Dining and Nightlife Guide
PO Box 3167 |Tuscaloosa, AL 35403 205-391-9200 | Fax 205-759-9002 www.visittucaloosa.com Designed by Destiny Morton, Student Intern Summer 2012
DINING 15th Street Diner 1036 15th St.
750-8750
15th Street Diner features friendly service and home-style cooking that includes a variety of appetizers, soups and salads; sandwiches; blue-plate specials; vegetables; desserts; milk shakes and more! Baumhower’s Restaurant 500 Harper Lee Dr. 556-5658 Legendary food, legendary fun with the family while enjoying southern specialties, burgers, wings, wings and more wings! Bento Japanese Restaurant 1306 University Blvd. 758-7426 Located on the Strip, Bento serves up delicious casual Japanese food. Big Daddy’s Mediterranean Grill & Hookah Café 514 Greensboro Ave. 759-9925 Big Daddy’s Cafe is known for its Mediterranean cuisine, but it is what is not on the food menu that has drawn attention. The restaurant is Tuscaloosa’s only hookah café. Bottom Feeders 500 14th St. 344-5022 Bottom Feeders offers smoked wings, pork, ribs, southern fried catfish and much more. Brick House Restaurant 613 Greensboro Ave. 722-2103 Brick House is sure to please with great food and atmosphere. It is also located in the heart of downtown Tuscaloosa. Buddy’s Ribs and Steak Pit 2701 Bridge Ave. Northport 339-4885 A Tuscaloosa tradition that serves delicious and inexpensive food in a casual environment. Buffalo Phil’s Wings 1149 University Blvd. 758-3318 Buffalo Phil’s is a restaurant well tested in “the art of wings.” ESPN mentioned Buffalo Phil’s as one of the best places to eat in Tuscaloosa. In addition, the Tuscaloosa News says we have the best wings in town. Buffet City 1747 Skyland Blvd. E 553-3308 Buffet City has the largest Chinese buffet in Tuscaloosa so everyone is sure to find something to love. Cafe J 2523 University Blvd. 343-0040 At the Café J is where polite society indulges in superior, homemade cooking at modest pricing.
Carmelo Café 405 23rd Ave.
345-6914 Carmelo Café is a restaurant designed to fit everyone’s desires. Meals are prepared from scratch from our dressings to desserts. Our chalkboard menu offers several daily meat specials & veggies to satisfy any palate. Chuck’s Fish 508 Greensboro Ave. 248-9370 Chuck’s Fish was recently awarded “Best Fine Dinning & Best Seafood” in the Best of T-Town Edition of the Tuscaloosa Magazine. City Buffet 1816 McFarland Blvd. Northport 333-0361 City Buffet serves up a variety of cuisines from Chinese to American with friendly staff and tasty food. City Café 408 Main Ave. Northport 758-9171 City Café is a tradition that you need to try. There forte is the Fried Green Tomato. It is Southern cooking at its best. Open for breakfast & lunch. If it is your first time eating at City Café it will not be your last. The Crimson Café Tavern & Eatery 1301 University Blvd 750-0203 Featuring live music on the weekends and Sunday jazz brunch, Crimson Café offers great drink specials every day of the week and serves up their full menu until close. Stop in for great burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers in generous portions to get the most for your money! Cypress Inn 501 Rice Mine Road 345-6963 Beautiful riverfront views combined with quality southern cuisine and friendly service has made Cypress Inn Tuscaloosa’s premiere casual dining establishment. DePalma’s Italian Café 2300 University Blvd. 759-1879 Depalma’s Italian Cafe Tuscaloosa, Alabama provides original Italian cuisine mixed with mouth-watering house specials. Desperados Steak House 1530 McFarland Blvd N. 343-1700 Desperado’s brings a Pacific Northwest atmosphere and a taste of the southwest to Tuscaloosa with their upscale casual restaurant. Don Rafa’s 2312 4th St. 345-9191 Located in Temerson Square, Don Rafa’s has a cozy atmosphere, great food, and great margaritas.
Dreamland 5535 15th Ave E.
758-8135
Since 1958, we have been serving the best bar-b-que ribs you could ever hope to eat! Dreamland started in a small café in Tuscaloosa and has kept that hickory fired taste, sopped up with white bread, ever since. Ain’t Nothing Like ‘Em Nowhere! El Rincon 1225 University Blvd. 366-0855 Famous for their large fishbowl margaritas, El Rincon is the perfect place to start your night on the town because of its great location on the strip. Epiphany Café 519 Greensboro Ave. 344-5583 Epiphany Café serves Progressive New American cuisine with a strong emphasis on local and regional ingredients. Located in downtown Tuscaloosa. Evangeline’s 1653 McFarland Blvd. N 752-0830 Evangeline’s offers the finest dining experience. With an artistic and luxurious interior, the ambiance is warm, welcoming, and sure to delight all your senses. We prepare extraordinary specialties fresh from the gulf coast. Evangeline’s has an array of sensational signature dishes, hors d’oeuvres, and special preparations. Fig 1351 McFarland Blvd. NE 345-8888 You do not have to sacrifice taste to eat healthier. Health conscious or hearty appetite, our menu is full of choices. Fig offers garden fresh salads, sandwiches on gourmet breads, fabulous soups & chowders all made fresh, every day. Five 2324 6th St. 345-6089 Located in the heart of downtown Tuscaloosa, Alabama, FIVE is a restaurant devoted to simplicity as a fine dining restaurant offering 5 entrées, 5 appetizers, 5 reds, 5 whites and 5 signature drinks. The Front Porch 4421 Hwy. 43 N 339-3047 The perfect place to go for good ole down home cooking. Hooligan’s 1915 University Blvd. 759-2424 There is no better place in Tuscaloosa for Mediterranean and American food. Conveniently located in downtown Tuscaloosa. Ichiban Japanese Grill 502 15th St. 752-8844 Try one of Tuscaloosa's most notorious Japanese Steak and Sushi Houses. Stop in to try fresh sushi and a variety of delicious combination plates at affordable rates. Iguana Grill 1800 McFarland Blvd. E 752-5895 Located in Midtown Shopping Center, Iguana Grill offers the atmosphere of Mexico. Everything about this place is intriguing and the food is exceptionally well.
Jim ‘n Nicks BBQ 305 21st Ave. 469-2060 At Jim n’ Nicks, everything is made fresh and this step is apparent in the taste. New to the Tuscaloosa area, and located right off Jack Warner Pkwy., stop in for some traditional, Southern BBQ done right! Jalapeno’s Mexican Grill 2001 New Watermelon Rd. 342-3378
Jalapeno’s serves up great Mexican food at a reasonable price. With great food and great service what is not to love? Kobe Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar 1800 McFarland Blvd. E 759-1400 Kobe Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar offers hibachi den, a sushi bar, and a comfortable atmosphere. Kozy’s 3510 Loop Rd E 556-0665 With a unique ambience with an old-Hollywood theme, Kozy’s offers a great fine dining experience. They serve fabulous French food coupled with dim lighting, jazz music, and a welllaid table and stocked bar. It is pure romance and nostalgia and the perfect place to bring that special someone for meaningful conversation over dinner. Little Italy Pizzeria 1130 University Blvd. 345-4354 If you are not a pizza person, you will be after eating at Little Italy. They offer huge pizza slices and calzones at extremely reasonable prices so everyone can afford to eat great pizza. Los Tarascos 3380 McFarland Blvd. Northport 330-0919 Consistency is a word that comes to mind when talking about Los Tarascos. Many regulars swear by this restaurants great Mexican food and friendly service. Maggie’s Diner 1307 Ty Rogers Jr. Ave. 759-9177 Maggie’s famous fried chicken made the Alabama Board of Tourism’s “100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama” list. Maggie’s Diner is the place to go for some mouthwatering, home-style cooking. Margarita’s Grill 1241 McFarland Blvd. E 343-0300 The best place in Tuscaloosa to go for a margarita! Mellow Mushroom 2230 University Blvd. 758-0112 Mellow Mushroom is proud to serve Tuscaloosa with delicious pizza, hoagies, calzones, and salads. Moe’s Original BBQ 2101 University Blvd. 752-3616 Moe’s Original BBQ features award-winning Bama-style BBQ. Offerings include: Pulled Pork, Ribs, Wings, Chicken and Turkey in addition to Catfish and a Shrimp Moe-Boy Sandwich all complemented by an array of Southern Sides and Desserts. Mugshots Grill & Bar 511 Greensboro Ave. 391-0572 A perfect burgers and fries dive, Mugshots offers a great atmosphere to gather with friends. Bama memorabilia and photographs line the walls. Located in the heart of downtown.
Newks Express Café 205 University Blvd. E
758-2455
An express casual dining experience in a refreshing and stylish atmosphere with an emphasis on freshness and flavor. Serving fresh tossed salads, oven baked sandwiches, California style pizzas, made-from-scratch soups, and homemade cakes from Newk’s open kitchen. Nick’s in the Sticks 4018 Culver Rd. 758-9316 Nick’s in the Sticks is a hidden gem. Known for their signature drink, the “Nicodemus.” The menu is small, but ranges from chick gizzards to mouth- watering filets. Northport Diner 450 McFarland Blvd. Northport 333-7190 Northport Diner features friendly service and home-style cooking that includes a variety of appetizers, soups and salads; sandwiches; blue-plate specials; vegetables; desserts; milk shakes and more! Pepito’s Restaurant Mexican 1301 McFarland Blvd. Northport 391-4861 Pepito’s is a local favorite that serves some of the most authentic old style Mexican cuisine in Tuscaloosa. Pottery Grill 3420 Hwy. 69 N Northport 333-5848 At The Pottery Grill, the BBQ is slow-cooked for up to 16 hours over a hickory fire. Whether you are hungry for some of their famous chopped pork, one of their marinated chicken breast fillets, smoke link sausage, mouth-watering ribs, or just a hot dog, you will find it all delicious. Rama Jama’s 1000 Bryant Dr. 750-0901 Located in the shadow of Bryant Denny Stadium, Rama Jama’s is the place to go for fabulous food. Breakfast served all day, a wide variety of sandwiches, and the best sweet tea and milkshakes this side of heaven. Ruan Thai Exotic Thai Cuisine Restaurant 1407 University Blvd. 391-9973 A quaint locally owned restaurant that offers exquisite Thai food and daily specials at affordable prices. Sharks 632 15th St. 349-4499 Craving fried seafood? Then Shark’s is the perfect guilty pleasure for anyone looking for some fried goodness. Not only is it quick but all food is cooked to order. Sitar Indian Cuisine 500 15th St. 345-1419 An exclusive Indian restaurant that serves authentic Indian
cuisine in a sophisticated, romantic, and traditional Indian setting. Subs-N-You 2427 University Blvd. 758-0088 Subs-N-You is a Tuscaloosa staple located in an unassuming building right next to the Downtown Pub. You cannot go wrong with anything on the menu here. Surin of Thailand 1402 University Blvd. 752-7970 Surin of Thailand has been serving authentic Thai cuisine, fresh sushi and full bar. Surin uses hand selected local vegetables and meats and import select Thai spices, seasonings, noodles, nuts, rice, and authentic Thai ingredients to make your dining experience an epicurean delight. Swen Chinese Restaurant 1130 University Blvd. 391-9887 Located on the strip, Swen serves up delicious Chinese food at great prices with friendly and fast service. Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse 6521 Hwy 69 S 366-1177 Tokyo has one of the best Japanese menus in Tuscaloosa. With dozens of sushi options and hibachi dinners, you may have a hard time choosing but no matter what you decide on your sure to love your meal. Tut’s (Mediterranean) 1306 University Blvd. 759-1004 Serves excellent food on the strip. Everyone loves Tut’s pizza, gyros, and sandwiches. The Waysider 1512 Greensboro Ave. 345-8239 The Waysider has breakfast like grandma used to make. The menu is breakfast-only on weekends. Come craving the madefrom-scratch biscuits topped with redeye gravy. Wings U 1800 McFarland Blvd. E 561-3984 The home of great food, great fun, that will be a sure hit for the entire family. Wintzell’s Oyster House 1 Bridge Ave. Northport 247-7772 Wintzell’s has great seafood with great views overlooking the Black Warrior River. Their famous oysters have earned them praise far and wide. Zoe’s Kitchen 920 Bryant Denny Dr. 752-0454 Zoe’s serves wholesome dishes with generous portions. Their Mediterranean-inspired comfort food keeps customers' dietary concerns in mind.
NIGHTLIFE 1831 2304 4th St.
764-0898 Located in Temerson Square, 1831 is a great college bar with great drink specials and a fun atmosphere. 4th & 23rd 401 23rd Ave. 346-4999 In need of a quick drink without the hassle of a doorman? 4th and 23rd will do the trick with their welcoming atmosphere and great location in downtown Tuscaloosa. Alcove 730 22nd Ave. 469-9110 Tuscaloosa’s first upscale neighborhood tavern where you can enjoy top-shelf beverages in a non-smoking environment. Bear Trap Rooftop Bar 1137 University Blvd. 345-2766 Rooftop restaurant overlooking the Strip has great menu with live entertainment on the weekends. The place for UA fans to be. Big Al’s 2108 14th Ave. 759-9180 “Happy hour never looked so good.” Big Al’s caters to an anxious after-work crowd but once the drinks start coming, the ties start getting loose. The Booth 504 21st Ave. 764-0557 A favorite watering hole for students that has great music and great drink specials. Bo’s 2310 University Blvd. 759-1331 Bo’s is a bar for everyone anchored by the wonderful bartenders and great live music. Browns Corner Bar and Grill 2325 University Blvd. 342-9899 Buffalo Wild Wings 2710 McFarland Blvd. E 523-0273 One of the best places in Tuscaloosa to watch any sporting event. They offer wings, beer, and a plethora of televisions for the sports enthusiasts. Carpe Vino 515 Greensboro Ave. 366-8444 They offer a large variety of affordable wines within a unique setting. They also have wine tastings every Thursday and Friday. Catch 22 2328 Sixth St. 344-9347 Catch 22 is a more upscale nighttime hangout. They specialize in infused vodkas that are to die for. The Crimson Café Tavern & Eatery 1301 University Blvd. 750-0203 Featuring live music on the weekends and Sunday jazz brunch, Crimson Café offers great drink specials every day of the week and
serves up their full menu until close. Stop in for great burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers in generous portions to get the most for your money! Copper Top 2300 Fourth St. 343-6867
The Copper Top is the perfect bar to go hang out with friends after work. It is located in Temerson Square so it is the perfect place to grab a pre-dinner drink. Downtown Pub 2427 University Blvd. 750-0008 The Downtown Pub offers great bartenders, plenty of seating, pool tables and a projection screen for sporting events. It attracts a cool mix of graduate students and young professionals who just want to hang out with friends. Egans 1229 University Blvd. 758-9413 The perfect dive bar that is known for great beer, dart boards and live music. The Filling Station 411 23rd Ave. 764-0924 The Filling Station offers large TVs, privacy booths, a back porch with TV, and a stage and full PA accommodating full bands and musicians of most genres. An experienced bar staff and a diverse crowd make this bar a place where almost everyone will feel welcome. Gallettes 1021 University Blvd. 758-2010 Established in 1976, Gallettes has the dingy, smoky character of the quintessential college dive bar that inspires fond memories that stretch across decades for many UA alums. Grey Lady 521 Greensboro Ave. 469-9521 The Grey Lady, located in downtown Tuscaloosa, pays tribute to Legion Field, home of many crimson tide moments, with hardwood cedar and maple floors marking each of the Tide’s 14 National Championships. Harry’s Bar 1330 Hargrove Rd. 758-9332 Opened in 1972, Harry’s is the oldest bar in Tuscaloosa and the third oldest in the state. They have cheap beer and the famous “Party Bucket.” Houndstooth 1300 University Blvd. 752-8444 They offer a comfortable and friendly atmosphere with a wide variety of drinks and beer. They have a huge outdoor patio that is the perfect place to sit on a sunny day. Sports Illustrated voted the Houndstooth the #1 College Sports Bar in the country. On Saturday game days, enjoy BBQ nachos from Big Bad Wolves.
Innisfree Pub 1925 University Blvd.
345-1199
Innisfree is the best place in town to have a drink with friends. It offers a huge outdoor patio and when the weather is nice, they lift up their garage doors to create a unique indoor/outdoor atmosphere. Jackie’s Lounge 2111 Paul W Bryant Dr. 758-9179 Jackie’s Lounge offers an upscale ambiance with a laid-back vibe. They also have karaoke every Thursday night. Jupiter Bar & Grill 1307 University Blvd. 248-6611 The Jupiter has everything from live music to great food right on the strip. The Red Shed 509 Red Drew Rd. 331-4321 A great bar to go relax and have a beer with friends. Located right behind the strip. Rhythm and Brews 2308 Fourth St. 750-2992 Rhythm and Brews has a great reputation for live bands that are
diverse and should please all audiences. They also offer a fun and friendly atmosphere and a wide variety of drinks. Rooster’s Blues House 2321 University Blvd. 334-4507 The best stop for anyone interested in live music, great food and an atmosphere like no other. Rounders 1215 University Blvd. 345-4848 Rounders is one of the best places in Tuscaloosa to go dancing. They feature live music in their downstairs bar and DJs upstairs that offer a fun experience. Traditions 516 Greensboro Ave. 331-4394 Traditions offers great drink specials and live acoustic music by local artists. Wilhagan’s Sports Grille 2209 Fourth St. 366-0913 One of the original non-chain franchise sports bars in Tuscaloosa. Known for its great atmosphere and tasty bar food.