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The University of Alabama offers a diverse selection of dining options on and off campus. From popular franchises, dining halls, upscale restaurants, to international flavors, there is something for everyone in Ttown! If you are unsure where to eat or are looking for something new, continue reading to discover where Bama students go to get a delicious meal.
Dine in with Bama Dining Dollars
At the beginning of each semester, each student receives $250 on their ACT card where they can buy food on campus and at specific restaurants off campus. Inside the Student Center students have Chick-fil-A, Panda Express, Wendy's, Auntie Anne’s, and any other restaurants for anyone to grab a bit to eat on campus. All the dining halls and restaurants are cashless. Many students are not aware of this, but you do not necessarily need a meal plan to eat at the dining halls. Students can also use their dining dollars where they offer a variety of different foods from a salad bar, a sandwich station, and a section dedicated to desserts. Students can spend their dining dollars off campus and at popular places like Buffalo Phil’s, a popular spot where many students go to eat and hang out with friends.
Downtown Tuscaloosa Restaurants
Downtown Tuscaloosa is the melting pot for different restaurants. Whether you are looking for a casual place to eat tacos or a burger or want to go somewhere fancier you can find a restaurant downtown. If you are in the mood for Italian food, DePalma's Italian Cafe is the place to go. They offer a wide variety of pasta dishes, pizzas, and other Italian favorites. If you are craving Caribbean food, Reggae Flava offers authentic Jamaican cuisine. If you are in the mood for some international cuisine, Tuscaloosa has plenty of options to choose from. For Mexican food, try Veracruz or Central Mesa. Veracruz offers authentic Mexican dishes such as fajitas, tacos, and enchiladas, as well as delicious margaritas. For sushi and Japanese cuisine, the best place to go is Hokkaido Japanese. They have a variety of freshly prepared sushi rolls, and their hibachi dishes are delicious. SoCal Cantina recently opened downtown. They serve California themed tacos, Mexican entrees and have a variety cocktails and margaritas.
Side By Side is a popular restaurant on with a vast selection of craft cocktails and local beers. Five Bar is a trendy bar and restaurant that offers a diverse menu of small plates, sandwiches, and entrees, along with an extensive wine list and craft cocktail menu.
If you are a seafood lover or want to take someone out to a nice restaurant, Chuck's Fish is a must-visit. They offer a wide selection of fresh seafood dishes, along with sushi and other Japanese-inspired dishes. For something a bit more upscale, many people go to Dilliard's Chophouse, a popular choice located in downtown Tuscaloosa. This restaurant offers a sophisticated atmosphere and a menu filled with delicious seafood and steak options. This is the perfect place to take your partner on a fancy date.
Casual Restaurants near UA
For a more casual dining experience, visitors should check out the Avenue Pub. This laid-back pub offers a selection of burgers, sandwiches and salads, as well as an extensive beer choice. The pub has a relaxed atmosphere, and the outdoor patio makes it a popular spot for locals and visitors. For a taste of traditional Southern comfort food, visitors should check out The Waysider. This legendary diner has been serving up homestyle cooking since 1951 and is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience classic Southern hospitality and if you like to get up early for breakfast and lunch. Their biscuits and gravy are particularly popular, as are their chicken fried steak and grits.
Another great casual dining option is Archibald's BBQ. This family-owned and operated restaurant has been serving up some of the best barbecue in Northport/Tuscaloosa since 1961. Their ribs and pulled pork are slow cooked to perfection and served with homemade and traditional southern sides such as coleslaw and potato salad. Finally, for a unique dining experience, visitors should check out Rama Jama's. This iconic restaurant is located right across the street from Bryant-Denny Stadium and is a favorite among University of Alabama football fans. Their menu has southern dishes like fried chicken, and they serve breakfast all day. Throughout the year they host crawfish boils. Going to Rama Jama’s has been a tradition for Alabama fans during the football season!
Best Spots if You are Craving Something Sweet
Looking for a sweet treat? Head down to Baked Bear in Midtown Village where you can build your own ice cream sandwich was your choice of cookies. On The Strip the popular cookie franchise Insomnia Cookies offers a variety of different cookies, ice cream and brownies. Most students love Insomnia Cookies because it is a convenient location, they stay open until 3AM and deliver. If you are looking for something new, The Peach Cobbler Factory recently opened and is also located on The Strip. They offer favored banana pudding, cobblers, and cinnamon rolls with ice cream.
Tuscaloosa is a vibrant college town that offers a diverse selection of restaurants, many of which are right near your UA apartment. Whether you want traditional Southern cuisine, authentic international food, an upscale dining experience or craving a sweet treat, there is something for everyone in Tuscaloosa.
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