ALABAMA - Alabama is best known for its college football and barbecue. Still, the state boasts an incredibly vibrant food culture as well. From Southern soul food to Vietnamese pho, Alabama offers an array of mouthwatering dishes sure to please even the most discriminating palates. So whether you're a native or just visiting for the first time, take time out of your schedule to check out these eight restaurants in Alabama!
Where Are The Best Restaurants to Try in Alabama
Rattlesnake Saloon - Tuscumbia
If you're searching for an unforgettable restaurant experience, Rattlesnake Saloon in Tuscumbia is the place to go. Situated inside a cave, this restaurant provides one of the unique dining experiences in America. Since 2009, The Saloon has been a beloved destination in the surrounding area. It's featured in magazines and music videos as an essential stop-over. The Saloon can be visited year-round, but it's trendy in the fall. Enjoy a bite to eat and listen to live music while taking in stunning views of Mount Washington from its patio.
The Bright Star - Bessemer
Since 1907, The Bright Star in Downtown Bessemer has served diners Greek and Southern cuisine. Owned by the Koikos family, they feature fresh seafood and steaks. The menu also offers a selection of meats, such as Greek-style beef tenderloin. These dishes can be prepared in various ways, including grilling and broiling. For dessert, baklava cheesecake is a delectable treat wrapped in delicate phyllo pastry and filled with honey and nuts.
Dot's Soul Food Restaurant - Hillsboro
Dot's Soul Food Restaurant is a cozy country diner that serves delicious home-cooked meals daily. Their menu changes daily so that you can sample their extensive menu of dishes - you'll love their fried chicken, pork chops, turkey, and other southern classics, not to mention their banana pudding and pecan pie for dessert! Moreover, the restaurant boasts an excellent staff always willing to assist you. The atmosphere is also very pleasant and competitively priced, making this spot a popular choice for many people.
Lulu's - Gulf Shores
LuLu's is an energetic eatery serving hearty burgers, seafood dishes, sandwiches, cocktails, beer & wine. Situated along the Intercoastal Waterway, its views of tranquil waters make for a memorable dining experience. Their slogan is "Fun, Food & Music." They offer gluten-free, shellfish-free, egg-free, seafood-free, and soy-free menu options and an excellent Bloody Mary bar! This Gulf Shores bar is a fun destination for all ages. It has the beach, arcade, and comfy Adirondack chairs spread out across the property - plus, they organize events such as the National Shrimp Festival and Noon Years' Eve with a fireworks display to cap off an incredible year!
360 Grille - Florence
360 Grille is one of Florence's most unique restaurants, boasting a 360-degree revolving view of three states and the Tennessee River Valley without ever leaving their seat. Situated atop Renaissance Tower at Marriott Shoals Hotel and Spa, 360 Grille should not be missed for those seeking an unforgettable dining experience. Take your date or family here for an unforgettable dining experience! The menu offers a selection of steaks and plenty of other choices for everyone to enjoy. Try ordering their vegetable plate with cheese grits and other side dishes - perfect for sharing!
The Garage - Birmingham
The Garage is a beloved Southside bar and restaurant known for its eclectic character, relaxed vibe, and laid-back charm. With an antiques-filled courtyard and friendly staff, The Garage has become one of Southside's favorite local hangouts. The courtyard's center is an idyllic area of old covered garage stalls from the 1930s. Here, visitors can discover a collection of European antiquities such as concrete statues, lawn furniture, and stone pieces crafted from stones. The garden has two personalities - a beer garden during the day and antiquing spot at night. You'll want to reserve some time for visiting these rooms to take advantage of its wisteria vines and sit outside with friends on summer evenings.
Kowaliga Restaurant - Alexander City
Kowaliga Restaurant, situated on the shores of Lake Martin, has plenty to offer visitors and locals alike. After only opening for a few days, it has already gained the attention of some of Martin County's more sophisticated diners and occasional visitors from other states. For those seeking some friendly competition, the beer pong table at the front of the restaurant is a must-visit. But the real star is The Old Kowaliga Pine Head Bar: an outdoor bar and dining area where patrons can watch the sunset over the horizon while sipping local craft beers.
Dreamland Bar-B-Que - Tuscaloosa
Dreamland Bar-B-Que is a Tuscaloosa institution known for its hickory-smoked ribs. A must-visit for barbecue fans everywhere, this chain restaurant will leave you satisfied. This unassuming building is decorated with local memorabilia, T-shirts on the ceiling, and plenty of red (Roll Tide rules). Even the bar stools have been adorned with photos of its founder. Most barbecue joints use gas grills, but Dreamland uses an old-school wood-burning method to cook its ribs.
