The 20 Best Restaurants in All of Alabama
When it comes to great food, Alabama has a lot to offer. Many delicious options, from BBQ and steaks to seafood and German cuisine. And with so many different restaurants to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best restaurants in all of Alabama, so you can be sure to find something to your taste. So whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, here are the 20 best restaurants in Alabama.
20. The Bright Star Restaurant – Bessemer
The Bright Star is one of the most iconic restaurants in Alabama, and for a good reason. This historic eatery has been serving up delicious seafood, steaks, and more since 1907, and it shows no signs of slowing down. The food is always fresh and expertly prepared, and the atmosphere is perfect for a casual night out with friends. According to their website, you can choose to order online or by phone, but we recommend dining in to get the whole Bright Star experience. If you Join Bright Star’s Royalty Rewards Club, you can start earning free food.
19. Rattlesnake Saloon – Tuscumbia
This restaurant is truly one-of-a-kind, set in an old mining town in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The Rattlesnake Saloon offers visitors a unique dining experience, with a menu that features locally-sourced ingredients and dishes inspired by the area’s history. The setting is casual and rustic and the perfect place to enjoy a meal after a day of hiking or exploring the nearby attractions. The restaurant is located under a huge rock outcropping and has a large outdoor patio with views of the surrounding countryside.
18. 360 Grille – Florence
Located in the heart of Florence, 360 Grille offers stunning views of the Tennessee River and downtown Florence. The menu features a variety of American and seafood favorites, handcrafted cocktails, and an extensive wine list. The restaurant offers breathtaking views of Florence’s Riverfront Park and the historic bridge. 360 Grille is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic evening or a night out with friends. The restaurant is open for dinner Monday-Saturday and offers a Sunday brunch.
17. Bull Pen Steakhouse – Oakman
Family-owned and operated, Bull Pen Steakhouse has been serving up fine steak dinners since 1977. Located in the heart of Oakman, Alabama, this restaurant is known for its juicy steaks, fresh seafood, and homemade sides. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of wine and beer to pair with your meal. Bull Pen Steakhouse is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday, and reservations are recommended. With its mouth-watering steaks and hospitable service, Bull Pen Steakhouse is sure to make your dining experience one to remember.
16. Half Shell Oyster House – Birmingham
If you’re looking for fresh seafood, look no further than Half Shell Oyster House. This restaurant has locations in Birmingham, Huntsville, and Mobile, and each one offers a menu of fresh seafood options. The Birmingham location also has a raw bar to enjoy oysters, shrimp, and crab legs. The Half Shell Oyster House is the perfect place to enjoy a casual meal with friends or family. According to their website, their specialty drinks and martinis are very original, just like their food.
15. Kowaliga Restaurant – Alexander City
Kowaliga is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving Southern-style cuisine since 1947. The restaurant is located on the shores of Lake Martin and offers stunning views of the water. The menu features classic Southern dishes such as fried chicken, catfish, and hush puppies. The restaurant also has a full bar and offers live music on weekends. Try out the Kowaliga signature dish, the “Chicken and Waffles,” which comes with a delicious honey-butter sauce.
14. Wildflower Cafe – Mentone
Nestled in the heart of Mentone, Wildflower Cafe is a quaint little spot with a big flavor. The menu features Southern classics with a twist, like chicken and waffles with blueberry compote, shrimp and grits with Andouille sausage, and bacon-wrapped meatloaf. And don’t forget to try one of their delicious homemade pies for dessert. Wildflower Cafe is the perfect place for a cozy, comfort food-filled meal. In the warmer months, you can even dine on the outdoor patio with views of Lookout Mountain.
13. Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q -Decatur
Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q is a restaurant located in Decatur, Alabama. The restaurant was founded in 1925 by Bob Gibson. Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q is the best place for some good old-fashioned southern BBQ. The restaurant is known for its pork shoulder sandwiches, served with a vinegar-based sauce. If you’re looking for some good southern BBQ, you need to check out Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q. They’re known for their pork shoulder sandwiches, served with a vinegar-based sauce.
12. Acre – Auburn
Acre is a restaurant located in Auburn, Alabama. The restaurant was founded in 2013 by chef David Bancroft. Acre serves a variety of food items, including salads, pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches. The restaurant also has a bar, which serves a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Acre has received positive reviews from customers, with many praising the quality of the food and the friendly service. The restaurant has also been rated highly by critics, with many praising the creativity of the dishes. If you’re looking for a great restaurant in Auburn, Alabama, then be sure to check out Acre.
11. Chez Fonfon- Birmingham
This charming French restaurant is perfect for a romantic night out or a special celebration. The menu features classic French dishes with a modern twist, and the wine list is impressive. The service is attentive and professional, and their ingredients are top quality. According to their website, they offer gift certificates which means they are pretty confident in their food. The website also states that you can make reservations online, which is always a plus.
10. The Gulf – Orange Beach
At number 10, we have The Gulf in Orange Beach. This seafood restaurant is known for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes and its stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Their menu features a variety of seafood items, including shrimp, crab, and fish. They also have several non-seafood items such as chicken and steak. The Gulf is open for lunch and dinner, and they also have a bar where you can enjoy a drink while you wait for your food.
9. Highlands Bar and Grill – Birmingham
This world-famous BBQ institution has been serving up some of the best-smoked meats in Alabama since 1925. The menu features all the classic BBQ staples like pulled pork, brisket, and ribs, but the unique white sauce sets Highlands apart. The steak house is also known for its fantastic selection of wine and whiskey, making it the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely meal with friends. According to their website, their menu changes daily, so there’s always something new to try.
8. Fisher’s – Orange Beach
Seafood lovers rejoice – Fisher’s has some of the best seafood in Alabama. The menu features fresh, local seafood cooked to perfection. The Southern-style sides are also one of the highlights of this restaurant. The casual atmosphere makes it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal with family and friends. All their food is fresh and local, and the service is terrific. Some of their best foods are shrimp and grits, catfish sandwiches, and oysters. Fisher’s is a must-visit restaurant when in Alabama.
***PERMANENTLY CLOSED
7. Ollie Irene – Mountain Brook
This Southern restaurant is known for its tasty brunch options, serving some delicious dinner items. The Fried Chicken is a must-try, and the Mac and Cheese are also very popular. Ollie Irene has a casual atmosphere, making it the perfect place to relax with friends or family. Their desserts are also to die for, one of the most popular being the Chocolate Cake. Their butter pecan ice cream is also a big hit with customers. Drinks-wise, they have a great selection of wine and beer.
6. Simp McGhee’s – Decatur
This old-school dive bar is a Decatur institution, serving up some of the best (and not expensive) wings in town. The no-frills atmosphere is perfect for watching the game or enjoying a cold beer with friends, and the wings are worth writing home about. In addition to their famous wings, they also offer a great selection of burgers and sandwiches. Make sure to try their renowned BBQ wings, and they are some of the best in Alabama. They have a great selection of beers on tap and a full bar for drinks.
5. Surin 280- Birmingham
This elegant Thai restaurant is located in the heart of Birmingham and offers a menu full of delicious and authentic dishes. The sleek and modern atmosphere is perfect for a date night or special occasion, and the service is top-notch. The restaurant was opened in 2010 by chefs Nan and Surin Sriratana, and it has been wowing diners ever since. The two chefs have created a menu full of traditional Thai flavors with a contemporary twist, and it is sure to please everyone. Therefore, it is no wonder that Surin 280 is one of the best restaurants in Alabama.
4. Hildegard’s German Cuisine – Huntsville
This unassuming little spot in Huntsville is a must-go for anyone craving some authentic German cuisine. The schnitzel is a particular favorite, but really, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Opened in 1980 by Hildegard Zweifel, a Swiss immigrant, the restaurant is now run by her son Michael. The main dining room has a cozy, old-world feel, with dark wood beams and walls adorned with traditional German decorations. According to their website, if you are not sure about the restaurant, you can see the reviews of other customers, and they will even give you an idea of what to eat.
3. Big Bad Breakfast – Florence
Breakfast is an essential part of your meal, so you want to make sure you’re getting the best of the best for this first meal of the day. Big Bad Breakfast in Florence, Alabama, is such a great option. This restaurant offers various breakfast items that will please everyone in your group. You’ll find everything you need to start your day off right, from pancakes and waffles to eggs and bacon. They also have a delicious selection of lunch items if you’re looking for something lighter.
2. Central Restaurant – Montgomery
In the second place, we have Central Restaurant, a traditional American restaurant located in Coosa St, Montgomery, that serves creative food in a stunning warehouse setting. This is the perfect spot for a special night out, and the service is impeccable. The menu changes regularly to reflect the freshest seasonal ingredients, but you can always expect classic American dishes with a twist. Try their Gulf seafood – it’s some of the best in Alabama. The restaurant is ranked number one on Tripadvisor for Montgomery restaurants, so you know it’s worth visiting.
1. Gambino’s – Fairhope
Gambino’s is a family-owned and operated restaurant serving fresh, homemade Italian dishes for over 30 years. Located in the heart of downtown Fairhope, Gambino’s is a local favorite for both tourists and residents alike. From their signature lasagna to their chicken parmesan, there is something for everyone at Gambino’s. The restaurant also has a full bar with a wide selection of wines, beers, and spirits. According to their website, they specialize in cakes, and if you have a wedding, they will make it as unique as your big day.
