Kentucky Native Café

4.7 ( 876 reviews )

Checking... 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM See Hours

417 E Maxwell St Unit B, Lexington, KY 40508, United States

+1 859-281-1718

Kentucky Native Café, nestled at 417 E Maxwell St in Lexington, KY, is a remarkable spot that captures the essence of outdoor dining within a serene garden setting, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Beyond its charming greenhouse surroundings, patrons rave about the vibrant atmosphere enhanced by shaded seating, ideal for a leisurely meal. The menu is a delightful blend of fresh and unique offerings, featuring standout dishes like the Bavarian Pretzels served with Chive Obatzda. Reviewers have consistently highlighted the thoughtful presentation and flavorful combinations that make each visit memorable. The café crafts a relaxing experience, where both locals and visitors can savor a range of beverages, including local brews like Dunkel Blue Stallion and an impressive selection of wines, all at reasonable prices. Many customers express fond memories of special occasions celebrated here, and the welcoming service ensures a sense of community. From the excellent food quality to the enchanting environment, Kentucky Native Café is more than a meal; it’s an experience, one that invites repeated visits and cherished moments with family and friends. Whether you savor the vibrant greenery or delight in the delicious plates, this café is a true hidden gem worth exploring.

Accessibility
- Has wheelchair-accessible car park
- Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Has wheelchair-accessible seating
- Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
- Has outdoor seating
- Serves dine-in
- No delivery
- No takeaway
Highlights
- Has fast service
- Has fireplace
- Has great beer selection
- Serves great coffee
- Has great tea selection
- Has live music
Popular for
- Popular for lunch
- Popular for dinner
- Good for solo dining
Offerings
- Serves alcohol
- Serves beer
- Serves cocktails
- Serves coffee
- Serves healthy options
- Serves late-night food
- Quick bite
- Serves small plates
- Serves spirits
- Serves vegan dishes
- Serves vegetarian dishes
- Serves wine
Dining options
- Serves brunch
- Serves lunch
- Serves dinner
- Has counter service
- Serves dessert
- Has seating
Amenities
- Has bar on site
- Has toilet
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cosy
- Quiet
- Romantic
- Trending
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family friendly
- Good for groups
- Popular with tourists
- Popular with university students
Planning
- Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
- Accepts credit cards
- Accepts debit cards
- Accepts NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs available
Parking
- Free of charge street parking
- Free parking lot
- Plenty of parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed
- Dogs allowed outside

Jon Penn

Jun 3,2025

Kentucky Native Cafe is a true gem in Lexington and holds a special place in our hearts—my wife and I had our first date here 10 years ago, and now we love bringing our kids on weekends. The garden setting is beautiful and unlike anything else in the city—tucked behind Michler’s Greenhouse, with shaded outdoor seating and a relaxed, natural vibe. The food is fresh and unique, the drinks are always cold, and the atmosphere is perfect for spring, summer, or fall. There’s really nothing else like it—an unforgettable spot for both locals and visitors

Don Palumbo

May 26,2025

Very unique experience of seating within the greenhouses. The food was very good and nicely presented on the plate; the menu also unique with creative options of appetizers and soups. Service was excellent. Definitely worth it

Jeff Church

Apr 23,2025

This place is a real hidden gem. Maps will take you to the front where you have to navigate through a greenhouse or two. Was a little confused if we were in the right place until we kept going and it opened up into a beautiful wooded outdoor cafe! The food was all amazing, you pick from three choices for a full plate for around 15. Shareable table portions are a good choice too. Absolutely stunning.

Kelli Albert

Apr 19,2025

Really enjoyed this vegan place. Went about 1pm on a Saturday, beautiful weather. Only downside was the order line took at least 20 min and some line friends mentioned their lunch rush was always a long wait. However, there were still a few open tables and food was ready quickly. Will be back!

cjw314

Mar 10,2025

Absolutely worth a visit, if not for the succinct but rather effective menu, then for an hour's worth of meeting some gorgeous new plant friends who need a forever home. Tons of varied seating, reasonable prices for tasty healthier food and select drinks. Cheery, friendly service, in an open, airy, comfy setting. Will certainly be back when next in Lexington; highly recommended.

Shainey Marcus

Mar 10,2025

This is a tiny tucked away place but so worth looking for. Come in and enjoy some ecotherapy. Surrounded by live plants you can find your happy place. Although the menu might be small, it is all freshly made, including all of the bread that is made fresh daily. Even if you aren't wanting to eat, come for a peaceful glass of wine and calming surroundings. Follow us for more great reviewsTM

PDX Hood

Feb 7,2025

Cute brunch place with good food and beer. Perfect place to rendezvous with friends be it a weekend or weekday. There is a big parking lot on E high street side of the restaurant. Google recommends E Maxwell St but that is not convenient to reach the place and hard for street parking.

JAGJIVAN SAVLA

Feb 7,2025

Wow, what a place for having our evening tea. Fully under Mother Nature' Lap. Hot piping coffee and food. Wine and Liquor also served. Self service. Food prepared in open kitchen. Seating arrangement merges with landscape; all under the open sky. The Cafe is Jointly with a Greenhouse, namely Michler’s Greenhouses which is a mecca for plant and flower garden enthusiasts. Big parking behind and small one in front.

Kentucky Native Café

Amenities and More

Photos

Reviews For Kentucky Native Café

Add a Review

Location

Appreciated by Others