Corto Lima, a mid-scale Latin inspired restaurant, specializes Latin cuisine a modern interpretation in an intimate dining room.
Celebrated Chef Jonathan Lundy introduces Lexington diners to the cuisine of Mexico, The Caribbean, Central and South America along with the American Southwest. The beverage program, by Managing Partner TJ Cox, focuses on Tequilas, Mezcals, Rums and wines of Latin origin. A specialty cocktail menu accompanies the base spirits, including Lexington’s best Margarita & Latin classics.
Cheerful and warm, the interior combines with weathered wood floors with vibrant woven textiles and hand crafted fixtures. Hand-made concrete tiles complete a contemporary design adding color and visual interest to a steel topped bar.
Customers frequently praised the food for its deliciousness and unique flavors, particularly highlighting the tacos and margaritas.
Service
While many reviews commended the friendly and attentive service, some noted inconsistencies, particularly during busy times.
Atmosphere
The restaurant's atmosphere was described as cozy and vibrant, although some found it too loud for conversation.
Value
Several customers felt the prices were high relative to portion sizes, but many still considered the overall experience worth it.
Allergy Accommodations
The restaurant received positive feedback for its handling of dietary restrictions and allergy-friendly options.
KM
Katelyn Joy Moore
Oct 20, 2025
5.0
I had a PHENOMENAL experience today at Corto y Lima.
First of all, the happy hour deal was amazing. The happy hour drinks are each $5, which is a great deal for the quality of the beverages. The margarita, especially, was wonderful. I also quite enjoyed my food. I had a crunchwrap that was filling and delicious, as well as the Nachos with queso and black beans. All of this was less than $30 during the happy hour. Definitely a deal to check out! It was also very filling. I ate about 9 hours ago now, and I am still full!
The decor and atmosphere of the place is also lovely. Very peaceful and earthy, but bright and open! I spent some time reading and relaxing, and it was perfect!
My server, Alex, was wonderful, helpful, kind, and made me feel very welcomed! I really enjoyed Corto y Lima and I can definitely understand why I continue to see it recommended as a great Lexington dining option!
PG
Phyllis Guthrie
Oct 19, 2025
5.0
Brunch had both a varied menu along with several cocktails. Although it was extremely busy due to the No Kings march, servers were polite, as well as the clientele. We will return!
TH
Thu Hang
Oct 16, 2025
5.0
The staff were knowledgeable.
WZ
wolfgang Z
Oct 14, 2025
4.0
Gute bar zum Essen und die Drinks waren auch fein
EL
Eric Larson
Sep 25, 2025
5.0
This place surprised me. I was walking by, and it looked busy, so I stopped for lunch. The giveaway for a Mexican tequila bar is the tequila on the shelf. If most of it is low quality, the food is usually not good. Good tequila bars have nearly 100% additive-free tequilas on the shelf. This place has Tequila Ocho, G4, and Cazcanes, which are all excellent, but they also had a lot of low-quality tequilas full of additives.
The lunch special was $20 with tax, which included chips, guacamole, rice and beans, and two street tacos. The food was really good, and the portion was solid for the price.
The service was not great, but they were busy prepping the bar, so they were probably distracted. They also have their own house-made hot sauces. The flavor is good, but they are not spicy.
Overall, it was really good and a bit surprising. I would stop in again.
Corto Lima specializes in Latin-inspired cuisine with modern interpretations from Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America, and the American Southwest.
What are the operating hours of Corto Lima?
Corto Lima is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM. It is closed on Tuesdays.
Does Corto Lima offer pickup or delivery services?
Corto Lima offers in-store and curbside pickup but does not offer delivery services.
Is there a happy hour at Corto Lima?
Yes, happy hour is available daily from 2 PM to 5 PM at Corto Lima.
What payment methods are accepted at Corto Lima?
Corto Lima accepts American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, Mastercard, and Visa.
What is the dress code at Corto Lima?
The dress code at Corto Lima is casual.
Can you tell me about nearby places to Corto Lima that might be of interest?
Nearby Corto Lima, you can find The Jax gastropub and Pearl’s American and seafood restaurant, offering great dining options if you want to explore restaurants in downtown Lexington.
Are there nearby transportation or parking options near Corto Lima?
Yes, Central Parking is nearby providing parking options, and LibertyX Bitcoin ATM is available for currency exchange and financial services close to Corto Lima.
Are there any nearby nightlife or entertainment venues close to Corto Lima?
Yes, nearby nightlife spots include Crossings Lexington, a gay bar and dance club, Bang Night Club, a pub and dance club, and Sidebar Grill, a pub and restaurant.