Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn has once again earned national praise, being named the best barbecue joint in Kentucky in Southern Living’s “The South’s Best Barbecue in Every State 2025” feature.
The recognition highlights Moonlite as the state’s top representative in the magazine’s annual roundup, which showcases reader favorites across the South.
“It’s always an honor,” said Pat Bosley, one of the owners of Moonlite. “When we win an award like this, it’s a win for our employees and a win for the community. We’re proud to represent Owensboro.”
This is at least the second time Moonlite has been selected for Southern Living’s best barbecue list, and the restaurant has been featured several other times for everything from its affordability to its legendary buffet.
Moonlite is known for its signature barbecued mutton and has been operated by the Bosley family since 1963. Pat Bosley said it’s not just the food that makes the restaurant special — it’s the people.
“There’s always a family member working, and we’re hiring family-oriented, community-minded folks. That’s what makes it different,” he said.
Barbecued mutton remains a regional specialty, and Bosley said it’s a key reason Moonlite stands out in national features.
“Mutton takes 15 hours to cook. There are no shortcuts here,” he said. “We’re owner-operated, we hire good people, treat our customers like family, and we cook real food.”
Moonlite’s legacy stretches back even further than the Bosleys’ ownership. The restaurant location has housed a dining establishment since the 1940s, with the name “Moonlite” first appearing in the 1950s.
Over the years, Moonlite has welcomed everyone from local coal miners to U.S. presidents and country music stars. Despite the national recognition, Bosley said the restaurant remains grounded in serving the everyday customer.
“Unlike some award-winning restaurants that cater to the elite, Moonlite is for everybody,” he said. “It’s an everyman’s restaurant, and that’s something we’ve always been proud of.”
Bosley said accolades like the one from Southern Living help reaffirm the work they put in every day — but he doesn’t take them for granted.
“We’ve won a lot of awards and we’re proud of them, but we’re only as good as the last meal we served,” he said.
For more information, visit moonlite.com or stop by the restaurant at 2840 W. Parrish Ave., Owensboro, KY.
