Wanted: Ethnic Food Suggestions for Lexington, KY

[vadouvan]

My work is taking me to Lexington for a long weekend in a few days. I've been there several times before, but I feel mostly clueless as to ethnic food availability. I really like Banana Leaf near UK, but I'd like to know if there are other Asian or other ethnic places that are worth going to. I don't care about ambiance, location (as long as it's within 20ish minutes of the UK area), or price; anything authentic, whether hole-in-the-wall or expensive sushi, would be fantastic. Help me exceed my low expectations!

[cimui]

any recent thoughts on natasha's cafe? i haven't been there for many, many a year, but i seem to recall them serving a good, authentic borscht and hungarian goulash.

[starfieldroad]

Panda Cuisine is the most authentic Chinese we've found in the area: http://www.pandaky.com/

Because there is a nearby Toyota facility there are many Japanese / sushi options. We like Nagasaki for quick, reasonable sushi. There are others...

Some Lexington locations will be discussed in the forums on the Louisville focused Hot Bytes blog: http://www.louisvillehotbytes.com/

[CaptTrim]

The good news is that pretty much everything is within 20 minutes of UK in Lexington, so that won't be a problem. The bad news is that when it comes to Ethnic food, I find that Lexington leaves a lot to be desired. Having said that, here's a few places that may not disappoint:

Tomo
[phone]
848 E High St
(less than 1 mile from campus)

I have friends that do business in Japan that say this is the most Authentic Japanese Cuisine in Lexington. I have had mostly good experiences there and would recommed it.

Hunan Chinese Restaurant
859) 278-3811
115 Southland Dr
(less than 1 mile from campus)

Authentic Chinese, uh no, but my wife and I like the (lack of) atmosphere and the General Tso's chicken is the best in Lexington. The pot stickers are a great way to start as well.

Planet Thai
[phone]
2417 Nicholasville Rd # 2
(a mile or so from campus, maybe 2)

The food is just good. Not great, but certainly not something I wouldn't recommend. If you like spicy food, order it hotter than you would normally.

May I also suggest:

Billy's BBQ
101 Cochran Rd
[phone]
(less than 1 mile from campus)

I know this doesn't fit your request, but as Lexington BBQ goes, Billy's has great pulled pork, tasty sides, and their fried pickles are excellent.

Sorry I noticed this post late. I could probably think of a few more places given a little more time. As it is, hope you enjoy Lexington.

[vadouvan]

Thanks! This is definitely helpful. I'll report back early next week. And the BBQ suggestion is much appreciated as well.