18 Best Restaurants in Hoover, AL
This article was written by local contributor Samuel Brown & edited by the Travel Lens team.
There's something truly special about living in Hoover, Alabama.
The Southern charm, the friendly people, and, of course, the mouthwatering food.
As someone who's had the pleasure of calling this wonderful city home, I can confidently say that we have some of the most diverse and delicious dining options around.
From savory Southern cuisine to exotic international flavors, there's always a meal waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.
So, get ready to embark on a culinary journey like no other as I share with you the best restaurants in Hoover, Alabama.
Super Chix - Hoover
I can't recommend Super Chix - Hoover enough!
I have visited this place over 20 times, and every single time, the experience has been nothing short of amazing.
The food here is not only delicious but also reasonably priced.
My personal favorite is the house salad with fried chicken, while my partner loves the lettuce wrap sandwich.
We also enjoy sharing their loaded fries, which are simply divine.
They address their customers with the utmost respect, using "yes sir" and "no sir" when speaking with them.
The team works hard to keep the place spotless – I've seen them sprinting to grab a broom and clean up as soon as someone leaves their table.
It's no exaggeration to say that you could eat off the floor at this place!
Moreover, they sometimes have live music on Friday nights, which only adds to the overall dining experience.
You can choose to either eat inside or enjoy the beautiful outdoor seating area.
Shonos Restaurant
As someone who has been living in the area for a while now, I can confidently say that Shonos Restaurant has become one of my go-to spots for a delicious and satisfying meal.
I usually find myself craving their steak bowl during lunchtime, and let me tell you, it is absolutely glorious!
The dish is so simple, yet the flavors are just amazing – and it's pretty filling too.
And if you haven't tried their sweet tea, you're definitely missing out.
One of my other favorites from Shonos is their delightful teriyaki bowls and combination plates.
I can assure you, the yum yum sauce they serve is out of this world!
I remember one time I ordered the Eddie's Special, which consists of a perfect combination of chicken and beef stir-fried with onions and cabbage.
The teriyaki-based sauce definitely brings everything together so well.
It even comes with a side salad dressed with a tasty ginger-based dressing.
Whiskey Foxtrot Burger Dive
I often find myself craving a good burger, and recently, I came across Whiskey Foxtrot Burger Dive in my search for a satisfying meal.
I decided to give it a try and was pleasantly surprised by my experience there.
Their website made it easy to check out their menu beforehand.
My friends and I dropped in after a soccer match one afternoon, and we were immediately impressed by the cleanliness of the restaurant.
The burgers arrived quickly.
Plus, they were all under $10, which was a great value for the quality.
One of the standout sides for me was the sweet potato fries.
They were delicious and served in generous portions.
I also appreciated their attention to sanitation, as I noticed them using sanitizer between customers.
Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen
One of my favorite spots to dine in town has to be Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen.
It's the perfect place for a date night or hanging out with friends.
I recently went there with my partner to celebrate our anniversary, and it was an unforgettable experience.
We decided to try the happy hour from 4-6, and the cocktails did not disappoint!
The food was hands down the best part of the evening.
The brussels sprouts were crispy, the wood-fired pizza had a great crust, and the filet was one of the best I've ever had.
It was cooked to perfection and paired beautifully with chimichurri and roasted potatoes.
We ended our meal with a delicious creme brûlée, which was the perfect sweet note to finish our dinner.
Aside from the mouthwatering dishes, what truly sets Tre Luna apart is its stunning location and attentive service.
MELT
I recently visited MELT for the first time on 3/11, and I must say, it was a delicious experience.
I tried the chicken, bacon, ranch sandwich, and the chicken pesto as a lettuce wrap.
Both dishes had wonderful flavors, and the chicken was nice and smoky.
I also had a side of mac-n-cheese, which was good, but a tad bit dry.
One of the things I loved about MELT was the unique service style.
You place your order at the front counter, and they bring the food to your table.
This fast food/restaurant hybrid made for a quick yet comfortable dining experience.
My partner and I also tried their Mac rolls and a cheeseburger, which were both scrumptious.
I had the buffalo chicken salad, which was tasty.
We spent about $44 on our meal, which I think is quite reasonable for the quality of the food and the overall experience.
Front Porch
Just the other day, I decided to visit Front Porch for dinner.
I had heard great things about this place and had a flyer for a free appetizer, which they graciously honored.
I started with their delicious chips and queso, and I was pleasantly surprised by the quick service - my drink arrived in no time!
For my main course, I tried the shrimp and grits, which were simply outstanding.
My partner ordered the chef salad that was fresh and tasty - I even got to enjoy some of it for lunch the next day.
Their sweet potato fries were absolutely amazing, easily one of the best I've had in a while.
For dessert, we shared a scoop of ice cream with chocolate and caramel that tasted like it was made with love.
We chose to sit on the patio, which is dog-friendly and enjoyed the lovely ambiance.
I can't wait to go back and try some of their other dishes, like the barbacoa tacos and the chicken parmesan that I've heard rave reviews about.
Bluff Park Diner
One of my favorite spots for a hearty meal in the area has got to be Bluff Park Diner.
The home-cooked, cafeteria-style food never disappoints, and it's located in a beautiful area with scenic views.
As a veteran, I appreciate that they offer a military discount, making their already great prices even better.
I often stop by for lunch, and every time, the food is absolutely spot on.
The cream corn is amazing, and I love that the yams are made from fresh sweet potatoes.
Their chicken pot pie is definitely worth trying, and the mac and cheese is a big hit with my 3-year-old.
For dessert, don't forget to try their key lime tart - it's fantastic!
They serve up delicious food quickly, and there's always plenty to go around.
Salvatore's Pizza & Pasta
I've visited Salvatore's Pizza & Pasta more than a few times.
Their website showcases a welcoming atmosphere and a menu featuring pizza, calzones, and pasta prepared with homemade sauces.
My recent visit was quite a memorable one.
I decided to try their shrimp fettuccine Alfredo for lunch, and I must say, it was so delicious!
The serving size was generous, and it came with garlic bread and a side salad.
I had enough leftovers for my lunch the next day.
During another visit, I tried their Hawaiian pizza, and although the pineapples seemed to be an afterthought, the overall taste was good.
I also had a chance to taste their four-cheese gnocchi, which was a bit too cheesy for my taste, but I'm sure some cheese lovers would appreciate it.
The restaurant has a cute and cozy setting, which makes it ideal for a date.
Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux - Stadium Trace
I recently had the pleasure of spending an afternoon at Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux - Stadium Trace with a group of friends to catch a game.
This lively sports bar caught our attention due to its reputation for serving delicious burgers, fried fare, and a great selection of local beers.
The atmosphere was perfect for a game day experience, with large TVs everywhere you looked and an energetic crowd cheering on their teams.
The menu offered a vast range of options, from classic sports bar fare like wings and nachos to more unique dishes like their delicious Mississippi Delta Style catfish.
We ordered a variety of appetizers and entrees to share, and I must say, the food was off the chain!
The burgers were juicy and flavorful, and the fried catfish was perfectly cooked.
I also appreciated the extensive drink menu, featuring creative cocktails like the liquid marijuana, which was a bit heavy on pineapple juice but still enjoyable.
The large outdoor patio was a nice addition, providing a comfortable space to relax and enjoy the game with friends.
Kabob-Licious
Let me tell you about my recent visit to Kabob-Licious, a hidden gem in our city that serves amazing Indian and Pakistani cuisine.
I found their website and decided to give it a try after hearing positive reviews from my friends.
As soon as I entered the restaurant, the aroma of spices and freshly cooked food filled the air.
I started my meal with their Beef Samosas, and oh my, they were incredible!
The crispy exterior and flavorful filling made me want to order two more servings.
For my main course, I tried their Goat Kadhai, which was tender and delicious.
To accompany my dish, I ordered Garlic Naan and Saffron Rice, which were both cooked to perfection.
The food at Kabob-Licious never disappoints – every dish has a unique and rich flavor, and the quality of the ingredients is top-notch.
Other Restaurants Nearby
Oak House (Birmingham)
I'm always on the lookout for new dining experiences.
I recently had the pleasure of discovering Oak House, and let me tell you - it completely blew me away.
The cozy atmosphere and warm ambiance make it a perfect spot for date night or a special occasion with friends.
As soon as I walked in, I was greeted with a smile and an extensive menu that left me spoiled for choice.
I eventually decided on the chicken piccata, and it was nothing short of amazing.
The flavors were spot-on, and I can confidently say it's the best I've ever tasted.
My partner opted for the lamb, and he couldn't stop raving about it either.
The drinks selection was impressive, with an extensive wine list and a variety of unique cocktails.
One thing I can't leave out is the bread pudding - trust me when I say it's a must-try.
The Olive Branch (Birmingham)
I had the opportunity to dine at The Olive Branch Mediterranean Cuisine earlier today, and I must say, it was a delightful experience.
The family-run eatery, with its open kitchen atmosphere, made me feel right at home as I indulged in their traditional Mediterranean dishes and homemade soups.
The gyro special caught my eye, and I was pleased to learn I could get it as a sandwich inside a pita by simply asking.
The Greek chicken soup was especially comforting, perfect for a chilly day like today.
What made my dining experience even more enjoyable was the flavorful, aromatic, and colorful dishes that everyone around me seemed to love as well.
I couldn't help but notice the beef and lamb kabob on a nearby table, and the stuffed squash looked divine.
It's been a while since I've had such authentic Mediterranean food in the US, and the large portions made it even more satisfying.
The Olive Branch also offers wine and beer, which I found to be a nice touch.
I can imagine it being an enjoyable spot during warmer times of the year.
I am already looking forward to my next visit and trying more of their delicious offerings, like the Salmon entrée and Gyros.
Nori Thai and Sushi (Birmingham)
I've been on the hunt for the perfect Thai restaurant in town, and I think I've finally found it with Nori Thai and Sushi.
My spouse and I have been there three times in the past two weeks, and we can't seem to get enough of their delicious food.
Their panang curry with tofu is thick, flavorful, and has just the right amount of spice.
My partner is a big fan of their chicken pad Thai as well.
In addition to their classic Thai offerings, we also tried their Holland Roll, and it didn't disappoint!
The modern setting with booths adds a touch of sophistication to the dining experience.
They are always attentive, making sure to refill drinks before even being asked and working together to get orders out quickly.
Masaman Thai Kitchen (Birmingham)
Oh, how I love the Masaman Thai Kitchen!
It's become my absolute favorite Thai restaurant in Alabama, and I've been to many.
The flavors in their dishes are just amazing.
I've tried their Pad Thai, Pot Stickers, and hot and sour soup (Tom Yum), and I was blown away by the taste of each dish.
Here's their website if you want to check them out.
The service is pretty simple: you order and seat yourself.
It's not the fanciest atmosphere, but it's perfect for grabbing a delicious meal to go when you're busy.
If you like spicy food, you're in for a treat.
Masaman Thai Kitchen knows how to bring the heat!
Ooka Chinese & Japanese Restaurant (Birmingham)
I've been a regular at Ooka Chinese & Japanese Restaurant for quite some time now, and I can confidently say it never disappoints!
The service is consistently excellent, and I've come to appreciate the well-prepared dishes they offer.
One of my personal favorites is the spicy Mongolian beef – it's simply mouthwatering.
Although their basic sushi rolls are well made, I've heard that their specialty sushi rolls are where they truly shine.
I'm eager to give them a try next time!
The restaurant also offers great lunch specials, which I've found to be a fast, filling, and valuable option.
Yummy Bowl (Birmingham)
One of my favorite go-to spots in town is Yummy Bowl.
This cheerful eatery is perfect for when I'm craving a quick, satisfying meal, especially their create-your-own stir-fries with rice or noodles.
I've been coming here for years, and one thing I can always count on is the friendly service and clean atmosphere, which makes dining here an enjoyable experience.
I usually opt for the grill, which never disappoints and always leaves me feeling full and satisfied.
My partner has even mastered the art of packing as much food as possible into the bowl by pushing it down after each addition.
If you're a fan of udon noodles like me, you'll be pleased to know they have some of the best in town.
Aside from the mouthwatering stir-fries, Yummy Bowl also offers sushi and sashimi that are truly worth trying.
My experiences with their sushi rolls have always been great, and the fast service only adds to the satisfaction.
Whenever I bring my kids along, they can't get enough of the delicious food and always leave with smiles on their faces.
Satterfield's Restaurant (Birmingham)
One of my favorite spots for a special occasion dinner is Satterfield's Restaurant.
Their creative American cuisine with a Southern twist never disappoints.
Just a few minutes away from the Summit and Hwy 280, it's quite a convenient location for a night out.
I remember celebrating my wedding anniversary there with my spouse.
We started off with their delicious Fritto Misto appetizer, which came with a perfect dipping sauce.
My partner enjoyed his Old Fashioned, and I must say, their bartenders know how to make a good cocktail.
Perry's Steakhouse & Grille (Birmingham)
Last weekend, my partner and I decided to treat ourselves to a fancy dinner at Perry's Steakhouse & Grille in Birmingham.
We made a reservation and arrived at the restaurant, excited for our meal.
The interior of the restaurant is stunning, with a comfortable yet upscale atmosphere.
We started off our meal with the stuffed mushrooms and a couple of glasses of wine from their extensive wine list.
For our main courses, I ordered the steak while my partner opted for the salmon.
Both dishes were cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.
We also shared a side of mac and cheese, which I highly recommend.
For dessert, we indulged in the bread pudding – and let me tell you, it was phenomenal.
We chose to valet park, but there was also plenty of parking available if we had decided to park ourselves.
Final Thoughts
Hoover has truly become a haven for food lovers like myself.
With a diverse range of restaurant options, from Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen's refreshing treats to the savory dishes at The Olive Branch Mediterranean Cuisine, there's something to satisfy every palate.
I have had the pleasure of dining at many of these establishments and can personally attest to the quality and tastiness of the food they serve.
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