When it comes to restaurants, Alabama is home to some of the very best. In fact, many of our restaurants are among the finest in the U.S. because of their inviting atmospheres and delicious food. Listed below are eight award-winning restaurants that are located throughout the state. They offer a variety of delicious food that’s cooked to perfection, and you’ll want to try them all.
1. The Bright Star Restaurant - Bessemer
The Bright Star Restaurant opened for business in 1907, making it Alabama's oldest restaurant. It specializes in Greek-influenced steak and seafood, and one of its most popular dishes is the Broiled Seafood Platter (pictured below). This specific entree was included on the list "100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die."
2. Highlands Bar & Grill - Birmingham
Highlands Bar & Grill, which opened for business in 1982, is one of America's finest restaurants. It specializes in French-inspired, Southern cuisine and has even won the James Beard Foundation Award for "Outstanding Restaurant," along with its pastry chef, Dolester Miles, who's won the "Outstanding Pastry Chef" award. The restaurant's Stone Ground Baked Grits are a definite must-try!
3. Wildflower Cafe - Mentone
Wildflower Cafe is a charming restaurant that's located atop Lookout Mountain in Mentone. It's well known for its beautiful food presentations. Speaking of food, Wildflower Cafe offers something for everyone, including pastas, sandwiches, salads, and more.
4. Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q - Decatur
Founded in 1925, Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q is one of the world's oldest barbecue restaurants. It's also one of the best. When it comes to food, Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q's menu includes pulled pork, ribs, and the restaurant's famous barbecue smoked chicken with white sauce.
5. Kowaliga Restaurant - Alexander City
Kowaliga Restaurant is situated on the banks of beautiful Lake Martin in Alexander City. It's a secluded restaurant that offers a wonderful view and a variety of delicious food, including catfish, burgers, salads, and more.
6. Doc's Seafood & Oyster Shack - Orange Beach
Doc's Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar is a popular seafood restaurant that offers a variety of Gulf Coast favorites, including fish, oysters, and fried shrimp. This Gulf Coast restaurant is a local favorite and a definite must-visit whenever you're craving delicious seafood.
7. Jesse's Restaurant - Magnolia Springs
Jesse's Restaurant, which opened for business in 1999, is one of Alabama's finest restaurants. When it comes to food, Jesse's Restaurant serves one of the best steaks around, the "Whiskey Steak," which has been included on the list of "100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die."
8. Acre - Auburn
Acre is an upscale and award-winning restaurant that's located within Auburn's downtown historic district. It specializes in fresh, Southern-inspired cuisine using local ingredients. Pictured is the restaurant's "Steak & Eggs," a popular brunch dish.
Have you eaten at any of these Alabama restaurants? If so, please share your dining experience(s) with us in the comments below.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Featured Addresses
Bright Star Restaurant, 304 19th St N, Bessemer, AL 35020, USA
Highlands Bar & Grill, 2011 11th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205, USA
Wildflower Cafe, 6007 AL-117, Mentone, AL 35984, USA
Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q, 1715 6th Ave SE, Decatur, AL 35601, USA
Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q, 2520 Danville Rd SW, Decatur, AL 35603, USA
Kowaliga Restaurant, 295 Kowaliga Marina Rd, Alexander City, AL 35010, USA
Doc's Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar, 26029 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561, USA
Jesses Restaurant, 14770 Oak St, Magnolia Springs, AL 36555, USA
Acre, 210 E Glenn Ave, Auburn, AL 36830, USA