Corto Lima
Corto Lima offers an eclectic take on Latin cuisine, from unique tacos to phenomenal margaritas, in a cozy and vibrant downtown setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Corto Lima
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Corto Lima offers an eclectic take on Latin cuisine, from unique tacos to phenomenal margaritas, in a cozy and vibrant downtown setting.
"This place knows how to do Mexican food in a way that will surprise it's guests! [^M9]"
Try Unique Tacos
Don't miss falafel or Peruvian chicken tacos for a creative departure from traditional flavors.
Savor Specialty Cocktails
Explore unique margaritas like pomegranate and dragon fruit for a refreshing taste.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Latin-Inspired
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Phenomenal Margaritas & Agave Menu
Renowned for their margaritas, featuring unique flavors like pomegranate and dragon fruit. Extensive tequila and Mezcal selection.
Eclectic Latin-Inspired Small Plates
Imaginative dishes like falafel tacos, Peruvian chicken, and shrimp ceviche offer a unique twist on Latin American flavors.
Vibrant & Cozy Atmosphere
A charming space with rustic touches and a lively bar, perfect for date nights or group outings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Try Unique Tacos
Don't miss falafel or Peruvian chicken tacos for a creative departure from traditional flavors.
Savor Specialty Cocktails
Explore unique margaritas like pomegranate and dragon fruit for a refreshing taste.
Ask for Recommendations
Staff like John are known for knowledgeable service and can tailor recommendations.
Consider Reservations
The place can get busy, especially on weekends; reservations are recommended.
Tips
from all over the internet
Try Unique Tacos
Don't miss falafel or Peruvian chicken tacos for a creative departure from traditional flavors.
Savor Specialty Cocktails
Explore unique margaritas like pomegranate and dragon fruit for a refreshing taste.
Ask for Recommendations
Staff like John are known for knowledgeable service and can tailor recommendations.
Consider Reservations
The place can get busy, especially on weekends; reservations are recommended.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Corto Lima is praised for its creative Latin-inspired cuisine and exceptional margaritas, offering a vibrant dining experience. While many highlight the unique flavors and lively atmosphere, some note that the dishes can be on the pricier side for the portion sizes. The service is generally very good, with attentive staff often singled out for their recommendations and friendliness.
"Great spot for a quick meal. Easy options to choose. I excellent blend of Latin flavors and a fresh atmosphere. Only been once but looking forward to another visit."
Joseph Shoemate
"If you're looking for a good taco place look no further! My husband and I came here for an early dinner around 5:30 pm on a Friday and didn't have to wait for a table inside. There are also some tables outside.
They're known for their margaritas, and I got the watermelon one on the rocks. It was delicious! We got the queso without chorizo. It was nice and thick! It could have used a little more flavor though. The chips were good but a little salty.
I got smoked pork tacos which were very tasty. I got the honey jalapeno salsa on the side, which I was glad I did because it was a little hot for me. They put a lot of meat on the tacos, so I think you're getting a good deal for the price. I would come back here again!"
Jessica Keane
"Delightfully filling Saturday brunch breakfast burrito stuffed with chorizo, egg, and potatoes. Grace was a wonderful waitress."
Michael Folio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Guests rave about the margaritas, falafel tacos, Peruvian chicken, and shrimp ceviche.
Yes, Corto Lima is noted for having many gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
Yes, its charming atmosphere and creative small plates make it a great spot for date nights.
They are famous for their margaritas and have an extensive tequila and Mezcal menu.
The price is generally considered mid-range, though some reviewers note it can be on the pricier side for portions.
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, as the restaurant can get busy.
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Welcome to Corto Lima, a vibrant culinary gem nestled in the heart of downtown Lexington, Kentucky. Located at 101 W Short St, Corto Lima stands out as a go-to destination for those craving authentic Mexican flavors with a twist. Esteemed for its mouthwatering dishes and tantalizing margaritas, this enchanting eatery offers an experience that resonates with both locals and visitors alike.
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If you or your date are looking for gluten free, vegetarian or vegan options, Corto Lima has more to choose from than most. An extensive tequila and Mezcal menu for any agave lovers will keep things light. Share the blue corn empanadas with banana pepper pineapple sauce, or fresh house made tortilla chips with guacamole, salsa trio, queso or black bean dip over a phenomenal margarita.
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Enjoy traditional Latin cuisine and unique dishes such as queso blanco, the salsa trio, and guacamole. If you’re a seafood fan, Corto Lima is the perfect place because it offers a generous serving of mojo shrimp. There are great food photography spots at Corto Lima, and dining is available indoors and outdoors.
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- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (174 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.5/5)- Price: $$ - $$$- Address: 101 West Short Street Corner of West Short and North Limestone Streets, Lexington, KY 40507- Read more on Tripadvisor. You may also like: Where people in Lexington are looking to buy homes
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This Latin-inspired restaurant is run by James Beard-nominated chef Jonathan Lundy. At Corto Lima, you can expect a mix of flavor-packed dishes, such as shrimp ceviche, adobo chicken, and rock crab empanadas. Start with a batch of guacamole and a house margarita to wash it all down.
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Corto Lima: A small Latin-inspired eatery with big flavors, Corto Lima offers a modern take on traditional dishes. Their menu is a vibrant mosaic of Central and South American flavors, making it a top spot for those in search of unique and memorable meals.
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This place knows how to do Mexican food in a way that will surprise it's guests!. Their menu is filled with an array of delicious dishes that are sure to satisfy your palate. And there are quite a few vegan and gluten free dishes for those v/gf peeps.
Highest-rated Mexican restaurants in Lexington, according to Tripadvisor
– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (174 reviews)– Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.5/5)– Price: $$ – $$$– Address: 101 West Short Street Corner of West Short and North Limestone Streets, Lexington, KY 40507– Read more on Tripadvisor
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One of the best restaurants in Lexington for a date night is Corto Lima. The dining room is cozy with large windows and plenty of southwestern latin vibes. The menu reflects the mood with various versions of Latin inspired dishes.
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Corta Lima is a vibrant eatery that offers a contemporary twist on Latin-inspired cuisine. Start your journey with queso blanco, guacamole, and the salsa trio to share with the table. They’re each served with just-fried chips.
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James Beard-nominated chef Jonathan Lundy is behind this downtown, Latin-inspired restaurant. From shrimp ceviche to Peruvian chicken, pretty much everything on the menu pairs well with one of their many signature margaritas.
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If you like Mexican and Latin food, you will love Corto Lima. After visits to two distilleries, Jenny and I needed to eat. We feasted on queso, guacamole stuffed arepas, tacos, and elotes at Corto Lima.
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Cole has a hard time coming up with an answer when asked about his favorite dishes at Corto Lima. “Everything,” he replies. “The chicharonnes are awesome and the black bean and pork dish is excellent.
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On the corner of Short and Lime you will delight to discover Corto Lima. Chef Jonathan Lundy fashions authentic, Latin inspired cuisine. Begin with his tangy, Salsa Trio and Guacamole.
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Corto Lima | Saturday-Sunday, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.| Get there early to try Corto’s fresh take on avocado toast — charred avocado on brioche topped with tomatoes + pepitas.
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For a nicer sit down restaurant, Corto Lima in downtown Lexington has a good vibe and interesting takes on Mexican classics.
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