The Small-Town Diner Where Locals Catch Up Over Beefy Sandwiches And Loaded Hot Dogs
By Lisa Battles|Published October 19, 2023
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Lisa Battles
Author
Lisa has traveled the U.S. for over a decade, seeking out and sharing the stories of its most interesting places, people, and experiences. A journalism graduate of Auburn University, she has been a content strategist, editor, and writer for more than 25 years. Lisa has worked in community news, PR, and marketing with a focus on tourism, hospitality, and economic development. Besides following her curiosity around every corner, she's a devoted dog mom of two and advocate for animal welfare.
The Hot Spot is a highly-rated hidden gem. The small-town diner in Moulton, Alabama draws people from throughout the community and far beyond for its beefy sandwiches, loaded hot dogs, and so much more. I believe this is one of those places that has helped the South corner the market on homespun hideaways for comfort food. It’s also one with a significant history.
The Hot Spot originally opened in 1945. The Alabama Historical Commission listed it on the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage on June 27, 2019. That was around the same time fourth-owners Marvin and Elayne Jackson re-opened the restaurant in 2019.
Jackson used family recipes and some inspiration from Chicago, of which she is a native.
The restaurant serves three different sandwiches and two types of hot dogs all three days. On Thursdays and Fridays, people can pre-order pizza.
While the Italian beef sandwich may be the most widely praised among the sandwiches, people say they’re all incredible. There’s also a juicy Philly cheesesteak and a hearty grilled chicken sandwich.
These days the restaurant is open on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays for lunch only. Anytime the doors are open, you'll find people from all walks of life and age groups inside. It’s truly a community gathering place for everyone from the high school football team to senior citizens to local police on a lunch break.
While dessert options vary, count on always seeing something good. Be sure to ask about the daily special. You can expect anything from scrumptious cupcakes to cheesecake with chocolate and caramel sauce.
You can keep up with The Hot Spot on Facebook for daily specials and events. To uncover more treasures in Moulton, head to the historic downtown area and The Junque Market, a shop with vintage items, collectibles, records, and more. For an easy to moderate hike that will work off a few calories, plan for a half-hour drive south to the Borden Creek Wild Hiking Trail near the Sipsey Wilderness of Bankhead National Forest.
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