10 Must-Try Restaurants in Northern Alabama

Whether you're a foodie or just love exploring new dining spots, Northern Alabama has something for everyone. Here are 10 top-rated restaurants to visit across Madison, Morgan, and Limestone Counties:

The Bottle – Huntsville, AL (Madison County)

Price Range: $$$ (Upscale dining)

The Bottle is an upscale dining destination offering French-inspired Southern cuisine. Its elegant interior and sophisticated atmosphere make it perfect for special occasions. Signature dishes include oysters, duck, and grilled steaks, all paired with a carefully curated wine list. Located in the heart of downtown Huntsville, The Bottle is ideal for those seeking an exceptional culinary experience.

Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q – Decatur, AL (Morgan County)

Price Range: $$ (Casual dining)

A BBQ institution, Big Bob Gibson has been serving slow-smoked meats since 1925. Known for its famous Alabama white sauce, the restaurant offers tender ribs, smoked chicken, and pulled pork. Big Bob Gibson has won numerous awards in national BBQ competitions, making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Southern barbecue in a casual, family-friendly environment.

Greenbrier Restaurant – Madison, AL (Limestone County)

Price Range: $ (Budget-friendly)

Greenbrier Restaurant has been a local staple for years, serving up classic Southern fare like fried catfish, hush puppies, and BBQ. This cozy, family-run spot offers generous portions at affordable prices, making it a favorite for locals looking for a casual and delicious meal.

1892 East – Huntsville, AL (Madison County)

Price Range: $$ (Mid-range)

1892 East blends farm-to-table dining with Southern charm in Huntsville's Five Points district. The menu changes seasonally to feature locally sourced ingredients, with popular dishes including shrimp and grits, craft burgers, and fresh salads. Their Sunday brunch is also a hit, complete with French press coffee and complimentary mimosas with entrée purchases.

Terranova's Italian Restaurant – Athens, AL (Limestone County)

Price Range: $$ (Mid-range)

Terranova’s Italian Restaurant offers a cozy, authentic Italian dining experience in Athens. The menu includes classic pasta dishes like lasagna and fettuccine Alfredo, alongside wood-fired pizzas. Known for its warm and welcoming service, the restaurant also offers an extensive wine list to pair with your meal.

Cotton Row – Huntsville, AL (Madison County)

Price Range: $$$ (Fine dining)

Located in a historic building in downtown Huntsville, Cotton Row offers modern American cuisine with a fine dining touch. The menu features seasonal dishes, including seared duck breast, braised short ribs, and lobster, all crafted using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Rosie’s Mexican Cantina – Huntsville, AL (Madison County)

Price Range: $$ (Casual dining)

Rosie’s is a local favorite for Mexican food, offering fresh tortillas made in-house and a variety of Tex-Mex favorites. Their menu includes sizzling fajitas, enchiladas, tacos, and specialty margaritas.

Supper Heroes – Huntsville, AL (Madison County)

Price Range: $ (Casual dining)

Supper Heroes combines a fun superhero-themed décor with a menu full of creative burgers and sandwiches. Known for its playful atmosphere and kid-friendly environment, this spot is perfect for families.

Wildflower Café – Mentone, AL (DeKalb County)

Price Range: $$ (Mid-range)

Located in the scenic mountain town of Mentone, Wildflower Café is an eclectic spot known for its organic, locally sourced dishes and artistic vibe. Its signature dish, tomato pie, is a local favorite.

The RailYard – Decatur, AL (Morgan County)

Price Range: $$ (Mid-range)

The RailYard is a farm-to-table restaurant located in the heart of Decatur, offering Southern-inspired dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Menu highlights include shrimp and grits, pimento cheeseburgers, and bourbon pecan pie.

Final Thoughts

From upscale dining to comforting barbecue, Northern Alabama has something to offer every food lover. Whether you’re visiting Madison, Morgan, or Limestone Counties, make sure to check out these top restaurants to enjoy the best of what the region has to offer!