Downtown Huntsville is a vibrant hub, not just for entertainment and history, but also for exquisite culinary experiences. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening out, a casual lunch with friends, or a delicious breakfast to kickstart your day, downtown Huntsville offers a diverse array of restaurants to tantalize your taste buds. This guide highlights six of the best restaurants in downtown Huntsville, each boasting its own unique charm and delectable dishes.
Fine Dining with a View: Commerce Kitchen and Pane e Vino
For those seeking an upscale dining experience, Commerce Kitchen and Pane e Vino are perfect choices. Commerce Kitchen, situated on the corner of the square, offers a sophisticated ambiance ideal for a special occasion. Their menu features an array of delectable dishes, including the highly recommended Roasted Harissa Salmon for seafood lovers and the Coffee Crusted New York Strip for meat enthusiasts. Don’t forget to end your meal on a sweet note with their decadent Chocolate Chunk Skillet Cookie or the Tahitian Vanilla Creme Brulee. There’s usually a casual spot available in the bar, but it’s best to get there early or make a reservation ahead for a table in the dining room because they fill up quick.
Pane e Vino, located near the Museum of Art and overlooking Big Spring Park, provides a romantic setting perfect for an evening out. Their menu showcases classic Italian fare, with pizzas like the Da Vinci and the Salvador Dali being customer favorites. Pasta lovers can indulge in the Chicken Parmesan or the Chicken Alfredo, both guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. After your meal, take a stroll through Big Spring Park and soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
Casual Comfort and Live Music: MELT and Sam and Greg’s
If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, MELT and Sam and Greg’s offer delicious food in a relaxed atmosphere. MELT, located just off Jefferson Street, is a short walk from the square and Big Spring Park. Their menu features an enticing selection of appetizers, with the Mac ‘N Egg Rolls and the Honey Baked Goat Cheese being must-tries for the adventurous eater. Don’t miss their signature Chicken Pesto sandwich, a local favorite, or explore other options like the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich or the Mac Melt. MELT occasionally features live music performances, so be sure to inquire and snag a seat outdoors to enjoy the tunes while you dine. Even without live music, the games selection and the indoor/outdoor bar are worth experiencing.
Sam and Greg’s, a quirky and unique establishment on the square, is another excellent choice for casual dining. They’re renowned for their delicious pizzas, with the Meat Lovers Pizza being a popular option. The Buffalo Chicken and Pesto Margarita pizzas are equally enticing choices. For some post-meal fun, head upstairs and challenge your companions to a round of mini-golf on their nine-hole neon putt-putt course. Top off your experience with a scoop of their gelato and explore the vibrant atmosphere of Big Spring Park.
A Taste of History: Mazzara’s
Huntsville’s rich history is beautifully intertwined with the culinary scene at Mazzara’s. This Italian restaurant is housed within the historic Humphreys-Rogers house, built in 1848. Dine in elegance while appreciating a piece of Huntsville’s past. Their menu boasts a variety of Italian specialties, with the Chicken Marsala and the Rigatoni Pasta being highly recommended dishes. Mazzara’s offers a unique blend of historical charm and delectable Italian cuisine, making it a memorable dining experience. I highly recommend the Shrimp Scampi and the truffle fries. The charming staff and the delicious food keep us coming back time after time.
Honest Coffee: Beyond Brews
Honest Coffee might not be the first restaurant that comes to mind when exploring downtown Huntsville’s culinary offerings, but it shouldn’t be overlooked. Located on Clinton Street, it’s a convenient stop for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. While renowned for their coffee, Honest Coffee also offers a selection of delicious food options. Start your day with a cup of joe and their refreshing BomBom acai bowl, known to be one of the best in town. For lunch, savor the Turkey and Goat Cheese Panini or the Chicken Basil Pesto Panini – both guaranteed to satisfy your hunger pangs.
Huntsville’s downtown district is a haven for food enthusiasts. From upscale ambiance and romantic settings to casual cafes and quirky pizzerias, there’s something to cater to every taste and preference. So, embark on your culinary adventure through downtown Huntsville and discover the perfect restaurant to tantalize your taste buds.
