These Owensboro Foods Are A Must When Visiting Home

There's an old saying that talks about a 'taste of home.' Think about it. If you've ever traveled away from your hometown, you've probably craved something from back home while you were gone, right? I know when I lived in San Diego, California, I couldn't wait to get back to Owensboro and eat some chopped mutton. Trust me, that wasn't even close to being a dish at any restaurant I knew of in southern California.

My cousin Shea is originally from Owensboro, but now lives in Bluffton, South Carolina. These days, he and his family make it home about once or twice per year. When he visits, he has a hit list of his favorite foods that he absolutely has to have while he's here. As it turns out, he's got a list of four of them.

Over Christmas break, I asked him which local foods comprise that Top 4. Here they are! Luckily, my friend Ron Rhodes with Eyewitness News is an Owensboro native and foodie too. He has made Tasty Tuesday videos of a couple of Shea's favorites. Prepare to slobber on your computer or phone screen!

STUFFED BREADSTICKS FROM 54 PIZZA

It's entirely possible that one of our most beloved local pizza places is more known for its stuffed breadsticks than their pizza. But, that may be the case with 54 Pizza (formerly 54 Pizza Express), which has locations on the east and west sides of town. Shea is a huge fan of their breadsticks that are stuffed with pepperoni. He got 'em while he was here. While I am personally a fan of their Mighty & Meaty pizza, those stuffed sticks are FIRE!

They're so good. And, make sure you get some marinara on the side for dipping.

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CHOCOLATE LONG JOHNS FROM ROLLING PIN

It's hard to find a bakery in the Tristate (or anywhere for that matter) that is as heralded and beloved as Owensboro's Rolling Pin. Fans of that place will tell you that no one comes close to the taste and quality of their donuts. Shea certainly agrees. When he's home, he's there- on 18th Street- getting their classic chocolate long john, arguably Rolling Pin's most popular donut.

MASHED POTATO PIZZA FROM FETTA

There's no question Shea and I are cousins. We are very much alike. For example, we share a random, but paralyzing fear of fire. We also share a tremendous love for pizza. That's why it's no surprise there's another pizza place on his Top 4 list. A lot of folks in Owensboro, including me, share his sentiment. The Mashed Potato Pizza at Fetta is legendary.

Their website pays homage to what has long been their 'specialty pizza.' It asks the question, "What's better than mashed potatoes?" It also provides this answer, "Why Mashed Potato Pizza, of course!"

PUMPKIN CHOCOLATE CHIP BREAD FROM GREAT HARVEST

Yep! It's pretty darn good. And, look! There are seemingly endless varieties of bread baked at Great Harvest. However, their Pumpkin Chocolate Chip is a seasonal favorite. Like Shea, I love it too. Here's a pro tip for you. When you cut yourself a slice, microwave it for about 10 to 15 seconds. It's just enough to give that chocolate the chance to get a little 'melt' going and, consequently, that bread will virtually melt in your mouth.

So, what about you? If you're from Owensboro, what do you consider to be our city's Top 4? If you're not from Owensboro, what's the Top 4 in your hometown. What do you crave when you're away and what do you have to have when you get home?