What a great place! Beautiful decor, nice size, wonderful service. I highly recommend this place.

Clay, best server I've ever met in my life!! Super attentive and loved hearing the history behind the owners. We will be back a requesting clay. The pound cake is as amazing as everyone says. The cannon balls are phenomenal. We will be back! read more

Cute place, but doesn't take reservations. Our first attempt at this, there were six of us and we were going on Saturday evening - don't even try it. For two people, ok.. for 4 it's a toss up... anymore than 4 there is no way. The second attempt was a weekday and my husband and I decided to try again and we got right in. Pros: - Good service - Good bar (which included port wine on the dessert menu) - Good food - we had the bread pudding for dessert and it was great! It is good food, I got the shells and it was good, but nothing I would go out of my way to have again. Cons: - Somewhat of a small menu (both food and cocktail); I think (for me) expanding the cocktail menu would be a very feasible upgrade for this place. - It's toss up on prime time weekends how long you'll have to wait for a table since its a pretty small place read more

We had drinks and oysters. The bartender was attentive and the cocktails were fantastic. read more

The Obstinate Sons - Roasted oysters - American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

What a find!! The location is a little odd on the back of the strip, but we had such a great dinner with friends here. There's a parking lot in front of the restaurant, or a garage behind the strip on the main road by the rest of the bars and restaurants. We tried a little of everything and were not disappointed. The service was quick but well paced, the server was attentive and friendly, and the food tasted amazing. Large portion sizes, we all took food home. I recommend 3 entrees for 4 people. Our top picks: grits app, sole entree, crab cake app. Would return read more

I showed up half expecting high prices, mediocre food, and for it all to be served on anything but an actual plate, because that is what you get at a lot of trendy places. That is NOT what I got. The food is excellent. The Steak was cooked perfectly, tender, and flavorful. The truffle fries weren't overwhelmed by truffle like so many places do. And the shrimp Poboy was outstanding. Big, juicy, and not overcooked shrimp and a great roll with delicious dressing The "cannonballs" have a goofy name but are no joke. Delicious, flavorful. Cooked well, and served in a sauce that makes you want to lick the dish when you're done. The staff is great. The patio is great when the weather is right, and inside is nice (a little loud) when the outside isn't great. read more

See all

We thought we would be early enough to beat the dinner rush. Little did we know this place would be packed before 6pm. They don't take reservations and it is a relatively small place, probably 75-80 people max. When we checked in with host, he said probably a 40 minute wait but the bar was first come, first serve and they also have a standing rail between the bar and booth seats where people can hang out, as well as a small lounge area near the kitchen. We found one seat at the bar so I stood and we got our drink orders in. I had the Barrel Aged Manhattan and my wife had the Banana Fosters Old Fashioned. Both were very good. After about 15 minutes, a couple bar seats opened up so we moved to the end of the bar near the door. We canceled our seats with the host so someone else could have them. We decided to just stay at the bar area, have a couple drinks and order some appetizers. We ordered the Down-N-Gritty which is basically shrimp, andouille sausage and grits. It was spicy and delicious. The Cannon Balls were our second appetizer. They are Housemade meatballs in a mushroom cream sauce, served with garlic toast points. This dish was amazing. The bartenders were friendly and very attentive. The have a great bourbon selection, which includes a variety of vintage bottles. I tried a 1960's Henry McKenna 86 Proof. It was very smooth with a nose of chocolate and caramel. For $20, it wasn't a bad choice. We will definitely be back. read more

See all

First time at this place and WOW. What a cool spot. A friendly greeting at the door. No wait at all and was seated at a corner table. First thing I noticed was how beautifully decorated the restaurant was... Dark Academia(ish) for the win! The waitress was so helpful with sharing her favorites, top sellers, and answered any questions we had. No need to hit the food individually with descriptions. it was ALL amazing. I will note two things: pickles on the burger had some heat to them... which made them somehow some of the best pickles I've ever had (not normally a pickle fan). Also, the dessert was to die for. Will be back and highly recommend to anyone in the area to stop by! read more

See all

The Obstinate Sons is now top 2 restaurants in Lexington in my opinion! The restaurant is cozy, with a warm feel as well. Our service was great and the waiter was very attentive. There were multiple cocktails that looked appealing, and the banana foster old fashioned hit the spot! Each bite of food was delicious and packed with flavor, especially the mac and cheese and steak. Their price points on a lot of their food options is fantastic as well. All in all, a very good experience, and I am already planning to head back soon! read more

See all

Food unbeatable, ambience incredible and quaint. Our server was fantastic! We brought our own cake, but also tried the crème brûlée! Best Ive had Steak Frits delectable! read more

See all

I know I made the good choice because there wasn't an open seat in the place. Had to take advantage of the standing bar so I could watch people eat the seemingly delicious food. Cocktails were fire and I'll be back. read more

The Obstinate Sons - Luck be a lady and the Charleston something - American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

Really mixed experience. Lovely space and fabulous server. Our waiter was very attentive without being intrusive and made excellent recommendations. Cocktail menu was creative and fun with a few things I have not seen anywhere in town. Meatballs and deviled eggs were great starter choices. Was very disappointed in the salad options - iceberg lettuce only? A letdown in both taste and nutritional value. Would have also appreciated a true vegetable option that didn't include meat. Shrimp gnocchi was good but could have used a little flavor perhaps even a little spice. The charge to split plates is a bit ridiculous and should be waved when a party (especially of two) is ordering multiple apps, salads, etc. read more

See all

The Obstinate Sons is absolutely spectacular. The service is always great. The first time I went our server recommended several dishes and each time after the service has been perfect. There aren't very many tables but they have a beautiful bar for additional seating. The Maryland Crab Cakes and Shrimp Gnocchi are my personal favorites but you honestly can't go wrong. The waffle fries are totally worth the up charge. The Tavern Burger, Chicken Sandwich, Fried Shrimp Po-Boy, and Sole Piccata were all delicious! A must try restaurant in Lexington! read more

See all

Such an amazing quaint place. The food and service were excellent. Next time we're in KY we're coming back. read more

The Obstinate Sons - American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

We ordered the filet special, chicken with penne pasta and the pork chop with risotto. All were delicious, great service!

Been meaning to dine here and finally got the chance. Great decision! Food and service were excellent. The restaurant is small and I dont believe they take web based reservations, at least I couldn't find them on open table or a link on their website, anyway we arrived early evening and there was already a 30 minute wait. There are a few high tables on the sidewalk, so we opted to eat there. I was concerned that service would be slow outdoors, but not so. Server was attentive and timely. The serving sizes are generous, but enough to eat in one setting if you are hungry. The sides are extra, but 1 side feeds 2-3 people. I went indoors to restroom and it was sooo pretty and clean. I like that the long bar inside has a little space for people to stand behind the bar stools and a narrow ledge for those standing to sit drinks. Oh, the restaurant play list was sooo good, it made we want to dance. In fact, I did dance in my seat as I ate the delicious meal. We will return! read more

See all

We went for the first time on a Thursday around 5:30 and it was packed! We ended up sitting at the bar instead of waiting 45 minutes for a table. I think I counted 12 tables in total so it's a very small place. They had a few tables outside along the walkway as well. We started with deviled eggs as an appetizer. They were just ok. Oh and I tried two of their cocktails, Luck be a Lady and n adult Capri. They really packed a punch! For dinner we had the tavern burger and the shrimp gnocchi. Both were tasty, big portions. Total bill was $96 before tip so yes a little pricey. Nice atmosphere though and the staff was friendly. read more

See all

While the restaurant may be small, it sure does deliver some big flavor. I had the sole picatta and it was one of my favorite fish dishes I've had at a restaurant. Perfectly crispy but light and in a delicious sauce. My boyfriend had the stuffed shells which were also very good. The portions are decent for the prices. We also tried one of the drinks, I can't remember which one sorry, but it was good and not just your average drink you can find anywhere. The only downfall of this place is the interior - it is small and very very noisy. There's not a great spot to wait for a table. We ended up sitting outside after a table opened up but there was some confusion on if the outdoor seating was first come first serve or not. Regardless, the service was great and the food was even better. read more

See all

We tried a little bit of everything and it was a very satisfying menu. Our choices: Deviled Eggs Crab Cakes (maybe my favorite ever) Down n Gritty (spicy) Shrimp & Grits Mahi Mahi Sandwich Steak and Frites Chicken Marsala (enough for two) This is a small space and fills up fast so I recommend trying to go before 6:30 and catch Happy Hour before 6pm for a break on the cocktails. I'd give the menu items we enjoyed a 9/10 and I'll definitely be back! read more

See all

Fantastic across the board... Food, service, ambience... we will be going back many times. read more

The Obstinate Sons - Chicken livers that were phenomenal - American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

Great food and atmosphere! Really nice, speakeasy vibe kind of place. We got crab cakes for starters, then chicken Marsala and Manaws stuffed shells. The Moscow mule was delicious as well, oh and happy hour is 4pm-6pm ($2 dollars off) any alcohol drinks. Do wish they served bread and some type of salad choice like a Caesar salad, but everything was good, no complaints. read more

See all

Food was very good! We did not feel that our server was attentive to our needs he just did what was expected and nothing more.

Delicious food, attentive service, and a relaxed cozy bar setting. Drinks and cuisine never disappoints. read more

See all

My favorite restaurant in Lexington. Chef Cannon is amazing. I love his food. The Chicken Marsala has prosciutto in it and it is my favorite! I can't go there without starting with the best meatballs that I have ever had! He calls them "Cannonballs" -what an appropriate name! Love this place, it's always worth the wait! read more

See all

This is basically everything I want in a restaurant meal. Service: CC was great. Food was paced quickly but not rushed. Drinks: good mix of cocktail options and amazing whiskey selection. Food: flavorful, appropriate seasoning, high quality ingredients and even some actual heat on the "spicy" dishes. Atmosphere: Intimate and lively at the same time. Will 100% return and recommend to others. read more

Visited on a busy Saturday evening but we were lucky enough to avoid a wait by eating on their patio. The ambiance is casual but refined. Our service was good for a bustling evening and the food yummy. read more

See all

So many delicious choices! We started with Special Roasted Oysters and Deviled eggs and both were amazing! Also had Down n Gritty Shrimp and meatballs! This was plenty for 2. I ended up with house salad and husband ordered Coconut pies which he said was wonderful! Also had couple Old fashions so good made with Wild Turkey. Our server was attentive at just the right time! No complaints here! I do prefer a Caesar salad though. read more

Food was good, neat atmosphere, but very small and loud. I won't go back, but it was ok.

I cannot say enough good things about this place. The food is incredible, we had the oysters, cannon balls, and deviled eggs. Lovely ambiance, very cozy! read more

The Obstinate Sons - Oysters, deviled eggs, and the cannon balls! - American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

Excellent cocktails. Service was quick and friendly. Cute little space. Crab cakes were outstanding

Hidden Gem! Service was wonderful. Sever very attentive. Ambiance is perfect for couples...dimly lit. Enjoyed my beverage: Charleston Karma. Fits my preference of a sweet cocktail. Please do not leave without trying the MEATBALLS!! We loved them. My husband chose the Mahi Mahi Sandwich, he felt it lacked seasoning. All of the seasoning was on my dish: Porkchop & Risotto...very tasty and huge chunk of pork. Delectable!! Will come back again to try other menu options, but will have to have the MEATBALLS again and again!!! read more

See all

My first experience here was not the best, mainly because I ordered collard greens accidentally and tried to choke them down( and still hate them),tainting the taste of the rest of my meal. But we went again and were blown away by the great food and service. Will definitely be going here more often! read more

Little place for eats in Lexington that had very good food. Service was good especially on a Saturday evening. Parking on site. Seating outside as well. read more

The Obstinate Sons - American Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

See all

We have dined here several times, and each experience has been fantastic! Everything, from the food and drinks to the service, is excellent! It can get a bit loud, especially when the UK is on television. read more

Great service, but I honestly found both the food and my cocktail to be mediocre, as did two others in my party. I think this is a good option if you live in the neighborhood as they are very nice. read more

If you are a bourbon lover looking for a nice place to dine and decompress after a long day, this is a great fit for you. My friend and I entered and seated ourselves in which we were immediately met with a friendly server handing us menus and recommendations. The aesthetic is rustic, cozy and perfect for dinner time. The food came out perfect. I wasn't expecting to like the sauce on the chicken sandwich but it was great. The Charleston Karma is a MUST HAVE. The staff were so charismatic and helpful; I'll definitely be back! read more

See all

Everything was amazing!!! The deviled eggs, crab cakes and meatballs were all delicious! We would highly recommend this place.

If I could give this place 10 starts I would. It's so hard to find a decent place to eat with great service nowadays. Everything from the cozy vibe, the great service, and the insanely good food made us so happy to have chosen this place while on a trip. It's pretty hard to impress my husband and he has talked about their deviled eggs (an appetizer we ordered) multiple times. I also made sure to text friends that frequent Lexington to let them know that they must go here. We can't wait to go back!! read more

We called before arriving on a Friday night to get an idea of waiting. They do not take reservations. They said 40 minutes. We arrived a few minutes later and didn't know where to check in and request a table. That was my only grumble. We stood around for 5-10 minutes waiting to be acknowledged. The restaurant is fairly small with 7 or 8 tables and a long bar. We finally put our name down and requested a table. The waiter accommodated us, and it was maybe a 10 min wait, not 40. The volume level is loud, so be prepared. This is the place to eat food and have a great time, not have an intimate dinner. They serve coke products and have a great cocktail list, as well as wine and beer. The deviled eggs are a different theme every night, as well as the flatbread and oysters. The staff was so nice and welcoming. We ordered the shrimp and grits and the meatballs as starters. For entrees, I did french onion soup, and my husband did the burger. We finished with a seared pound cake for dessert. The food came piping hot and fresh. The meatballs were tender and flavorful. The creamy mushroom sauce had a wonderful hint of garlic and herbs. The sauce was a bit salty, but it was excellent on the toasted bread that came with it. The shrimp and grits could be a meal on its own. The shrimp were fat and cooked to perfection. The sauce had a heavy tobasco sauce flavor and heat. It was a wonderful mixture, yet stay away if you can't handle a lick of spice. The French onion soup was amazing. The cheese was not skimped! It was so good, and the onions had cooked down perfectly in a robust broth. I wish the bread was a little thicker under the cheese, but overall, a repeat dish for me! The burger was juicy and seasoned. The fries were waffle fries and seasoned as well. The seared pound cake was extremely rich. It was sugar-coated, I believe, and had a lovely sear. The flavor was a strong kick to the taste buds after eating such savory foods. It was delicious, but I was too full to enjoy more than just a couple of bites. Overall, it was a great experience. I recommend the restaurant have a sign clearly visible on where to go to request a table. We will be back. I must have that soup again before it gets unbearably hot outside. read more

See all

Yelp: what went well? My opinion of Obstinate Sons: literally everything! The drinks and food were delicious! The service was some of the best I've had in quite a while! Brynn was our sever and she just knocked it out of the park! The restaurant is gorgeous! Perfect for date night or girls night! Get the devils eggs and Bananas Foster Old Fashioned! read more

See all