When a restaurant has been in business for decades, chances are it’s because it offers great food, fantastic service and excellent prices. There are many long-standing restaurants in Alabama, and most of them have even become local favorites. From sandwich shops to hamburger joints, and city cafes to fine dining establishments, here are 10 of the longest-standing restaurants in Alabama:
1. The Bright Star - Bessemer
Since 1907, The Bright Star has been serving up the most delicious Greek-inspired cuisine. This historic restaurant is the oldest family-owned restaurant in Alabama. It's a definite must visit! (304 N 19th St)
2. C.F. Penn Hamburgers - Decatur
C.F. Penn Hamburgers has been serving up their famous deep-fried hamburgers since 1917. These famous hamburgers were originally called 'slug burgers' and they're made with a secret ingredient that causes customers to go crazy for them. (121 Moulton St E)
3. Toomer's Drugs - Auburn
Toomer's Drugs opened in 1896 and has become an iconic landmark for Auburn fans near and far. This long-standing restaurant offers a variety of menu items, but they're best known for their 'World Famous' freshly-squeezed lemonade. (100 N College St)
4. The City Cafe - Northport
Since 1931, this local favorite has been serving up the most delicious comfort foods. The 'meat-and-three' plate, which comes with bread and a drink, is a definite must order! (408 Main Ave)
5. Payne's Sandwich Shop & Soda Fountain - Scottsboro
You'll be taken back in time the moment you step through the door of Payne's Sandwich Shop & Soda Fountain. Payne's originally opened as a pharmacy in 1869. During the 1930s, a soda fountain and counter lunches were added. This 50's-style restaurant is a great place to grab a sandwich and a scoop of your favorite ice cream. (101 E Laurel St)
6. Chris' Hot Dogs - Montgomery
For the best hot dogs in Alabama's capital city, a visit to Chris' Hot Dogs is the obvious choice. This family-owned restaurant is a local favorite and it's best known for its famous chili sauce. Chris' Hot Dogs also offers a variety of tasty hamburgers. (138 Dexter Ave)
7. Irondale Cafe - Irondale
Since 1928, Irondale Cafe has been serving up delicious Southern cuisine to the Irondale community. This charming cafe was made famous by the hit movie "Fried Green Tomatoes," and one of their most popular dishes also goes by the same name - Fried Green Tomatoes. If you've never tried Irondale Cafe's famous fried green tomatoes, you absolutely must. They're AMAZING! (1906 1st Ave N)
8. Trowbridge's - Florence
Ever since 1918, Trowbridge's has been serving up delicious sandwiches, ice cream, milkshakes, etc. This popular ice cream parlor is Alabama's oldest business that's still operating from its original location. Trowbridge's is best known for its delicious orange pineapple ice cream. (316 N Court St)
9. Waysider Restaurant - Tuscaloosa
Tuscaloosa is home to many long-standing restaurants, including the historic Waysider Restaurant. Waysider Restaurant was established in 1906 and is best known for its delicious breakfast. (1512 Greensboro Ave)
10. Big Spring Cafe - Huntsville
Big Spring Cafe opened in 1928, making it Huntsville's oldest restaurant. This iconic cafe is best known for its delicious hamburgers, and it's a popular lunch spot among the locals. If you plan to eat here during lunch hours, expect a crowd. It's seriously that good! (2906 Governors Dr SW)
Have you eaten at any of these long-standing restaurants? Did your favorite restaurant make the list? For a closer look at Alabama’s oldest restaurant, and to learn all about its historical background, check out our previous article: The Oldest Restaurant In Alabama Has A Truly Incredible History .
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.