For over three decades, Famous Bistro has been Owensboro’s beloved destination for scratch-made Mediterranean cuisine that seamlessly transitions from casual deli-style lunches to elegant fine dining evenings. 🍽️
Owner George Skiadas opened this family-owned restaurant in 1993 after a remarkable journey that took him from his father’s luncheonette in New Jersey to the 82nd Airborne, then through multiple successful Philadelphia-area restaurants before settling permanently in Kentucky.
Located at 102 West 2nd Street in downtown Owensboro, Famous Bistro earned recognition as the Best Patio Dining Gold Winner for its exceptional outdoor dining experience that combines world-class food with down-home atmosphere.
How Famous Bistro won Owensboro’s hearts
Famous Bistro captured Owensboro’s attention when George Skiadas opened the doors in 1993, bringing his family’s decades of restaurant expertise to Kentucky’s riverfront.
George’s journey into the food business began in his father’s luncheonette in New Jersey, where he learned the fundamentals of quality ingredients and exceptional service from childhood.
George initially opened Famous Deli for breakfast and lunch, but quickly discovered that waking at 5:00 a.m was not in his genetic makeup, so he pivoted to Famous Bistro with lunch and dinner service instead.
Locals quickly embraced the restaurant’s unique dual personality: approachable deli-style sandwiches and soups for weekday lunches, then transforming into an upscale dining destination for special occasions.
The Lamb Shank earned a devoted following for its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness achieved through hours of braising in vegetables, herbs, red wine, and stock until it literally falls off the bone.
The restaurant’s commitment to accommodating special requests showed customers they genuinely cared—diners noted that the staff “graciously accommodated” menu modifications without hesitation.
Saturday brunch became a must-book experience with excellent service, quick preparation times, and a lovely atmosphere featuring both indoor and outdoor seating options.
Food Highlights
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Chicken Marsala: A classic featuring airline chicken covered in sautéed mushrooms and garlic with sweet Marsala wine, served with garlic butter pasta and haricot verts for perfect Italian comfort.
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Lamb Shank: The crown jewel features 18oz Colorado lamb braised for hours in vegetables, herbs, red wine, and stock until it falls off the bone, served with zesty orzo pasta, youvetsi tomato sauce, feta, balsamic reduction, and asparagus.
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Spanakopita Bites: These addictive appetizers showcase flaky phyllo dough stuffed with spinach, greens, leeks, scallions, Romano, and feta.
- Orchard Chicken: An innovative creation topped with apple and bacon salsa served alongside roasted garlic mashed potatoes and Brussels sprouts.
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Moussaka: Traditional Greek comfort food featuring baked eggplant, potatoes, ground beef and sausage, béchamel, and Swiss cheese that transports diners straight to the Mediterranean.
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Steak Gorgonzola Pasta: A decadent favorite featuring seared steak tips over creamy sundried tomato fettuccine with gorgonzola cheese and balsamic reduction.
- Jumbo Scallops: Fresh U10 scallops pan-seared and served with red onion marmalade, featuring blue cheese and bacon toppings.
Atmosphere
Walk into Famous Bistro, and you’ll discover a charming space where world-class Mediterranean cuisine meets genuine Kentucky hospitality. 🌿
The small, intimate dining room creates that perfect bistro feel, while the award-winning outdoor patio offers exceptional al fresco dining during pleasant weather.
The restaurant successfully balances casual lunch vibes—where locals grab deli sandwiches and soups—with sophisticated dinner ambiance featuring white tablecloths and attentive service.
Bottom Line
Family-owned for over 30 years, with George Skiadas bringing three generations of restaurant expertise to Owensboro.
Everything is made completely from scratch, from hand-carved steaks to house-made bread and sauces.
Its award-winning Best Patio Dining creates exceptional outdoor dining experiences downtown. and its dual concept serves casual deli lunches and fine dining dinners, offering something special for every occasion.
Address:
102 W 2nd St, Owensboro, KY 42303
đź“ž (270) 686-8202
🕔 Open Mon-Fri, 11 AM–9 PM (Fri until 10 PM); Sat, 10 AM–10 PM