South of Wrigley

South of Wrigley

472 Southland Dr, Lexington, KY 40503, United States

+1 859-368-7709

Restaurant, Caterer, Fast food restaurant
(343)
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About This Place

Located in the heart of Lexington, South of Wrigley is a must-visit fast food restaurant and caterer that faithfully captures the bold, unmistakable flavors of authentic Chicago-style fare. Specializing in Viennese beef dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and a range of hearty comfort foods, this spot is a haven for anyone craving the rich, savory tastes of Chicago’s iconic street food right in Kentucky.

Step inside this cozy and casual eatery, and you'll immediately feel the inviting buzz of a true neighborhood gem. Despite its modest size, South of Wrigley offers an atmosphere that’s warm and welcoming, sprinkled with the nostalgic charm of classic sports on TV and friendly chatter at the counters. The staff’s ease and enthusiasm add an uplifting energy that makes the experience as enjoyable as the food itself.

The menu is thoughtfully crafted, with standout dishes that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. The Big B’s Italian Beef is a revelation: tender, juicy slices of slow-roasted beef nestled in perfectly soaked but sturdy Italian bread, topped with fiery hot peppers that lend a pleasant kick without overpowering. It’s a masterclass in balance—the bread moist yet holding its integrity, the beef flavorful and hearty.

If you’re drawn to classic Chicago dogs, you must try their Vienna Beef Chicago Dog, which has been applauded by patrons like Al I for its “perfect bun” and impeccably fresh toppings, including sport peppers and celery salt that evoke the very streets of Chicago. For something a bit more indulgent, the Chili Dog and Chili Cheese Fries are crowd-pleasers that hit that nostalgic, messy, delicious spot.

Vegetarians and adventurous eaters will appreciate the thoughtfully crafted Vegan Chicago Dog Fries, a daily special that has received rave reviews for capturing the essence of the traditional while offering a plant-based twist that’s satisfying and vibrant.

South of Wrigley also excels at delivering layers of comfort and variety with items like the Philly Cheesesteak with Hot Peppers, the richly smoky Smoked Beef Grilled Cheese, and the flavorful Shrimp PO Boy. The menu’s range reflects a deep understanding of what makes Chicago street food beloved—the perfect harmony of texture, spice, and bold, meaty flavors.

Customers frequently praise the fries at South of Wrigley: the Tallow Fries come out crisp-edged and perfectly salted, creating a delightful contrast to their meltingly tender insides. Natasha Turner called the fries “deliciously crisp” and placed her Reuben sandwich experience here in her “top 10 favorite meals of all time,” which speaks volumes about the quality and passion embedded in every bite.

What truly sets South of Wrigley apart is its unwavering commitment to authenticity without compromising on innovation or customer experience. The team moves quickly but never rushes the craft, ensuring that you receive a full-flavored, satisfying meal every time—whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or indulging in a hearty feast with friends. The attention to detail—from the neon relish on the Chicago dog to the slow-carved kosher corned beef on the Reuben—is palpable.

In essence, South of Wrigley delivers a vibrant, unapologetically authentic Chicago culinary experience in a relaxed Lexington setting. Whether you’re a local or a visitor craving a taste of the Windy City, this is the spot to dive deep into iconic sandwiches, hot dogs, and fries that offer bursts of savory goodness with every mouthwatering bite.

For a casual yet unforgettable meal, call ahead at +1 859-368-7709 or drop by at 472 Southland Dr, and prepare yourself for a feast that’s rich with tradition, flavor, and heart.

Service options
Outdoor seating Delivery Takeaway Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service Serves local specialty
Popular for
Lunch Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Comfort food Quick bite
Dining options
Lunch Dinner Catering Counter service Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Gender-neutral toilets Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly LGBTQ+ friendly
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Parking

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    Closed
  • Tuesday
    11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
  • Thursday
    Closed
  • Friday
    11:00 AM - 03:00 PM
  • Saturday
    11:00 AM - 05:00 PM
  • Sunday
    Closed

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • Al I
    1 month ago

    This is an authentic Vienna Beef Dog/Beef/Polish place. If that’s what you want they are perfect. I had a Chicago dog that was exactly what I wanted. Perfect bun, Vienna beef dog, all toppings fresh and appropriate for a Chicago dog. Sport peppers and celery salt PERFECT. I also had an Italian Beef with hot peppers. Again bread it comes in was perfect. Of course it’s soggy that’s what an Italian beef from Chicago is like. Hot Giardiniera peppers were authentic and tasty. The beef was great but could be shredded some more and simmered for longer. It is very tasty but a little more time perfecting it would make it more amazing. Burger looked very good that someone else was eating. Even though I live about 40 miles away. I will be returning to this little gem in Lexington.

  • Natasha Turner
    1 month ago

    Christmas movie was on for the kids - fun! Tallow-fried French fries were deliciously crisp on the edges and perfectly salted. My Reuben on fries was spectacular. The guys got beef sandwiches with cheese sauce and really enjoyed them. I put this in my top 10 favorite meals of all time.

  • Jeff Tonn
    3 month ago

    First time there. Small place, but awesome Italian beef sandwiches. Didn't try the hot dogs, but they had the traditional poppy seed buns, will try those next time in Lexington.

  • Dan Bates
    3 month ago

    Absolute perfection for Chicago fare. Maxwell Polish had ridiculously tasty caramelized onions. Chicago dog ingredients right down to the neon relish. Thick Reuben with all the right stuff. Crispy fries with a great cheese sauce and sliced Italian sausage. 10/10.

  • Aaron Pinion
    3 month ago

    Went on a recommendation while in town for a hockey tournament. Italian Beef was AMAZING! Guy working were quick with the food and were fun to talk to. Not much seating, and only one TV, but the food was well worth it. Chili dang was huge and the pub fries were delicious.

  • Makayla Bush
    4 month ago

    we visited chicago a couple months ago and we'd been craving some chicago dogs, so we decided to try out south of wrigley tn bc we had heard so many great things abt it(and we were finally able to stop by while they were open. be aware that they do have odd hours, but that's pretty on-brand for the southland area of lex). absolutely a 10/10!! we ordered the rueben, the maxwell st polish, & the double dog combo. combo came with fries & a drink. everything came out to around $50, but we def ordered more than we should've bc we wanted to try some diff things LOL. a person could easily walk out of there for $10-20/person a meal or less. bf says the reuben was even better than the one we had on our first day in chicago. sandwich was huge and absolutely stuffed. maxwell st polish had a nice snap and was absolutely SMOTHERED in caramelized onions. like they were falling off and i was eating them with the fries. insanely delicious, well seasoned, we liked it even better than the regular chicago dog. double dog combo was a perfect classic chicago dog. spicy peppers on it, very nice hot kick. the fries were some of my faves i've ever had. i'm pretty sure they make beef tallow fries, so that makes sense. crispy, tender, and perfectly salted. we are stuffed, and we WILL BE BACK!!

  • Tim E
    4 month ago

    Being from Chicago initially, I was skeptical when someone told me to try this joint on my travels. Man am I glad I did! The first time I've had an Italian beef outside of Chicago that was worthy of being called Italian beef! Service was great and the vibe was awesome! Great spot if your hungry, I'll be trying this again on my next trip!

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