Kentucky’s best restaurant for a cheap meal is located in Lexington and known for tamales
It turns out, one of most highly rated spots in the country for cheap eats — and the best in Kentucky — is a Lexington establishment you probably pass often while driving on New Circle Road.
Farm Market, a Mexican restaurant located at 1079 East New Circle Road, is the top-rated cheap eat spot in the Bluegrass State, according to Yelp reviews compiled by CashNetUSA.
The online lender identified the most highly rated places for low-cost food in each state and 15 major cities. In Kentucky, that’s Farm Market, which offers authentic tamales, ceviche, tacos and more from an unassuming spot on the busy road.
If the name isn’t ringing any bells, you may know it from its sign that boasts of “The Best Tamales in Town” in big, curly letters.
What makes Farm Market a top spot for cheap eats?
Most people come for the tamales, either pork, chicken or beef, though all varieties come heaped with generous portions of cheese and salsa. Reviewers also like the guacamole, corn tortillas, rice and mole beans.
Farm Market’s prices generally range between $10 to $20. You can get four tacos for $16, for example.
Farm Market wasn’t immediately available to comment.
According to hours listed on Farm Market’s website, it’s open Monday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and closed Sunday. Call ahead to 859-317-9125 before you make the trip or if you need to place a carry out order.
Farm Market isn’t the only Lexington restaurant to garner Yelp review acclaim. Dad’s Favorites Deli was the top-rated restaurant in Kentucky on Yelp last year, and was rated one of the 10 highest-rated independent restaurants in the country this spring.
Best cheap eats by state
Here’s a quick look at the restaurants in states near Kentucky that got a mention:
- Illinois: Jack’s Bagels and Deli
- Indiana: Don Juan V’Sandwiches
- Ohio: Stoney’s Munchie Bar
- Tennessee: Nashville Coffee’s
- Virginia: J&K Style Grill
- West Virginia: Midway West Drive-In
Do you have a question about life in Kentucky for our service journalism team? Send us an email at ask@herald-leader.com or fill out our Know Your Kentucky form.