News Summary
Ember, an upscale steakhouse, has recently opened in downtown Lexington, offering a diverse menu of steaks, seafood, and innovative cocktails. Founded by local restaurateurs, Ember aims to enhance the dining experience in the area with its unique wood ember grill and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant is currently operating on a reservation-only basis, generating positive feedback from the community as it joins the vibrant culinary scene of downtown Lexington.
Lexington
Ember, a new high-end steakhouse, has opened its doors in downtown Lexington, located at 101 W. Main St. This restaurant is situated at the southwest corner of the intersection of Main and Church streets, right next to the Icehouse Amphitheater. Following a successful soft opening last week, Ember is currently operating on a reservation-only basis, with bookings made through the online service Resy, available via emberlexington.com.
The restaurant was founded by a trio of local restaurateurs: Steve Cook, Joe Walker III, and Ryan Jones. Steve Cook is known for his ownership of Saluda’s and Arroyo Mexican restaurant in Five Points. Joe Walker III brings experience as a former Richland County Councilman and has franchised multiple Marco’s Pizza and Scooter’s Coffee locations. Ryan Jones previously served as the general manager of Hall’s Chophouse in Columbia.
Initial community feedback about Ember has been positive, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for new dining options in downtown Lexington. The steakhouse joins several other popular restaurants and services in the area, signaling a vibrant addition to the local culinary scene.
Menu Highlights
Ember boasts a diverse menu centered on a wide selection of steaks, seafood, pasta, salads, and soups. Among the signature offerings are filet mignon, Japanese wagyu New York strip, USDA prime ribeye, and pork chops, alongside an array of fresh seafood options. Notably, a modernized pickled shrimp dish stands out among the appetizers, providing a contemporary twist on the classic shrimp cocktail.
The restaurant features a distinctive cooking method, utilizing a wood ember grill that enhances the flavors of the dishes. Complementing the meal offerings is Ember’s cocktail program, which includes both classic drinks and innovative modern creations designed to elevate the dining experience.
Atmosphere and Dining Experience
Ember aims to deliver more than just a meal; it seeks to create a memorable dining experience for its patrons. The restaurant includes private and semi-private dining options, making it suitable for special events like corporate gatherings and celebrations. Its interior design incorporates warm elements and mixed metals to cultivate an upscale yet inviting atmosphere.
Ownership and Development
Ember is part of The Foundry Group, a restaurant development and management company based in Columbia, South Carolina. The announcement regarding the development of Ember was made in the fall of 2024, with services set to launch in late May 2025.
As the Lexington dining scene continues to expand, Ember stands out with its commitment to quality and atmosphere, making it a notable addition that residents and visitors alike are encouraged to explore. With its diverse menu, skilled leadership, and attention to detail, the restaurant seems well-positioned to become a favorite among steakhouse enthusiasts in the area.
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Additional Resources
- Cola Daily: New Steakhouse in Downtown Lexington
- Wikipedia: Lexington
- WLTX: Lexington Hotel Proposal
- Google Search: Lexington SC
- ABC Columbia: Lexington Road Closures
- Google Scholar: Lexington Restaurants
- Post and Courier: Lexington Restaurants News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lexington SC
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
