Alabama Restaurant and Dining Guide

We're about to zigzag across the Heart of Dixie, diving fork-first into Alabama's treasured culinary scene. From the rocket city of Huntsville to the coastal vibes of Mobile, we'll eat our way through mom-and-pop eateries, fancy bistros, and hidden foodie gems. We'll sample the iconic delights of Birmingham, Montgomery's soulful delicacies, Dothan's Southern comfort, and Tuscaloosa's home-style favorites. Alongside the delicious eats, we'll also tip our hat to Alabama's captivating attractions that are as diverse as its cuisine. But be warned, this ain't just about stuffing your face - it's an edible exploration through Alabama's rich history, culture, and yes, its love affair with good food. So, prepare your appetite, as we serve up a helping of Alabama's finest. Y'all ready? Let's get munching!

Huntsville: Dine Among the Stars

Stepping into Huntsville feels like being launched into a unique blend of space age modernity and classic Southern charm, after all, this is the city where the Saturn V Rocket was engineered. But, this Rocket City is not just about the stars in the sky, it’s about the stars on the plate too!

First up on our list is the gluten-free haven Mason Dixon Bakery & Bistro. Their Superfoods Salad is a colorful symphony of mixed greens, candied pecans, and vibrant berries, harmonizing with a delightful blueberry vinaigrette. But don't leave before trying their Sweet Potato Pecan Pie or the Cran-Apple Pie – they're out of this world! Now, let’s pop into The Poppy and Parliament. Feel like British royalty as you delve into the authentic English Shepherd's Pie, adorned with creamed braised carrot and parsnip mash. The Chargrilled Spanish Octopus is another delight not to be missed. Marinated in olive oil and garlic, it's tender and packed full of flavor.

Feeling rhythm? Swing by Rhythm on Monroe. Their Rhythm Roasted Herb Chicken featuring smashed potatoes and sugar snap peas dances perfectly with the tarragon chicken glace. The House-Smoked Duroc Pork Chop delivers a punch of flavor that'll leave you humming for more. Don't miss out on Rosie's Cantina for some Mexican flavor. The Raspberry Chipotle Salmon and Shrimp Quesadilla are masterpieces that bring a zesty, refreshing twist to classic dishes.

When you're done dining, take a leisurely stroll around the Huntsville Botanical Garden or gaze at the city's history in Burritt on the Mountain. If you feel adventurous, explore the universe at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, but keep your feet on Earth.

Birmingham: The Magic City's Mouthwatering Morsels

Birmingham’s industrial roots have blossomed into a thriving city, radiating a magic that goes beyond its nickname, the "Magic City". It's a city that keeps its history close and its food even closer.

Begin your culinary adventure at SAW's Soul Kitchen, a joint that serves soul food so good, it's bound to awaken your senses. The Chicken N' Greens here are iconic: tender pulled chicken paired with greens over creamy cheese grits. The Sweet Tea Fried Chicken is a Southern tradition in every bite. JaWanda's Sweet Potato Pies Bakery is an essential stop. Their Pecan Pie and Orange Crème Cheese Pie are legendary, guaranteed to make your sweet tooth do a happy dance. Audrey’s Restaurant will have you rolling out of bed in the morning for their Loaded Hashbrown Waffle Meal and Bowl Seafood Gumbo.

Our last stop in Birmingham is Helen, a modern Southern bistro with a menu as artistic as the city itself. Their Sweet Corn Ribs & Shishito Peppers, Prince William Sound Sockeye Salmon, and Blueberry Almond Tart are dishes that your taste buds will remember long after your visit.

While your stomach takes a break, let your eyes feast on the city's cultural landmarks. The Vulcan Park and Museum, Birmingham Museum of Art, and McWane Science Center are just the places for that. There's more to Birmingham than meets the eye, and it tastes pretty good too!

Montgomery: A Journey Through Time and Taste

Step back in time as you wander through Montgomery, a city steeped in civil rights history and home to a hearty and diverse culinary scene.

Kick off your culinary tour at Vintage Year, a historic spot that's been delighting Montgomery since 1984. The Seared Duck Breast is a standout: a beautiful medley of flavors featuring garlic braised greens and crispy sweet potatoes. Their English Pea Spätzle – a dish singing with the freshness of English peas and Swiss chard – is a journey in itself.

The taste of authentic Mexican food calls us to Sol Restaurante Mexicano & Taqueria. Try the Bistec A La Mexicana and Guisado De Puerco o Bistec En Chile Rojo, and you’ll swear you've been transported to Mexico. SaZa Serious Italian Food offers dishes that will have you uttering "delizioso!" Prince Edward Island Mussels and Chicken Piccata hold the essence of Italy in every bite. At Martin's Restaurant, get ready for a comforting Southern hug on a plate with their Sweet Potato Casserole and Martin’s “Meat and Three” Lunch Plate.

After you're done eating, immerse yourself in the city's rich history at The Legacy Museum or admire art at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Wind down by taking a stroll through Riverfront Park. As you do, you'll find that Montgomery is a city that feeds both your stomach and your soul.

Dothan: A Dash of Coastal and a Pinch of Southern

Boasting the grand title of "Peanut Capital of the World," Dothan offers more than peanuts to the culinary enthusiast. Let's dive right into some delectable bites this city has to offer.

Begin your gastronomic adventure at Hunt's Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar, where sea meets land in culinary bliss. Feast on the Mahi-Mahi, prepared just the way you like it—though we wholeheartedly recommend grilled. Or try their Crab Cake Dinner; three homemade crab cakes served with their secret remoulade sauce is sure to hit the spot.

Taj Indian & Greek Restaurant takes your taste buds on a trip overseas with dishes like the Fish Vindaloo Curry, a perfect medley of fish and potatoes cooked in a non-creamy, tangy sauce, and the Lamb Shish Kebab Sandwich, where minced lamb sausage is sautéed with onion and wrapped in freshly baked naan bread. Can someone say "Yum?"

Conestoga Steak House offers a trifecta of meats, with their Filet Mignon, Large Ribeye, and Top Sirloin putting any carnivorous cravings to rest. To round off your Dothan food trip, head to Cactus Flower Café. Their Lobster Quesadilla is a revelation, packed with real blue crab, creamy Monterey Jack cheese, and served with a creamy lime sauce for dipping. And don't forget their Chile Relleno—a poblano pepper overstuffed with chicken and cheese, doused in Verde sauce. It's an absolute must-try.

Once you're done licking your fingers clean, stretch your legs with a leisurely stroll through Landmark Park. This 135-acre park is a living museum offering a glimpse into the past with an old-time cane mill and a traditional farmstead. The Dothan Area Botanical Gardens offer 50 acres of cultivated gardens, nature trails, and beautiful plant collections. While you're at it, swing by the Wiregrass Museum of Art for a bit of culture and inspiration.

Mobile: The Coast with the Most

Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, Mobile offers a rich culinary culture flavored by French, Spanish, British, and Creole influences. Let's tuck into some of the gems this coastal city has to offer.

Begin your Mobile culinary quest at The Noble South, where local and sustainable foods are on the menu. Indulge in their Wagyu Brisket served with cauliflower and sweet potato for a hearty delight. For a twist, try their Beef Tartare with aleppo pepper and beef fat popcorn.

Next, slip into Wintzell's Oyster House for the finest seafood the gulf has to offer. The Fried Green Tomatoes, crisp and tangy, are a delicacy, and their Award-Wining Seafood Gumbo is certainly worthy of its title. It's packed with shrimp, crawfish, lump crabmeat, okra, and stewed tomatoes, creating a perfect roux. Finally, for a classy dining experience, Noja presents its Brussel Bowl with teriyaki, peanuts, and green onions and the Panko Crusted Fresh Fish with Ginger-Miso Sauce.

When you're ready to put down your fork and knife, head over to the USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, which features the WWII battleship and submarine USS Drum. Get festive at the Mobile Carnival Museum, which tells the history of Mardi Gras in Mobile. Or, unwind in Bienville Square, a historic city park located in the heart of downtown Mobile.

Tuscaloosa: Roll Tide to Tasty Times

Known for the Crimson Tide, Tuscaloosa is also a culinary destination with a cuisine as vibrant as its college football culture.

Kick things off at Archibald & Woodrow's BBQ for some down-home cooking. From their Catfish Platter and Whiting Sandwich to the Rib Dinner, they've got your barbecue cravings covered.

Next, make a pit stop at Buffalo Phil's Pub and Café. Check out Derrick's Smokehouse Burger—smoked cheddar and crisp bacon topped with onion rings and Honey BBQ Sauce—or opt for the Chicken Winger Combo, a mouthwatering mix of their world-famous wings and chicken fingers. Finally, head over to Avenue Pub, where you can try their hand-breaded Chicken Club topped with provolone, bacon, and house-made spicy honey mustard. Or opt for the Corned Beef Sandwich—slow-roasted corned beef brisket, Russian slaw, and house-made pickles, all piled high on toasted rye bread.

After your culinary tour, visit the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater for live music or the Paul W. Bryant Museum to dive into the history of Alabama football. End the day at the Bama Theatre, a 1938 Art Deco auditorium offering performances, independent films, and art exhibits.

As we close our delicious chapter on Alabama's culinary voyage, we're left with a taste of its diverse, culture-rich food scene. We savored Huntsville's rocket fuel coffee and biscuit love, rolled down to Birmingham's fiery hot chicken and soulful southern barbeque, and indulged in Montgomery's catfish fillets that took our taste buds on a delightful roller-coaster ride. Not forgetting Dothan's international fusion flavors, Mobile's intoxicating gulf cuisine, and Tuscaloosa's hearty comfort food that beautifully blends tradition and innovation.

In each city, the gastronomic journey was as enthralling as the numerous attractions we visited. Be it the Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, the Civil Rights Memorial in Montgomery, or the USS Alabama Battleship in Mobile, Alabama's rich history and culture are as invigorating as its cuisine. Future explorers, pack your bags with an empty stomach and an open heart. Whether you're a hardcore foodie, a history buff, or an avid traveler, Alabama's generous spirit will capture your imagination. So, come, explore Alabama's culinary cornucopia, and fall in love with the unique taste of the South. Trust me, the wealth of flavors and adventures you'll find here is as warm and welcoming as the Alabama sun.

Must-Try Restaurants in Alabama

Audrey's Restaurant

10 6th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205

We tried to do something different this year and have our thanksgiving meal catered!! My mom pre-ordered our Thanksgiving meal, 2 weeks in advance, and w...

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Good49 Reviews4

Helen

2013 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

Great food and nice ambiance!! Love how intimate of a place it is. My boyfriend and I went here for our Christmas dinner and really enjoyed it. If you go...

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Superb173 Reviews4.7

Rhythm on Monroe

700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801

This is an absolutely fabulous place. I have always had the best food, drink, and service every time I visited.

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Good270 Reviews3.7

SaZa Serious Italian Food

130 Commerce St, Montgomery, AL 36104

Was glad to be able to get in without a reservation. Food was pretty tasteful. The food from the kids menu were pretty basic. So basic my kids didn’t car...

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Good179 Reviews3.9

The Poppy and Parliament

117 North Side Square, Huntsville, AL 35801

Super fun atmosphere. Superior service, delicious drinks, and the best fish and chips in Huntsville. This is a must try.

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Superb201 Reviews4.5

JaWanda's Sweet Potato Pies Bakery

5291 Valleydale Rd #111, Birmingham, AL 35242

Delicious, homemade pies. Sweet people. Love supporting a small business like this one.

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Superb32 Reviews4.7

Mason Dixon Bakery & Bistro

415 Church St NW, Huntsville, AL 35801

Visiting from out of state and decided to check this place out while in town. SO glad we came by, everything we had was great! King cake iced latte, smok...

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Superb129 Reviews4.8

Archibald & Woodrow's BBQ

4215 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

An hour before closing, shop only allowed take out orders. Met with rude resistance from the employee taking the order. Ribs were covered in an overly vi...

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Average98 Reviews2.8

Wintzells Oyster House

6700 Airport Blvd, Mobile, AL 36608

The whole menu looks amazing but we had the oyster sampler and gumbo along with raw oysters. You can't go wrong. Monterrey and Bienville are great c...

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Superb145 Reviews4.3

Martin's Restaurant

1796 Carter Hill Rd, Montgomery, AL 36106

Cornbread was a no no taste and hard don't expect jiffy
Turnip greens yes chopped fine
Potato salad soupy with big chunks of eggs&...

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Superb164 Reviews4.3

Sol Restaurante Mexicano & Taqueria

3962 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery, AL 36109

Though I have had better choices in other states this is probably some of the best one can get in this region of the US. I was very impressed with everyt...

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Superb166 Reviews4.5

Vintage Year

405 Cloverdale Rd, Montgomery, AL 36106

Everything was perfect! Celebrated my mom’s birthday. The food was very well seasoned and packed filled with flavor.

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Good88 Reviews4.2

Noja

6 N Jackson St, Mobile, AL 36602

In my opinion this is the best all around fine dining experience in Mobile.

You will likely need to reserve at least a week in advance.

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Superb175 Reviews4.7

The Noble South

203 Dauphin St, Mobile, AL 36602

We had delicious meals with unique flavors all around for a graduation celebration. A cool building as well

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Superb208 Reviews4.5

Buffalo Phil's

1149 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Every time I have been to B Phil’s I get sick. They failed to meet their health inspection. I’ve heard this from the numerous of bama students. Don’t rec...

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Good87 Reviews3.5

Avenue Pub - Downtown Tuscaloosa

2230 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Best fish n chips I've ever had!! Their tartar sauce is amazing too. Has a spicy kick too it:)

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Superb207 Reviews4.4

SAW’s Soul Kitchen

215 41st St S, Birmingham, AL 35222

Wow that white sauce. First time having the white sauce. Don't know why more BBQ restaurants don't do chicken thighs but those were wonderful....

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Superb209 Reviews4.6

Cactus Flower Cafe

5412 Montgomery Hwy, Dothan, AL 36303

Check your bill, keep your receipt and check your bank statement. We've now had two issues, one several years ago of an attempt to add to our bill (...

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Superb45 Reviews4.4

Conestoga Steak House

3549 Montgomery Hwy, Dothan, AL 36303

It's like an 80's steak house vibe. Steak was good, salad was good yet basic with homemade ranch as a bonus. Sides- broccoli and baked potato w...

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Good83 Reviews4.2

Hunt's Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar

177 Campbellton Hwy, Dothan, AL 36301

The journey was a total of about 3 hours, and the food was outstanding. However, there was one issue that I had never encountered before. The kitchen doo...

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Superb244 Reviews4.5

Rosie's Mexican Cantina

7540-A Memorial Pkwy SW, Huntsville, AL 35802

Get Jade as your server, she is so on point with everything. She has costumers service skills.

Kid-friendliness: Yes

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Superb243 Reviews4.5

Taj Indian & Greek Restaurant

2920 Ross Clark Cir, Dothan, AL 36301

We have stopped here a couple of times in our travels. I will say it is always incredible. The service is prompt and the wait staff is very friendly!

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Superb228 Reviews4.4

Recently Opened Restaurants

Nothing Bundt Cakes

3441 Lowery Pkwy Suite 103, Fultondale, AL 35068

Had a slice from a bundt cake and you will never have to doubt this place....definitely devine, moist and flavorful!

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Superb2 Reviews5

The Edge

815, 817, 819 Green Springs Hwy, Homewood, AL 35209

Meh. Its like a zoo for kids. If you love screaming unsupervised children and drunk parents who could not care less… this is the spot for you, at least o...

Good22 Reviews3.9

Scooter's Coffee

26136 AL-181, Daphne, AL 36526

The employees are all extremely friendly and knowledgeable about the menu, every visit to this location has been wonderful. My new favorite coffee!

Superb6 Reviews5

Jake's Soulfood Cafe Tuscaloosa

3615 McFarland Blvd E, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

The ox tail were hard, sweet (like they were cooked with sugar and barbecue sauce), and drowned in some type of gravy. The mac and cheese didn't tas...

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Good16 Reviews3.5

B'ham Burger

817 Green Springs Hwy Suite 109, Homewood, AL 35209

My wife and I both had cheeseburgers. We found them to be good but not exceptional. Cooked well but cheese was barely melted. Taste was good. Service good.

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Superb12 Reviews4.3

Texas Roadhouse

2621 Legends Pkwy, Prattville, AL 36066

We had a great experience here! We were greeted with a very friendly warm reception by all the staff members! We had a fantastic server named Charlie, m...

Good102 Reviews3.7

Mr.Tea N Bites

6633 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery, AL 36117

This place is spectacular! The cashier was so incredibly sweet and patient with my group as we had never been here before. He gave us so many different r...

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Superb71 Reviews5

Takumi Ramen & Grill

2893 Florence Blvd, Florence, AL 35630

My niece and I are here at her request, and we both enjoyed it. The service was good, the food was excellent, and we plan to go back soon.

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Superb65 Reviews4.3

Chipotle Mexican Grill

3535 US-280 #431, Phenix City, AL 36867

Did a pick up order, where there were no utensils or napkins in the bag. Fine, until I open my bowl and it’s not even mine. I go back in, the lady who ac...

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Good9 Reviews3.9

Joyland Restaurant

3719 3rd Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35222

Went for the first time last week for breakfast and was highly impressed by the quality of food, affordable prices, and delightful & friendly staff. ...

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Good118 Reviews4.2

Lag's Eatery

4350 3rd Ct S, Birmingham, AL 35222

Wonderful. Huge portions, delicious food, design is perfect. Service was arguably the best I've ever had. I can't stop thinking about my next v...

Superb27 Reviews4.7

Cook Out Restaurant

303 E Meighan Blvd, Gadsden, AL 35903

Portion size awful they put chicken fingers on chicken sandwich. No meat on half of the sandwich 😞

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Good35 Reviews3.5

The Wine Bunker - Whiskey & Wine Bar

81 Weatherly Club Dr, Alabaster, AL 35007

Great service, great drinks, you need to go here! No really, right now, come on. We are at the bar having flat bread.

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Superb72 Reviews5

Bandido Coffee Parlor

1024 20th St S #103, Birmingham, AL 35205

A lovely little coffee shop in a cute alley. Staff were friendly and coffee was super delicious. I would definitely come back.

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Superb23 Reviews5

Sloan’s

2308 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

Cocktails are very average and the bourbon selection is poor for a bourbon bar. You can find it all in ABC and that’s a small selection. Old fashioned do...

Superb16 Reviews4.8

Recent Reviews

Thelma's Kitchen

26 Mack St, Eufaula, AL 36027

Thelma’s Kitchen! We were so excited to find this place online on our way from Atlanta to Panama City. And we were not disappointed! Deliciou...

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Superb248 Reviews4.9

The Barbeque Stop

6633 Old Springville Rd, Pinson, AL 35126

The ribs would be perfect if not for the over use of salt. It over powered all the other rub spices. I'm pretty sure that my mother salted my baby f...

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Good66 Reviews3.9

4 Pizza Pirates

3211 Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy S, Phenix City, AL 36869

Great food great employees they’re funny to cut up with and they play good music while you sit and wait for your order don’t take lon...

Good20 Reviews4.1

Domino's Pizza

855 Market Pl, Alexander City, AL 35010

First, was SUPPOSED to be curbside. Had to go INSIDE. When I got my pizza, didn't get proper respect, and the pizza was COLD! Plus, I like onion...

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Average32 Reviews2.5

King Buffet

101 Cahaba Valley Pkwy E, Pelham, AL 35124

Have eaten there many times. Food is outstanding always. A pleasurable dining experience.

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Good182 Reviews4.1

Elite Fit Lab

2091 Douglas Ave, Brewton, AL 36426

Excellent customer service! The owners know all their customers on a first name basis. Betty teas and strawberry shortcake shakes are the best!

Superb4 Reviews5

Hardee’s

8827 Madison Blvd, Madison, AL 35758

Had to bring food back but service was great re did brought out to car. It was breakfast time. I was on my way to work.. came right out....

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Average46 Reviews3.2

St Vincents Birmingham Bistro

810 St Vincents Dr, Birmingham, AL 35205

The server came from behind the food line came to a table where her friend was grab a chicken wing ate it and was acting childish in her food gloves then...

Poor13 Reviews2

Kobe Sushi Hibachi Express

1591-B Hughes Rd, Madison, AL 35758

Last night my husband and I had a delicious dinner at Kobe. Although we had dined there a few times with our sushi lover family, last night we were on o...

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Superb58 Reviews4.6

Twisted Thai

8540 Hwy 72 W, Madison, AL 35757

You gotta try this spot. By far the best Thai food in the Huntsville area. Authentic, delicious, and affordable. We're definitely going to be regula...

Superb36 Reviews4.8

Lash Seafood

1091 AL-101, Rogersville, AL 35652

We had lunch today Saturday February 1, 2025 and everything was delicious. Service was outstanding. Highly recommend Lash Seaford to anyone. You̵...

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Superb93 Reviews4.7

Country's Barbecue

1021 Opelika Rd, Auburn, AL 36830

I really do not like giving negative reviews to someone that is trying their best. I really would prefer to have talked with a manager or owner, but her...

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Good105 Reviews3.4

Portabella's

321B S McKenzie St, Foley, AL 36535

This restaurant stands out as the best we've found for a delicious Italian dinner. The staff's friendly demeanor was notable. I highly recommen...

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Superb134 Reviews4.7

Los Arcos

5630 McClellan Blvd, Anniston, AL 36206

Usually its very good but today everything went wrong. It started when my wife asked that the Childrens meal for our 2 year old granddaughter be served o...

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