Get a little creative and have a craft night for you and your significant other. Pick up some canvases and acrylic paint and put your skills to the test, whether you are drawing each other or a landscape. If you want to try something a little bit more daring check out these websites for more ideas.
– Treat each other to some face masks and massages. Customize your spa night to meet yours and your partner’s needs. If you need face masks, oils for massages, or supplies for pedicures, you can pick up your supplies at Target or Sally Beauty.
Bake-off
– Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth. Choose your favorite sweets and get competitive in the kitchen. See who makes the better cake, cookies, pies, or bread. Or showcase your decorating skills with dipped strawberries, pretzels, or peanuts.
Stargaze
– Grab a bottle of wine, a blanket, and find somewhere quiet to check out the stars. Clear skies are in the forecast for Friday night, so this could be a great opportunity.
Nerf-Gun war
– All is fair in love and nerf war. Grab some nerf guns and plenty of darts for a fun-filled competitive night.
Board games and puzzle Night
– Round up all of your favorite childhood board games for a game night.
Drink Tasting at Home
– Cravings is the place to pick up some beer, wine or sodas and then do a homemade tasting at home.
Out on the Town
Pottery Night
– Check out All Fired Up. You can reserve your spot ahead of time for $14 a couple for an hour and a half. Paint some pottery together or something for each other.
Waffle House
– Waffle House is dimming the lights on Valentine’s Day. This is the only night Waffle House accepts reservations.
Buy outfits at the thrift store for each other
– Put the responsibility in your partner and let them pick the direction your outfit is going in. See which side of the spectrum your significant other gets your outfit, whether it be cute or crazy.
Lake Laureen
– Pack up a picnic and head to Lake Laureen for a picnic. Don’t forget your cutlery and drinks!
Opening day baseball
– The Alabama Crimson Tide baseball team’s opening night is this Friday at Watch the Tide take on Northeastern at 3 p.m.
Roller skate
– Skate your way through valentine’s day at Super Skate. Open from 7 p.m. until 11 p.m.
Monster Hunting
– Wander around Tuscaloosa for the monsters. These monsters were designed by elementary students and created by artists around town. Check out the website.
Brick and Spoon
Swing by for some southern food with an upscale feel, yet still casual. Brick and Spoon also allows you to customize Bloody Mary’s with their unique mix, to have the bartender fix it just the way you like. Brunch is served every day from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. Some of the special items on the menu are the breakfast tacos and the stuffed French toast.
Sweet Home Food Bar
New York flare meets Tuscaloosa at Sweet Home Food Bar. On Saturday’s they open at
8 a.m. and on Sundays at 10 a.m. Check out the breakfast nachos or try out the pancake of the day. For cocktails, they offer mimosas, Bloody Mary’s, and sangrias. Be sure to get there before they close at 3 p.m.
Another Broken Egg
Open every day from 6:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Another Broken Egg offers sweet, savory, and sensible breakfast options, as well as a gluten-free menu. They offer signature cocktails like a peach bellini or a brunch old fashioned. You can also get a mimosa, with over six different flavors to mix in.
Avenue Pub
Brunch is from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., and on Sunday’s there is live music from noon until 4 p.m. Avenue Pub puts a southern twist on their breakfast options, like their chicken biscuit and gravy. Avenue Pub balances the possibilities of breakfast choices and lunch choices to suit your taste.
FIVE
Brunch is 10 a.m. through 3 p.m. FIVE offers a Bloody Mary bar, so you can customize and create your drink exactly the way you like. FIVE also doubles as a coffee shop on Saturday from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. Start your meal off with some beignets or avocado toast and then take a pick from one of their five amazing entrees.
301Bistro
Brunch begins at 11 on Saturday and Sunday. 301 offers a varying menu, with staples like their breakfast casserole and chicken waffles. Sunday is jazz brunch featuring the voodoo saints, a local jazz band, with a New Orleans sound. Specialty craft cocktails like the tipsy tea or a gypsy rose lee are just a few of the craft cocktails at 301.
World of Beer
From donut bites to avocado toast, you can munch on any kind of breakfast classics, but if someone in the group isn’t up for brunch, they also serve lunch during this time. World of Beer also presents a signature twist on a mimosa by offering a beermosa, a white wheat beer with orange juice. Brunch begins at 11 a.m. and goes until 3 p.m.
River
Brunch starts at 10 a.m. and goes to 1:30 p.m. River offers some unique and delicious options like their prosciutto and egg flatbread or their fried oyster benedict. If you are looking for something a little bit lighter, River also offers house-made granola with fresh fruit.
Side by side
Brunch is served Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Side by Side features a 20-foot Bloody Mary Bar, so you can only imagine all of the possibilities of your Bloody Mary. Check out the menu featuring southern favorites.
Chophouse
Sunday brunch starts at 10 a.m. with menu items like crab cakes and veggie burritos. Be sure to try out the milk punch or a French 75 along with other brunch classics like a Bloody Mary or mimosa when cocktail service starts at noon.
Written By: Alexandra Morrissey
First Friday is here! Downtown Tuscaloosa’s Art Walk is a night full of art, music, and more. This is a great opportunity to check out all of the galleries and shows Tuscaloosa has to offer. All of the galleries are within walking distance of each other, so it is a great experience for a local night out.
Start your morning off by taking your kids to the Children’s Hands-On Museum for ‘Be My Valentine’ starting at 9 a.m. Here kids will explore Valentine’s Day through science, technology, engineering, art and math projects, and challenges. The kids can also get a head start on creating their Valentine’s Day cards!
The Great Tuscaloosa Chili Cookoff is happening this weekend at Bryant Conference Center at 10:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Take part in sampling over 30 chili recipes and cast your vote for your favorite, to help determine a winner. This event also features live entertainment, children’s activities and free ice-cream, chili dogs, and cheese biscuits. This event costs $10 for adults, and children under 6 are free. Exchange Club of Tuscaloosa will donate all funds to several projects, including Youth Development, the Exchange Club’s work in child abuse prevention, and community service.
If you want to kick start your Valentine’s Day, World Market has a ‘Sweets & Treats’ event from noon until 5 p.m. This free event allows you to sample chocolates, berries, candies, and bubblies. Plus, World Market is sharing a unique dessert recipe that everyone will love. Pick out your favorites and be all set for Valentine’s with your significant other or Galentine’s with your friends.
Elevation of Art is going to be at the third annual Tuscaloosa Heritage Festival. Embrace the diverse cultural heritage of Tuscaloosa through art exhibitions at this free event. This festival will take place at the McDonald Hughes Center from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m.
The ninth Annual Interactive Family Night at the museum will be at the Natural History Museum in Smith and Lloyd Hall on the University’s campus. Family Night is free from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. Don’t miss out on interactive activities as well as door prizes and free food.
If you are looking for live music, cap your Saturday night off at Druid City Brewing. ‘When Particles Collide’ will be performing starting at 8 p.m. ‘When Particles Collide’ is a must-see band starring a jazz drummer and choral vocalist that tour all over the U.S. and Canada.
Don’t forget the Farmers Market at Tuscaloosa River Market takes place every Saturday from 7 a.m. until noon all year!
Be sure to tag us in your social media posts using #weekendsinttown.
Do you ever get hungry late at night and feel too tired to cook? Here are a few spots around Tuscaloosa that can satisfy your late-night craving.
1. Whataburger is open 24 hours. You can get a burger or chicken sandwich whenever you desire. They also serve their breakfast menu from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m. every day. Also featured on their menu are classic milkshakes and malts if you’re looking for something sweet. You can truly get it all, at any hour.
2. If you’re looking for some Mexican food, look no further than Moe’s. Open until 2 a.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 9 p.m. Sunday through Tuesday. Get yourself a burrito or a bowl made exactly how you want. If you’re looking for a lighter snack you can also order some chips with queso or guacamole.
3. The ever-faithful Waffle House offers southern staples 24/7. From hash browns to patty melts, you can get your filling any way you like. Breakfast and lunch are served all day, every day! Whether it is after a night game or a long day of work, check out your local Waffle House.
4. Little Italy is open until 2 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 3 a.m. Friday through Saturday. If you’re looking for a slice of pizza, a calzone, or maybe some pasta, Little Italy is a great place to satisfy your Italian cravings. It is located right across from the strip in University Town Center. It is just a short walk from the bars or a quick drive from the library.
5. Philly Boyz is open until midnight on Wednesday and 3 a.m. Thursday through Saturday. Swing by for a Philly cheesesteak or some pizza fries. They also serve several flavors of frozen wine, making this a great place to cap your night off.
6. A classic here in Tuscaloosa, Quick Grill, is open from 6 p.m. until 3 a.m. Monday through Saturday and open until midnight on Sunday. You can order their legendary messy fries or classic burgers. However, they also serve amazing veggie burgers as a vegan option.
7. Cookout is another late-night spot open until 3:30 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and 4:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Everything on the menu is reasonably priced but if you’re looking for a good deal, get their cookout tray; served with 1 entrée, 2 sides, and a drink.
8. If you’re looking for a midnight sushi deal, Surin of Thailand offers great deals Thursday through Saturday. The restaurant reopens at 11 p.m. and you can order sushi, crab rangoon, or some teriyaki chicken with rice all for a great price.
9. For a healthier alternative, Pita Pit on the strip is a viable option. With a wide range of choices, you are guaranteed to find what you are craving on the menu. Open until 2 a.m. Monday through Wednesday and 3 a.m. Thursday through Saturday.
10. If you don’t feel like going out to get anything both Domino’s and Papa John’s deliver late! If you’re a student at The University of Alabama, you’re in luck, both places accept dining dollars as a form of payment. Domino’s is open until 2 a.m. during the week and 3 a.m. on the weekends. Papa Johns is open until 1 a.m. during the week and 2 a.m. on the weekends.
Written By: Alexandra Morrissey
Finding a good coffee shop is not always easy. Everyone likes a different vibe and menu, but Tuscaloosa has it all. From cozy to modern you will find the space where you fit in most to sit down and have a nice cup of joe.
1. Heritage House Coffee & Tea
Heritage House opened in Tuscaloosa in June 1994 and was our towns first coffee shop ever. If you are looking for a cozy coffee shop, this is your place. Heritage House is a great spot to grab a coffee on the go, breakfast, or even lunch. Their menu has a little bit of everything from gourmet drinks to pastries and sandwiches. One of the many menu items they are known for is their baked oatmeal, you can even buy the mix yourself to bake at home! The baked oatmeal is a great, warm start to anyone’s day. My personal favorite thing to get at Heritage House is a vanilla latte with peppermint and an orange roll. The atmosphere in the shop is laid back and welcoming. You can even go to a wall filled with coffee cups and pick one out that you want your drink to be served in. So, if you are looking for a cozy coffee shop to grab a cup of joe and a pastry to have a chat with a friend look no further than Heritage House Coffee & Tea.
2. O’Henry’s Coffee
O’Henry’s Coffee is a great place to meet with friends. Whether you are catching up with old friends or meeting new ones it is a great environment to talk and have fun while enjoying fantastic drinks. The atmosphere at O’Henry’s is all about community and gathering, they make the atmosphere comfortable to have a conversation without feeling like you have to whisper. Regarding coffee, they serve lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos. Plus a few of their specialty drinks include their O’Frappes which can be made with flavors like caramel, mocha chip, and turtle. O’Henry’s also serves food such as wraps, salads, and pastries made daily. So, grab some friends and head to O’Henry’s for some coffee and conversation.
3. Monarch Espresso Bar
Monarch is definitely the place to go to just sit and recharge. The atmosphere is very chill and quiet and very zen. They have a great menu with a lot of variety. Of course, they have the basics such as espresso, lattes, iced coffee, cold brew, and a variety of different pour-overs. Out of their many specialty drinks on the menu, my personal favorite is the parker, which is a salted caramel latte, but if you are into cold brew you need to get the vanilla sweet cream cold brew! If you want to grab a bite to eat they offer things such as avocado toast, granola with yogurt, and a selection of different bagels. Grab a book and have some “me” time at Monarch Espresso Bar!
4. Turbo Coffee
Turbo Coffee has a very modern and hipster type vibe to it. Casual and hard-core coffee drinkers alike should definitely check this place out. Turbo does so much more than coffee as well. Their specialties are health foods such as acai bowls, made in house cold-pressed juices, and superfood smoothies. They also make delicious pastries daily. This is a great place to go chill with friends and family and catch up with one another.
The final home football game is upon us!. This weekend #5 Alabama takes on the WCU Catamounts in what will be a warm-up game for the Iron Bowl next week. Surrounding the matchup are some fun events taking place around town. A bicentennial book signing, live music, volleyball, and a day of fun at the Children’s Hands-On Museum will be happening all over Tuscaloosa!
Tuscaloosa 200 Community Book Experience
Come and enjoy an afternoon of fun and education featuring the author of “Tuscaloosa – 200 Years in the Making,” Guy Ward Hubbs. The program will feature a lively interview with Don Noble and Dr. Guy Hubbs, author of the first-ever history of our city. Guy Hubbs will be signing books after the program as you enjoy light refreshments. This will take place at the Tuscaloosa Federal Building and the United States Courthouse on November 21st from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Mama Dixie & the Prize Inside
Every game day weekend, Hotel Indigo entertains guests and locals alike from 3 – 5 PM in the Shoals Bar and Kitchen. You can grab yourself a beverage and relax with your friends to the smooth, sultry torch jazz sounds of Mama Dixie. Born out of the challenges of providing live music for burlesque performances, Mama Dixie & the Prize Inside knows how to bring jazz to your door! Whether you’re looking for traditional standards or modern jazz, Mama Dixie & the Prize Inside can provide!
Alabama Football vs Western Carolina University
This game comes at a great time for the Crimson Tide. It will be great to get Mac Jones and probably Taulia Tagovailoa some much-needed experience leading into the Iron Bowl. There is no denying that the offense will not be the same without Tua Tagovailoa. He is a generational player and a huge loss for the Alabama offense. With that being said, Alabama is still a high-powered offense and Mac Jones will be able to get the ball into the playmaking receivers’ hands. Najee Harris and Brian Robinson have been seeing more carries these last couple of weeks and will continue to do so. The offense will put up pretty good numbers against Western Carolina and the backups will do the same. This game will never be close and will hopefully get Mac Jones and others some much-needed confidence. As long as there aren’t any more injuries, this game will do its job of getting some much-needed experience to the young guys and some much-needed rest to the starters.
Autumn Cornucopia at CHOM!
The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa creates an environment where children can explore, design, and discover every time they visit. When you hear “hands-on,” they really mean it! This Saturday, CHOM is hosting activities like cotton ball painting, turner baster relay race, and a mini scarecrow decorating! Learning through play is what the exhibits are all about, and kids are encouraged to touch, feel, and play in the displays. Three floors of fun wait for families and offer newborns through 13 years old’s a space perfect for them.
Alabama Volleyball vs LSU
Cheer on the Tide as they take on their rival LSU. This Sunday at 1 pm will be their “Bacon. Set. Spike!” match and Big Al’s Kids Club Day! Admission is free to fans with a ticket from the WCU football game and bacon will be free to fans! The team is 12-13 overall and 4-10 through conference play.
We have a lot going on throughout the upcoming fall months and are excited to share more. Give us a follow on our social media pages (@visittuscaloosa) for more announcements and future events. We can’t wait to see you around Tuscaloosa!
In the One and Only Tuscaloosa, there are so many places to go and things to see. These 10 things are popular among the locals and won’t break the bank. So take a chance and try something new!1. Children’s Hands-On Museum (CHOM)
This museum has been providing children with fun activities and events since 1984. There are three floors of fun for children of all ages. The Great Pumpkin Party and the Monster Walk Scavenger Hunt are two events that are happening soon. Admission is less than $10! CHOM is a great place to take the kids and enjoy a day of fun!
2. Paul W. Bryant Museum
This museum is a blast from the past! Check out over a hundred years of Crimson Tide memorabilia and football history. Visit the Paul W. Bryant museum to see what it takes to be “nothing but a winner.” Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for children.
3. Arboretum
If you’re a dog lover then the arboretum is the place for you! The arboretum is sixty acres of the great outdoors. Check out the dog park, community garden, as well as the hiking trails. The best part is that it is completely free!
4. The Waysider
Take a trip to Paul “Bear” Bryant’s favorite breakfast destination. It truly is the breakfast of champions. The restaurant is packed with decades of Alabama memorabilia. The Waysider offers made-from-scratch biscuits and gravy all for just under $3!
5. Homegrown Alabama Farmers Market Edit: We regret to inform you his event will no longer happen. If you are interested in farmers’ markets in Tuscaloosa then check out the Tuscaloosa Farmers’ Market at the River Market.
6. Babes Donuts
A family-owned breakfast, brunch and coffee business located in Downtown Tuscaloosa. The menu features gourmet doughnuts unlike anything else you’ll find in town. Flavors include: bacon maple, sourdough, Reese’s Peanut Butter, Heath Bar sprinkle, Captain Crunch, Fruity Pebbles, S’mores, red velvet, blackberry cream cheese and others. Seasonal offerings can range from King Cakes during Mardi Gras to candied blood oranges. Stop by and grab a treat for under $10.
7. Steel City Pops
Nothing is better than a Steel City Popsicle on a hot Alabama summer day. They have many flavors to choose from, so there is a flavor for everyone. Flavors include: Arnold Palmer, Bosc Pear with Honey, Champagne White Tea, Cinnamon Apple, Cranberry Orange, Lime, Plum with Rosemary, Pomegranate, Strawberry Fig, Strawberry Lemonade, Avocado, Buttermilk, Carrot Cake, Chocolate, Coconut, Coffee, Maple Bacon, Bourbon, Pumpkin, Toasted Marshmallow, Vanilla Bean. All popsicles are $4.49 and under.
8. Black Warrior River
The Black Warrior River is absolutely stunning and the perfect place to go on a hot summer day. You can cast a line and catch some fish or bring your own boat and cruise the water. The Black Warrior is also perfect for paddle boarding or just floating down the river. Don’t feel like getting in the water? That’s fine because the Tuscaloosa River Walk runs along the river and offers beautiful scenery. It’s the perfect place to get some exercise or take your dog for a walk.
9. City Café
For decades, locals and students alike have enjoyed the homemade cooking served up at City Café. At lunchtime, this restaurant is packed with locals stopping in for a tasty meal at a reasonable price. Stop in and enjoy a meat and three for under $10. You won’t be disappointed, it’s just like mama makes it.
10. Gallette’s Yellowhammer
Stop by Gallette’s and sip on a Tuscaloosa favorite. People from all over the United States have enjoyed Yellowhammer’s from the One and Only Gallettes while in Tuscaloosa. The Yellowhammer is a staple on gameday at the University of Alabama. Their yellow cup is a popular accessory for the Crimson Tide fans walking around the quad. Visit Gallette’s and try one for yourself.
Written by Rachel Horton
Another great weekend is right around the corner! Start your weekend off with the Manhattan Short Film Festival. On Friday you can cruise down the river on the Bama Belle for their Low Country Boil. Alabama football is home again this week with a matchup against Ole Miss! Just two visits to Bryant Denny Stadium ago, the Black Bears shocked the world by defeating the #2 ranked Crimson Tide. The Children’s Hands-On Museum is the perfect place to take your child over the weekend. This Saturday is the Nickelodeon “Worldwide Day of Play.”
In continuation of the Bama Art House Film Series, the Bama Theatre will play host to the Manhattan Short Film Festival. Film lovers worldwide unite to view and judge the work of the next generation of filmmakers from around the world. This takes place in over 400 cities worldwide and Tuscaloosa will be a part of it this weekend! This is the only film festival of its kind. The Final Ten selections screen simultaneously across the world during a one-week period. Manhattan Short attendees vote for Best Film and Best Actor awards at each participating venue. By virtue of their selection by Manhattan Short, each short film is automatically Oscar-qualified. The Final Ten finalists hail from seven countries with films from France, Iran, Canada, Finland, and Germany alongside two films from the USA and a record three from the United Kingdom.
Your Friday night couldn’t start any better than heading down the black warrior on Tuscaloosa’s own Bama Belle. The Low Country Boil will have all the fixin’s and there will be plenty to go around. Alive Bargeron & Joe Terry will be playing music and providing the perfect backdrop for this relaxing evening! The trip should take about two hours and starts at 7 pm. You can find out their address and buy tickets on their website – bamabelle.org.
Alabama is back for the second week in a row in Bryant-Denny as they get ready to face the Ole Miss Black Bears. It’s not all that long ago that Ole Miss pushed Alabama as far as anyone has in the Nick Saban era. While it seems like an entirely different time, the Rebels beat the Tide in 2014, 2015 and came close in 2016. The Rebels then went on to lose the last two seasons by a combined score of 128-10. With Tua Tagovailoa hitting 78% of his throws with 17 touchdowns and no picks this year, it will take something very special for Ole Miss to repeat their 2015 shocker.
The Children’s Hands-On Museum is participating in Nickelodeon’s “World Wide Day of Play” and will be open from 9 am – 4:30 pm to celebrate. The day of play is an event designed to encourage children and parents to turn off their television and play together, especially outdoors. The event kicked off in 2004 and has been a huge hit every year since. Turn off the TV, get to CHOM, and enjoy a day of fun with your children!
We have a lot going on throughout the upcoming fall months and are excited to share more. Give us a follow on our social media pages (@visittuscaloosa) for more announcements and future events. We can’t wait to see you around Tuscaloosa!
Finding a good coffee shop is not always easy. Everyone likes a different vibe and menu, but Tuscaloosa has it all. From cozy to modern you will find the space where you fit in most to sit down and have a nice cup of joe.
1. Heritage House Coffee & Tea
Heritage House opened in Tuscaloosa in June 1994 and was our towns first coffee shop ever. If you are looking for a cozy coffee shop, this is your place. Heritage House is a great spot to grab a coffee on the go, breakfast, or even lunch. Their menu has a little bit of everything from gourmet drinks to pastries and sandwiches. One of the many menu items they are known for is their baked oatmeal, you can even buy the mix yourself to bake at home! The baked oatmeal is a great, warm start to anyone’s day. My personal favorite thing to get at Heritage House is a vanilla latte with peppermint and an orange roll. The atmosphere in the shop is laid back and welcoming. You can even go to a wall filled with coffee cups and pick one out that you want your drink to be served in. So, if you are looking for a cozy coffee shop to grab a cup of joe and a pastry to have a chat with a friend look no further than Heritage House Coffee & Tea.
2. O’Henry’s Coffee
O’Henry’s Coffee is a great place to meet with friends. Whether you are catching up with old friends or meeting new ones it is a great environment to talk and have fun while enjoying fantastic drinks. The atmosphere at O’Henry’s is all about community and gathering, they make the atmosphere comfortable to have a conversation without feeling like you have to whisper. Regarding coffee, they serve lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos. Plus a few of their specialty drinks include their O’Frappes which can be made with flavors like caramel, mocha chip, and turtle. O’Henry’s also serves food such as wraps, salads, and pastries made daily. So, grab some friends and head to O’Henry’s for some coffee and conversation.
3. Monarch Espresso Bar
Monarch is definitely the place to go to just sit and recharge. The atmosphere is very chill and quiet and very zen. They have a great menu with a lot of variety. Of course, they have the basics such as espresso, lattes, iced coffee, cold brew, and a variety of different pour-overs. Out of their many specialty drinks on the menu, my personal favorite is the parker, which is a salted caramel latte, but if you are into cold brew you need to get the vanilla sweet cream cold brew! If you want to grab a bite to eat they offer things such as avocado toast, granola with yogurt, and a selection of different bagels. Grab a book and have some “me” time at Monarch Espresso Bar!
4. Turbo Coffee
Turbo Coffee has a very modern and hipster type vibe to it. Casual and hard-core coffee drinkers alike should definitely check this place out. Turbo does so much more than coffee as well. Their specialties are health foods such as acai bowls, made in house cold-pressed juices, and superfood smoothies. They also make delicious pastries daily. This is a great place to go chill with friends and family and catch up with one another.
People come to Tuscaloosa for many reasons. The main reason being that we have a phenomenal football program. But Tuscaloosa is more than just Bryant Denny Stadium and Nick Saban. Tuscaloosa always has events going on so you will never be bored on your visit. But the most important thing about any getaway is the food. Tuscaloosa has many resteraunts that are worth visiting while here.
Avenue Pub
If you are looking for a cool place to have a nice sit-down dinner Avenue Pub is the place for you. Located in downtown Tuscaloosa it has a good location close to everything. The restaurant is a relaxed contemporary pub serving brunch and casual American fare, plus cocktails and local beers. The menu is big and has many options so everyone can find something that they like. It has an upbeat and fun atmosphere that your whole family will enjoy. Click here to learn more about Avenue Pub.
Dotson’s Burger Spot
Who doesn’t love a good burger? Dotson’s Burger Spot opened up in August of 2017 so it is still a little new to Tuscaloosa. It is also located in downtown Tuscaloosa. The restaurant is owned and operated by a father and son duo. Who also owns the Southern Ale House in north Tuscaloosa. The menu offers various types of burgers and five hand-crafted milkshakes, which can be served plain or spiked with alcohol. The inside looks like an old school diner with bar stools and booths that will for sure put you in the mood for a cheeseburger. They also offer other options such as turkey burgers and corndogs. They serve chicken as well. Click here to learn more about Dotson’s Burger Shop.
The Levee Bar and Grill
The Levee is owned and operated by Gary McGee and Chris Bradshaw and is located on Bridge Avenue near downtown Northport, Alabama. They opened in March of 2015. The restaurant is in a great location overlooking the Black Warrior River. They pride their selves on friendly customer service and delicious, fresh food, including steaks, fresh seafood, chicken, pasta, and sandwiches. So, sit back and enjoy a dinner overlooking the Black Warrior River and enjoy a drink and a nice meal at The Levee. They also offer private dining rooms for big parties. Click here for more information on the Levee Bar and Grill.
Depalma’s Italian Café
Depalma’s is set in historic downtown Tuscaloosa and have been serving quality Italian cuisine for more than 20 years. They create fresh dishes daily. They have a great selection of beer and wine. Their menu consists of different pastas, calzones, and pizzas. It is a great family friendly atmosphere that the whole family will enjoy. So make sure you are in the mood for Italian and go enjoy some great food. They are closed on Monday so make sure pop in another day. Click here to visit Depalma’s website.
Heat Pizza Bar
If you are in the mood for a pizza Heat is the way to go. Heat has a nightlife atmosphere but is still family friendly. So, sit at a table or have a seat at the bar and enjoy. Heat was founded in 2015 and is located downtown right across from Government Plaza. They serve artisan pizzas and salad made from the freshest ingredients. The inside is cool and modern and has an intimate feeling to it. If you are craving pizza and don’t want to go in and eat, they also offer takeout. They offer fun flavors like chicken bacon ranch and buffalo chicken and of course the traditional cheese and pepperoni. Click here to see Heat’s full menu.
This Wednesday, June 6th, is National Chocolate Ice Cream Day- and we couldn’t be more eager to celebrate. There’s no better way to cool off on a hot summer’s afternoon than with a scoop (or two) of ice cream. To help you celebrate, we’ve compiled a list of the best places in Tuscaloosa for you to spend National Chocolate Ice Cream Day the right way.
Ingram Farms
Ingram Farms Market and Ice Cream Shop is fresh, local, and the perfect place to grab a sweet treat on a hot summer’s day. Their logo, “serving happiness by the spoonful”, couldn’t be truer. Ingram farms offers over 20 flavors of blue bell ice cream as well as local, seasonal flavors. While you’re there, you can check out the best fresh produce in our area. Pair a scoop of chocolate ice cream with Ingram Farm’s homegrown strawberries to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Baked Bear
Baked Bear located in Midtown Village is a newer addition to the Tuscaloosa scene- but well worth the wait. Baked Bear is an ice cream shop known nationwide for its custom-made ice cream sandwiches. Here’s how it works: mix and match cookies, brownies, and donuts for the top and bottom of your sandwich, then pick from more than 13 flavors of ice cream as your filling, add whatever toppings you would like and voila! You have the ultimate ice cream sandwich. Baked Bear’s mission is “To spread joy and create memories, bringing a smile to every customer’s face, one ice cream sandwich at a time.” Check out Baked Bear for yourself and let them make your day a little brighter.
Frost Bite
We’ve got great news! The newest ice cream parlor, Frost Bite, will be opening in Tuscaloosa just in time for the hottest months of the year. Frost Bite is a Tuscaloosa locally owned ice cream shop specializing in Roll Ice cream and Nitrogen Ice cream. For all of the chocolate lovers out there, one item on their menu is a chocolate based roll ice cream topped with whipped cream and oreos, all drizzled with hot fudge. Visit their Facebook page today and tell them what mouthwatering options would like to see them feature.
Peterbrooke Chocolatier
Although Peterbrooke isn’t solely an ice cream shop, it’s where you can find some of the best chocolate in town. Peterbrooke offers assorted chocolates, specialized treats, dipped popcorn, and a variety of gelato flavors to their customers. Additionally, Peterbrooke hosts summer camps where kids can be professional chocolatiers for a day. Stop in on June 6th for a scoop of gelato or other treats offered at Peterbrooke Chocolatier in Tuscaloosa.
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Written by Anna McAbee
Cinco de Mayo is upon us yet again! We have complied a list of local establishments where you can celebrate one of the most fun holidays in the U.S. Check out some of these T-town gems to chow down on a variety of tacos, tequila, margaritas, and more!
Central Mesa
From the owner of the Avenue Pub comes the newest addition to Tuscaloosa’s Mexican food scene, Central Mesa. Offering everything from classic tacos to Brisket and Grits, all of their dishes are prepared from scratch in house with fresh ingredients. Along with your favorite Mexican food staples, Central Mesa also boasts an extensive tequila selection as well as other liquors for margaritas, mojitos, and more.
Taco Mama
Located on University Boulevard just before downtown, you’ll find the always popular Taco Mama jam-packed with both locals and college students alike. This Birmingham based chain has expanded to eight different locations throughout Alabama and continues to grow, with a ninth location planned to open in Nashville in 2018. The fast-casual Mexican restaurant features signature tacos, quesadillas, and burritos, and also offers custom à la carte options. The festive atmosphere and fresh, diverse menu make Taco Mama a perfect place to celebrate national taco day.
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop
The Texas-based Fuzzy’s Taco Shop opened their first Alabama location in the heart of downtown next to Glory Bound last fall. The fast-casual chain was founded in Fort Worth, Texas, and has quickly grown to over 100 restaurants nationwide serving their addicting Baja style tacos that have gained a cult following. Fuzzy’s offers breakfast tacos all day as well as specials that change monthly along with specialty drinks such as their signature Fuzzy Driver.
Taco Casa
A true Tuscaloosa icon, Taco Casa’s history in town runs deep. Founded in 1974 by Alabama football alum and Wichita, Kansas native, Rod Wilkin, Taco Casa is where many Tuscaloosa locals tried their first taco, and it was love at first bite. Known for fast, friendly service and hot, delicious food made to order, Taco Casa has earned its spot in Tuscaloosa history. Be sure to stop by this local favorite to celebrate.
