Lexington Set for a Flavorful 2025 with Numerous Restaurant Openings

Lexington is gearing up for an exciting year in dining as over a dozen new restaurants are set to launch throughout 2025. This development includes both expansions of established eateries and entirely new culinary ventures, promising a vibrant addition to the local food scene.

Among the prominent newcomers, Crust, a wood-fired pizza restaurant from renowned local restaurateur Kuni Toyoda, is making a much-anticipated return. Scheduled to open in early 2025 at 3195 Beaumont Center Circle, this relaunch reflects the city’s ongoing demand for quality dining options.

Big Kahuna Hawaiian BBQ will expand its footprint with a second location at 3101 Clays Mill, expected to open in February 2025. This new branch will introduce vegetarian and pork options while retaining beloved staples like Spam Musubi.

Chocomania, a popular chocolate shop, is set to open a second location at Fayette Mall in early 2025, just in time for Valentine’s Day. This café will feature viral treats such as the Dubai Chocolate, made with pistachios.

Jeff’s Donuts, famed for its delectable long johns and pastries, will open at 1080 S. Broadway in early 2025, complementing the late-night food scene as it plans to operate 24 hours a day.

In terms of new dining experiences, Umami Ramen will introduce an affordable Japanese fusion concept at the former McAlister’s Deli location in early 2025, while Teriyaki Madness will set up shop in the Hamburg area.

Additionally, local owner Ilias Pappas is planning an upscale Greek restaurant named Santorini at 3801 Mall Road, aiming for a March opening after construction delays.

On the more casual side, Jaggers, created by the late Texas Roadhouse founder Kent Taylor, will make its Lexington debut in the Regency Centre in the second or third quarter of 2025, featuring a menu full of made-to-order burgers and chicken dishes.

In a nod to the growing gourmet grocery trend, a new location of The Fresh Market will open in the former buybuy Baby space at 2321 Sir Barton Way by late 2025 or early 2026, joining the local culinary landscape.

These new restaurants come at a time when many dining establishments face challenges. In 2024, several favorites closed, underscoring the importance of community support for local businesses. As new options arise, residents are encouraged to patronize their existing favorites to keep them thriving.

As the Lexington dining scene continues to evolve, food enthusiasts can look forward to myriad options filling their plates in 2025.