We are excited to announce the winners of our first ever Henderson Family Favorites contest, where you, our loyal and trustworthy readers, have the opportunity to make your voices heard. Hundreds of you cast your votes for your favorite local spots — from pediatrician to preschools, and sweet treats to boutiques.
Take a look at all of the 2020 Family Favorites and see if your choices made the cut.
Favorite Breakfast – Eastgate Family Restaurant
Eastgate Family Restaurant is a small, family-friendly diner that has been part of Henderson for over 30 years. Known for their delicious, homemade meals, you are sure to find something every family member can enjoy. From fresh eggs to crispy bacon, their breakfast platters and biscuits are country cooking at its finest. They also offer daily specials Monday-Friday, and their homemade pies are a customer favorite.
Favorite Mexican Food & Favorite Patio Dining – Tacoholics
Tacoholics is known for their affordable prices, friendly service, and unforgettable flavors. Menu items are made with fresh ingredients daily. Not only do they offer traditional Mexican dishes, but they also offer catering services, live music, and a taco truck to spice up any public or private event.
Favorite Sandwich -Sidewalk Café
Sidewalk Café is located in downtown Henderson. Their family-friendly café offers a quiet atmosphere to enjoy their delicious homemade sandwiches, soups, salads, and desserts. Catering is also available. Open weekdays, the staff strives to make you feel at home the moment you walk through the door.
Favorite Burger -Metzger’s Tavern
Metzger’s Tavern was built in 1869, and they are more than your local neighborhood bar. The building even operated as a grocery store and pharmacy from 1920-1933. They have the second oldest operating liquor license in the state of Kentucky. Known for their delicious burgers, bean soup, house-made chili and old-fashioned dipped dogs, you’ll never leave the tavern hungry.
Favorite Grocery Store – Sureway
Sureway is a supermarket chain offering quality meats, fresh produce, and baked goods. They also offer deli options and household items. With three Henderson locations, Sureway’s staff strives to bring the best customer service to our small-town community.
Favorite Coffee – Roast Coffee Bar
Roast Coffee Bar is the perfect place to grab your morning brew, offering a variety of delicious coffee and latte flavors. Not a coffee drinker? Grab a refreshing iced tea instead and satisfy your sweet tooth with their fresh made muffins, scones, or parfaits to go along with your favorite Roast beverage.
Favorite Donuts – Golden Glaze bakery
Golden Glaze Bakery is a locally owned and operated business serving the Henderson area for 60 years. Their doughnuts are made in-house daily. They not only specialize in delicious doughnuts but homemade cookies and cakes, too. Fresh ground coffee is always available and chopped cinnamon bread is made every Friday. Their team of bakers look forward to taking care of all your bakery needs.
Favorite Pizza – Rockhouse On The River
Rockhouse Pizza opened in 1996 in Robards, KY as a small, carryout and drive-thru only business. Best known for their strombolis and delicious pizza, Rockhouse soon expanded to wings, salads, and sandwiches. They have been in downtown Henderson since 2013 and opened their new location in 2018. At either location, you’ll enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere, great service and exceptional food!
Favorite Dermatologist – Henderson Dermatology
Henderson Dermatology is an affiliate of Owensboro Dermatology. Dr. Crowe and Dr. Truett have a combined total of more than 60 years in the field. They offer a variety of services including Mohs micrographic surgery, laser, acne and rash treatments and much more. Your health is their priority.
Favorite Dentist – Dr. Brad Fulkerson
Dr. Brad Fulkerson was born and raised in Henderson. He is a Diplomate of American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, which is the highest achievement in Pediatrics. His dentistry provides infants, children, and teens with a pleasant, positive experience. His patient’s first dental visit can begin between 12-18 months of age. As a pediatric dentist, he had an additional two years of training beyond dental school focused on treating all areas of pediatrics.
Favorite Orthodontist – Dr. Jennings
Dr. Jennings offers high quality orthodontics care to children, teens and adults. New patients are always welcome, as a referral is not necessary. It is important to Dr. Jennings and his staff to give patients the best possible experience by answering questions and discussing all treatment options. Dr. Jennings serves on the Board of Directors of Independence Bank and on the Henderson City Water Utility Board of Commissioners.
Favorite Chiropractor – Nunez Chiropractic
Dr. Juan Nunez has provided chiropractic care to the community of Henderson and the tri-state area for over 32 years. He offers quality chiropractic health care for your entire family and has won multiple awards over the years. Services offered include onsite therapy, chiropractic adjustments, consultations, and the SHAPE Reclaimed program.
Favorite Nurse Practitioner or Physicians Assistant – Lela Marable
Lela Marable is a board certified nurse practitioner with Deaconess Clinic Henderson, located at 1300 Merritt Drive, Suite 100. Schedule your appointment today by calling 270-827-0064.
Favorite Pharmacy – Dunaway’s Imperial Pharmacy
Dunaway’s Imperial Pharmacy is a compounding specialist pharmacy located in downtown Henderson. They offer prescription refills, a refillRX mobile app and patient resources both in-person and online including a pill identifier, drug search and recent health news. Their main priority is to always provide the best patient care to their customers.
Favorite Urgent Care – Deaconess clinic
Deaconess Clinic Urgent Care Henderson is located at
2242 Hwy 41N. They are open seven days a week for your convenience from 8 AM to 8 PM. Schedule an appointment online at deaconess.com/Urgent-Care to skip the line, or walk-in appointments are available also.
Favorite Optometrist – Dr. robert Cottingham
Dr. Robert Cottingham is an Optometrist with Advanced Eyecare Associates. His top priority is meeting the needs of his patients by offering services such as eye exams, eyeglass lenses, eyeglass frames, contact lenses, sunglasses, eye disease testing services, and LASIK consultations.
Favorite Pediatrician – Dr. Rachel Farmer
Dr. Rachel Farmer is a board certified pediatrician practicing at Deaconess Clinic Henderson – Pediatrics. Dr. Farmer says her goal as a physician is to equip families and caregivers to provide the best health care for their child (or children). She is currently accepting new patients. Request to schedule an appointment online at deaconess.com, or call 270-827-0064.
Favorite Veterinarian – The Animal Hospital
The Animal Hospital offers exceptional care for your pets. Their veterinary staff makes it a priority to meet the needs of your furry friends from the moment you walk them through the door. Services include surgery, digital radiograph imaging, grooming, boarding and a variety of in-house screenings.
Favorite Groomer – Pet Spa
Pet Spa was established in 2007. They have an eight-man crew that specializes in giving all the love to your furry friend, along with three certified groomers with a combined skill set of 20+ years. Their bathing facility offers two walk-in tubs. The blueberry facials are highly recommended by staff, and a daycare service was recently added for an additional fee, too.
Favorite Bank – Field & Main bank
Field & Main Bank was established in 2015 after merging two local community banks together. They strive to bring civic and economic resources to their clients. They are modern craft banking, providing a personal touch and simplified experience for their clients. They are driven by customer needs, motivated by their success, and committed to crafting the future of our community.
Favorite Real Estate Company – ERA First Advantage Realty
ERA First Advantage Realty is a worldwide franchise. Their mission is customer service, and they consider themselves a full-service real estate brokerage specializing in residential, small commercial, farm, foreclosure, and new construction. They have multiple agents that serve on the Henderson Audubon Board of Realtors and are involved in community service projects such as Junior Achievement and Run for the Roses.
Favorite Real Estate Agent – Melinda Luntsford
Melinda has been a top producing agent since day one. Her customer service is top notch. She is always just a call away from buying or selling your home or business. Melinda has won various awards such as Henderson’s Best Realtor (2016, 2017, 2018), Henderson’s Favorite Realtor (2019) and Real Trends Tom Ferry Top Producer in Kentucky (2018, 2019). She is a life-long resident of Henderson where she lives with her husband, Lee and two children, Maxwell and Malia.
Favorite Insurance Agent – Anne Boyd
Anne Boyd has been a State Farm agent in Henderson since 2001. She has consistently ranked in the top 3% in the country out of 19,000+ State Farm agents. Her team members have a total of 65 combined years of experience in the insurance industry. Anne has a philosophy of, “Always do what’s best for the customer,” which has been the core value in building her team and growing her agency.
Favorite Insurance Agency – Kentucky Farm Bureau
Kentucky Farm Bureau is ranked #1 in Kentucky for property and casualty insurance. With three insurance agents and 6 licensed customer service representatives, they are always a call away from providing you with a quote, claims information or insurance products to personalize your policy needs.
Favorite Financial Advisor – Spencer Bloodworth
Spencer Bloodworth is a Financial Advisor with GuideWise Financial Group. His clients receive 1:1 financial advice based on their goals and personal needs, personalized recommendations and solutions, regular meetings to review finances and digital access to help them stay committed and on track. Spencer is dedicated to making sure his clients are confident in the future of their finances.
Favorite Financial Advisory Group – Guidewise Financial
GuideWise Financial Group is a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. They are committed to helping you prepare for your life, whether it’s expected or unexpected. Some areas of focus include charitable giving, estate, retirement and intergenerational planning, social security retirement benefits, retirement income strategies, saving for education, investment management and much more.
Favorite Credit Union – Evansville Teachers Federal Credit Union
The Evansville Teachers Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit institution offering a variety of financial services. Members do not have to be teachers to join. Members benefit from lower rates, higher savings, and fewer fees than other financial institution. They offer personal and business services to retirement and investment options.
Favorite Auto Dealership – Henderson Chevrolet Buick GMC
Henderson Chevrolet Buick GMC is celebrating 19 years as a small-town family-owned business. As the largest GM dealer in western Kentucky, their friendly staff is dedicated to helping you find the right vehicle for your budget and needs and making the subsequent service trips as hassle-free as possible. They have a large selection of new and used vehicles, with the 2021 models arriving soon. They are committed to giving back to the community through organizations such as Tri-State Food Bank, 911 Gives Hope and the Boys & Girls Club.
Favorite Attorney – K.T. Williams
K.T. Williams is a CPA/Attorney in Henderson. He builds relationships with his clients to ensure their questions and needs are met. K.T. helps his clients through important decisions regarding trust funds and assets, nursing home care, Medicaid and VA benefits, individuals with special needs, how best to buy and sell a business and much more.
Favorite Law Firm – King, Deep and Branaman
The Law Office of King, Deep and Branaman has been in business since 1927 and serve all western Kentucky. Their office consists of seven attorneys and 13 staff members and cover a large range of legal areas and specialties. As a firm, they support many local organizations, charities, and youth programs.
Favorite Accountant – Brian Crafton
Brian Crafton specializes in the areas of tax planning, school and nonprofit audits, small business planning and advisory and business development. Crafton comes to ATA as a partner from Myriad CPA Group, where he has over 20 years of experience. A former athlete, Crafton devotes countless hours to local youth sports teams while staying involved in community organizations such as Rotary Club of Henderson.
Favorite Garden Center – Days garden center
Days Garden Center is your local go-to for all your nursery and gardening needs. From a variety of beautiful flowers to plants and seeds to grow your own vegetable garden, the staff at Days Garden Center is ready to help you any way they can.
Favorite Lawn Care – Benton’s garden center
Benton’s Garden Center is your local hometown specialist, offering innovative designs to your landscaping needs. They pride themselves in making your landscaping dreams a reality. Their professional staff offers excellent service by working with their clients to personalize the best design plans at the most affordable prices.
Favorite Home Appliance Store – Dixon’s Appliance and Furniture
Dixon’s Appliance and Furniture is a locally and family owned business since 1974. They work with their customers to find the right products to fit their needs and budget. Their services include repair and parts, delivery and installation and a warranty package. Their friendly and professional staff participates in Relay for Life each year to give back. They look forward to continuing their family legacy and serving our community for years to come.
Favorite Furniture Store – Alles Brothers furniture
Alles Brothers Furniture opened its store in Henderson in 1899. They offer free financing, no interest and free local delivery. Their professional staff comes with over 15 years of experience per staff member. They assist customers with selection, special orders, and service. Furniture brands they carry include Ashley, England, Best, Liberty and more.
Favorite Home Builder – David Shelton Homes
David Shelton Homes was started in 2004. They focus on custom homes by developing a great relationship with each customer and working closely with them from start to finish. They pride themselves in being hands-on and taking the extra steps to ensure perfection and quality in every job they do.
Favorite Heating & Air Company – Woodard Cooling and Heating
Woodard Cooling and Heating is family owned and operated and will be celebrating their 40th anniversary. They love Henderson and appreciate the continued support of our great community.
Favorite College – Henderson Community College
Henderson Community College offers something for everyone. They offer a variety of associate degrees that can transfer to four-year colleges/universities, career advancement programs and trainings to meet local business and industry needs. With their affordable tuition costs, plus available scholarships and grants, students will not regret investing in their future at HCC because they care about your success.
Favorite Funeral Home – Rudy-Rowland funeral home
Rudy-Rowland Funeral Home began in 1879. They are committed to providing the finest funeral facility, and a staff who offers personalized and professional services. They offer both immediate and pre-planning arrangements. Resources offered include a grief library and bookstore, local florist and more.
Favorite Florist – J’Petals florals & gifts
J’Petals has been in business for 13 years offering a variety of services. They are a full-service florist for everyday deliveries, weddings, funerals, and events. Their staff provides interior design services, with a beautiful selection of home décor. There are gifts for everyone, including swig, jewelry, candles, Vera Bradley and more. Bridal and baby registries are available, too. They appreciate your continued support.
Favorite Boutique – Beachbum Farms Designs and Company
Beachbum Farms Designs and Company is family owned and operated and has been in business in downtown Henderson for seven years. They specialize in boutique clothing, handmade/hand-designed tees, gifts, and home décor. The Beachbum staff loves their customers and looks forward to continuing to serve them both in-store and online.
Favorite Consignment Shop – The Elm consignments
The Elm Consignments is a shopping destination located in downtown Henderson. They specialize in antiques and vintage collectibles and have garnered a good reputation for their knowledge in the field. Their building has housed Henderson Hemp Company for nearly four years, and they will begin offering more new businesses under their roof very soon, such as Cure Skate Shop.
Favorite Shoe Store – Simon’s shoes
Simon’s Shoes is a local full-service shoe store offering a variety of products from footwear to accessories. They carry a large selection of sizes for both men and women. Their staff is always happy to help with special orders and shipping is available anywhere in the United States.
Favorite Hair Salon – Salon Calidora
Salon Calidora is here to meet all your beauty needs. Located in the heart of downtown Henderson, Salon Calidora’s stylists not only cater to cuts and color, but they offer services such as special hair treatments (Olaplex), microblading and more. New clients are always welcome, so make your appointment today.
Favorite Barber Shop – Lee’s barber shop
Lee’s Barber Shop is located in an old house from the 1930s that was renovated back to its original look. Specializing in men’s haircuts and shaves, men can come to a place where they can relax, sit in old school barber chairs, and leave with a fresh, new look.
Favorite Car Wash &Detailing – Green Street car wash
Green Street Car Wash provides professional car detailing services to give your vehicle the shine it deserves. Their experts not only scrub and wash down the outside but give the interior a spotless, clean finish, too.
Favorite Nail Salon – Cute Nails & tan
Cute Nails & Tan was established in 2016. Their services include natural manicure, gel powder, acrylics, pink and white solar, shellac, SNS nails and luxury spa pedicures. Versa Pro sunless tanning is also available. Their nail technicians’ pride themselves in offering their clients a pleasurable and safe experience at affordable prices.
Favorite Gym/Fitness Center – The YMCA
The YMCA was started in downtown Henderson in 1894. The current facility was built in 1971, with their 50th anniversary approaching next spring. Their 8,500 members have four fitness centers to choose from inside the 80,000 sq ft building. These include the Cardio, TechnoGym, Cybex and Free Weight Centers.
Favorite Running Race – Turkey 5k
The Turkey Trot 5k is held each Thanksgiving morning by the Brain Injury Adventure Camp at Presbyterian Church of Henderson. This event brings families together to support a great organization within our community.
Favorite Golf Course – Bridges Golf Course
The Bridges Golf Course of Henderson offers a variety of leagues for all ages including men, women, kids, and couples. The course is open to the public and golf lessons are offered with Bill Rendall, who is a Quarter Century PGA Member and golf professional.
Favorite Dance Studio – Dance Factory
The Dance Factory opened in 1992. The studio offers dance instruction in a Christian environment for all ages from toddlers to adults. Classes include ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, and hip-hop along with several preschool class options. Private lessons are offered and birthday parties, too!
Favorite Place To Work – Henderson County Schools
Henderson County Schools strives to be a place of work welcoming to all and offering the absolute best educational opportunities to every student. They pride themselves in providing authentic service to all, making genuine relationships, cultivating a community where character matters, being the change agent and taking advantage of outreach opportunities.
Favorite Annual Event & Favorite Charity Event – Trifest
What started out as a fundraising opportunity for our schools, churches and non-profit organizations in the Spring of 1988 has grown into one of Henderson’s largest festivals. Through Tri-Fest, the Breakfast Lions Club has been able to give back $683,800 to the community. Over the years, they have been proud to support local events benefiting organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, school sports competitions and more.
Favorite Photographer – B + B Photography
B + B Photography consists of two best friends from Henderson, Brooke Hallmark and Brylee Cannon, chasing a dream and telling your story with their cameras. They specialize in family, senior, kid portraits and wedding photography.
Favorite Preschool & Favorite Daycare – Busy Bees
Busy Bees started at Bennett Memorial Methodist Church in 1983 as a Mother’s Day Out program and later evolved into a daycare. They have been in their current location since 1993. Infant to school age are welcome. The daycare’s foundation is based on Christian values that started from the church and continue to this day.
Robby Mills
we’d love to have drycleaners as a category next year! Thanks!