Huntsville, Alabama, is a city that boasts a diverse and vibrant dining scene, offering something for every palate and preference. Here’s a guide to some of the top restaurants in Huntsville, highlighting their unique features, recommended dishes, and what makes them stand out.
Upscale Dining
Char Restaurant
Located at 931 Bob Wallace Ave SW, Char Restaurant is an upscale, Southern-style modern steakhouse. It features USDA Prime and Choice cuts of meat, fresh seafood, home-style sides, and a selection of classic cocktails, wine, and bourbon. The restaurant is known for its New Orleans-style jazz brunch on Sundays and nightly entertainment in its piano bar. Recommended dishes include the Lamb Chop and the Seafood Carbonara[1].
The Bottle Restaurant
At 101 Washington St NE, The Bottle is a fine dining restaurant that combines Southern cuisine with French influences. The menu is seasonal, offering dishes like raw oysters, jumbo crab cakes, veal chops, lamb racks, and steaks. A standout dish is the Springer Mountain Chicken Pasta, which includes roasted heirloom tomatoes, wild mushrooms, peppers, spinach, and bacon[1][4].
Cotton Row Restaurant
Located in downtown Huntsville inside a historic three-story building from 1821, Cotton Row Restaurant is renowned for its Southern fine dining. It offers an ever-changing menu that includes steaks, burgers, seafood, and pastas. The restaurant is famous for its fried green tomatoes and has a great selection of desserts. It was named “Best Southern Fine Dining Restaurant” by USA Today in 2015[3].
Casual Eats
Sam & Greg’s Pizzeria Gelateria
At 401 The Bridge St, Sam & Greg’s Pizzeria Gelateria is a family-friendly spot in the Bridge Street shopping center. This Italian restaurant offers authentic pasta dishes, pizza, wine, and cocktails in a Roman-ruin decorated setting. Recommended dishes include the Spaghetti Pomodoro and the signature Pasta Bravo[1][2].
West End Grill
Located near Bridge Street Town Centre at 6610 Madison Pike #109, West End Grill is a neighborhood pub with a diverse menu. It offers burgers, sandwiches, grilled favorites, and Southern classics. The Fried Chicken Sandwich and the Southern Country Fried Platter are highly recommended[1].
Blue Plate Café
At 3210 Governors Dr SW, the Blue Plate Café is a popular spot for hearty meals, serving from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Known for its Meat ‘N’ Three concept, the café offers generous portions of Southern comfort food. Don’t miss the Cocoa Biscuit on Saturdays, topped with homemade chocolate sauce[4][5].
Specialty Cuisine
Tim’s Cajun Kitchen
Located at 114 Jordan Ln NW, Tim’s Cajun Kitchen has been a Huntsville favorite for over 30 years. It serves authentic Cajun and Creole food, including gumbo, gator bites, po’boys, and hot wings. Recommended dishes include the Crawfish Etouffee, Seafood Gumbo, and Seafood Jambalaya[1].
Cajun Steamer
At 301 Pelham Ave SW Suite C-1, Cajun Steamer is a Louisiana-style bar and grill that celebrates Mardi Gras year-round. The menu features steamed or boiled crawfish, seafood gumbo, gator bites, oysters, and po’boys. Try the Gumbo, Voodoo Chicken, or the Fried Catfish & Shrimp platter[1].
New Ichiban Japanese Steak Seafood and Sushi
Located at 4851 Whitesburg Dr, New Ichiban offers hibachi grill fare and a sushi bar. Enjoy dinner and a show at the hibachi grill tables or opt for freshly prepared sushi in the back. Recommended dishes include the Alabama Roll, Yummy Roll, and the Hibachi Steak dinner[1].
Unique Dining Experiences
Rhythm on Monroe
At 700 Monroe St SW, Rhythm on Monroe is a popular restaurant and rooftop bar inside the Von Braun Center. The menu is music-themed, offering burgers, sandwiches, and premium dishes like pork chops and filets. The rooftop bar operates on a first-come, first-served basis and offers a shareable menu and stunning views of Downtown Huntsville. Try the Classic Rock Burger or the Yardbird Jive Club Sandwich, and don’t miss the Back in Blackberry Mojito[1][4].
Drake’s
Located at 4800 Whitesburg Dr #14, Drake’s is known for its unique combination of big burgers and fresh sushi. With over 20 craft beers on tap, it’s a great spot for those looking for something different. Recommended dishes include the Filet With Crab Rangoon or Filet With California Roll[1].
Most Important Facts About Restaurants in Huntsville
Upscale Options: Char Restaurant, The Bottle, and Cotton Row Restaurant offer fine dining experiences with a focus on Southern cuisine, often with French or other international influences.
Casual Favorites: Sam & Greg’s Pizzeria Gelateria, West End Grill, and Blue Plate Café provide family-friendly and comforting dining experiences.
Specialty Cuisine: Tim’s Cajun Kitchen and Cajun Steamer are top spots for Cajun and Creole food, while New Ichiban Japanese Steak Seafood and Sushi offers Japanese cuisine.
Unique Experiences: Rhythm on Monroe features a rooftop bar and music-themed menu, and Drake’s combines burgers and sushi in a unique dining experience.
Historic Locations: Cotton Row Restaurant is housed in a historic building from 1821, adding to its charm and historical significance.
Live Entertainment: Char Restaurant and Rhythm on Monroe offer live music, enhancing the dining experience.
Seasonal Menus: Many restaurants, such as The Bottle and Cotton Row, feature seasonal menus to ensure fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
Whether you’re in the mood for upscale dining, casual eats, or specialty cuisine, Huntsville has a diverse range of restaurants that cater to all tastes and preferences.
