Southern Living readers name this Kentucky barbecue joint as the best in the state

Aaron Mudd
·2 min read

Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn — the family business that’s made Owensboro a destination for barbecue fans since at least 1963 — has once again been honored by readers of Southern Living magazine, this time for its 2024 South’s Best awards.

Southern Living surveyed 20,000 of its readers, asking them to nominate their favorite places across the South, including the best cities and spots on the rise, best new restaurants, travel stops and barbecue joints.

When it comes to Kentucky barbecue, Moonlite was honored as the best in the state, according to the magazine’s readers.

What makes Moonlite Bar-B-Q stand out?

Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn has received many awards and accolades, but customers keep coming back for its fast and friendly service and buffet, which always seems stocked with plenty of fresh food and a variety to choose from.

The restaurant has grown from its humble beginnings, when it sat just 30 people, to a limit of 350 patrons.

Read Marc L.'s review of Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn on Yelp

Former President Bill Clinton is a self-proclaimed fan.

The restaurant’s specialty is mutton, though it also offers barbecue pork, beef and chicken and other dishes such as catfish and shrimp.

“It’s hard to think of a more iconic example of the state’s signature style,” reads the Southern Living article. “That includes hickory-smoked mutton, beef, and chicken dressed in a tangy orange sauce or thin Worcestershire-laced ‘dip’ along with a splendidly peppery burgoo, Kentucky’s classic barbecue stew. Guests don’t have to hold back either, since the restaurant’s two big buffets are all-you-can-eat.”

If you go:

Address: 2840 West Parrish Ave., Owensboro, KY 42301

Hours are as follows:

  • Monday: 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

  • Tuesday: 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

  • Wednesday: 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

  • Thursday: 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

  • Friday: 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

  • Saturday: 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

  • Sunday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Southern Living’s 2024 South’s Best awards

Moonlite is just one of a number of Kentucky spots to be among Southern Living’s 2024 awards list.

For barbecue lovers who aren’t afraid to travel for a good bite, here’s a look at the winners in some nearby states:

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