Lexington is buzzing about DV8 Kitchen’s latest culinary creation: puzzle-piece-shaped tater tots. This innovative side dish is being crowned the best in the area due to its unique shape and flavorful coating. Co-owner Rob Perez describes the tater tots as the result of a “happy mistake” that has turned into a customer favorite since the restaurant opened in 2017.
DV8 Kitchen, located at 867 S Broadway #140 and 594 E Third St. #100, was founded with the aim of providing second-chance employment opportunities for individuals in recovery from substance abuse. Initially, the restaurant did not include tater tots on its menu. However, after a test day when the kitchen ran out of regular tots, DV8 began serving the unique “puzzle potatoes” that a food distributor had introduced.
The distinct shape — reminiscent of Tetris pieces from the classic video game — offers more edges than traditional tater tots. This feature leads to a texture that is both soft in the middle and crispy on the outside, much to the delight of diners. “The unusual shape gives them more edges,” Perez explained. “I think that’s what people like.”
Guests enjoy not only the taste but also the playful aspect of the tater tots. Many diners find themselves “playing with their food”, trying to create letters or shapes before indulging in the flavorful dish. The tots are seasoned with DV8 Spice, a blend of eleven spices, including garlic and smoked paprika, which adds a sweet and salty kick.
The popularity of these Tetris tots has led to their inclusion in three menu items, including the DV Ocho and Breakfast Burrito. They occasionally feature in special dishes, such as a Thanksgiving hash plate, complementing popular sandwiches like the orange marmalade chicken.
A testament to the dish’s appeal is Perez’s observation that no one has ever claimed to have seen similar tater tots elsewhere. The engaging dining experience invites customers to savor not only the flavors but the fun concepts behind each plate.
DV8 Kitchen operates from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekends, making it a perfect breakfast or lunch stop for those looking to dive into Lexington’s culinary scene. For those interested in experiencing the unique tater tots that have captured the community’s attention, the restaurant’s online menu is available for reference.
