Four new restaurants appear to be in the works across Owensboro, based on signage, permits, and social media activity, though many details remain limited as owners and managers have not yet responded to requests for comment.
One of the most noticeable developments is at the former Tumbleweed Southwest Grill building at 5257 Frederica Street, where a large banner reading “Coming Soon The Italian Taste” has recently been hung on the front of the long-vacant property. The signage also includes a logo reading “Gusto Italian: The Italian Taste.” No additional information has been publicly released.
The building has sat empty since Tumbleweed Southwest Grill permanently closed its Owensboro location in January 2014.
Meanwhile, signage for Azul Cantina & Grill has been displayed for several weeks at 2065 East Parrish Avenue, Suite 100, the former home of Ernesto’s and previously Moe’s Southwest Grill. Building and electrical permits tied to a “new restaurant in strip mall” were issued in February.
A Facebook page called “Azul Owensboro Kentucky” was created earlier this year and recently posted that the restaurant would be “coming soon,” calling it a new “Mexican hotspot.” The page also touts that it will have “authentic Mexican cuisine, handcrafted margaritas, and the best grill in town.”
Another apparent restaurant project is East 88 Buffet, which has installed signage inside the former Mikato Steak and Sushi location at 3500 Villa Point #103. Mikato closed earlier this year.
The East 88 sign advertises “Hibachi • Sushi • All You Can Eat,” and says the restaurant is “Coming Soon.” A sign permit has also been issued for the location.
Additionally, a Facebook page for Carnival Cafe & Mexican Restaurant was created in April. In a recent social media post, the business said it was “getting ready to open soon” at 1741 Scherm Road, which is already home to Carnival Cafe.
OT is continuing to look into all four developments and plans additional reporting as more information becomes available.
