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    The Obstinate Sons

    4.6 (72 reviews)
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    Roasted oysters
    Robert B.

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

    Steak Frites
    Jordan S.

    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.

    1960's Henry McKenna - 86 Proof
    John D.

    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.

    Tavern Burger
    Shadow S.

    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!

    Half dozen oysters (rotating menu)
    Ray L.

    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!

    We had such a delicious birthday celebration! We had the crème brûlée! Best everThe steak frites fantastic Service and ambiance fabulous.
    Michelle G.

    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!

    Luck be a lady and the Charleston something
    Joe H.

    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.

    Cocktail menu
    Dee H.

    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.

    Chicken Sandwich
    Presley J.

    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!

    Perry W.

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

    Mixed greens.
    Lovoria W.

    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!

    Laura A.

    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.

    Mallory R.

    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.

    Good cocktails

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    18 days ago

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

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    2 months ago

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    10 months ago

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    6 months ago

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    5 months ago

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    3 months ago

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

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    9 months ago

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    1 year ago

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    11 months ago

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    11 months ago

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    2 months ago

    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.

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    1 year ago

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    3 months ago

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

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    6 months ago

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    10 months ago

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

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    2 years ago

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    1 year ago

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

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    Ask the Community - The Obstinate Sons

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    Thirsty Fox

    Thirsty Fox

    4.5(20 reviews)
    1.4 mi

    This review is pointless I guess. They are closing as of January 1, 2026. Are they closing…read morebecause of the terrible service? Or did I get terrible service because they are closing? I sat at the bar and was ignored for about 15 minutes, even though they looked right at me. Finally one of the bartenders asked if I wanted food or drink, and I said just drinks. "I guess I can do that," he said, and then told me to move over to the other side of the bar to be closer to him (it was right by the door, so I got to experience cold rushes of air the whole time I sat there). Also during my time, a German cockroach skittered across the bar top. I thought maybe the bartender was just sullen, but he was very animated and interactive with the younger couple who came in after me. I had to flag him down for my second drink. Everything seemed like an imposition to him. The drinks were fine and well priced. But the drinks don't matter when the vibe is that bad. I got the check quickly and left.

    Really cool atmosphere. Speakeasy bar style... 3 women set up and played holiday music on violins…read more It was lovely. Very reasonably priced as well. Server and bartender were friendly. I ordered the Cuban and the Patty Melt, both with fries. The Cuban was soooo good!! The bread is grilled and crispy, buttery and amazing. The pulled pork and ham were so flavorful and perfect with the melted cheese and pickles. I would 10/10 order this again. The patty melt was also great. They also have my favorite fries (similar to McDonalds style fries). I'm sad they will be closing at the end of the month. A wonderful dinner.

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    Thirsty Fox
    Thirsty Fox - No customers, that's for sure.

    No customers, that's for sure.

    Thirsty Fox - Thursday Night Live dinner with good friends!

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    Thursday Night Live dinner with good friends!

    The Obstinate Sons - tradamerican - Updated June 2026

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