Alabama’s food scene is full of Southern classics and hidden gems.
Food Network highlighted 23 of the state’s best dishes and we’re picking five that you won’t want to miss.
From barbecue to sweet treats, Food Network captured the true taste of Alabama.
Fried green tomatoes—Irondale Cafe
In the heart of downtown Irondale, Ala., Irondale Cafe has been serving Southern comfort food since 1928. Their standout dish, according to Food Network, is the fried green tomatoes, described as even better than what you see in the movies. With 600 to 800 slices sold per week, they’re popular as both a side and main course.
Shrimp and grits—Classic on Noble
Food Network calls this rich and creamy dish practically Alabama’s official meal. Classic on Noble slow-cooks theirs with plenty of whole milk and heavy cream, so if you’re lactose intolerant, you might want to pass. Packed with andouille sausage, bacon, shrimp, collard greens and tomatoes, it’s a must-try any time of the day.
Chicken and white sauce—Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q
Big Bob Gibson invented his famous mayonnaise-based white sauce in 1925, which Food Network calls an art form. Since then, it’s earned national acclaim and awards, helping Big Bob Gibson’s chicken become one of the country’s top-ranked dishes.
Sweet potato fluff—Pruett’s Bar-B-Que
A Gadsden landmark, Pruett’s Bar-B-Que is serving up their signature sweet potato fluff year-round, not just for the holidays. Food Network calls it light, rich and delicious and says it’s quickly placing all other potato sides.
Orange pineapple ice cream—Trowbridge’s
Nothing beats the heat like a refreshing scoop of ice cream, Alabama’s best comes from Trowbridge’s. Their orange pineapple flavor has been a local favorite for decades, with demand that’s hard to keep up with. Food Network describes it as a creamy orange pop with small chunks of pineapple.
Food Network highlights more dishes across the state
Food Network’s list doesn’t stop at the five. Here are other standout dishes worth trying across the state according to them:
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Meat and three, City Cafe
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Fried chicken, Martin’s Restaurant
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Ribs, Dreamland Bar-B-Que
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Peach pie and peach ice cream, Peach Park
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Banana pudding, Sister’s Restaurant
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Pork and greens on grits, Saw’s Soul Kitchen
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Cheese biscuits, Jim ‘N Nicks
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Baked grits, Highlands Bar & Grill. Note: It is temporarily closed
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Fried Oyster Tacos, Dragonfly Foodbar
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PB&J in Phyllo, Cotton Row
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Steamed aquila royal red shrimp, King Neptune’s
Food Network also highlighted pecan pie, crab cakes, green beans, tomato pie and goat cheese however, the restaurants have since closed since. Even so, their dishes continue to inspire Alabama’s vibrant food scene and you can still find similar dishes throughout the state.
Jennifer Lindahl is a Breaking and Trending Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Connect with her on X @jenn_lindahl and email at jlindahl@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: What are the best foods in Alabama? Food Network says these are the top
