The Best Lunch in Huntsville | 11 Spots We Love to Visit

As Huntsville has grown, so has the number of restaurants. My wife and I are always meeting up to eat, so I thought I’d put together a list of the best lunch in Huntsville.

Obviously, this list will evolve as we try out new lunch spots in town, but below you’ll find some of our favorite spots to grab a bite!

And if you have any recommendations, be sure to drop a comment at the end so I can try it out!

11 Best Lunch Restaurants in Huntsville, Alabama

Little Rosie’s

Best lunch in huntsville
Image Credit: Little Rosie’s

If you’re on the hunt for the best Mexican restaurants in Huntsville, Alabama, then Little Rosie’s is the place to be for a quick, flavorful lunch.

What really makes Rosie’s stick out is its top-notch ingredients. They whip up everything from scratch daily, using the freshest chicken and Beef. And those handmade tortillas? To die for. Plus, they make their own guacamole from fresh Calavo avocados – it doesn’t get any better.

Now, let’s talk about the delicious food. You can’t go wrong with their tacos, quesadillas, and enchiladas. I’d recommend going for the pocket tacos. Be sure to ask for the fajita chicken on it too.

Whether you’re in the mood for spicy beef or chicken, you’re sure to get a plate of goodness at Little Rosie’s, served with chips and salsa.

  • 4781 Whitesburg Dr, Huntsville, AL 35802
  • Monday-Thursday: 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM, Friday-Saturday: 6:30 AM – 10:00 PM, Sunday: Closed
  • See Little Rosie’s Menu
  • Our Pick: Pocket Tacos with Fajita Chicken

MELT

best lunch restaurants in Huntsville
Image Credit: Andrew Smith, Alabama Explorer

The best lunch in Downtown Huntsville usually comes from MELT – a local gem just off Jefferson Street (less than half a mile from Big Spring Park).

I can’t say enough good things about MELT, since it’s not just a restaurant – it’s a celebration of home cooking with a mouth-watering modern twist. What makes it unique is its simple yet scrumptious menu, with grilled cheese sandwiches that will put a smile on anyone’s face.

The Buffalo chicken sandwich is a total must-try for meat lovers. But, for the veggie-lovers out there, they also accommodate vegans and vegetarians with great food using vegan cheeses. And for those gluten-intolerant, the gluten-free breads are top-notch.

So, if you want the easiest lunch choice you’ll ever make, MELT is one of the best restaurants in Downtown Huntsville.

  • 201 Jefferson Street N Suite I
  • Monday-Thursday: 11 AM-9 PM; Friday-Saturday: 11 AM-10 PM; Sunday: 10:30 AM-8 PM
  • See the MELT Menu
  • Our Pick: Chicken Pesto Sandwich

City Cafe Diner

best lunch in Huntsville
Image Credit: City Cafe Diner

Next on my list of the best lunch restaurants in Huntsville is the greatest place for a Sunday brunch – City Cafe Diner. Forget fine dining and overpriced lunch spots! This cafe has everything from American classics to New Orleans flavors.

The best part? You can order breakfast, lunch, or dinner at any time of the day! So, don’t be surprised if you catch me having mid-day breakfast instead of lunch!

I recently visited the diner with a few of my friends, and we tried everything from French toast to the Philly Cheesesteak. I’ve got to say, you’re missing out if you don’t at least try the Chicken Alfredo.

  • 2003 Drake Ave SW, Huntsville, AL 35801
  • Sunday-Thursday: 6 AM-12 PM; Friday-Saturday: 6 AM-12 AM
  • See the City Cafe Diner Menu
  • Our Pick: Philly Cheesesteak

Bubby’s Diner

I can’t speak about the best restaurants in Huntsville without giving credit to an old favorite of mine, Bubby’s Diner. If you’re in the mood for a taste of the good ol’ 50s, then this is it! This charming diner has a nostalgic vibe with a menu that is pure comfort food.

Burgers, fries, and malts are usually the order of the day. Still, the menu doesn’t stop there. For tasty twists on traditional classics, I’d highly recommend the donut slider.

The Meat and Three with a juicy hamburger steak is top-notch for a filling lunch. Or, if you want something simple, the BLT complete with fried green tomatoes is a total delight!

Hound and Harvest

best lunch in Huntsville
Image Credit: Alabama Explorer, Andrew Smith

In the mood for gourmet salads, good service, and a relaxed, casual atmosphere? Or maybe you have a hankering for something a little heartier? Either way, Hound and Harvest has you covered for the best lunch in Huntsville.

The menu here really is a work of art thanks to the talented chefs who pour their hearts and souls into every single dish. Plus, the restaurant partners with local farmers and businesses to support the local economy and reduce their carbon footprint.

Hound and Harvest perfectly blends eco-consciousness and excellent food – it’s a win-win!

You must try out the Bayou Fresh Bowl when you go. It’s packed with fresh seafood and incredible flavors.

  • 2358 Whitesburg Dr, Huntsville, AL 35801
  • Tuesday-Saturday: 10 AM-9 PM; Sunday: 9 AM-4 PM; Monday: Closed
  • See the Hound and Harvest Menu
  • Our Pick: Bayou Fresh Bowl

Tenders

best lunch in huntsville
Image Credit: Tenders

You’ve got to try Tenders! In fact, I consider it a bit of a local legend in Huntsville. Mike Tepool and John McBride kickstarted this fried chicken joint back in ’96, and it has been serving up good, old-fashioned Southern food ever since.

What sets this place apart is the dish that made it famous – the mouth-watering ‘Big Daddy’ combo. This combo is the perfect pick for a hearty lunch, with six chicken tenders, fries, Texas toast, coleslaw, and two of their famous sauces.

  • 800 Holmes Ave NE, Huntsville, AL 35801
  • Monday-Saturday: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM, Sunday: Closed
  • See the Tenders Menu
  • Our Pick: Big Daddy

Phil Sandavol’s

best mexican lunch in huntsville
Image Credit: Phil Sandoval’s

Phil Sandavol’s is a true culinary journey through generations of family tradition. With a menu inspired by family recipes, Phil and his brother-in-law, Eduardo, bring the warmth and flavors of their childhood right to your table for some of the best lunch in Huntsville.

For a memorable start, dive into the Casa Nachos, which are loaded with spicy beef or chicken, refried black beans, melted Chihuahua cheese, and so much more. And, when it’s time for the main course, the Pollo Con Rajas or the Shrimp Taco are fantastic picks for a burst of flavor.

  • 6125 University Dr E-18, Huntsville, AL 35806
  • Monday – Thursday 10:45 AM – 9:00 PM, Friday and Saturday 10:45 AM – 10:00 PM, Sunday 10:45 AM – 8:30 PM
  • See the Phil Sandavo’s Menu
  • Our Pick: Steak Fajitas

Newk’s

best lunch in Huntsville
Image Credit: Newk’s

Newk’s is one of my favorites for a mid-day meal. With the freshest and finest ingredients and sauces and dressings that are made from scratch, you’re guaranteed to taste flavors that you’ve never experienced.

When you visit, be sure to try Newk’s “Q” sandwich, which is filled with a mix of chicken, bacon, Swiss cheese, and their signature BBQ sauce.

You’ll also need a side of potato salad to accompany this. For pizza lovers, the Meat Deluxe Pizza is another great pick. And don’t forget to end your meal with a slice of their famous Strawberry Cake!

  • 4851 Whitesburg Dr, Huntsville, AL 35802
  • Monday-Saturday: 11 AM-7 PM; Sunday: 11 AM-5 PM
  • See the Newk’s Menu
  • Our Pick: Newk’s Q

Taziki’s

best lunch in Huntsville
Image Credit: Taziki’s

Taziki’s has been one of my favorite lunch restaurants in Huntsville since 2008, offering a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors with a Southern twist. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy an excellent and quick lunch in a quaint restaurant with great service.

The daily features here offer several choices to suit anyone’s palate. On Tuesdays, you can enjoy the Spicy Harissa Chicken Gyro while Wednesdays are burger days, when the Mediterranean Lamb Burger is a must. Their salad bowls are also fantastic if you’re looking for something lighter.

  • 4855 Whitesburg Dr, Huntsville, AL 35802
  • Monday-Sunday: 10:30 AM-9 PM
  • See the Taziki’s Menu
  • Our Pick: Signature Pasta

Commerce Kitchen

best nice lunch in huntsville
Image Credit: Andrew Smith, Alabama Explorer

From the brilliant culinary mind of Chef James Boyce, Commerce Kitchen is both a fantastic lunch spot and a great restaurant for date nights in Downtown Huntsville. With 35 years of experience in the kitchen, there’s no wonder that Boyce’s food keeps me coming back – I just can’t get enough!

The seasonal menu is filled with delicious meals that are always made with fresh, local ingredients. No matter what you order for your main meal, I wouldn’t be able to sleep tonight if I didn’t recommend the Sesame Seared Ahi Tuna salad – it will change your life!

  • 300 Franklin Street SE
  • Monday-Friday: 11 AM- 10 PM; Saturday: 10:30 AM-3 PM, 4 PM-10 PM; Sunday: 10:30 AM-3 PM, 4 PM-8 PM
  • See the Commerce Kitchen Menu
  • Our Pick: Roasted Harissa Salmon

The Boot

best lunch in Huntsville
Image Credit: The Boot

Right in the heart of South Huntsville is The Boot – a pizzeria with a blend of Italian flavors and really, really unique pizza offerings. With intriguing toppings like Smoked Duck, you won’t find pizzas like this anywhere else!

The Boot doesn’t stop at pizzas, though. It also has a range of tempting appetizers (like Ragu fries), salads, and desserts that only add to the full foodie experience here.

Eating lunch is certainly important, but what if you could learn to make your own?

What sets this family-owned pizzeria apart isn’t just that it’s one of my top pizza restaurants in Huntsville. They also offer cooking classes to teach you how to make your own tantalizing pizzas! If you’re looking for something interesting to do after having a taste of some of the best lunch in Huntsville, this culinary experience is a hoot!

  • 11505 S Memorial Pkwy
  • Monday – Saturday: 11 AM-9 PM, Sunday: Closed
  • See The Boot Menu
  • Our Pick: Bottomless Pit Pizza