Photos by Jamie Plain
Justin Davidson is a man on a mission — and his mission is everything. At Shiloh’s Lounge and Grill, there’s no such thing as a small idea. Over the past 5 years, Davidson has transformed the spot into a constantly evolving hub of food, fun, and community connection. From expanding the menu and extending business hours to curating themed events and building a family-friendly atmosphere, he’s filling the gaps he saw in Owensboro’s food and nightlife scene.
And if you’ve seen his social media, you know: the hustle never stops.
“I am just overwhelmed right now … I need more employees,” he said.
Of course, more employees would only mean more growth, as Davidson does not press pause on his constant search for something new.
“I’ve always been an entrepreneur,” he said. “I am never afraid of failure and am willing to give anything a try.”
Years ago, Davidson shared a post announcing his plan to open a bar called Shiloh’s, named after his son. The dream is now a full-blown reality at 1846 Triplett Street — and Shiloh’s is far more than just a bar.
“I always was in entertainment but now I am so in love with the food industry,” Davidson said. “My family can’t believe it because I wasn’t ever cooking.”
A Taste That Travels
Fresh off another strong showing in Owensboro’s Burger Week — placing second for the second year in a row with the spicy crowd-favorite Ring of Fire Burger — Davidson’s culinary credibility keeps rising. But it was the introduction of smoked meats that really changed the game.
After learning the ropes from a close friend who he said was more like an uncle, Davidson purchased a custom pit and studied the craft—mastering temperatures, rest times, and smoke techniques. Now, Shiloh’s is a local favorite, in part thanks to the addition of smoked oxtails and beef short ribs.
“Nobody has that in Owensboro,” Davidson said.
With frequent out-of-state visitors are some of his clientele, Davidson knows his social media strategy is key, including teasing menu items while also letting followers know when something has sold out.
Alongside brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, the menu also features Southern and soul food staples such as fried catfish and boudin balls — a classic Cajun treat that he makes with sausage from Texas.
“You can see it on social media – how I market and change the game,” Davidson said.
Looking ahead, Davidson hopes to offer reservations. While he’d like to add a food truck the booming business at Shiloh’s is keeping expansion on hold for now.
Day or Night, There’s a Vibe
From Tuesday to Saturday, Shiloh’s starts early, serving breakfast and brunch at 9 a.m. — complete with Mimosa towers for the 21+ crowd. Lunch wraps at 3 p.m., and dinner service kicks off at 5, with entertainment rolling in shortly after.
Theme nights on weekends bring something for everyone — Latino Night, College Night, Ladies’ Night. There is also a family-friendly side of Shiloh’s featuring free arcade and virtual reality games for kids.
Cornhole tournaments often accompany dinner, and during national competitions hosted in Owensboro, Shiloh’s becomes a gathering spot for players and fans alike.
The entertainment doesn’t stop there: weekends mean live music, dancing, and DJs from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m. Local musicians and bands often take the stage.
Davidson said first-time customers always mention how different Shiloh’s is, adding that they find the establishment welcoming.
“I have met so many good people and have friends forever,” he said of returning customers.
Rooted in Purpose
While Davidson has his eyes on the future, he doesn’t spend much time planning far ahead.
“I am just riding the wave, creating an environment, and my staff who have stayed with me know, they’re like my family,” he said.
That sense of family extends beyond his team. For 9 years, Davidson has partnered with the North Neighborhood Alliance to host Easter in the Park in memory of his mother, Sheila Davidson. He’s helped grow the event to include an egg hunt, inflatables, food, bull riding, and a bike giveaway.
“Owensboro should be really proud — it’s growing majorly … and I wonder, ‘What have we created?’” Davidson said. “The world is catching on … I just can’t believe it.” OL
