Plan Your Year of Dining: 12 Must-Try Alabama Restaurants

There's no better time than at the beginning of the year to make a bucket list of all the restaurants you've been wanting to visit. Below are 12 Alabama restaurants that everyone should visit this coming year, but instead of trying them all at once, we've divided them up into monthly excursions.

Because of their delicious food, welcoming atmosphere, and iconic signage and decor, the following destinations are considered some of the best restaurants in Alabama. So, break out your dining bucket list—you're going to want to check these off.

1. January: The Bright Star - Bessemer

The Bright Star in Bessemer is a great restaurant to kick off the new year with a delicious meal. Established in 1907, it's Alabama's oldest family-owned restaurant. It specializes in Greek-style steak and seafood, and it welcomes visitors from all across the Southeast and beyond. The next time you're in the Bessemer area, consider giving this historic restaurant a try. You won't be disappointed. The restaurant's open Tuesday-Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

2. February: Dot's Soul Food Restaurant - Hillsboro

Dot's Soul Food Restaurant is a wonderful place to escape the cold and warm up with a plate of delicious country cuisine. From crispy fried chicken to perfectly creamed potatoes, there's something on the menu for everyone. It's so good that it'll remind you of Grandma's cooking. You can even purchase its famous white barbecue sauce online—perfect for topping any comfort dish. Dot's is open Tuesday through Friday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed on Saturday.

3. March: 360 Grille - Florence

For an incredible view to go along with your dinner, a visit to Alabama's 360 Grille is a must. 360 Grille is located atop the city of Florence's Renaissance Tower and offers an incredible view of the Tennessee River Valley. It's also Alabama's only revolving restaurant. For an unforgettable dining experience, be sure to make a reservation at this one-of-a-kind restaurant. It's open Monday and Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Wednesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

4. April: The Garage - Birmingham

When the weather is warm, you'll want to give The Garage a try. The Garage is one of Alabama's most quirky restaurants because of its courtyard, which consists of concrete patio furniture, metal junk pieces, etc. Because of the restaurant's delicious homemade sandwiches, The Garage has become a popular lunch spot over the years. It's open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday

5. May: Rattlesnake Saloon - Tuscumbia

Rattlesnake Saloon, which is located off the beaten path, opened for business in 2009 and is one of Alabama's most unique restaurants. Situated in the side of a cave, this award-winning restaurant welcomes countless visitors each year because of its one-of-a-kind atmosphere. It's also been featured on television and in several types of publications. It opens in March 2026 for the Spring season.

6. June: Lulu's - Gulf Shores

During the summer, you might be traveling to the Gulf Shores area. If so, you'll want to give Lulu's a try. This family-friendly restaurant offers a variety of delicious food, in addition to several fun outdoor activities like water slides, swimming, canoeing, and more. If you have children, you'll definitely want to give this restaurant a try. Lulu's is open Monday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

7. July: Kowaliga Restaurant - Alexander City

Another restaurant where you'll enjoy a one-of-a-kind view, especially as the sun sets, is Kowaliga Restaurant, which is located on the banks of Lake Martin. Since opening for business in the 1950s, this secluded lakefront restaurant has welcomed people from all across the state and beyond for its delicious food and spectacular view. It's open Thursday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday until 8 p.m.

8. August: Mossy Grove Schoolhouse Restaurant - Troy

As the new school year begins for most towns in Alabama, you'll want to try Mossy Grove Schoolhouse Restaurant. This unique restaurant is one of Troy's best-kept secrets. Housed inside a former schoolhouse that first operated in 1856, this restaurant specializes in delicious Southern cuisine. There's something on the menu for everyone. It's open Thursday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

9. September: Dreamland Bar-B-Que - Tuscaloosa

The original Dreamland Bar-B-Que is a great place to eat during football season on Game Day. This famous barbecue restaurant, which has been in business since 1958, is most famous for its ribs. If you love barbecue, you'll certainly want to add this restaurant to your bucket list. After just one visit, you'll wonder why you waited so long to give it a try. Dreamland is open every day from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

10. October: Gaines Ridge Dinner Club - Camden

The Gaines Ridge Dinner Club is a great restaurant to visit during the Halloween season. It's located inside an 1820s antebellum home, and is one of Alabama's most haunted restaurants. Ghost sightings have been reported, so if you're not afraid of experiencing a little paranormal activity with your meal, you'll want to give this restaurant a try. The restaurant is open Thursday to Saturday, 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

11. November: Bates House of Turkey - Greenville

When Thanksgiving Day arrives, you'll be eating lots and lots of turkey, so what better place to fit in some practice than at Bates House of Turkey? This family-owned and operated restaurant has been serving everything turkey since 1970—including turkey wraps, sandwiches, salads, and soups. If you're the ultimate turkey lover, you'll love everything about this restaurant. The Greenville location is open Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

12. December: Wildflower Cafe - Mentone

What better way to close out the year than with a trip to the mountains? One of Alabama's most popular mountain towns is Mentone, and if you happen to be there in December, consider giving the Wildflower Cafe a try. It's one of Alabama's most charming restaurants, and its famous tomato pie can't be beat. After just one bite, you'll quickly agree. The cafe is open Thursday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Have you ever eaten at one of these hidden gems in Alabama? If so, consider making a return visit and make a trip out of it. Only In Your State's itinerary planner can help guide your day-to-day, from lodging and food recs to sightseeing opportunities. You won't regret traveling to grub out at these restaurants.