
The Opportunity Center of Owensboro Wants to be Your Valentine at Pinocchio’s Pop-Up
We love our friends at the Opportunity Center of Owensboro! They are always up to something fun, and I know from experience that they are pros in the kitchen. I'm sure I can speak for a lot of folks out there that the way to my heart is with delicious food.
The Opportunity Center of Owensboro
Here is a short and sweet Podcast episode that describes what the Opportunity Center is like. The podcast is named after former Pinocchio's Deli which was fully run by the individuals in the program back from the 1970s to 1990s.
Pinocchio's Deli was so popular and successful that it was featured in newspapers and media around the world. Patrons came from all over the tri-state to enjoy the food prepared there and support the initiative which provided employment opportunities and training. I remember when it moved to the old Kingfisher boat building. I thought it was so cool!

Opportunity Center Nutrition Program is a Hit
Pinocchio's Deli has been closed since 1996, but two years ago the Opportunity Center took its first steps to revive the popular deli. Revamping the nutrition program, my friend, Ashley Vanover, became the Nutrition Program Manager to teach clients how to plan, prep, cook, and serve meals every week day. When they first started, she told me one of their goals was to bring Pinocchio's back in some way.
Introducing Pinocchio's Pop-ups
Back before Christmas, Chad, Spencer, and I went to the first Pinocchio's Pop-up event for lunch and goodies. I got the tomato soup, and y'all, that was the best dang tomato soup I have ever had. The croutons were even homemade with delicious bread from Owensboro's Niko's Bakery. We also got cookies, cake pops, and other sweets that were as yummy as they were cute!
Pinocchio's Valentine Pop-Up
It's not too early to start making your Valentine's plans, and I already know where I'll be. Hanging out with the "Serve Squad" and treating myself (and my Valentine) to lunch and treats from the Pinocchio's Valentine's Pop-Up Event from 10 AM to 5 PM. They are even preparing take-home meals for dinner. You'll find it at 103 W. 3rd Street and here's what you have to look forward to:
Box Lunches are $15 each and include:
- Reuben Sandwich – A savory classic featuring corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Thousand Island dressing, and melted Swiss cheese on perfectly toasted rye bread.
- Tomato Bisque Soup – Rich, creamy, and bursting with comforting flavors, topped with house-made croutons. (10/10 M-KAT stamp of approval!)
- Dessert of Your Choice – White Chocolate Cheesecake Bar, Frosted Sugar Cookie Bar, Dipped Cherry Cookies, Strawberry Crinkle Cookies, Strawberry Brownies
- Beverage of Your Choice – soda or water
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