Steakhouse taking prime spot in downtown Lexington announces name, eyes opening
A new steakhouse is getting close to opening in the heart of downtown Lexington.
Ember, which restaurant officials referred to in a release as a “modern, upscale steakhouse,” plans to open in late May at 101 W. Main St. That’s at the corner of W. Main and Church streets, right next to Barrio taco restaurant and just in front of Lexington’s popular Icehouse Amphitheater. Ember is going into the space formerly occupied by Alodia’s Italian restaurant, which closed in April 2024.
The coming steakhouse is being opened by a handful of restaurateurs who are familiar to many in the Midlands. They include Steve Cook, who owns Saluda’s fine dining restaurant and Arroyo Mexican restaurant in Five Points; Joe Walker III, the former Richland County Councilman who has franchised Marco’s Pizza and Scooter’s Coffee locations; and Ryan Jones, the former general manager of Hall’s Chophouse in Columbia.
“We believe a steakhouse should be more than just a meal — it should be an experience,” Cook said in a statement. “We are honoring tradition while embracing innovation, with seasonal ingredients, classic techniques, and a commitment to sourcing with integrity.”
Ember officials said in a release that the restaurant will offer “expertly aged, hand-cut steaks, sustainably sourced seafood, and house-made pastas, all complemented by a thoughtfully curated wine selection.”
The restaurant space is in the final stages of a renovation being led by Boyer Construction. The interior of the restaurant “combines moody and warm elements with pops of mixed metals, creating an upscale yet comfortable atmosphere that balances sophistication and comfort,” Ember said in a release.
Aside from the regular dining room, Ember will also offer private and semi-private dining areas for special occasions.
“We’ve crafted a restaurant concept that’s truly one-of-a-kind, and we cannot wait to share our kitchen with residents of Lexington,” Walker said in a statement. “We are honored to offer a place where people can come together to celebrate life’s milestones and make lasting memories.”
Ember officials also noted in a release that a “striking wine cellar” will serve as a centerpiece in the restaurant, which will offer “an impressive selection of wines by the glass where guests can enjoy premium pours of bubbly champagne and rich Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon alongside a vibrant celebration of bold flavors and elevated culinary craft.”
Those interested in applying for a job at Ember can visit emberlexington.com.
Downtown Lexington has continued to be a hot corridor in the Midlands, and is now home to a host of restaurants, bars, shops and other services. Popular downtown eateries include O’Hara’s Public House, Keg Cowboy, Bodhi Thai Dining, Groucho’s Deli, Barrio, Craft Axe Throwing, Cribb’s, Bubba’s Biscuit, Libby’s, and Nicky’s Pizzeria. There are also a host of stores, such as Craig Reagin Clothiers and The Kindred Boutique.
The Icehouse Amphitheater remains a busy venue, and TakoSushi opened a location on the northeast corner of Main and Church streets last fall.
This story was originally published April 23, 2025 at 9:00 AM.
