This story is sponsored by the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce.
For more than half a century, Briarpatch Restaurant has been a mainstay in Owensboro’s dining scene. Originally built in 1971 as Kentucky Ribeye, the restaurant underwent a name change following a conflict with Kentucky Fried Chicken. A contest allowed customers to submit new name ideas, and the winning suggestion – Briarpatch – came from a loyal patron who still dines at the restaurant today.
Briarpatch is co-owned by Mike Courtney, Grady Harreld, and Joel White, who took over in 2021 after purchasing the business from longtime owner Pat Button. Courtney’s history with Briarpatch dates back to 1984, when he worked as a dishwasher while in high school. His journey from employee to owner stems from his desire to see it thrive.
“It was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up,” Courtney said. “This restaurant has always had a special place in my heart, and I wanted to bring it into the modern era while keeping the essence of what people love about it.”
Since taking over, Courtney and his team have focused on renovations and menu improvements. A remodel of the lobby and bar area was completed in 2022, adding an outdoor patio with a fireplace and open-air dining options. The upgrades have helped Briarpatch cater to a growing number of diners who prefer outdoor seating, a trend that has surged since the pandemic.
“We wanted to modernize the space while keeping the same warm, welcoming feel that customers have always loved,” Courtney said. “The response has been incredible.”
Briarpatch also remains one of the few local restaurants offering private dining spaces. The restaurant accommodates groups ranging from 18 to 120 people for occasions such as rehearsal dinners, business meetings, and family celebrations.
“We have ample space for private events, which is something Owensboro needs more of,” said General Manager Bethany Shackelford. “Between our two private rooms, we can seat up to 75 people, and we love being able to provide that service for the community.”
While Briarpatch is primarily known for its steaks, the menu offers a variety of seafood and other high-quality dishes. The restaurant is currently reviewing its menu to introduce new offerings while maintaining customer favorites.
“We want to keep things fresh and exciting,” Courtney said. “People love their routine, but we also want to give them something new to look forward to when they visit.”
Shackelford, who has worked at Briarpatch for 16 years, has seen the restaurant grow significantly. Having worked her way up from waitress to general manager, she credits the restaurant’s success to its focus on customer service and community connections.
“Business has at least doubled since I started,” Shackelford said. “We have customers who have been coming here for decades, and we know their families by name. It’s a very close-knit environment.”
One upcoming initiative includes reviving the restaurant’s popular Nacho Night in the bar area, a nostalgic event that was beloved by patrons in the 1980s.
As Briarpatch continues to evolve, the owners remain dedicated to preserving its legacy while adapting to the needs of modern diners. Future plans include increasing marketing efforts to highlight private dining options and expanding menu selections to enhance the steakhouse experience.
“We’re always looking for ways to improve while staying true to what makes Briarpatch special,” Courtney said. “It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a part of the Owensboro community.”
For more information about Briarpatch Restaurant or to inquire about private dining options, visit their website at briarpatchrestaurant.com.
The Chamber Member of the Week program is a Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce membership benefit. Founded in 1913, the Chamber has worked to provide valuable benefits and services to member businesses and individuals for over a century.
Today, with nearly 1,000 members, the Chamber is a guiding force in community and business development initiatives and serves as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region.
To learn more about becoming the Chamber Member of the Week or inquire about Chamber membership, contact Kitty Jones, director of membership, at 270-926-1860 or [email protected].
