Where To Eat In Florence and The Shoals

Whether you’re craving a Southern-style breakfast, authentic Mexican cuisine, fresh seafood, artisan pastries, or a memorable dinner, you’ll find plenty of delicious options throughout Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, and Tuscumbia. From longtime local favorites to hidden gems, these are the restaurants, bakeries, and coffee shops that keep us coming back – and the places we think are worth adding to your itinerary.

Collage of ice cream, a frosty margarita, a farm-to-table hamburger, and a slice of pizza.

1. Cafe de Frida

When I travel, I’m always on the hunt for local spots that serve up something special. In Florence, Alabama, I found just that at Café de Frida, a quaint coffee shop inspired by the legendary Frida Kahlo. With a small but cozy indoor dining area and a charming covered patio, this café is a great spot to kickstart your morning.

Exterior of Café de Frida Coffee Shop, a blue building with iron doors featuring a sun and moon design.

Of course, I had to try their breakfast tacos—a staple for any taco lover. Each order comes with two tacos, and you can mix and match turkey and chorizo. While both were tasty, the turkey taco stole the show for me. But the dirty horchata? Absolute perfection. Imagine a classic horchata infused with a shot of espresso—sweet, spiced, and the perfect caffeine boost. My only regret? Ordering a small. Trust me, go for the large!

Two breakfast tacos served with a cup of dirty horchata.

If you find yourself in Florence, Café de Frida is open Monday through Saturday from 7 AM to 2 PM at 1611 North Pine Street. It’s a must-stop for great food, strong coffee, and a touch of artistic inspiration.

2. Big Bad Breakfast

Entrance to Big Bad Breakfast in downtown Florence, Alabama, a popular breakfast restaurant serving Southern-inspired morning favorites.

Big Bad Breakfast is located in the heart of downtown historic Florence. The concept for the restaurant was developed by Chef John Currence, a New Orleans native and winner of the 2009 James Beard Award for Best Chef South.

Dining room with red and white checkered floor at Big Bad Breakfast.

The restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch, with the entire menu available as long as it is open. They make everything they can from scratch – the biscuits, jellies, bacon, sausage, etc. They have their own Big Bad Breakfast blend of coffee via Royal Cup and their own smoked meats from the Fatback Pig Project in Eva, Alabama.

Creole omelet made with shrimp, andouille, onions, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and topped with tomato gravy and green onions. — Creole Omelet – Made with shrimp, andouille, onions, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and topped with tomato gravy and green onions.

Big Bad Breakfast is located at 315 North Court Street in Florence and is open daily from 7:00 am until 2:00 pm.

3. Wildwood Tavern

Exterior of Wildwood Tavern, a downtown Florence, Alabama restaurant known for its casual atmosphere, burgers, sandwiches, and craft beer selection.

Stepping into Wildwood Tavern is like taking a step into a modern-day saloon, Florence style. Their motto is “Keep Florence Funky.” Once inside, be sure to take notice of the artwork where faces have been transformed into hot dogs.

People sitting at the bar inside Wildwood restaurant.

Speaking of hot dogs, Wildwood Tavern is known for their fancy dogs. From the Korean BBQ Dog made with bulgogi Korean bbq sauce and house-made kimchi to the French Dip Dog with toasted mozzarella cheese with basil seasoning and a side of house au just, it’s doubtful that you will find the likes of such anywhere else.

Hot dog smothered with onions with a side of smothered potato chips and a pickle spear. — The Dixie Dog

Wild Wood Tavern is located at 108 E. Mobile Street in Florence and is open from 11:00 am until 2:00 am Monday through Saturday and from noon until 2:00 am on Sunday.

4. Yumm Thai Sushi and Beyond

From sushi to Thai, Yumm is the place to go. The inside of the restaurant is modern and upscale, but not pretentious. Menu items include calamari, oysters, spring rolls, lettuce wraps, crab, and filet mignon.

YUMM Thai Sushi and Beyond restaurant sign.

The sushi menu is pretty extensive with items such as California rolls, dragon rolls, bubba gump, and white monkey rolls.

For those seeking something light to eat, Yumm serves soups (Thai Chicken Coconut, Lemongrass Shrimp, and Wonton) as well as a side salad. Cocktails are also available.

Bowl of spicy noodles with beef, broccoli, and peppers served with chopsticks. — Spicy Noodles

Yumm is located at 117 N Court Street in Florence and is open Monday through Saturday from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm for lunch and from 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm for dinner. (It is open until 10:00 pm on Friday and Saturday.)

5. Trowbridge’s

Historic Trowbridge's storefront in downtown Florence, Alabama, serving sandwiches, ice cream, milkshakes, and classic sundaes since 1918.

A landmark institution in downtown Florence, Trowbridge’s has been in operation for 100 years. Paul Trowbridge opened the Trowbridge Creamery in 1918 and developed the recipe for orange pineapple ice cream. Later, menu additions included hot dogs and homemade chili.

Inside Trowbridge’s ice cream parlor with vintage green barstools.

Trowbridges is still a family operation serving ice cream and sandwiches.

Woman holding a chocolate ice cream cone at Trowbridge’s.. — Chocolate Ice Cream

Trowbridge’s is located at 316 N Court Street in Florence and is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am until 5:30 pm.

If you’re planning a visit to northwest Alabama, I’ve shared more about what makes The Shoals such a memorable destination. You can enjoy a meal with a view at the 360 Grille or unwind in style at the GunRunner Boutique Hotel. Pair those experiences with the local restaurants mentioned here, and you’ll have a well-rounded taste of The Shoals.

6. Champy’s Famous Fried Chicken

Champy's Famous Fried Chicken sign with blue sky in background.

Champy’s World Famous Fried Chicken looks like one of those joints that you would see near the beach. There is inside dining, but out on the patio is where you want to be.

Champy's outdoor dining area with red Christmas lights hanging from the ceiling.

Champy’s is known for their fried chicken which is made from a 40-year-old family recipe. The chicken is not cooked until it is ordered, so it is always fresh and delicious. Everything is fresh and homemade at Champy’s, including all of the sides and desserts.

Chicken salad on a dinner plate with black plastic knife and fork. — Grilled Chicken Salad

Champy’s is located at 120 Second Street in Muscle Shoals and is open daily from 10:30 am until 10:00 pm.

7. Odette

Odette has set the stakes high for casual fine dining. There is an emphasis at Odette on items made in-house, from the bread and house‑cured meats to the roasted red pepper‑thyme ketchup, made from locally‑ and sustainably‑sourced ingredients.

Odette restaurant sign on brick building.

Quality-focused wines, craft beer, classic libations, and cocktails pair well with Chef Josh Quick’s menu. Dinner items include Tamarind Curry Catfish, Lemon-Thyme Grilled Chicken Breast, Molasses Bacon-Wrapped Rabbit, Cottonwood Farm Pork Chop, and a Spring Vegetable Plate.

Avocado burger with bacon and cheese with a side of asparagus. — House-Ground Local Beef Cheeseburger (with Avocado and Bacon)

Odette is located at 120 North Court Street in Florence and is open Tuesday through Thursday from 5:00 pm until 9:30 pm, Friday from 5:00 pm until 11:00 pm, and on Saturday from 11:00 am until 3:00 pm for lunch and from 5:00 pm until 11:00 pm for dinner.

8. Superhero Chefs

Superhero Chefs restaurant exterior with blue and red front.

Superhero Chefs is an urban eclectic American restaurant with dishes unlike no other. From their amazing Bang Bang Cauliflower to their Juggernaut red waffle sandwich with fried chicken, egg, pepper-Jack cheese and candy’d bacon, you are sure to find something truly unique and delicious.

Chef Darnell Ferguson is not one to shy away from a little competition in the kitchen. He has gone head-to-head against Alex Guarnaschelli and came out the winner. He was also the winner of Giana De Laurentiis’ 2018 Ultimate Thanksgiving Challenge. And if that was not enough, he even appeared on Beat Bobby Flay (Season 13, episode 8 – Feathered and Fried).

Chicken sandwich and mac and cheese on a white plate on a black metal table. — Fried Chicken Sandwich with a side of Sweet Potato Mac & Cheese

Superhero Chefs is located at 104 S Main Street in Tuscumbia and is open from 7:00 am until 9:00 pm Tuesday through Saturday and from 7:00 am until 5:00 pm on Sunday.

9. The Shoals Shack

If you find yourself gravitating to restaurants that are located in the “middle of nowhere” that serve out-of-this-world food, then look no further than The Shoals Shack in St. Florian.

Chili Crunch Chicken in a styrofoam container held in front of The Shoals Shack. — Chili Crunch Chicken $8.50

The Shoals Shack is located at 4675 County Road 47 in the St. Florian community. Jennifer Tester and William Harris opened up The Shoals Shack in August 2020.

Aptly named, the restaurant occupies a small red shack in the corner of the parking lot at BigStar Supermarket.

Don’t let the facade deceive you. You aren’t going to get a run-of-the-mill burger or hot dog here. The food is upscale dining at affordable prices.

Some of the regular menu items include Black and Blue Burger, Bella Burger, Chicken Genoa Sandwich, Braised Beef Tacos, Southern Cobb Salad, and Shoals Shack Cuban. They also serve dessert and each banana pudding purchased = one book to a local child enrolled in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

Be sure to check out The Shoals Shack Facebook page for the full menu and updates on their hours.

10. The Lost Pizza Co.

The Lost Pizza Co. may have started off in another state, but it is a natural fit in downtown Florence. The funky vibe and delicious pizzas have made it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Woman holding a slice of pineapple and bacon pizza. — The Islander: Bacon, Pineapple, and Roasted Red Peppers

If you’re looking for a truly unique pizza experience, Lost Pizza Co. is the place to go. With creative toppings and a menu that includes specialty sandwiches, tasty wings, salads, pasta, and kid-friendly options, there’s something for everyone.

Basket of golden honey BBQ wings. — Golden Honey BBQ Wings

Lost Pizza Co. is committed to using only the freshest ingredients, and all of their pizzas are made to order. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cheese or pepperoni pizza or something more adventurous like their chicken bacon ranch pizza, you won’t be disappointed.

Their signature pizzas include The Lucille, The Kujo, El Diablo, The Otis, The Popeye, The Islander, Fatboy’s Bacon Cheeseburger, The Happy Hippie, The Hot Chick, The Pitboss, and Hector’s Taco Pie. (Hungry yet?)

The Lost Pizza Co. is located at 201 N Seminary Street and is open from 11:00 am until 9:00 pm daily.

So next time you’re in the mood for a delicious pizza, make sure to check out Lost Pizza Co. You won’t be disappointed.

11. 360 Grille

360 Grille is the ideal destination for any and all celebratory occasions. Their delicious cuisine, stunning views, and impeccable service will ensure that every gathering feels truly special!

Large tower with rotating restaurant at the top.

Located at the top of a tower at the Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa, diners are treated to the best views of Florence and the Tennessee River. With its awe-inspiring floor-to-ceiling windows and rotating dining room, this restaurant allows guests to savor a stunning panoramic view without leaving their own table!

Plate of salmon served on top of creamy grits. — Salmon

Grilled vegetable plate with assorted seasonal vegetables. — Salmon

360 Grille is located at 10 Hightower PL, Florence, AL 35630. It is open from 11:00 am until 10:00 pm Monday through Saturday and from noon until 10:00 pm on Sunday. Reservations are recommended.

12. Jaizon Coffee

If you’re looking for a coffee experience that’s a little different from the usual neighborhood café, make your way to Jaizon Coffee in downtown Florence. The shop specializes in Middle Eastern-style coffee and pastries, offering traditional drinks with aromatic spices like cardamom alongside a selection of baked treats. It’s a welcoming place to slow down with a cup of coffee while exploring downtown Florence.

Sign outside Jaizon Coffee in downtown Florence, Alabama, a coffee shop specializing in Middle Eastern-inspired coffee and pastries.

I stopped in for avocado toast and coffee. While the avocado toast was alright, the real star of the visit was the traditional coffee. It arrived with just a hint of cardamom, adding a warm, aromatic flavor that made every sip memorable. If you’ve never tried Middle Eastern coffee before, this is a wonderful place to star

Avocado toast topped with olive oil and greens served with traditional cardamom coffee at Jaizon Coffee in Florence, Alabama.

Jaizon Coffee is located at 101 Seminary Street. It opens at 6:00 am Monday through Saturday and is open until 10:00 pm Monday through Thursday and until 1:00 am on Friday and Saturday. Sunday hours are 8:00 am until 9:00 pm.

13. Ricatoni’s Italian Grill

For decades, Ricatoni’s has been one of Florence’s favorite spots for Italian food. Located in the heart of downtown, this locally owned restaurant is known for its welcoming atmosphere, generous portions, and menu filled with classic Italian favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty pasta dish, wood-fired pizza, fresh salads, or one of their signature sandwiches, there’s something to satisfy just about every appetite.

One of the restaurant’s most talked-about features is the fresh bread, which is baked in-house and served warm with olive oil for dipping. Pair your meal with a glass of wine or save room for one of the homemade desserts before heading back out to explore downtown Florence.

Ricatoni’s is located at 107 N. Court Street and opens daily at 11 am.

14. Rosie’s Mexican Cantina

No roundup of Shoals restaurants would be complete without mentioning Rosie’s Mexican Cantina. Located just a short walk from the University of North Alabama campus, Rosie’s has long been a favorite with students, locals, and visitors alike.

Exterior of Rosie's Cantina, a popular Mexican restaurant in downtown Florence, Alabama, known for Tex-Mex favorites and its location near the University of North Alabama.

The menu is packed with Tex-Mex favorites like sizzling fajitas, enchiladas, tacos, burritos, and freshly made chips served with their popular salsa. (The frozen and swirled Mambo Taxi margarita is my fav!) Portions are generous, the service is quick, and the lively atmosphere makes it a great place to gather with friends after exploring downtown Florence or attending a UNA event.

Smothered burrito served with Mexican rice, refried beans, tortilla chips, and salsa at Rosie's Cantina in Florence, Alabama.

If you’re looking for a casual meal within walking distance of campus, Rosie’s is an easy choice. Rosie’s is located at 302 N. Court Street. It opens at 11:00 am Tuesday through Saturday. The restaurant is closed on Sunday and Monday.

Final Call

Have a favorite restaurant in The Shoals that deserves a spot on this list? I’d love to hear about it! Share your go-to breakfast spot, barbecue joint, bakery, or hidden gem in the comments below. Your recommendation might help another traveler discover their new favorite meal.