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O'Bryan's Bar & Grill

By Josh and Katie Albers — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 08:45:44 GMT

Little did we know that a short drive in the country would lead to a fabulous meal and instant old friends at O’Bryan’s Bar and Grill.

Ten miles down Hwy 56 from Owensboro is West Louisville, Kentucky, the home of this eatery since 1948. Don’t let the humble outside appearance fool you, O’Bryan’s Bar and Grill features tasty food in a comfortable atmosphere without the long wait or the hefty price of chain restaurants. Throw in the live music every Friday night, and their huge, annual Halloween costume party coming up and you’ve got a family friendly experience that is unique in our community.

We entered through the bar area and were immediately greeted by the bartender, Marty. He’s the type of guy that can instantly make you feel like you’re at home. He invited us to choose a table. Soon Rachel was at our side to make sure our dining experience was perfect. Her guidance in suggesting the highlights of the menu and speedy, attentive service were impressive. We munched on onion petals with spicy, horseradish dressing and fresh side salads until Chef John appeared with our entrées.

Chef John is a true culinary gem. The pride that he takes in preparing quality food was evident from the taste and presentation of a seemingly simple dinner of meat and potatoes. We had fallen out of the habit of ordering steak because of past disappointments. Some steaks are too fatty, some are too tough, and most are too bland. However, Chef John’s prime rib was the perfect marriage of a well chosen cut of meat and skillful grilling. Rarely does one come across a steak so juicy and succulent, especially on a Tuesday night.

And just when we thought the meal couldn’t surprise us any further, Rachel mentioned that a visit to O’Bryan’s just isn’t complete without a dessert of fried cheesecake. How could we resist that? Warm cheese filling wrapped egg-roll style in a crispy crust and drizzled in cherry sauce. I’ll admit; we fought over the last bite. Scrumptious! But the true delight of the evening was yet to come.

Chef John will now be displaying his artistry each week from 6:00 to 9:00 for Thursday Night Special with Chef John. As a preview, Chef John gave us a taste of his first featured dessert, the Cherry Bomb. This portion of devil’s food cake set in cream sauce and topped with chocolate ganache and a cherry made us both stop mid-bite to savor the pure deliciousness. Each week, he will be bringing new gourmet delights to little West Louisville. Sounds like the perfect evening: A short drive through the beautiful farm country of Daviess County, a creative and satisfying meal, and back home in time for Thursday night primetime!

In fact, any day is the perfect day to visit O’Bryan’s Bar and Grill. With daily lunch and dinner specials, two outdoor patios, and a bar, O’Bryan’s can satisfy any mood or cause for celebration. Check out the Friday Night Fish and Frog Legs Specials or order from the menu of grill favorites, sandwiches, and pizza. After 9:00, O’Bryan’s is closed to patrons under 21 and smoking is allowed.

Be sure to check out the talented regular entertainment at O’Bryan’s as well. The first Friday each month is Wildman and Randy. The second Friday is Pete Beard. The third Friday is Andy and the Rockers. The fourth Friday showcases different acts each month. And coming up this month, don’t miss O’Bryan’s Luau on Saturday, October 10^th and the massive Halloween Party on Saturday, October 31. Wear your favorite costume, enjoy the spooky fun, and win amazing prizes! Take the drive; you won’t be disappointed!

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PHOTO CREDIT | ALBERS

What's Cookin': Daily Delicious

MomKat — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 09:31:13 GMT

"No Frills; just good home cooking."

Nestled off the beaten path of Owensboro main stream, you'll find Daily Delicious. Walk in and immediately the word “quaint” comes to mind. A restaurant “specialty shop” of sorts, adorned with an Americana theme. Established 30 years ago, partners Kathlynn and her mother, Phyllis, are the fourth owners and have been its proprietors for six years.

I walked into the impeccably clean foyer and ordered at the counter. I asked “what's good?” Kathlynn points to the giant plaque on the wall behind her: "IT'S ALL GOOD." I'm sure she had it custom-made for persons like me to save herself the trouble of having to repeat the answer. Nothing in Daily Delicious is fried. Cakes, cookies, and casseroles dominate the menu, though their signature dish is their chicken salad, rumored to be the best chicken salad in Owensboro. After sampling, I find with its perfect texture and flavoring, I'm inclined to agree.

Kathlynn served us a sampler plate of Hot Chicken Salad, Spinach Lasagna, which is perfect for vegetarians, meat Lasagna, Chicken Divan, and Chicken ‘n Rice, all accompanied by an excellent yeast roll. With every bite, I was reminded of home.

It occurred to me Daily Delicious is not your usual restaurant. Kathlynn and Phyllis will cook whatever you want if you give them notice. Use them to help with your holiday cooking, right down to the turkey! They also sell their entrees by the pan, so you can pick one up for family Sunday dinner, pot luck, bereavement dinner, shower or party of your choice. They will even cook it in your pan. Good food; comfort food. Got a recipe you want to try, but don't have the time? Bring it to Kathlynn and Phyllis; they'll whip it up for you!

Kathlynn surprised us with a slice of one of the 20 varieties of cake I counted on their menu. Called Coconut Rave, rave it was, chalk full of rich moistness and enough pecans to make your Aunt Maude's Southern Pecan Pie look chintzy. A rich cream cheese tops all of the Daily Delicious cakes. Daily Delicious also sells cakes by the size, so if you're looking to save on your wedding plan budget forget that old tradition of paying for your wedding cake 'by the slice.' Come to Daily Delicious and 'build' your own cake! They will bake each layer to your specification, frost it, and let you assemble it (cake stand available for rental) and decorate with your own flowers; fresh or artificial. Let your imagination run wild.

Daily Delicious: 603 Park Plaza Drive, Owensboro – 270-685-2468

This is not your average restaurant. It could be alternately named “Uniquely Delicious” because Kathlynn and Phyllis provide a very different way of serving the customer; catering to your needs and cravings.

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PHOTO CREDIT | MOMKAT

Paradise City: “So buy me somethin’ to eat…”

MomKat — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 08:53:27 GMT

When Montana Mikes closed down, Owensboro was sad to lose another eatery but in its place, a tropical illusion appeared. Paradise City opened at the end June – a true oasis on 54.

Upon entering the newest restaurant in Owensboro, we met and spoke to David Gaynor - bar manager, owner, originator. He wears many hats, but it is with pride he introduces us to his tropical 'paradise' of vision, taste and sound in the heart of the tri-state. Paradise City is all tropical, complete with several large fresh water aquariums built in the wall with colorful tropical fish. He said his aim was geared toward bringing a tropical/Caribbean vacation to the customer.

No need to leave town; he does it with atmosphere, color, texture, food and drink. And aaah, the drinks! A selection of which you've never seen, even in your most vivid Carmen Miranda dreams. If Mojitos are your thing, try raising the bar with the exquisite taste of a Caiperinha - fresh lime, sugar cane juice and Pitu Brazilian Rum. Their signature drink, Paradise Waveolada, is a rendition of the ever classic Pina Colada, but with a delightful twist. It comes in three flavors: mango, strawberry or raspberry. I chose raspberry; it was superb, complete with a pineapple cherry adornment. Too numerous to list, they don't stop there. A list of drinks the likes of which you've never seen.

You have a hint before even entering establishment that you're in for a tropical treat; colors of turquoise water and blue ski refresh your eyes both outside and in. Big screen TVs adorn the walls with scenes of beaches, fish, corral, and palms. It puts you in the drink sipping mood even before you sit down. Relax and let your cares melt away as you scan the menu. Dishes are chef created by Chef Mitchell Garrity, with an extensive menu. Seafood, of course, holds a special place on their menu, but don't be swayed; they also offer an impressive menu of premium, certified Angus steaks and a multitude of luscious vegetarian dishes. I'm not even vegetarian, but will admit the Falafel sandwich caught my eye; a classic vegetarian dish consisting of chick peas, onion, bulgur wheat, parsley, cilantro and garlic, blended lightly, fried and served on a Kaiser roll with a lemon aioli sauce.

Our appetizers arrived in two forms: Coconut Fried shrimp - large shrimp (the best kind in my opinion) dipped in a rum-flavored coconut batter and served with a caramelized pineapple dipping sauce, and Saint Owensboro Shrimp - large sautéed shrimp in rich orange chipotle butter atop the perfect fried green tomato. Caribbean DEFINITELY meets Owensboro in this one. Outstanding salads with a crispy blend of flavorful lettuces introduced us to our main entrées - St. Thomas Stuffed Salmon for myself, and Almond Crusted Tilapia for my dining companion. The salmon was mild, allowing me to taste the rich blend of spinach, bacon, shrimp and cheese nestled within. The tilapia was tender inside with just enough almond crunch on the outside to compliment the fish. This, with one of the finest sweet potatoes this side of the Mississippi, baked to perfection and a crisp side of, seasoned green beans made for a delectable dining experience. Just when we thought we couldn't eat another bite, David teased us by asking if he could surprise us by choosing our dessert. And what a dessert it was; a handsome cut of mile high Strawberry Shortcake. Triple layer shortcake, layers of creamy filling, fresh strawberries adorned with artful strokes of strawberry & mango puree. It came dangerously close to being too beautiful to eat, but we closed our eyes and forged on. Sublime.

At 10 p.m., the restaurant closes, and the bar takes over. Inviting, relaxing, acoustic music prevails, but changes, well, with the tide, on occasion. You simply must keep watch for who is playing each weekend. Party and banquet rooms available for up to 30 people – perfect for your birthday theme or wedding shower!

Dress clothes or Bermudas and flip flops, the choice is up to you. A grand opening is scheduled for first week in August with many interesting and fabulous giveaways. A good time for all. Drinking, eating or both, you can be assured a tropically terrific time awaits you at the new Paradise City on Hwy. 54, Owensboro.

Bob Evans

MomKat — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 11:49:19 GMT

When you say “Bob Evans” of course your next choice of words is “down on the farm.” When you visit Bob Evans, you can rest assured the best surprise is no surprise at all. You get the same goodness, whatever the state you're in. It's a staple of American travel in the Midwest.

Mark, the kitchen manager, explained that in Owensboro 35 - 40% of their business consists of breakfast takers, morning, noon, or night. And what would a visit to Bob Evans be without a sampling of their biscuits, gravy and sausage – their sausage being the very thing that put them on the map. Melt in your mouth buttermilk biscuits with some of the best gravy this side of the Mississippi; for a moment, one can imagine this is one of life's pleasures this side of heaven. Eggs over medium made it picture perfect. My dining companion chose the tender strawberry crepes with yummy vanilla cream cheese filling and deep fruity strawberry sauce. After our “breakfast” we moved on to lunch. Mark brought us three new menu items that have only been available for a month. We started with the Country Fair Cheese Bites. Lightly battered, fried white cheddar cheese bites served with marinara sauce are an excellent way to start a meal. The Country Fair Cheese Bites are better than other cheese appetizers because they are not gooey inside; you can take a bite and it stays solid. And, it is definitely not processed cheese.
Second, we tried the Loaded Baked Potato Bites. Breaded and fried potato bites stuffed with cheddar cheese, bacon and served with buttermilk ranch dressing, they weren’t conducive to my diet but were worth the cheat. A baked potato in a finger food, they were delectable, particularly for a potato connoisseur.

            Finally, we tried the Blue Ribbon Apple Pie Fries. Lightly battered and fried, the apple pie fries were dusted with powdered sugar and served with caramel dipping sauce. Reminiscent of old time apple pies Grandma used to make, the caramel sauce added just the right compliment. At that point, we were almost stuffed from the breakfast and appetizers but we happily moved to our entrees. My lunch entree was a Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad - one of their most popular lunch choices. Lots of texture; loaded with honey roasted pecans, bleu cheese, dried cranberries, roasted chicken and greens, tossed with sweet Italian dressing. Excellent combination, bursting with flavor.
            My other dining companion’s entree was Open Faced Roast Beef which consisted of slow roasted beef over Texas Toast smothered with hearty beef gravy with the real deal mashed potatoes. For those that don't want to be adventurous, there's the old tried-and-true All American Angus burgers to choose from: Bacon Cheeseburger, Cheeseburger, Old Fashioned Steak Burger.
            Bob Evans is fantastic coffee for the coffee drinker. I happened to notice Mark meandering from table to table checking with the customers for their satisfaction. I was impressed by the friendly, personal service. In fact, when they say the home of homestyle, they aren’t kidding! Bob Evans is a great family restaurant – you might even skip grandma’s Sunday dinner and take her to Bob Evans with you.

Bob Evans is located at 3123 Hwy 54; you can reach them at 683-3515.

Fuji of Japan

MomKat — Thu, 21 May 2009 13:50:50 GMT

Looking for the real deal in Japanese cuisine? No need to travel long distances; you have it right here in Owensboro. Boasting six hibachi chefs and two sushi chefs, Fuji has all but swept the Owensboro scene with its fine dining appeal.

Three months ago, Fuji of Japan was purchased by Mark Sohn. Mark and his team have made several changes to the menu. It boasts a variety of meats for hibachi and Sohn for sushi – all for affordable prices.

Mark inquired about our favorites. We opted for hibachi. My dining companion and I were seated at a table with another bunch of people and we were each served a first course of light and flavorful beef broth adorned with a mushroom. The second course consisted of a petite salad with creamy sweet and sour dressing. A third course of delicate pork egg rolls followed. Our hibachi chef arrived, or shall I say made his entrance, looking exactly how I would envision a Japanese chef to look, complete with a black chef hat. I knew we were in for a show when suddenly the quiet dinner charm was pierced by an intensive "WHAP!" Our chef, Marvin, cracked one of his utensils on the grill and had the entire table's undivided attention. Utensils flying, oil sizzling and aroma rising, he worked fast. All the while he divulged bits and pieces of what he was preparing with a smidge of comic thrown in. Suddenly he went into what I call his “paddle ball routine,” only the stakes are raised; he's using an egg and metal spatula. It was an awesome sight to see this professional tossing an egg in the air, catching and tossing it again in rapid paddle ball fashion. As a kid, I never could come close to mastering the game itself, so this is nothing short of a magical feat to me.

Fuji has authentic hibachi frills, opposed to griddles at other Japanese restaurants, i.e. the metal consistency is different.

By and by, the egg joins five others as a component to the fried rice being prepared on the griddle, accented by soy sauce and fresh black pepper. The rest of the dish he prepared was seafood, lightly sautéed so it was tender not tough – large sea scallops, shrimp, and two lobster tails.

Mark sat next to us and prepares us for a course in Sushi 101, as he calls it; taught by the master himself. At his directive, a large, artful boat platter hosting an intriguing variety of sushi arrived. Admittedly an amateur, I was completely lost on sushi etiquette. Mark was there to rescue us, explaining the difference between nigiri & sashimi, offering hints of what to expect as we began our tasting experience. The salmon sashimi was so tender, it melted in my mouth, and the super white tuna’s richness offered a perfect counterpoint. Mark goes on to inform us that his fish is flown in fresh daily from only two sources, per his specifications. Fuji's tuna is Grade A++, beef fillets are IBP Choice, and steaks are Angus Reserve.

With a full bar available (complete w/happy hour), you can choose to be seated in the sushi, hibachi, or tatami section (floor seating). For celebration parties or company presentations, there is the party room, which can accommodate up to 40 people, complete with hibachi grills at each guest table. A true Japanese dining experience, Fuji of Japan will keep you coming back again and again.

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PHOTO CREDIT | ASHLEY SOLLARS

Blind Parrot

MomKat — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 15:22:32 GMT

“You’ve come a long way, Baby!” Originally used in the 1970s Virginia Slims commercials, this phrase may have been in reference to the noticeable difference in a woman’s popularity and confidence when she held the alluring white accessory but in this month’s What’s Cookin’ it is in reference to the tropical oasis nestled along the heart of Frederica Street. To say that its beginning was rocky is the understatement of the year but even since our last food review, the Blind Parrot has undeniably come a long, long way and I, for one, stood up and took notice.

We began our food review with the intention of this being much like September food review and though the food was good then, the Parrot took it up a notch. We sat in the non-smoking side of the restaurant; we were surprised that not even a hint of the smoke permeated the glass which is much appreciated if you are a non-smoker. If you are a smoker, smoke it up in their enclosed bar area!

Stacy, our server, started us off with a fresh garden salad. They say that smell is the sense closest tied to memory but I think taste comes in a close second. Picture it: 1989 in a quaint diner in Woodruff, Wisconsin… My late mother ordered a meal but I wasn’t too hungry so I ordered a small salad. This salad was so amazing that it burned an impression straight onto my brain. It was the best salad of my entire eating existence and I never forgot it. My mother kept eyeballing the impressive salad and ended up sharing the salad with me in lieu of her meal. The salad that was served to us at the Parrot rivaled that salad of twenty years ago – that is how good it was… I couldn’t stop eating it and my daughter reminded me that there was more meal to come. I couldn’t imagine anything could be worth not finishing this salad! Bacon, cheese, cucumber, tomato and carrots were the base but I truly believe what made this salad special was the Ranch dressing. My daughter worked at Texas Roadhouse many years ago and raved about how if there were a river of Ranch dressing flowing through the place it would cut her work in half.

Next, out came our appetizers: the crab stuffed mushrooms were so pretty that I hesitated eating them – for a moment. They were buttery and fresh but not soggy; stuffed with crab meat, cream cheese and rice, the crab stuffed mushrooms were sweet and supple. They were also light like an appetizer should be and the lemon really accentuated the flavor.

While we basked in the “best salad I have ever eaten” and the crabby mushies, a tender voice radiated from the bar – Andy Brasher and Terry Payne’s harmony radiated throughout the restaurant, crooning songs ranging from Jimmy Buffet to Jim Croce. It lent a touch of ambiance to the already relaxing tropical atmosphere of the Parrot.

Our next two dishes came out and the people sitting at the table next to us must have thought we were delusional – and gluttons. After eating salad and mushrooms, two full plates of catfish filets and two plates of prime rib came out to us. My daughter was partial to the medium-rare tender prime rib but I couldn’t get enough of the cornmeal hand-breaded farm-raised catfish filets. An old boat captain in South Carolina once called them Yankee filets and though I have only recently come to understand why – sorry, I’m from Wisconsin and can’t get past the zillions of bones – these filets didn’t even hint of muddy flavor. My daughter who doesn’t even like catfish devoured hers with delight but still insisted that the marinated prime rib was too flavorful to come in second. Served with spicy hush puppies – these pups added a zing to the muted fish.

We thought our review was coming to an end when David Schrecker and Danny Atherton, the Blind Parrot’s owners brought out two sinful desserts – the turtle cheesecake and… get this… chocolate suicide hurricane cake. Hum-in-a, hum-in-a! If there are any chocolate fans out there, my suggestion is: if you need a fix, stop in and order either of these desserts!

The Blind Parrot has come a long way and they are to be commended for sticking with it through all of the bad press and hardships. If you are looking for a superior meal I strongly suggest making the Blind Parrot the top of your list. Check them out on May 2^ndfor a Derby celebration and get your smoked pork chops, and Boston butts straight from the smoker. The Parrot also offers an upstairs patio that can be rented out for special occasions and lunch on Saturdays and Sundays.

Check out the Parrot’s newest upgrades in the next few months: a Tiki Bar on the outside patio and MORE PARKING!

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PHOTO CREDIT | MomKat

Tokyo of Japan

MomKat — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 09:41:00 GMT

According to Peter Ko, owner of both Tokyo of Japan in both Owensboro and Evansville, “When you eat at traditional hibachi-style restaurants, you are paying 40% more for the show. The costumer has to pay for that and we give the costumer the same quality food with less price. Besides it’s the same show every time.

We wanted to focus on the food. We found that hibachi chefs were too expensive and we wanted to be able to cut the price and give bigger portions so everyone can enjoy it. We also not try to use much oil and don’t use any chemicals in our food like MSGs. But, the most important thing is to keep the restaurant clean.”

The staff of Tokyo was very gracious as we entered into our March dining experience. The last time we reviewed Tokyo, we focused on the hibachi but in this compact dining establishment, big flavors emerge! From sushi to authentic appetizers and of course the hibachi our table soon filled with a colorful assortment of dishes.

Peter first brought a small plate filled with unidentified squiggly somethings to our table first. I looked at the dish and then back at Peter. He explained it was a squid salad made with fresh cooked squid, bamboo shoots and sesame sauce. The squid has a naturally sweet flavor and but the salad gave off sweet and salty tones.

Next, we sampled the shrimp tempura – large, sweet shrimp that is lightly coated with a translucent batter and fried. It was very light and crispy; and had a much different flavor than the traditional fried shrimp you might find at an American restaurant.

Food was piling high on the table at that point so my dining companion and I had to make more headway! The Japanese potato cake looked much like a fried hashbrown from McDonald’s but when you bite into the potato cake, you’ll immediately notice the difference. Inside the cake the potatoes were mashed not shredded and there were surprises of corn, onion and other vegetables throughout the cake. It was topped with a Japanese bar-b-q sauce and fried to a golden brown.

Finally, we moved on to the four large sushi rolls that were arranged in a beautiful fashion on decorative plates. We started with the mildest of the rolls – the Bagel Maki. What most local Japanese restaurants call the Philadelphia Roll – the Bagel Maki was filled with cucumber, creamed cheese and smoked salmon. This is a great roll for those who want to enjoy the freshness of raw fish but in smaller quantities.

The Caterpillar Roll was by far my favorite. It had a savory flavor and a hearty texture. The Caterpillar consisted of cucumber, avocado and Japanese bar-b-qued eel which made it darker in color than the other rolls.

The Spicy Tuna Roll was a fun, whimsical sushi roll that mixed fresh fruit in with the other flavors. Tuna, cucumber and spicy mayo was topped with sliced kiwi and a coconut sauce. The roll started off sweet when the kiwi and coconut first hit your tastebuds but the spiciness of the inside bursts when you begin to chew! The conflicting flavors harmonized quickly but were inevitably followed by a mouthful of warm sake (which is available at the Evansville location on Green River Road).

Our final roll was the Kentucky Derby or Tokyo Roll. This signature roll was very different from the others in that not only was it twice as large but also fried. Avocado, cucumber, tuna, white tuna, salmon and masago (smelt roe) were wrapped in rice and seaweed and deep fried to reveal a very delicious house roll. This is a great choice for those who are weary of raw foods or seek a more substantial sushi!

Though we were stuffed to the gills, our hibachi is something my foodie friend and I are no stranger too. Tokyo hibachi has been a favorite of ours for several months and we have even turned on many of our friends to the notorious Bonsai!

Tokyo does a great job of keeping the best features of high quality hibachi dining while going easy on your wallet. Unlike traditional hibachi restaurants, Tokyo prepares their meals on their grills away from your dinner table. However, doing this does not take away from the taste and service of the traditional hibachi grills.

For a scant $10.55, we dined on beef, chicken, shrimp, scallops and vegetables with rice. The chicken was probably the tenderest chicken I have ever put into my mouth and the shrimp and scallops had to be cut in half to be eaten. The dish was saucy and scrumptious. Paired with Tokyo’s secret weapon – their shrimp sauce – the Bonsai meal was enough for two of me – even before I had eaten all the sushi! Since our food review I have tried to mimic the shrimp sauce at home but all my attempts have failed miserably…

Starting at only $6.63, hibachi meals at Tokyo range from one meat to all four giving you different options each time you visit. Perhaps the best example of the incredible quality and value offered at Tokyo is the seafood. Tokyo’s shrimp is easily twice as large as most other restaurant’s and their scallops are quite possibly the largest and tastiest in town. Tokyo only uses the highest quality seafood and all of their scallops are chosen for their size. Peter has to travel to Georgia and Tennessee to pick up the cases of scallops Tokyo uses.

Tokyo is located in both Owensboro, KY, on Frederica and on the east side of Evansville, IN, on north Green River Road. If you are in a hurry for lunch, be sure to call ahead at 270-926-1020 for carry-out service or order off of their drive-thru menu.

*Prices may vary per location.

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Photos | Ashley Sollars

Moonlite Bar-B-Q

MomKat — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 08:24:34 GMT

Moonlite Bar-B-Q is world-famous for not only the tantalizing blend of spices that make up a legendary barbeque sauce but also the distinctive hickory flavor that permeates its quality meat. Slow-cooked in custom-built hickory fired pits, even President Clinton visited the restaurant to sample the sauce on his way through Owensboro. It is no secret that Moonlite’s renowned barbecue is worth taking time out of running the country but did you know that Moonlite also offers an extensive catering menu that stretches far beyond BBQ?

We began our tasting with beef tenderloin and roasted pork tenderloin that was smoked on the hickory pits. Full of robust flavor, it all but melted in our mouths. According to the Moonlite catering staff, these are favorites when choosing a menu for special occasions. We also sampled a thick, juicy medium-rare cut of prime rib. Meticulously aged, then slow-roasted to seal in the savory beef flavor and tenderness, Moonlite’s prime rib is served with a tempting au jus to add a splash of savor to the meat. If red meat seems too heavy for your party, try the lemon chicken parmesan. A sautéed boneless breast of chicken, baked in white wine and lemon cream sauce and topped with fresh mushrooms, this dish will give your guests a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.

After you choose your meat, Moonlite catering offers a plethora of gourmet sides that are far from baked beans and potato salad. To accompany most of the meat dishes, a starch side pairs nicely. Moonlite offers several signature sides including twice baked potatoes, mashed red new potatoes and a baked macaroni and cheese. Next, we sampled the marinated asparagus spears, hearts of palm and artichoke hearts. It lent a perfect lightness to the heavier dishes.

Moonlite’s lunches and dinners add a defining touch to your affair but the appetizers and desserts will definitely be the icing on the cake! Moonlite prepares an assortment of appetizers that are as pleasing to the eye as they are the palate. Whatever your theme, Moonlite can create a food display that doubles as decoration. Recently, the catering team created an island-themed fruit, cheese and hickory smoked salmon display that made guests feel as if they had stepped into the tropics. At another event, fruit and cheese were placed atop authentic bourbon barrels to create a rustic distillery feel. Fresh honeydew, cantaloupe, pineapple, kiwi, grapes and strawberries along with ten different cheeses including baby Swiss, Colby, brie, smoked Gouda and pepper jack refresh the palate and enhance the appearance of your event.

Finally, to top off your meal, choose from a variety of homemade desserts including frothy coconut pie, rich and creamy chocolate pie, red velvet cake and my favorite – banana cream pie. With thick pudding, ripe bananas, whipped cream and a buttery crust, the banana cream pie ended our meal on a sweet note.

When you choose Moonlite catering for your event, you can feature world-famous BBQ or choose from a never-ending list of options as you can request whatever your heart desires. Moonlite’s experienced, professional staff has catered events as small as intimate luncheons up to parties of 10,000 including the annual Maker’s Mark Derby party in Louisville, KY, and various local galas and balls. Bartending services are also available. Visit www.moonlite.com for a price list and to see more of the options Moonlite offers. To schedule an appointment call Jeanie Heath or Mike Clark at 270-684-8143.

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PHOTOS | COURTNEY METZGER/STUDIO B

What's Cookin': Pangea

MomKat — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 13:08:02 GMT

The name is Pangea Catering, but make no mistake - there’s catering and much more when it comes to this inviting Owensboro restaurant. Conveniently located on the west side off Carter, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to one of Europe’s beguiling sidewalk cafes when you step through the door. Have a seat on the overstuffed couch if you need to wait, but leave your reading glasses at home; the menu is written on a huge blackboard wall. And what a menu it is! True to its name, the continents come together with a fusion of flavor to offer a wide array of sandwiches, paninis, soups and salads for the lunch crowd. Amidst all this, you’ll find owner and executive chef, Justin Crandall, moving at a busy pace to keep up with the steady stream of customers and carry outs. An Associate’s degree from Florida Culinary Institute, a notable internship and a host of impressive chef positions prepared Justin to move back to the area to open his own restaurant. He cites he saw a need here for his type of culinary specialties, and it’s apparent he’s ready to fill that order with extraordinary exuberance. All food is simply and imaginatively prepared from scratch. The restaurant strives to stay green in ways such as recycling and not serving endangered fish, with various vegetarian dishes and organic options available.

Our first course is Italian Wedding Soup, brimming with the aroma of fresh basil. With the meatballs and penne, it is a robust, full bodied soup.

This paired with a hunk of good, crusty bread I could imagine as a meal in itself. However, there’s other fare to experience as we move on to one of Pangea’s specialty sandwiches, Chilli Cured Pork Loin. Mounded high is roasted house cured pork, topped with Swiss cheese, apple butter, jicama, bacon and apple slaw on a garlic roll, accompanied by homemade potato chips, or house pasta salad. Fresh and enticing with fresh herbs, it’s not long before you realize you’re in the middle of a culinary experience involving all five of your senses.

Our main course was an artful arrangement of fresh green beans encased in cream cheese and pico de gallo spread, wrapped in thinly sliced sweet potato, and crowned with bacon stuffed sea scallop.

Embellished with black bean sauce and dotted with red pepper sauce, artist and chef come together to create a visionary masterpiece.

Lunch sandwiches are served with your choice of homemade chips or house pasta salad with chef’s choice of dessert for $6.49 plus tax. Skip the pizza and order in or carry out; homemade chicken salad and pasta salad available by the pound or quart. Customized catering available for weddings, business meetings, birthdays, baby showers or any other celebration you can imagine. For lunch, dinner, or catering, you’ll find Pangea is truly a unique dining experience you’ll come back to again and again.

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“Hello, my name is Justin Crandall, I am a graduate of The Florida Culinary Institute where I received my associates degree. During this time I was a private chef and did a two year internship under chef Auguste Carriero CEC CCE CC (former executive chef at PGA national resorts). After completion of my internship I then went on to take a saucier position at the Biltmore Estates where I worked for a year. I then spent two years taking seasonal jobs in Florida at The Harbor Ridge Yacht Club and in New Hampshire at the Bald Peak Country Club. When finishing this I was asked to open The Café, a restaurant in Ames Iowa. A year and a half later, I took an executive Chef position at the The Cottage in Acworth, GA. I spent my two years at The Cottage perfecting recipes and building a name for myself, I now have a catering company called “Pangea.” My mission with Pangea is to combine the flavors of the world with classical cooking creating my own approach to nouvelle cuisine.”

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PHOTOS COURTESY: JUSTIN CRANDALL

What's Cookin': Z's

MomKat — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 09:57:09 GMT

Heads up, Tri-State! Betcha didn't know about the treasure you have right here under your noses when it comes to fine dining. I'm talking about Z's; quite possibly Owensboro's best kept secret! Nestled in the Cigar Factory Mall, this restaurant compliments the city with its gourmet menu and cultured atmosphere. We visited on a Wednesday night, and I noticed the bar was full of happy people; casually enjoying themselves with a room off of the bar is set aside for smoking.

Our hostess led us into the dining area and I immediately noticed that gone are the run-of-the-mill dining area table and chairs. Instead, we were seated in one of their sixteen very private, comfortable cubicles. Exquisitely designed, I conjure up the scenario of a couple seated for a romantic evening, first date, anniversary, or a “pop-the-question” night perhaps? Oh, where's that glass of champagne to hide the ring in? Suffice it to say, romance simply oozes from this place. In fact, it occurs to me any other restaurant of this caliber I've visited before always had the preface of “Chez” preceding its name.

I know we were in for a treat when the server asked if we have any reservations to seafood. This came as an inquiry from our Executive Chef, John Huffman, who hails from the Philadelphia/Baltimore area and seafood just happens to be his specialty. My heart is racing by now in anticipation. In a short amount of time, we were served our first course – the appetizer dish. Beautifully presented, it consisted of crab cakes (the real deal), Oysters Bienville, and sea scallops the size of golf balls wrapped in sweet, smoky bacon. Dipping sauces of Remoulade and Jack Daniel’s bourbon glaze beckoned respectively. As my dining companion and I dove in, she apprehensively admitted she was not a fan of oysters, but for tasting's sake would go ahead and try them. Hot and served on the half shell, the oyster is only part of this enticing medley of ham, crabmeat, and prosciutto cheese. It didn’t take long for her to admit that she could absolutely live on these oysters. Sea scallops, the love of my life, wooed me with their fresh, sweet, and delicate flavor, cooked to perfection. The word “divine” comes to mind… No preformed patties; these made-from-scratch crab cakes all but screamed “Baltimore!” So if crab cakes are your soft spot, Z’s happens to be your place.

Our main entrées included a filet of Certified Angus Beef Tenderloin and Yellow Fin Tuna served with wasabi sauce. The tuna was seared but not cooked all the way through. Though Chef John would be happy to cook it to whatever degree you prefer, this is sushi quality tuna and you'll want to leave the center rare for the full tantalizing affect. The wasabi sauce pungently flavored the versatile dish with a rich medley of Asian spices. Complimented with an interesting blend of English cucumbers, jicama, edamame and pickled ginger; this is an experience you won't want to miss. The tenderloin is everything you'd want in a filet; tender and juicy with lots of unhampered beef taste imprinted with a hint of flame broil. Accompanied with some rich, homemade mashed potatoes - need I say more? We thought we were coming to a close to our meal when our server graced our table with two servings of none other than Kentucky's own Derby Pie, warm and sandwiched between ice cream on one side, whipped cream on the other with a garnish of strawberries. So beautiful, so gone.

Scrutinizing the menu, I noticed the wide array of choices available. I counted 10 different salads, a myriad of seafood options, the tried-and-true classics for the less adventurous, and if you really want to get down to the brass tacks, there's even the Owensboro basics of meatloaf, liver and onions, stir fry, country fried steak and the ever popular – catfish. And, Z’s is very possibly the only place in Owensboro where you can get a bowl of Lobster Bisque! At this point, though I have not tried every one of these entrées, I have spoken to Chef John and tasted enough of his culinary creations to know that from the prime to the sublime, not only is everything this guy cooks made from scratch, it is a masterpiece. Catering, wedding cakes and ice carvings are available. Gift certificates and party rooms are also available. Who knew?! You do now.

Join me in my New Years' pledge to visit Z's quite often. Get out of your box and try a different dish each time. What a spectacular resolution to savor life!

Fuji

MomKat — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 16:17:57 GMT

Sushi Wanna Piece of This?

Fuji

I have a friend [we will call her…“Katie”] who called me a few years ago and confessed her new addiction to me – sushi. She couldn’t get enough of it. She was eating it two, sometimes three times a day. She was spending her whole paycheck on sushi. “This sushi addiction is getting out of hand,” I thought. I told her to stop; she needed help. She needed more McDonald’s or her American culture might just fade. She couldn’t stop. She was hooked. So, when I was told my next food review was at a restaurant notorious for serving up the addictive morsels, my heart began to race. Sure, I had tried things like the “California roll” before but nothing with raw seafood had ever touched my palate before.

We walked into Fuji of Japan and were met by Sato – a very gracious host indeed! We chose to sit at the sushi bar but when we toured the restaurant I was enlightened on all the different seating possibilities that Fuji offers. If you have a small group, you can choose to sit at the bar or the sushi bar, but if you are looking for a show with your meal, there are several

hibachi grills complete with your own personal chef available to make your dinner special. If you are planning a party, Fuji offers two private rooms – one with hibachi grills that seats up to 60 and a Tatimi room (a traditional Japanese dining style where you must take your shoes off and sit on the floor) which seats 18-20 guests.

I fumbled with the chopsticks that were placed at the sushi bar and looked to Tim, our sushi chef for help. “Perhaps,” I thought, “I shouldn’t try to take in too much today,” though I did want to soak up as much of the Japanese culture as I could.

Tim handed us our first dish – a Kani Salad. I lowered my glasses to get a better look at the dish before me that resembled a piece of art more than food and then slid my fork into the concoction. I detected crab, cucumber, and a spicy dressing. It was delightful as was the Midori sours that Sato brought to us. The bright green melon drinks were more like candy than a beverage.

So far, I hadn’t bitten into anything raw but when Tim handed us our next bit of cuisine art – I became a bit apprehensive. I quickly searched the menu for a description of the “rare” fish that I was about to consume. In his very thick accent, Tim informed me that his dish was not on the menu – it was one of his specialties. Tim had made us a “Chef’s Special Roll” complete with raw salmon, rice, avocado, and eel with an eel sauce garnish. The seasoned food reviewer that accompanied me told me to stop trying to cut the sushi with my fork and just pop the whole piece in my mouth – something I wouldn’t have even dreamt of if I had been denied a fork! It was a mouthful but the fusion of flavors were an incredible mix.

I wasn’t familiar with the green and pink accompaniments on my plate. The green blop is wasabi – Japanese horseradish – and the pink is pickled ginger. Both are VERY potent! Many sushi lovers also eat their roll dipped in soy sauce.

We took turns eating the sushi pieces and the last piece looked up longingly at me. I said to my dining companion, “Well, it’s your turn.” She graciously allowed me to devour the final piece. My sushi addiction had began. Tim asked what I wanted to try next. “Hmmm, I’ve heard Yellowtail Tuna is good.” While Tim prepared, I snarfed down the last of the wasabi. I never knew Japanese food could be so good! The flavors are so different than what we are used to. I was hooked too. Not as bad as “Katie” but I started to understand this American obsession with raw foods.

By this time I was stuffed. Sushi really sneaks up on you! We thanked Sato for a delicious lunch and got the lowdown on the upcoming specials. From now until December 31^st, enjoy $1.00 beer, wine, cocktails and sake with the purchase of an entrée (limit 3 beverages). Also, on Mondays, don’t worry about brining your coupon because you can enjoy Monday Nite Specials at Fuji with huge discounts on sushi and hibachi!

Book your holiday parties now at Fuji (next to Big Lots on Frederica Street). Filled with Japanese charm, this delicious dining experience would also make a great gift for those hard-to-buy-for family and friends. Gift certificates are available in any denomination. Fuji is open 7 days a week from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. and then from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. for dinner. Fuji will open its doors on Christmas and New Years for a one-of-a-kind holiday dining experience.

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DID YOU KNOW?

“Japanese cuisine is usually very simple, as it based on a belief that nature cannot be improved. Therefore, the chef is presented with the task of arranging and preparing the food in such a way that its natural beauty and taste is not lost, but enhanced.” –FUJI

Fuji offers children’s sushi dinners!

Sushi is low in fat, provides protein, omega3-fatty acids, vitamins and iodine. A typical roll of 7-9 pieces contains only 300-450 calories.

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PHOTO | ASHLEY SOLLARS (TOP LEFT), STOCK IMAGERY(BOTTOM)

Owensboro What's Cookin'!

MomKat — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 08:45:29 GMT

Like Pecos Bill riding the cyclone, Montana Mike’s hit the Owensboro restaurant circuit a couple of years ago. It was wild; everyone showed up to check it out. I wanted to, but in an effort to avoid the “new restaurant mania” I chose to hold off, consequently never going at all. This recently proved to my advantage. I was now in a position to assess this establishment in a totally unbiased food review.

When a place is named Montana Mike’s, upon entering, you know you're going to be enveloped by the great outdoors. Hunting and fishing relics abound; the rustic decor transports you to Big Sky country, triggering a big sky appetite.

Under new ownership and new management since mid summer, it seems that “NEW” is the operative word around here. We are met by Adam, one of the managers, who chatted amiably about the changes that took place. With a new menu and new wine list, he all but insists we begin our adventure with our choice of a glass of wine. He suggested two of their popular appetizers – Cheesy Mountain Mushrooms and Spicy Baja Crispers. The mountain mushrooms come encased in a crispy seasoned coating, hand breaded in the kitchen. Biting into it, we found a blend of melted cheeses, somewhat reminding me of a deep fried stuffed mushroom. The Baja Crispers satisfy the Santa Fe craving in all of us with their corn, bean and salsa filler. Kicky, but not overpowering.

As our main menu items are served, they appearred attractive as well as healthy. Blackened salmon for my dining companion; filet wrapped in bacon for me. Sides consisted of a sweet potato and vegetable medley with butter and fixins' on the side, so a person can choose their level of indulgence. Adam gave us a brief explanation on grading levels of meat, so with Montana Mike's recent upgrade to Certified Angus Beef, it's easy to see how and why their steaks surpass the competitions'. FACT: Did you know that less than 8% of all beef qualifies for the Certified Angus Beef label? That aside, take it from me, the filet was divine – superbly tasteful, melt-in-your-mouth-tender divine. Yeah, it's just that way.

The Blackened Salmon took us by surprise. Admittedly not salmon fans, we found the salmon lightly seasoned with a wonderfully firm texture, accompanied by a delightful Asian Ginger sauce on the side. Definitely not overly 'salmony.' An excellent choice for anyone.

After dinner we had the opportunity to meet with the new owners, Gary and Beth Austin. A down to earth couple, they know their business and resonate a clear vision of where they are going with their restaurant – as evidenced by their very apparent changes. This is up-scale dining in a casual atmosphere, at great prices. Catering and delivery is available. So, if you're like me and it's your first visit, or you haven't been to Montana Mike’s in the last three months, you have got to give it a try. You will not be disappointed. Big Sky honor!

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PHOTO | ASHLEY SOLLARS

What's Cookin'

MomKat — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 01:09:34 GMT

Frankie’s Sports Bar & Grill

When I was asked to do a food review for Owensboro's Frankie's Sports Bar, I found myself a bit skeptical. After all, sports fanatics and your general bar crowd will tell you they're there for the games, camaraderie, and an all around good time. So I'm having somewhat of a hard time figuring out how food fits into the equation. Nevertheless, I donned my tightest pair of jeans, so as not to stand out, and off I went with my dining companion in tow. We meet with James, who first off is happy to point out that the place is under new management, with none other than himself as the man-in-charge. He immediately rolls out a myriad of changes he's made and upcoming events on the schedule. Amidst the restructuring, one thing that has endured the test of time, however, is Frankie's signature Oscar Burger. Flipping it himself on an impeccably clean grill, it's no time before we find that North meets south with this one. Delectable maple-cured bacon (the aroma itself is heavenly) on an ample burger with a hint of that old southern BBQ sauce comes together quite nicely. No opposing sides here! And, of course, no self respecting establishment of any kind can get away without boasting a sampler platter, which happens to be jalapeño poppers with cheddar cheese, batter fried onion rings, mozzarella sticks and a darn good chicken tender, which, complimented with the right sauces, in my opinion, can make or break a place. A couple of bottled beers before, during and after, which by the way, at Happy Hour (4 - 6 p.m.) are only $1.50, gives it a great overall finishing score. Now just which way is that mechanical bull?

Upcoming Events:

OCTOBER 3RD - CAT FIGHT, BABY OIL WRESTING - $1,000 FIRST PRIZE

OCTOBER 4TH - BIKER BURNOUT

Some of the top reasons you’ll find yourself at Frankie’s are:

Bands booked every weekend through January
Ten of the best pool tables in Owensboro w/ plans for upcoming tournaments
3 Big-screen TV’s, 5 small screen TV’s with Direct TV package
Hoop Fever Basketball
Online Jukebox
Clearn Restrooms, ample security and a dress code
Monday Night Special: Two pitches of beer and 10 hot wings for $14.99

Blind Parrot

Ashley Sollars — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 21:40:02 GMT

What’s Cookin’ The Blind Parrot

I once heard that Owensboro has more restaurants per capita than any other city in the U.S. I don’t how valid that statement is, but no one can deny that there is an excess of eateries! However, sometimes the shear amount of restaurants can put your head into a dizzy when deciding where to satisfy the nagging hunger you feel deep in your stomach. You want good food at a fair price, but you also want to feed the eyes when you consume your meal! I mean, isn’t that the whole reason we go out to eat – besides the convenience of it, of course!

The Blind Parrot in Owensboro dishes up some of the yummiest recipes you’ll find, but what really garnishes your dining experience is the ambiance of the place. After a long day of work, sometimes all we want is to escape to a tropical island, drink a cool drink and be serenaded by the locals. This “tropical island” lost in the sea of Owensboro, on Frederica across from Brescia University, boasts a full bar, an outdoor patio and both smoking and non-smoking rooms – allowing those under 18 to enter until 10 p.m.

We started off our meal with an appetizer sampler. Everything on the dish was delectable. The potato skins were fresh and cooked to perfection. They were neither chewy or burnt. The chicken fingers were juicy and meaty and the mozzarella sticks were ooy-gooy! The beer-battered onion rings went so well with the honey mustard, oh, and the ranch! As a former server in Owensboro, KY, I know the importance of good ranch dressing in any food establishment. Given the choice, I truly believe Owensboro natives would rather the river be made up entirely of ranch dressing. The Blind Parrot serves primo ranch!

Next, out came the Caribbean Jerk Shrimp; it was huge and delicious! Our eyes widened as the unique blend of spices tingled our tongues. The crab stuffed mushrooms were our next endeavor, though we were filling up fast. These were honestly the best stuffed mushrooms I have ever tasted. If you are a mushroom fan, this appetizer is for you! They were cheesy and the crab’s flavors came busting out onto your palate.

Last, we sampled the Parrot Pizza. Of course we tried the Island Pizza – topped with pineapple, ham, chicken and green peppers. The thin crust gave the tangy toppings a crispy base. Pizza is available for carry-out as well as sit-down and pairs well with a cool, frosty beer! Call 270-684-5554 for carry-out call ahead service.

Visit the Blind Parrot during their new hours. (Monday – Saturday from 4 p.m. until 2 a.m., and Sundays 11-11) Also, try one of the Blind Parrot’s new menu items including: potato soup, chicken salad, pulled pork and raw oysters just to name a few. Also join the Blind Parrot Mondays – Fridays for $4 happy hour appetizer specials (4-7 p.m. and 9-11 p.m.) and stuff yourself every Friday and Saturday night with all-you-can-eat catfish filets.

The Blind Parrot is your island oasis after a long week or even a long day. Stop in today to try a new menu item or a native favorite!

What's Cookin': Pho Viet

Mathew Gregory — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 19:48:50 GMT

Pho Viet (not Faux Viet) Dishes Up Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine

One of the greatest things about dining in Owensboro is the amount of diverse locations and dishes one could eat in a day, providing you have the stomach to eat all day! Going down Frederica Street alone, you could choose to eat Hispanic, Chinese or Italian food – just to name a few. Adding to the diverse selection of food in Owensboro is Pho Viet, a an authentic Vietnamese restaurant!

            For a lot of people, including myself, Pho Viet will be a first for them when it comes to Vietnamese dining. Though there are items on the menu that will no doubt be new to most people, most items on the menu will be fairly familiar. However, as most of us know, the items that are foreign to us and seem intimidating sometimes turn out to be our favorites.
            From the front of the menu to the last page, Pho Viet offers a wide variety of dishes. Appetizers at Pho Viet include familiar favorites such as spring rolls and other traditional Vietnamese items which is unique to Pho Viet in Owensboro. One such item is Goi Cuon which has different variations which could include shrimp, tofu, and vermicelli and each one is wrapped in thin rice paper.
            Entrees at Pho Viet range in varieties of Vietnamese food from a rice noodle soup to steamed rice accompanied by grilled meats. Other entrees at Pho Viet consist of a Japanese-style noodle with choice of meat, rice noodles served with meats and vegetables on top, and egg noodles with vegetable served with your choice of meat.
            One great aspect of dining at Pho Viet is the authenticity of the Vietnamese dining. Every item on the menu has its Vietnamese name and a description written in English. Another aspect of dining at Pho Viet is the atmosphere and dishes used in the restaurant. When most restaurants barely use anything more than paper plates, Pho Viet serves each dish on highly detailed painted dishes, which adds to the atmosphere of the restaurant.
            With an incredibly unique menu to the area, affordable and great tasting items, and a friendly atmosphere, Pho Viet is a must try for dining out in Owensboro.

What's Cookin: House of Canton

Matthew Gregory — Tue, 27 May 2008 19:38:41 GMT

When it comes to deciding where and what to dine on in Owensboro it usually ends up at one of two decisions, dine-in or delivery. Most of the time this means two completely different places to choose from as well. However, when it comes to The House of Canton, you could eat it at home one night, and dine in the restaurant the very next night. With a wide variety of both Chinese and Thai food, The House of Canton provides a unique dining experience when it comes to atmosphere and most important, food quality.

The House of Canton is located next to K-Mart at 2845 West Parrish Avenue. Part of what makes The House of Canton such a unique dining out experience is the décor and atmosphere set forth throughout the restaurant. To go along with the traditional Asian-Style décor that adorns most Chinese restaurants around town, The House of Canton has a little splash of originality to the walls of their restaurant. Painted on one of the walls is a custom mural of a seaside portrait made by the restaurant’s owner.

Though the scenery and atmosphere makes the dining experience at The House of Canton incredibly original, without the great tasting food and great service, it would leave it as just a pretty place to look at – thankfully though, The House of Canton delivers on both aspects as they have an incredibly courteous staff and an extensive menu that does not cut any corners when it comes to offering quality food.

Offering everything from noodles, fried rice, and yellow and green curry, the House of Canton has one of the most diverse Chinese-style menus in the city of Owensboro. The House of Canton also offers a daily lunch menu that includes plate lunches with single food items and also a combination plate that includes the entrée, egg roll, and fried rice. The House of Canton also offers an American menu for those in your dinner party that may not be in the mood for other items offered at the restaurant. Items on the American menu include ribeye steak, fried shrimp, chicken breast, hamburgers and French fries.

With a menu of items ranging from egg foo young, curry chicken, and ribeye steak, The House of Canton has enough to offer every one in your party both in the restaurant with their incredibly courteous servers or at your door with their delivery service.

What's Cookin: O'Bryan's

Matthew Gregory — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 22:11:35 GMT

Now that March has finally got here, it has brought in hope for some springtime weather, March Madness basketball, and the only holiday on the calendar where you are not only allowed, but encouraged to drink green beer, St. Patrick’s Day. Put on your green clothing, get ready for some corned beef and cabbage, and come out to a legitimate Irish Pub for your celebration, O’Bryan’s Bar and Grill in West Louisville. O’Bryan’s Bar and Grill’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration will be held on Saturday, March 15 even though St. Patrick’s Day is traditionally celebrated on March 17, which happens to be a Monday this year.

           O’Bryan’s Bar and Grill is located just southwest of Owensboro, off of HWY 56 at 7006 Highway 815.
            Though there will be the traditional green beer and corned beef and cabbage, that is not all that O’Bryan’s will be offering at their St. Patrick’s Day celebration. To go along with these, they will also be having the Miller Girls and the Party Bus in attendance for the celebration. To go along with the Miller Girls, O’Bryan’s Bar and Grill will be offering live entertainment featuring State Radio.
            If corned beef and cabbage is not your food of choice for such a celebration, have no fear. O’Bryan’s Bar and Grill comes well prepared to satisfy whatever craving you may have during the St. Patrick’s Day celebration, or any other day for that matter.       Appetizers such as onion petals, hot wings, shrimp jammers, and nachos will get you started. O’Bryan’s Bar and Grill serves daily plate specials Monday through Thursday for lunch and on Friday they are served all day and night. Plate specials are day specific but include country fried steak, pot roast, frog legs, catfish, and pork chops.
            To go along with plate specials, O’Bryan’s Bar and Grill serves many sandwiches such as hamburgers, fish fillets, club sandwiches, BLTs, and even bologna and cheese sandwiches. If sandwiches will not suit your hunger, O’Bryan’s Bar and Grill offers meals featuring rib eye steaks, chicken tenders, buffalo chicken tenders, and fried pork chops.
            If you are looking for a place where you can party with the Miller girls, listen to great music and eat some corned beef and cabbage, then drive fifteen miles southwest of Owensboro for a very original and authentic St. Patrick’s Day celebration at O’Bryan’s Bar and Grill.

What's Cookin': Diamond Lake

Matthew Gregory — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 17:14:21 GMT

Normally thought of as a top spot during the warmer months, Diamond Lake has been around for years giving residents in the area a place to fish and camp. Though our current weather does not bode well for fishing or camping, do not let that stop you from enjoying the great food that the Diamond Lake restaurant has to offer year round.

Part of the appeal to Diamond Lake restaurant is the view from the dining room overlooking the lake. Since the restaurant is surrounded by windows so anyone can see the view of the park from any table in the restaurant.
During the winter months the restaurants hours are Friday and Saturday 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. The restaurant is also open Sunday for a breakfast brunch from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Throughout the park’s open months, Diamond Lake restaurant serves up lunches and dinner buffet style. However, until the park opens again in March, the restaurant will continue to serve their food by order from a menu.
Some of the items on the menu include sandwiches such as Philly cheese steak, hot ham and cheese, grilled cheese, hamburgers, and patty melts. Other items include ribeye steaks, pork chops, meatloaf, chicken tenders, shrimp, chicken fried chicken, and frog leg dinners. Soup of the day is also served and includes chili, gumbo, vegetable soup, and potato soup. The dessert menu consists of coconut pie, chess pie, chocolate pie, and banana pudding, in which all are home made.

Also included is a child’s menu, which consists of hamburgers, cheeseburgers, grilled cheese, macaroni and cheese, and chicken tenders.

If you still haven’t figured out where you and your special someone will spend Valentine’s Day together, Diamond Lake restaurant has that covered as well. The restaurant will be having a Valentine’s Dinner and it will consist of a couple of menu choices. You can choose from either ribeye steak, shrimp, and lasagna or catfish, shrimp, or a frog leg dinner. Each dinner includes a salad or cole slaw, two vegetables, and a dessert. Anyone wanting to attend can call 229-0001 to make reservations.

Diamond Lake restaurant also has areas to accommodate your reception or party needs. Their reception and party room holds anywhere between seventy-five to a hundred people. Though closed Monday through Thursday, Diamond Lake restaurant will open during the week for private parties as well.

Though Diamond Lake is closed until spring, Diamond Lake restaurant will continue to serve up great home made food at a great price year round for campers and customers alike.

What's Cookin'!

Matthew Gregory — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 22:45:07 GMT

Owensboro continues to boom and grow everyday and recently it has gotten a lot tastier with the addition of Maloney’s Roca Bar on Highway 54. The Roca Bar was first established in Evansville, in 1943. Though they are known nowadays for their famous pizza they did not add pizza to their menu until nearly a decade later. Since then, they’ve stayed true to their menu and also to make their pizzas with only the freshest ingredients and continue to make their pizza dough fresh daily.

Maloney’s Roca Bar is separated into two separate sections. For adults looking to have a few drinks in addition to having great food, Maloney’s Roca Bar offers a full bar and drink specials daily. In the other half of the establishment is the family restaurant, which is smoke free.
            Perhaps the most original item on the menu is the Roca Bar Italian salad. Most people would not think that you could get too creative with salads but Roca Bar managed to serve up one of the most original salads in the area. Pepperoni, ham, and the signature Roca Bar italian dressing is what sets their salad apart from the rest in town.
            In addition to making some of the best pizza in the Owensboro area, Maloney’s Roca Bar offers a wide variety items to suit your every need. Entrees include, steak, shrimp, spaghetti, and grilled chicken. Maloney’s Roca Bar also serves a wide assortment of sandwiches from the Roca Boli and Philly cheese steaks to hamburgers and Italian sausage.
            With all fall and winter sports in high gear and playoffs looming in the future, there may be no better place to watch all of the games than at Maloney’s Roca Bar. There is absolutely no shortage of flat-screen high definition televisions as they have more than 30 televisions in the restaurant and bar. With many Americans not able to see the games they want to see when it comes to NFL football, Maloney’s Roca Bar offers NFL Sunday Ticket to go along with their many flat screen TVs.
            Maloney’s Roca Bar also offers an arcade for the kids to occupy while you are watching the game on one of their high definition televisions. They also offer a kids menu with popular kid items such as grilled cheese, chicken strips, French fries, mac-n-cheese, and mini corn dogs.
            With great food, family friendly atmosphere, and entertainment galore, Maloney’s Roca Bar may have just added the best chapter in the Roca Bar sixty year history.

What’s Cookin – Frankie’s

Matthew Gregory — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:15:37 GMT

Driving down Burlew Boulevard may seem like going in a time warp now that Frankie’s Sports Bar and Grill is back. Frankie’s is currently under new ownership but still brings most of the familiarities which makes Frankie’s Sports Bar and Grill a must visit destination for all entertainment seekers in Owensboro.
            Perhaps the greatest thing Frankie’s Sports Bar and Grill offers is the completely diverse range of entertainment options. Nothing is left out when it comes to entertainment at Frankie’s including pool tables, dartboards, many big screen televisions, and live music. Frankie’s also offers darts and billiards tournaments occasionally, and not to mention a full bar and even a jukebox. Frankie’s Sports Bar and Grill is located off of New Hartford Road on Burlew Boulevard.
            To go along with some of the best selection of entertainment in Owensboro, Frankie’s Sports Bar and Grill offers an even better food selection. Traditional appetizers, such as cheese fries, chicken strips, jalapeno poppers, and a variety of nachos are paired with some of their own creations like shrimp poppers and Oscar’s Hot wings. Perhaps the greatest thing about Frankie’s menu is the price. Everything on the menu is priced accordingly and you get more than your moneys worth of food.
            Frankie’s Sports Bar and Grill also offers lunch specials daily. Ribeye steak sandwiches, shrimp salad, Ernesto’s Grilled chicken are a couple of items that will keep you coming back again and again.
            Everyday it seems that Frankie’s Sports Bar and Grill has something special offer everyone. For instance, Wednesdays are two for one margarita day, Thursday is ladies night with karaoke and a live DJ, and all weekend there is live music. Frankie’s also offers happy hour specials Monday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
            With the NFL season more than half-way over, the NBA and college basketball tipping its season off, and College football nearing its Bowl season, Frankie’s Sports Bar and Grill is also a great place to see all of your favorite teams on their big screens.
            Offering great food and an even greater atmosphere for entertainment is what makes Frankie’s Sports Bar and Grill a must attend destination for all of your sports and entertainment needs.