's a classic Kentucky dining experience. read more

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I always get their 16oz New York Strip, medium, blackened with heavy spice and I think it's the best steak in Lex. I'm always on the look out for a good steak though. If you have suggestions besides Nick R's and Malone's for great steaks, please let me know. I do not believe Malones or Nick Ryan's dry ages their steaks. From a texture perspective Merrick's NY Strip sure seems that way. My wife love's their grouper fingers. We get them every time. Pro Tip, their same-day availability is almost always full but unless it's a game night, there's almost always space in the bar with nice tables with room for 4 or more. If it's a game night, don't bother with reservations, just show up before 5:30 and you'll be often guaranteed a spot in the bar area. read more

As good as it gets in Lexington, KY. Just simply love this place.

We were passing thru on way to Asheville from Chicago & liked reviews for Merrick Inn(thx yelp) Just a wonderful experience! Fried chicken as good as any I've had but I ordered the stuffed grouper & sonova..... it was good! All sides outstanding. Staff extremely friendly & helpful .Asked me " do you like bourbon? well yes I do. They hand me a list of god knows how many choices. I asked for recommendation expert comes out & gives me the low down. Decided on a 4 roses flight. Wow....thats some tasty um... stuff Tina took real good care of us! read more

Merrick Inn - Charming much? - New American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

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Saturday Night Breeders Cup weekend - where else to go but the Historic Merrick Inn.. Up the road to an old home now a dining establishment reminded me of White Christmas when Bing Crosby's builds an Inn up on a farm. .. Valet parking complimentary up the walkway into the home greeted by Manager Alex and two lovely southern ladies who took care of our area all night Morgan and Oh I'm so sorry can't remember the other. .. Place is made up of Two Rooms on either side of the entrance original rooms I'm told as well as Bar in the back and several private dining rooms upstairs as well. Really quaint southern charm place. Seated in room the right next to NBC Commentators from the Breeders cup Jerry Bailey and Randy Moss - very nice gentlemen. Room had nice fireplace and just a charming feel to it. Provided with complimentary Pimento cheese spread, Ham Salad Spread, Beer Cheese Spread, Fried banana peppers, and various crackers and pretzels. Also hot fresh baked rolls and whipped butter followed. All of the 1st items were excellent. Another preset menu tonight with some add on options of appetizers if you choose. Wine list was very reasonable. Wine poured and from the NOT preset menu a Crab Cake was ordered this was absolutely an 11 with fresh lump crab meat inside a lightly battered, lightly fried then topped with a special house sauce really outstanding. On to the preset menu where A Blue Cheese wedge salad with crumbled blue cheese wet blue cheese and chives and bacon were presented. Very cold and tasty. Mi Amigo had the Cesar salad which he stated was excellent Twin Lobster Tails Thermador were tails easily removed from the shell with special house butter sauce ... Maine lobster and fresh and tasty. I went with the house special NY Strip 16 OZ with fried onions... Really top shelf but had to go back for undercooking... Sides: recommended house Bred corn pudding which was a version of creamed corn with breading type stuffing underneath. WOW Steak Fries ordered - came out LATE 1/2 meal was done but more importantly they weren't steak fries but crinkle cut fries ... A little disappointed there. Other was a backed potato served Foil on haven't seen that in forever but standard with plenty of sides to douse it. Strawberry short cake or break pudding deserts were included and although we were stuffed tasted a bit of each just to pass judgment. Both were OK ... All and all an charming place with excellent food and service.. Definitely recommend if you are in the area. read more

Had a wonderful dinner here after the track. The service was friendly and inviting. Food was good and prepared perfectly. Prices were not prohibitive and you did get value for what you paid. Have been here before and this was the first time I brought my wife. We both will come again when in Lexington, KY. The restaurant is hidden away in a residential/apartment community at the top of a hill. If you don't want to do the valet parking, there is a lot behind the building that you should be away of. read more