Kentucky Diner Serving up Delicious Food with a Side of Community

In the Mechanicsville area of the west side of Owensboro is a diner that has seen a lot of life over the years. As one of two predominately black neighborhoods established when Owensboro was segregated, I can only imagine the history of that little restaurant at 924 Crabtree Ave. Conversations over cups of coffee that have shaped our city into what it is today throughout the years.

That community atmosphere continues with Mechanicsville Neighborhood Kitchen. It was formerly Mendy's Kitchen before Tia Johnson and her family decided to open the restaurant there in her old stomping grounds. It is everything you could ever want in a "greasy spoon" joint. Open Tuesday-Friday 6-2PM and Saturday 6-11AM.

I asked Tia how she got started cooking and with the business. She said "When I was a kid I never thought cooking would be my passion. Life experiences with a single mom household. Jumping between jobs and or careers. I would always end up in restaurants."

Tia shared that she has been a certified welder, has worked in health care, and heavy maintenance. It's obvious that she is meant to be right where she is. Combining her passion for cooking and community, collaboration and support is a theme when it comes to the restaurant. She is always showing out for kids in Owensboro. She also catered my friend, Londun Randolph's, first Let it Out event that I attended at The Frozen Lounge in the Thatch shopping center.  Those greens and cornbread had me dancing in my seat before the music even started.

"Somehow I always end up back with food and people. An old saying goes "It's good for the soul."

And let me tell you, her food is too! From breakfast to sandwiches and burgers and massive plate lunches, you are sure to have a smile on your face at Mechanicville Neighborhood Kitchen. Check out the awesome dining deal we have going on right now. You pay $12.50 for a $25 gift certificate! But don't wait! Once they're gone, they're gone!