Monroe Made: Doug Patterson

For Doug Patterson, Monroe County isn’t just where he grew up; it is where he learned the value of hard work, high expectations, and showing up every day ready to do the job right.

A 1985 graduate of Madisonville High School, Doug credits his Monroe County education with giving him the knowledge and confidence to pursue his goals. Those lessons didn’t stop at textbooks; they showed up in the form of people who believed in him and pushed him to be better.

One of the most influential figures in Doug’s life was Betty Davis, Assistant Principal at Madisonville High School and a close friend of his mother. Betty kept a watchful eye on Doug and always expected a little more from him. That steady encouragement and accountability taught him how to push through challenges and, more importantly, to expect more from himself.

Today, Doug is a well-known and respected restaurant owner, operating Countryside Restaurant, The Patio, and Dockside. His success in the restaurant business is deeply rooted in family. Doug proudly followed in the footsteps of his parents, Amos and Connie Patterson, who instilled in him a strong work ethic and a love for the business. Growing up in a restaurant taught him that no job is too small and that leadership often starts in the kitchen. In fact, if you visit one of Doug’s restaurants and don’t see him out front, chances are you’ll find him exactly where he feels most at home, working in the kitchen alongside his team.

In 2025, Doug was named Monroe County Chamber of Commerce Businessman of the Year, an honor that reflects both his professional success and his commitment to the community he serves. While the recognition meant a great deal to him, Doug is just as proud of his life outside of work.

Doug and his wife, Kristy, have been married for 35 years. Together, they have raised two intelligent and accomplished daughters, Blair and Brooke, who Doug affectionately describes as “daddy’s girls” and his greatest pride and joy.

From the classrooms and football field of Madisonville High School to the kitchens of some of Monroe County’s favorite restaurants, Doug Patterson’s story is one of hard work, family ties, and staying true to your roots, making him someone who embodies what it means to be Monroe Made.