Introduction
It can be difficult to find your favorite restaurants when moving to a new city for college and leaving behind your Hometown go-to spots. Tuscaloosa, Alabama, offers a diverse range of restaurant options to satisfy various tastes and preferences of students, locals, and visitors. The city is known for its Southern hospitality and comfort food, but you can also find a mix of international cuisines and upscale dining experiences. We have tried almost all of the Tuscaloosa “Top Restaurants” and we want to share with you what we thought was the best! Overall, Tuscaloosa is prepared to wine and dine every person that comes to town and cater to their taste buds.
Dining Dollars and Bama Cash
Being a student at The University of Alabama has its perks when it comes to purchasing food on campus. If you are an enrolled student taking 9 credit hours, you will receive $350 in dining dollars. This is very convenient if you live on or near campus because so many restaurants accept dining dollars along with every on-campus food establishment or Starbucks. Bama cash can be used by the university’s students who either upload money themselves through their MyBama account or have leftover dining dollars from the previous school year! You can click here to view which restaurants offer these forms of payment and enjoy the convenience The University of Alabama has to offer when it comes to food.
Our Personal Favorites in Tuscaloosa
DePalma’s Italian Cafe
DePalma’s Italian Cafe is a well-regarded Italian restaurant located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. DePalma’s is known for its inviting atmosphere and delicious Italian dishes. DePalma’s offers a diverse menu of Italian food, including pasta, pizza, seafood, chicken, and veal options. Their menu typically includes a variety of appetizers, salads, and desserts, providing a comprehensive Italian dining experience. The restaurant is known for its cozy and comfortable atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for both casual dining and special occasions, making it suitable for a range of dining experiences. They are known for their commitment to using high-quality ingredients and preparing dishes with care. This dedication to quality is often reflected in the taste and presentation of the food. DePalma’s is particularly famous for its pizza. They offer a variety of pizza options with different toppings, and their wood-fired pizza is a standout feature. The restaurant typically has a selection of wines to complement your meal, including both domestic and Italian wines. Wine enthusiasts can find suitable pairings for their Italian dishes. The restaurant is situated in a convenient location in downtown Tuscaloosa, making it accessible to both locals and visitors.
Five Bar
Five Bar is known for its diverse menu with a focus on American and Southern-inspired dishes. The menu typically includes a range of appetizers, salads, entrees, and desserts. It’s a restaurant where you can find a variety of flavors and options to suit different tastes. The restaurant typically offers a stylish and upscale yet comfortable atmosphere. It’s suitable for both casual dining and special occasions. The ambiance is often described as warm and inviting. Five Bar is known for its craft cocktails. They often have a creative and well-crafted cocktail menu with a variety of signature drinks and classic options. The restaurant may emphasize the use of locally sourced and fresh ingredients in its dishes, showcasing a commitment to quality and sustainability. If you prefer outdoor dining, Five Bar usually offers outdoor seating options, allowing you to enjoy your meal in a pleasant al fresco setting. Five Bar typically provides a wine list, allowing you to pair your meal with a suitable wine. The wine selection often includes both domestic and international options. The restaurant is in the downtown area of Tuscaloosa, making it convenient for residents and visitors.
The Avenue Pub
The Avenue Pub typically offers a diverse menu of American comfort food and Southern-inspired dishes. You can expect to find a range of appetizers, sandwiches, burgers, entrees, and desserts on their menu. The restaurant usually has a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for both casual dining and social gatherings. The ambiance is often described as laid-back and friendly. The Avenue Pub is known for its classic pub fare, including a variety of burgers, sandwiches, and other comfort food items. It’s a great place to enjoy a hearty meal in a relaxed setting. The restaurant often offers outdoor seating options, allowing customers to dine outside in good weather. The Avenue Pub typically features a selection of craft beers, including both local and regional options. Beer enthusiasts can explore a range of brews to accompany their meals. The Avenue Pub is in the downtown area of Tuscaloosa, making it accessible to both locals and visitors.
Dreamland BBQ
Dreamland BBQ has a rich history that dates back to 1958 when it was founded by John “Big Daddy” Bishop. The restaurant quickly gained fame for its hickory-smoked ribs and unique sauce, which set it apart from other barbecue joints. The standout dish at Dreamland is its ribs. The ribs are typically slow-cooked over hickory wood and are known for being both tender and flavorful. They are served with Dreamland’s famous tangy, vinegar-based barbecue sauce. The simplicity of the menu, often centered around ribs and white bread, is part of its charm. Dreamland BBQ often has a casual and down-to-earth atmosphere. The restaurant is typically unpretentious, emphasizing a focus on delicious food rather than a fancy dining experience. While the ribs are the main attraction, Dreamland typically offers a variety of traditional Southern sides like coleslaw, baked beans, potato salad, and banana pudding to complement your meal. The Dreamland BBQ location is a short drive from the University of Alabama campus in Tuscaloosa, making it a convenient spot for both locals and visitors. Dreamland is often frequented by sports fans, and it’s a popular spot to watch games while enjoying great barbecue. The walls of the restaurant are typically decorated with sports memorabilia and photos, adding to the overall atmosphere.
The Side-by-Side Restaurant
The Side-by-Side Restaurant typically offers a menu that features Southern-inspired dishes with a modern twist. This includes a variety of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and entrees. The focus is often on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create delicious and creative Southern fare. The restaurant is usually known for its cozy and inviting atmosphere. It’s designed to provide a comfortable and friendly setting for diners. The ambiance often combines a classic Southern feel with contemporary touches. The Side-by-Side Restaurant may emphasize the use of locally sourced and fresh ingredients in its dishes, reflecting a commitment to quality and supporting local farmers and producers. While offering creative and modern interpretations of Southern dishes, you can often find traditional Southern classics on the menu, such as shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and more. The restaurant typically offers outdoor seating options, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in an open-air setting when the weather is pleasant. The Side-by-Side Restaurant often has a well-crafted cocktail menu that complements the food. You can expect a selection of creative and classic cocktails. The restaurant is in the downtown area of Tuscaloosa, making it accessible to everyone.
Taco Mama
Taco Mama typically offers a menu featuring Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. The menu often includes a variety of tacos, burritos, nachos, quesadillas, and other Mexican-inspired dishes. It’s a place where you can customize your meal by choosing from a range of fillings, toppings, and sauces. Taco Mama usually has a vibrant and casual atmosphere. The restaurant aims to create a lively and fun dining environment, making it suitable for a wide range of customers, from families to college students. One of the standout features of Taco Mama is the ability to customize your order. You can often choose from a variety of protein options, toppings, and salsas to create the Mexican dish that suits your preferences. Taco Mama typically emphasizes the use of fresh ingredients in their dishes, providing a focus on quality and flavor. The restaurant often offers a selection of margaritas and other Mexican-inspired cocktails to accompany your meal. Taco Mama is in a convenient spot, making it accessible to everyone. It’s particularly popular with The University of Alabama students due to its proximity to campus.
Half Shell Oyster House
Half Shell Oyster House is typically known for its seafood-focused menu bringing New Orleans-inspired dishes to the table. The menu often features a wide variety of seafood dishes, including oysters, shrimp, crab, fish, and other Gulf Coast favorites. They also serve non-seafood options for those who prefer other choices. Oysters are a significant highlight of the restaurant. Half Shell is known for its oyster selection, which may include oysters on the half shell, charbroiled oysters, and various oyster preparations. The oysters are often sourced fresh from the Gulf Coast. The restaurant offers a comfortable upstairs/downstairs, relaxed atmosphere. It’s often designed to create a welcoming and family-friendly dining experience. Many dishes at Half Shell Oyster House are influenced by Southern and Creole cuisine, incorporating flavors and ingredients from the Gulf Coast region. The restaurant may feature a bar with a selection of cocktails, including classic and specialty drinks, which pair well with seafood dishes. Half Shell Oyster House is in a convenient area of downtown Tuscaloosa, making it accessible for most.
Heat Pizza Bar
Heat Pizza Bar typically specializes in serving wood-fired pizza. The menu often features a variety of pizza options, including both classic and creative toppings, as well as other Italian-inspired dishes. The standout feature of Heat Pizza Bar is its wood-fired pizza. The pizzas are often cooked in a wood-burning oven, which imparts a distinct smoky flavor and creates a crisp and slightly charred crust. Customers at Heat Pizza Bar may have the option to create their own pizzas by selecting their preferred ingredients and toppings, allowing for a customized dining experience. In addition to pizza, the restaurant often offers a selection of appetizers, salads, and side dishes to complement your meal. You may find a variety of craft beers and wines available to pair with your pizza or other dishes, providing options for those who enjoy a beverage with their meal. The restaurant typically offers a relaxed and casual atmosphere, making it suitable for families, friends, and individuals looking for a laid-back dining experience. Heat Pizza Bar is in a convenient location, on the Government Plaza.
Chuck’s Fish
Chuck’s Fish typically specializes in seafood and offers a wide range of seafood dishes. The menu often includes fresh fish, oysters, shrimp, crab, and other Gulf Coast seafood. Additionally, Chuck’s Fish is known for its sushi offerings, including various sushi rolls and sashimi. Chuck’s Fish typically prides itself on using fresh, high-quality seafood sourced from the Gulf of Mexico and other regions. This focus on fresh ingredients often translates into the quality and flavor of their dishes. The restaurant often has a dedicated sushi bar where skilled chefs create a variety of sushi rolls and sashimi. It’s a popular choice for sushi enthusiasts. Chuck’s Fish offers an upscale yet welcoming and unique atmosphere. It’s designed to provide a comfortable and stylish dining experience, suitable for both casual outings and special occasions. The restaurant often serves both lunch and dinner, providing a range of options to enjoy their seafood dishes. Chuck’s Fish may have a full bar offering a selection of cocktails, wines, and other beverages that pair well with seafood. The restaurant is conveniently located in the downtown area of Tuscaloosa.
Conclusion
Please keep in mind that the restaurant scene in Tuscaloosa can change over time, so it’s a good idea to check the latest reviews and recommendations when visiting or moving to our lovely college town to discover the best dining options that suit your preferences. Whether you’re looking for traditional Southern cuisine, international flavors, or something in between, Tuscaloosa has restaurants and sweets for everyone. For more information on restaurants and places to eat in Tuscaloosa or college survival tips in general, check out our Instagram!
