10 Must-Try Legendary Alabama Meat-and-Three Restaurants

Discover 10 legendary Alabama meat-and-three restaurants that everyone should try at least once. From fried chicken to soul food classics, explore the best of Alabama's comfort cuisine.

@ReadWhatRickWrote @ReadWhatRickWrote
Aug 26, 2024 - 15:22
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10 Must-Try Legendary Alabama Meat-and-Three Restaurants

Alabama is a top destination for meat-and-three restaurants, offering a delicious variety of home-cooked meals. We've tasted some of the best dishes across the state, and we can confidently say there's something truly special about Alabama's kitchens.

If you love hot, home-cooked meals, Alabama is the place to be. We've selected 10 incredible plates that you should definitely try if you haven't already. If your favorite spot isn't on the list, don't worry—we'll be picking more soon!

Betty Mae’s Restaurant

  • Address: 2007 N. Memorial Pkwy., Huntsville

Betty Mae’s started in a small residential area of North Huntsville in the late 2000s before moving to a more commercial spot near Lowe’s Home Improvement Center. Here, you'll find amazing fried chicken, creamy mac-and-cheese, candied yams, collard greens, and more. Head north for a truly satisfying meal.

Cheryl’s Cafe

This cafe is known for its nostalgic vibe, with red-and-white-checked tablecloths, a chalkboard menu, and servers who greet regulars by name. Cheryl’s is the perfect example of a classic meat-and-three. Don't miss the desserts—it's a mistake you don't want to make!

City Cafe

  • Address: 408 Main Ave., Northport

City Cafe, located in downtown Northport, has been serving comforting meals to both University of Alabama students and locals since 1931. The menu changes daily, offering a variety of dishes like hamburger steak, fried okra, and cobbler (considered a "vegetable" here!). The food is worth the wait, and you'll leave full and happy.

Dot’s Soul Food Restaurant

  • Address: 18152 Alabama Highway 20, Hillsboro

This hidden gem in Hillsboro is a favorite for its fried chicken, rich mac and cheese, and flavorful collard greens. The parking lot is always full, and the line out the door speaks for itself. Be sure to try the caramel cake—it's a heavenly treat.

Johnny’s Restaurant

Opened 14 years ago, Johnny’s has built a strong reputation by blending Greek and Southern cuisine. Chef Timothy Hontzas has been nominated for Best Chef in the South multiple times, and his menu reflects his culinary creativity. Try dishes like chicken pot pie, fried catfish, and meatloaf with chipotle BBQ. The sides are equally impressive, especially the parmesan grit cake and fried green tomatoes.

Martin’s Restaurant

  • Address: 1796 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery
  • Website: themartinsrestaurant.com

Known for its incredible fried chicken, Martin’s is a Montgomery treasure that’s been around for nearly 90 years. The cornbread muffins and chocolate pie are must-tries as well. Martin’s is also one of the few places that still serves "pulley bones," a rare and delicious chicken part. Don't miss it!

Mary’s Southern Cooking

  • Address: 3011 Spring Hill Ave., Mobile
  • Website: maryssoutherncookingmobile.com

Mary’s Southern Cooking is known for its cafeteria-style steam table and a menu full of Southern favorites like liver and onions, turkey necks, and smothered pork chops. It's worth navigating the traffic and parking challenges to get a taste of the real deal here.

Niki’s West Steak & Seafood Restaurant

Niki’s West has been a beloved institution in Birmingham since 1957. The menu features classic meat-and-three dishes like hamburger steak, fried pork chops, and liver and onions, along with delicious sides like fried okra and creamed potatoes. The staff is welcoming, but make sure you're ready to order—they like to keep things moving!

Pannie-George’s Kitchen

  • Addresses: 2328 South College St., Auburn; 450 North Court St., Montgomery
  • Website: panniegeorgeskitchen.com

This family-owned soul food restaurant opened in 2005 and now has two locations. The menu is full of Southern staples like fried chicken, baked pork chops, and collard greens. Auburn University football legend Bo Jackson is a fan, and after trying their food, you will be too.

Walton’s Southern Table

  • Address: 4901 Whitesburg Drive, Huntsville
  • Website: waltonssoutherntable.com

Walton’s Southern Table, located in a former Ruby Tuesday’s, offers homestyle food in a charming setting. The Southern-fried chicken and hashbrown casserole are standouts, but anything you pick from the menu will leave you satisfied.

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