I can only describe my experience at ITalX with one word: immaculate. The sleek dining atmosphere, exceptional service, and the food/beverage menus are second-to-none. However, this makes sense when you realize who comprises the ItalX team: Chef Jonathan Lundy, Certified Sommelier TJ Cox, and Marketing Maven Brie Lowry Cox.
What To Order At ItalX
Appetizers
There’s no need to look further than the calamari, which features fresh squid, pickled peppers, and a lemon-basil aioli sauce. Seriously — so good.
However, I’d say that the calamari appetizer was second to the Carpaccio, which was truly extraordinary. The Beef Carpaccio features high-quality beef, cipolline (onion), patatine (potato chips), and pecorino. Yes, you read that correctly: potato chips. An interesting combination, sure, but trust me: it works. It just works. The added crunch is a gift from heaven above.
Looking for a third appetizer, you say? Order the Vongole Veraci, which features clams, vino bianco, garlic, and Calabrian Chili. Fabulous.
Salad
A quick aside, but an important one: don’t sleep on the Cavolo Nero Caesar. It’s one of the best caesar salads that I’ve ever had: tuscan kale, focaccia croutons, white anchioves, egg yolk, and Reggiano. Two thumbs up.
Pasta
*note: all noodles are made in-house
My favorite dish of the night, without question: Lasagne di 24 Strati — aka 24-layer lasagna. Iconic. Legendary. There are no words. Complete with tomatoes, spinach, and ricotta… this dish is a standout.
Cacio e Pepe is a favorite of many — myself included. It’s simple, yet comforting. And sinfully good. The version at ItalX – Candele Cacio e Pepe – is classic in that it includes toasted black pepper, butter, Pecorino, and Reggiano.
Entree
For an entree, try the Prime Strip Steak, which was prepared perfectly medium-rare, as requested. Complete with pecorino-peppercorn butter, balsamic roasted mushrooms, and polenta fritta — it’s finger-lickin’ good, y’all.
ItalX is located in Lexington’s City Center, 160 W. Main St, Lexington, KY 40507.