If your gastronomic journey has taken you all the way to the vibrant town of Owensboro, Kentucky, prepare to be amazed! Welcome, fellow food adventurers, to a haven that offers a smorgasbord of culinary delights that are as rich and diverse as the town’s history. As a food blogger committed to capturing the essence of each city through its palate, I invite you to join me on this flavorful expedition of Owensboro.
Home to bluegrass music and Southern hospitality, Owensboro boasts an array of must-visit eateries that offer a unique experience with every bite. From the town’s famous mutton barbecue, a local tradition, to succulent seafood and mouthwatering desserts, there’s a plethora of options to satisfy every food lover’s cravings.
In Owensboro, food isn’t just about sustenance, it’s a way of life, it’s an immersive experience that delights all your senses. The town doesn’t just offer food; it offers stories, traditions, and history, all beautifully wrapped in a delicious package, ready for you to unravel.
Whether you’re a devout foodie, a culinary explorer, or simply someone who loves a good meal-coupled-with-a-good-story, you’re in the right place. So, put on your most comfortable food exploration outfit, grab your fork, and prepare for a gastronomic tour that will leave your taste buds dancing for joy and your soul craving for more!
Most Popular Restaurants in Owensboro
Home to many highly-rated restaurants, Owensboro, Kentucky, is a food lover’s haven. Let’s dive right into some of the city’s most popular spots that you must visit.
First up is Bill’s Restaurant. Their slogan “where you’re always treated like family” is reflected in the warm, inviting atmosphere and friendly service. Located at 1520 Bosley Rd, this restaurant excels in serving traditional American fare. Bill’s famous smoked hickory ribs and chicken are not to be missed. They also serve some of the best breakfast in town with their popular country ham and eggs.
Next on the list is Mellow Mushroom. This amazing pizza place, set at 101 W 2nd St, serves up stone-baked pizzas to perfection. Their menu offers a wide range of pizza flavors, from the classic margherita to their unique ‘Holy Shiitake Pie’. With an extensive variety of pizza, salad, sandwich, and beer options, Mellow Mushroom is sure to satisfy every palate.
Another crowd favorite is Colby’s Fine Food and Spirits. Nestled at 204 W 3rd St, Colby’s is a cozy spot for an intimate dinner. The restaurant offers a broad menu that includes steak, seafood, and pasta. Their renowned Filet Mignon, served on a bed of Butternut Squash Risotto, is a dish that will leave you craving for more. They also have a great selection of wines and local beers to compliment your meal.
Lastly, we can’t miss out on mentioning Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn. Voted “The Best Barbecue in Kentucky”, Moonlite, located at 2840 W Parrish Ave, has been serving legendary barbecue since 1963. Famous for their Kentucky mutton, slow smoked over hickory wood, each plate is a testament to their commitment to tradition. The buffet includes a wide array of dishes such as mutton, pork, chicken, burgoo, along with a selection of country vegetables and home-style desserts.
These restaurants are just a snapshot of Owensboro’s rich dining scene. So, whether you’re a foodie on the hunt for some mouthwatering cuisine or a casual diner out for a meal, Owensboro, Kentucky, has something for everyone.
Most Unique Restaurants in Owensboro
Bill’s Restaurant located at 420 Frederica St, Owensboro, KY 42301, is a must-visit for food enthusiasts. This old-school diner has been serving scrumptious home-style meals since 1962. The restaurant’s menu boasts a variety of mouthwatering dishes, including their iconic Bill’s Classic Burger, served with house-cut fries. However, the showstopper is their famous Hot Brown, a traditional Kentucky dish made of turkey, bacon, tomato, and Mornay sauce, served open-faced on toast.
The Creme Coffee House, located at 109 E 2nd St, Owensboro, KY 42303, is another unique restaurant that is a favorite among locals and tourists. Not your ordinary coffee house, this place offers an array of creative dishes, and of course, amazing coffees. With a relaxed, eclectic environment, this establishment acts as a haven for art enthusiasts, featuring local artwork throughout the café. One standout dish is their Bourbon Praline Latte, a unique blend of coffee and traditional southern flavors.
For a delectable and authentic Mediterranean experience, look no further than Zaziki’s Mediterranean Grill. Located at 4431 Springhill Dr Suite E, Owensboro, KY 42303, this eatery serves up authentic, fresh, and flavorful Mediterranean cuisine, including pitas, gyros, and the finest hummus in town. One of the most popular choices is their Souvlaki Platter, which consists of skewered and grilled meat served with Greek salad, pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and your choice of side.
At Lure Seafood and Grille located at 401 W 2nd St, Owensboro, KY 42301, you can indulge in some of the freshest seafood that Owensboro has to offer. This upscale eatery beautifully combines coastal cuisine with the hospitality of the south. Their menu is filled with a wide array of seafood selections, from oysters on the half shell to a unique Low Country Boil. The restaurant also offers a stunning view of the Ohio River, providing an excellent backdrop to your dining experience.
Finally, don’t miss out on Colby’s Fine Food & Spirits situated at 204 W 3rd St, Owensboro, KY 42303. Offering a cozy, upscale dining experience, Colby’s is known for their superb steak and seafood dishes. The restaurant’s charming interior, complete with dark wood and ambient lighting, creates an inviting and intimate atmosphere. Their Ribeye steak, cooked to perfection and served with your choice of side, is a local favorite.
Best Casual Restaurants in Owensboro
If you find yourself in the charming city of Owensboro, Kentucky, you are definitely in for a culinary treat! Owensboro is teeming with down-to-earth eateries that provide an amazing palette of flavors. Here, let’s explore the hidden gems that make Owensboro a foodie’s paradise, starting with Mamma’s Mustard, Pickles & BBQ.
Located at 201 West 3rd Street, this unassuming BBQ joint is an absolute must-visit. The restaurant offers a delightful mix of saucy ribs, pulled pork, and the best fried pickles in town. Their menu screams southern comfort, with a delightful assortment of hearty meals to satiate your yearning for true-blue American cuisine.
Few blocks away at 122 West 2nd Street you can find Colby’s Deli & Cafe. Known for its cozy atmosphere and satisfying comfort food, this spot is perfect for a casual lunch or brunch. Don’t forget to try their homemade soups, mouth-watering sandwiches, and the house specialty Kentucky Hot Brown – an open-faced sandwich layered with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce.
At 5000 Frederica St, Suite 1, there’s a little piece of heaven for pizza lovers – Fetta Specialty Pizza. As the name suggests, they specialize in pizza. But not just your ordinarly pizza, they offer gourmet pizzas that are crafted with homemade dough and sauce, topped with a medley of fresh ingredients. The view of the Ohio River from their outdoor seating area is an added bonus.
Then, there’s Billy’s Baked Potatoes at 1022 East 4th Street, a place that has taken the humble potato and transformed it into a hearty, satisfying meal. My top favorite is their signature steak and chicken loaded baked potato, all smothered in melted cheese and a generous helping of sour cream.
Last, but certainly not least is Bee Bops, a 50’s style diner located at 122 Allen Street. Step into nostalgia with its checkerboard floors and classic diner decor. They serve up a mean burger, crispy fries, and some of the best milkshakes in town. Their Bee Bops Burger is a fan favorite that is definitely worth trying.
So go ahead and take a casual culinary journey through Owensboro. You’re sure to find something you love at these homey and wonderful establishments. Bon appétit!
Best Family Restaurants in Owensboro
If you’re looking for a family-friendly restaurant that caters to all taste buds, your search ends with Beef ‘O’ Brady’s. Located at 3189 Fairview Drive, Owensboro, Kentucky, this popular eatery is best known for their signature wings and burgers. But, don’t be fooled, their extensive menu caters to a wide variety of tastes, including gluten-free options.
One of the main attractions at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s is their ‘Family Value Bundles’ designed to feed 4 to 6 people, perfect for those large family dinners. The casual, laid-back atmosphere makes it a great place for families, with a special kids’ menu that ensures even the youngest family members are catered for.
Next on the list is Old Hickory Bar-B-Q situated at 338 Washington Avenue, Owensboro, Kentucky. A family-owned and operated restaurant since 1918, they have won numerous awards for their mouthwatering barbecued mutton, pork, chicken, and beef. Their famous hickory-smoked barbecue has been a hit with both locals and visitors for over 100 years. The restaurant’s rustic, old-world charm, makes it an inviting place for a hearty family dinner.
Don’t miss out on their famous Burgoo, a hearty stew that’s a traditional Kentucky specialty. They also have a kid-friendly menu featuring smaller portions of their celebrated dishes.
Looking for some authentic Mexican fare in Owensboro? Make your way to Los Cabos Mexican Restaurant. This gem is located at 2845 West Parrish Avenue, Owensboro. With their vibrant, festive decor, Los Cabos creates a lively and welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for family get-togethers.
Their extensive menu is full of traditional Mexican dishes like enchiladas, tacos, and burritos. For the little ones, they offer a special ‘Little Amigos’ menu. On sunny days, take advantage of their outdoor patio seating.
Each of these establishments not only offers fantastic food, but also a welcoming, family-friendly environment, making them some of the best family restaurants in Owensboro, Kentucky.
Best Takeout Food in Owensboro
If you’re in Owensboro, Kentucky and are looking for delightful takeout options, you’re literally spoilt for choice. There’s a culinary journey waiting for you to embark on, right from the comfort of your home. Here are some of the best takeout food options this fantastic city has to offer.
Firstly, let’s talk about Colby’s Fine Food and Spirits, located at 204 W 3rd St. This delightful spot serves an extensive array of dishes from breakfast to dinner. Known for their hearty and delicious breakfast options, they also offer sumptuous lunch and dinner menu. Their Chicken Salad Croissant is a must-try, along with their Strawberry Spinach Salad for those seeking a healthier option. The Roast Beef Manhattan is another fan-favorite, with succulent roast beef served over Texas toast and mashed potatoes and smothered in gravy.
Next, we move on to Old Hickory Bar-B-Que, located at 338 Washington Ave. This historic barbecue joint has been a staple in Owensboro since 1918! The establishment cooks meats in the old-school, traditional mutton barbecue style that Kentucky is famous for. Their Mutton Chops and Chicken Stack are legendary. But don’t miss out on their homestyle sides: the Baked Beans and Potato Salad are a must-have along with your choice of meat.
For pizza lovers, Fetta Specialty Pizza cuts the ribbon. Nestled at 118 St Ann St, this pizzeria offers some incredibly unique and tasty pizza options. The Kentucky Hot Brown Pizza for instance, is a local favorite and gives a new twist to the classic open-faced sandwich. Each pizza is hand-tossed and fired in their brick oven, giving it a unique, robust flavor.
Craving some delicious seafood? Head over to Shogun of Owensboro, located at 2127 E Parrish Ave. Order their Hibachi or Sushi menu, both of which are intricately prepared to deliver a flavor sensation. The Dragon Roll and the Shrimp Hibachi are definite highlights, but the entire menu is an exploration of quality and flavor.
Finally, when you’re in the mood for some soul-warming Mexican cuisine, Real Hacienda is the place to order from. Located at 4820 Frederica St, the establishment serves the best of Mexican food in Owensboro. Try their Pollo Loco or the Beef Tacos, or indulge in the Fajita Quesadilla for a truly authentic experience.
These are just a few of the fantastic options for takeout food in Owensboro, Kentucky. Each place has its own uniqueness, so depending on your cravings, you’ve got a world of deliciousness at your fingertips.
What Foods is Owensboro Known For?
Owensboro, Kentucky, is celebrated for its unique culinary specialty – BBQ Mutton. This distinctive cuisine distinguishes Owensboro from the plethora of BBQ traditions across the US. Unlike other regions that gravitate towards pork or beef, Owensboro has etched a niche for itself with mutton. And when talking about this delectable delicacy, one can’t do without mentioning Old Hickory Bar-B-Que.
Located at 338 Washington Avenue, Owensboro, KY 42301, Old Hickory Bar-B-Que is a slice of history with a delicious twist. The family-owned business has been serving mouthwatering mutton barbecue for over a century, and they’ve perfected the art to an astounding degree.
The mutton at Old Hickory is slow-cooked in a hickory wood pit, allowing the meat to absorb all the smoky and savory flavors. The result is a deliciously tender and juicy piece of meat that falls right off the bone. The mutton is then slathered with their signature ‘dip’ – a sauce that’s a clever blend of vinegar, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. The tangy-sweet flavor of the dip perfectly complements the smoky mutton, creating an absolutely sublime gastronomical experience.
But it’s not just about the mutton at Old Hickory. Their menu also includes other Kentucky BBQ favorites like Hickory-smoked chicken, country ham, and burgoo – a hearty meaty stew that has earned its own loyal following. However, the mutton BBQ remains the star of the show. After all, Owensboro is known as the “BBQ Capital of the World” for a reason.
If you are a food lover with a palate for traditional delicacies, make sure to put Old Hickory Bar-B-Que at the top of your list. It’s not just a restaurant. It’s an institution that has been preserving and promoting Owensboro’s culinary heritage for over 100 years.
Next on the list is the Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn, another iconic destination for barbecue lovers. Situated at 2840 West Parrish Avenue, Owensboro, KY 42301, this restaurant is a culinary landmark that’s synonymous with the city’s food culture.
The Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn is renowned for its expansive buffet spread that includes various barbecued meats, fresh vegetables, and homemade desserts. Among all their offerings, the hickory-smoked mutton stands out for its distinctive flavor profile. The mutton is slow-cooked until tender, with the smoky flavor permeating every fiber of the meat. It is then basted with their signature barbeque sauce that’s tangy, slightly sweet, and packed with spices. It’s a dish that has earned Moonlite a dedicated fanbase and numerous accolades over the years.
With its rich food culture and long-standing culinary traditions, Owensboro, Kentucky is indeed a paradise for food lovers. Whether you’re a fan of mutton, an ardent barbecue enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates good food, the city’s legendary BBQ joints are bound to leave you mesmerized.
Eating Your Way Around Owensboro: A Detailed Food Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Start your food journey at Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn. This iconic spot is located at 2840 W Parrish Ave, Owensboro, KY 42301. Famous for its mutton, burgoo, and hickory-smoked barbecue, Moonlite serves up southern comfort food at its finest. Don’t forget to try their signature barbecue sauce.
Day 2: Head over to Old Hickory Bar-B-Que, located at 338 Washington Ave, Owensboro, KY 42301. This family-owned restaurant uses a secret family recipe to smoke their meats. Their championship mutton is crowd-pleasing, but don’t miss their baby back ribs and pulled pork.
Day 3: Change up the pace with a visit to The Sweet Shoppe & Dessert Cafe. Situated at 2616 Frederica St, Owensboro, KY 42301, this adorable shop serves a variety of homemade chocolates, truffles, and desserts. From cakes to cookies, everything here is delightful!
Day 4: Experience a taste of Southern-style seafood at The Seafood Lady, located at 2630 Frederica St, Owensboro, KY 42301. Their menu boasts a variety of seafood options like fried crab legs, shrimp, and fish. The lobster rolls and clam chowder are a must-try!
Day 5: Enjoy a pleasant evening at The Miller House Restaurant, a unique dining experience located in a historic home at 301 E 5th St, Owensboro, KY 42303. Specializing in southern cuisine with a modern twist, the menu changes seasonally to showcase local ingredients.
Day 6: Grab breakfast or lunch at Sweet Betty’s Bakery Restaurant, located at 212 Saint Ann St Suite #1, Owensboro, KY 42303. Known for their amazing pastries and bakery items, Sweet Betty’s also serves hearty breakfasts and lunches.
Day 7: End your food tour on a high note with a visit to The Lure Seafood & Grille. Located at 401 W 2nd St, Owensboro, KY 42301, this restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes in a casual setting. The grilled oysters and lobster bisque are exceptionally good.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What are some of the top restaurants in Owensboro, Kentucky?
A: Owensboro is known for its rich culinary scene. Some top restaurants to explore include the Famous Bistro, a long-standing spot offering eclectic cuisine, and Bill’s Restaurant, a local favorite for classic Southern comfort food. Additionally, you can visit the Windy Hollow Restaurant for a country-style buffet and Old Hickory Bar-B-Que for outstanding BBQ meals. For seafood lovers, Colby’s Fine Food & Spirits is a must-visit.
Q2: What is the signature dish of Owensboro?
A: Owensboro is synonymous with barbecue, particularly mutton barbecue. The city is famous for being the “BBQ Capital of the World”. Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn and Old Hickory Bar-B-Que are famous restaurants known for serving this signature dish. In addition, the annual International Bar-B-Q Festival is held in Owensboro, where BBQ enthusiasts from around the globe come to enjoy this delicious fare.
Q3: Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in Owensboro?
A: Yes, there are several options for vegetarians and vegans in Owensboro. The Miller House Restaurant offers a wide range of salads, pasta, and other vegetarian options. Additionally, you can check out Plant Pioneer, the city’s first vegan eatery offering plant-based burgers and salads. However, it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm.
Q4: What options for fine dining are available in Owensboro?
A: For a fine dining experience, The Miller House Restaurant, Colby’s Fine Food & Spirits, and the Famous Bistro are standout choices. These restaurants not only offer exquisite meals but also provide an upscale dining atmosphere. They all take dining to a new level, with specialty dishes, exceptional service, and ambient settings.
Q5: Are there any good pizzerias in Owensboro?
A: Absolutely, Owensboro boasts some fantastic pizzerias. Fetta Specialty Pizza & Spirits in downtown Owensboro is beloved for its delicious, unique specialty pizzas and local brews. You can also check out Mellow Mushroom, famous for its stone-baked pizzas and craft beer selection. Other notable mentions include 54 Pizza Express and Old Chicago.
Q6: Where can I get good breakfast in Owensboro?
A: Owensboro houses various eateries offering hearty breakfasts. The Dugout Diner and Wonder Whip are locally adored spots known for their breakfast options. Additionally, The Crème Coffee House serves excellent pastries and coffee. If you’re looking for a Sunday brunch, The Miller House Restaurant offers a top-rated Sunday brunch service.
Q7: Are there any local coffee shops in Owensboro?
A: Yes, Owensboro has quite a few local coffee shops offering a wide range of coffees and pastries. The Crème Coffee House, Cinnamon’s Coffee & Bakery, and the Plant Pioneer all serve great coffee. Each of these spots has a unique vibe and is a great place to relax, work, or catch up with friends.
Q8: Are there any must-try local breweries in Owensboro?
A: Owensboro is home to several local breweries that beer enthusiasts would love to explore. O.Z. Tyler Distillery offers bourbon tours and tastings. Also, Mellow Mushroom and CYO Brewing offer an extensive list of craft beers, including many local options.
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