Restaurants, Other Businesses Folks Want in Owensboro

I know, I know. You take one took at, for example, Highway 54 and think, "Where could ANYthing else go?" And then the answer comes: Several OTHER parts of Owensboro.

I say all parts of Owensboro are welcoming.

I say growth is important.

And on Facebook, I said, "GIVE ME A NATIONAL CHAIN OWENSBORO DOESN'T HAVE THAT YOU BELIEVE OUR CITY WOULD GENUINELY SUPPORT!"

1. Outback Steakhouse

This one has been on Owensboroans' wish lists for years, now.

2. (TIE) Chili's

This one, too.

2. (TIE) Bojangles

The comments I got revealed that folks believe this is the BEST fast food/fast casual fried chicken out there. Also, their macaroni and cheese, I understand, is a thing of beauty and a joy forever.

Finishing out the top five are several chains tied for fourth place. They are:

Old Chicago

Red Robin

Taco John's

Whataburger

In and Out Burger

Now, some of these might just have to stay on the wish list simply because they're regional chains. (Fudpuckers, in particular, probably sticks close to the beach...but it is AWESOME.)

Same goes for the rest of the suggestions:

Chipotle, Roosters, Half Price Books (not everything suggested was a restaurant and this is one of my favorite places on Earth), Publix Grocery, Macaroni Grill, Margaritaville, Cookout (love it), Shake Shack, Red Robin, Waffle House (PLEASE come back), Ruby Tuesday, PF Chang's, and Bonefish Grill.

Obviously, Owensboro doesn't have room for all of these. And it's highly unlikely that even a majority of these businesses will find their way here.

But we can always be open for suggestions.