Whether you are a native to Huntsville, moving to Huntsville, or just visiting- these are the 12 essential Huntsville restaurants you must try! These restaurants cover a wide range of locations, price, and cuisines.
Rosie’s Mexican Cantina
Rosie’s Cantina has been a Huntsville mainstay since 1995. With two Huntsville locations, this restaurant has been keeping Huntsville residents satisfied for years. This Mexican style Huntsville restaurant makes for a great lunch or dinner spot and is very kid friendly with many different menu options. Sizzling fajitas and queso is a must!
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Big Spring Cafe
The home of the “Greasy Burger” is a historic place to eat here in town. The original Cafe opened in 1922 and they now have a new location on Governors Drive. (I must say I’m a little sad they left their old location) They are now located at 3507 Governors Drive in a much bigger/cleaner space, but don’t worry you can still sit at the bar and watch your hamburger being made. Nothing better than a fresh “Greasy Burger” and fries from Big Spring Cafe on our favorite Huntsville restaurants!
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Earth and Stone
Wood fired pizza and fresh brewed beer… how can you beat that? This partnership between Earth and Stone Pizza and Yellowhammer Brewery is something truly special and one of best places to eat in Huntsville. The wood fired pizzas are hard to beat and with their blank canvas pizzas, feel free to make your pizza however you want. (Love the White Sauce Pizza) Located at the school-turned-brewery Campus 805 it’s set in a great venue as well!
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Yoshi Sushi Fusion
Who knew that the city’s best Sushi would be located in Hampton Cove in the shopping center in front of Lowes? Yoshi Sushi is a hidden gem that is home to some of the freshest sushi you could ever hope to eat. Reserve one of the tatami tables and order the “Omakase” (chef’s tasting menu) for a food journey like none other in Huntsville!
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The Bottle
In terms of fine dining in Huntsville, The Bottle sets the bar high. Located in the heart of downtown on the corner of Washington St and Clinton Ave, this is the perfect restaurant for a celebration. The food and service are impeccable; the space is beautiful with ambient lighting and white table cloths. You cannot go wrong with the rack of lamb and a nice glass of red wine.
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Blue Plate Cafe
Nothing says Huntsville more than Blue Plate Cafe. This Huntsville restaurant has been serving some of the best southern cooking since opening its doors on Governors Drive in 2003. (They have since added a location on South Parkway). Blue Plate features a menu that rotates daily. The rotating meat and three, aka “The Blue Plate Special”, is a town favorite.
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Cotton Row
One of the three James Boyce restaurants in Huntsville, Cotton Row is another fine dining staple. Known for its high end southern cuisine, you can go there for a nice dinner out or a family brunch. (Make sure to try the city’s best Bloody Mary). Also located downtown, it is a great spot for dinner before strolling around the entertainment district.
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Tenders
In terms of fast food it is hard to beat locally owned Tenders chicken fingers. Owner Mike Tepool has been serving the community Chicken Fingers and Fries for over 20 years and is as busy as ever. I’m not sure which is my favorite: the chicken fingers, fries, texas toast, or the secret sauce. All of these go in to making one of the most delicious affordable meals in all of Huntsville.
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Nick’s Ristorante
Picture a 1920s Sinatra hang out and you’ll come close to Nick’s Ristorante– one side a cigar lounge; the other a beautiful Italian Steakhouse. And don’t worry, the walls are thick enough to keep out the smoke during your meal. The meats are done supremely well, so order a steak or rack of lamb and sit back and soak in the relaxed vibes. If you get there early you can enjoy a drink along with live music on the lounge side.
Photo Credit: Nick’s Website
Pane e Vino
Pane e Vino is our second James Boyce restaurant on this list, this indoor/outdoor pizzeria is located in one of of the most picturesque spots in all of Huntsville. Right below the Huntsville art museum with beautiful views of Big Spring Park, this is the perfect place to have a glass of Vino, a nice fresh pizza, and look out into the park.
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Po Boy Factory
Not only is the seafood amazing, the prices are affordable at the Po Boy Factory. If you are looking for authentic New Orleans style food this is the place for you. Get here early or be ready for a wait, this is one of Huntsville’s most popular spots. If you are looking for a recommendation you cannot go wrong with either a Po Boy or the gumbo
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Church Street Purveryor
The newest restaurant on the list, Purveyor is located in The Avenue in downtown Huntsville. (Don’t get lost, it is not located on Church Street!) The menu has solid staples (the Steaks are amazing) and some more adventurous options (try the roasted Bone Marrow or Ahi Tuna Poke Tacos) to please every palate.
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About the Author
The above article The 12 Essential Huntsville Restaurants was written by David Ivey, a local realtor in Huntsville who focuses on marketing, social media and building relationships. For more info please visit his website, YouTube, Instagram or Facebook Page. You can contact David here, or anytime at 256-655-4946. He has helped many people with buying or selling properties and would love the chance to help you with your real estate goals.