Exploring Local Dives with Huntsville Eats

Great food is often found in unexpected places–inside a gas station, tucked in an industrial area, or marked by no sign what-so-ever.

When sharing some of my favorite hidden gems, there is this magical moment where the look of suspicious disbelief becomes that of surprised amazement.

Just as you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, the best metric for measuring a restaurant is its food.

These are  a few of my favorites, where appearances can be deceiving.

#1: New Orleans Lunchbox

The large smokers at the Marathon gas station are the first clue that something more than sodas and chips are tucked inside the shop. Stepping inside, you will find that there are remarkably clean booths, stand alone tables, and some of the best po’ boys in town.

Hours: Mon – Sat: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Location:
4000 Holmes Ave NW
Huntsville, Alabama 35816
Phone: (256) 830-0081

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#2: Betty Mae’s

You’ll think you’ve taken a wrong turn when you pull onto Grace Street, but tucked between industrial looking buildings is your source for fantastic fried chicken and the best red velvet cake. Temperature control is a bit spotty, so bring an extra layer when it’s cold out, but the food is totally worth it.

Hours: Mon – Fri: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Sun: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Location:
1222 Grace St. N.W.
Huntsville, Alabama 35801
Phone: (256) 533-2188

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#3: Melvin’s Place of BBQ

The only reliable way to know about this place is to “know a guy who knows a guy”–there is no sign, no posted hours, and it’s tucked off the main roads, across from a graveyard. There is no printed menu, Melvin will rattle off your choices and you make a selection. But the pulled pork is outstanding and generously portioned so all any of that does is add a certain charm.

Hours: Mon – Sun: 9:00 am – 12:00 am
Location:
2315 Hall Ave. N.W.
Huntsville, Alabama 35805
Phone: (256) 541-3431
NOTE: Cash Only

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#4: Taqueria El Cazador

I find that while most everyone knows about the “taco bus” on Governors, that there are plenty of people who still find the whole premise dicey. Mexican food? From a BUS? So, in case you are wondering, yes they have an excellent health rating, yes the food is delicious (I’m partial to the #6 with the quarter chicken, but I’ve got a weakness for their steak tacos as well.), and yes, you should try them.

Hours: Mon – Sun: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Location:
3414 Governors Drive SW
Huntsville, Alabama 35805
Phone: (256) 698-8682

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#5: Big Spring Cafe

A piece of Huntsville history, Big Spring Cafe is easily overlooked by new comers. Situated on a small triangle of land with a larger-than-it-looks parking lot, the entire restaurant consists of a tiny lunch counter, an open cooking area, and a register kept ever busy with take out orders. They also happen to make some of the best burgers in town and at throw back prices. (For even more of that throw back feel, order a Double Cola.) Larger appetites should order 2 burgers, but those of us who are perpetually taking leftovers home can get a perfectly portioned lunch for under $5.

Hours: Mon – Sat: 6:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location:
2906 Governors Dr SW
Huntsville, Alabama 35805
Phone: (256) 539-9994
NOTE: Cash Only

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Editor’s Note: 3 of these places also make an appearance on our 100 Things to Eat in Huntsville in 2015 list. Are you working on the list? Now is a good time to start!