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When walking down the sidewalks of Decatur, Alabama, you’ll notice something right away. You have to check the doors of every establishment. Why? Because they are home to some of the best dining options a tiny Southern town has to offer.

When it comes to downtown Decatur AL restaurants, you can expect to find Cajun, Southern, BBQ, and everything in between offered in the same area. Decatur may be the only place globally with both a gourmet yarn store and home-style cuisine for breakfast, noon, and dinner.

From sophisticated American cuisine to classic Italian platters and specialty hot dogs, Decatur has it all. This guide will highlight ten of my favorite dining spots in downtown Decatur.

The 11 Must-Try Downtown Decatur AL Restaurants 

Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q

1715 6th Ave SE, Decatur, AL 35601, United States // +12563506969

Since its humble origins as a backyard barbecue pit founded by its namesake in 1925, Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q has grown to include two Decatur locations and a third restaurant in North Carolina.

There’s pulled pork, beef brisket, and smoked ribs on the menu, and specialty dishes like hickory-smoked Bar-B-Q chicken with the restaurant’s characteristic tangy, peppery, white sauce and baked pies in flavors like coconut cream or pecan.

You may also purchase sauces, rubs, and cookbooks to help you recreate the Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q experience at home. One of many great places for barbecue in Decatur.

The Brick Deli & Tavern

112 Moulton St. E, Decatur, AL 35601, United States // +12563558318

The Brick Deli & Tavern is a laid-back and locally owned restaurant specializing in casual American-style meals in Decatur, complemented with a wide range of craft draft beers and bottled beer during the day and a lively live music place at night. This is why it tops the list of the best downtown Decatur AL restaurants.

Its inviting pub-style decor is the perfect setting for enjoying its menu of substantial sandwiches, salads, and hot dogs, such as the Smokey Joe sandwich, a sourdough bread stuffed with smoked turkey, bacon, smoked cheddar and Swiss cheese, salad, and Thousand Island dressing. Older visitors are welcome to remain late and listen to local musicians while enjoying a beer or two.

Downtown Dawgs

1820 6th Ave. SE Suite C, Decatur, AL 35601, United States // +12563453796

Downtown Dawgs is a casual American eating establishment that provides a variety of specialized, conventional, and build-your-own hot dogs.

You begin by selecting your hot dog and bun, which come in beef, turkey, Polish sausage, or even a soy alternative for vegans (plain, wheat, or poppy seed buns).

Then you can customize your own with toppings like sweet relish, mozzarella, and habanero ketchup, or select from alternatives like the shroom n’ Swiss dawg with mayonnaise, sautéed mushrooms, and Swiss cheese or the New York dawg with sauerkraut, onions, and Dijon mustard. You’ll scream “Hot dog!” when eating at this gem amongst the downtown Decatur AL restaurants. 

Whisk’D Cafe

115 Johnston St. SE, Decatur, AL 35601, United States // +12565805244

One of my favorite downtown Decatur AL restaurants is Whisk’D. I was wondering why they were called that, but it turns out it’s because everything is whisked right to your table.

If you need food ideas, this restaurant is quite friendly and relaxing. They usually feature free Wi-Fi and close at midnight, so you can meet up with pals there after a night out on the town (or many).

Whisk’D has a special waffle menu that is sure to please everyone. It is the ideal location for satisfying your hunger and thirst.

They also have delicious menu items such as avocado toast, Cinnamon Swirl French Toast, and a Veggie Scramble. 

Simp McGhee’s

725 Bank St., Decatur, AL 35601, United States // +12563536284

Simp McGhee’s has been open since 1986. It is considered the premier place amongst the downtown Decatur AL restaurants by most. However, the restaurant is only open for dinner from Tuesday to Saturday.

There is a big emphasis on seafood and steaks, but you will also find pasta, duck, lamb, and pork on the lunch menu.

Simp McGhee’s has been open since 1986 and is widely regarded as Decatur’s top upmarket restaurant. Most definitely the place to go for fine dining in Decatur.

There are plenty of stories to be told at Simp’s, between daring activities in his boat, frequenting bars with his pet pig, and putting up his closest girlfriend as the madam of a vast brothel. The cuisine is outstanding, and the vibrant environment contributes to its being a top Decatur, AL restaurant.

Perrins Sports Grille

608 Holly St. NE, Decatur, AL 35601, United States // +12563551045

The Perrins Sports Grille is a wonderful location to unwind. This restaurant has something for everyone, no matter what they’re searching for. The cuisine is delicious, plus there is always live music to listen to while you dine! The personnel is kind, and the service is excellent.

Perrins’ bar is well-stocked, and they can quickly prepare you the most fantastic drink. Come in with friends or family to sample the delicious meals. Both meals and beverages are reasonably priced here.

Their honey chicken, mushroom salads, and stuffed peppers were all delicious. In addition, we sampled fudge brownies, brownie batter, and cherry pie, all of which were delicious.

The warm environment and kind treatment will make you feel fantastic. It’s an absolute must-try when dining in Decatur.

Mi Hacienda Mexican Restaurant

404 6th Ave. NE, Decatur, AL 35601, United States // +12563533233

Immerse yourself in the exquisite atmosphere while you enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine. The Mi Hacienda Mexican Restaurant is a great restaurant that offers tasty Mexican food. 

If you’re looking for a broad cuisine, this stunning location is ideal. The kind service will make each customer feel unique and will cater to their specific demands.

I tried their California Burrito, which was delicious, and I highly recommend their noon fajitas and chicken tortilla soup. But, you are not going to make a mistake!

Josie’s

109 2nd Ave. NE, Decatur, AL 35601, United States // +12568222229

Josie’s sits in the heart of Decatur’s downtown district. Under the guidance of a professional chef, it provides an excellent assortment of Italian and Mediterranean cuisines.

Since its inception, Josie’s cozy environment and flawless service have been key factors in its success.

All of the meals are made with fresh ingredients, and a neighboring bakery delivers freshly baked bread to the restaurant every morning.

Pizza, hummus, and tapas, as well as a range of beer, wine, and cocktails, are on the menu. Their chef also prepares delectable seafood meals such as seafood spaghetti and crab cakes. Josie’s team is always available to answer questions or provide recommendations. Make sure you try this Decatur restaurant while in town. 

Moe’s Original BBQ

202 Moulton St. E, Decatur, AL 35601, United States // +12566864112

Moe’s Original BBQ is a terrific location to go if you want good cuisine, a good time, and a relaxed setting with a touch of Southern hospitality.

The place is known for its barbecue menu, but what will make you feel most at home are the people working there – they make you feel welcome from the moment you enter. This is one of my favorite spots in Downtown Decatur!

They serve succulent ribs that have been slow-smoked for up to 14 hours over hickory wood before being hand-rubbed and glazed with their proprietary mix of seasonings.

Also, they have fantastic tender meats that are used in their beef brisket sandwiches or chopped into bite-sized pieces on their platters. Decatur Southern barbecue at its finest!

Let’s Do Lunch

435 Holly St. NE, Decatur, AL 35601, United States // +12563401317

Let’s Do Lunch is a charming confectionary amongst the downtown Decatur AL restaurants. The personnel is welcoming, and the service is excellent. The location is pleasant and peaceful. The interior of this confectionery restaurant is lovely, with hardwood chairs and gorgeous wall paintings.

I’ve been to this location a few times and am always surprised. Their cuisine and presentation are usually flawless. In addition, they provide a wide range of fresh juices that are all nutritious.

Their flawlessly prepared old-fashioned Goulash, Baked Potato Soup, and Grilled Pimento Cheese Bacon are all delicious. And, if you need something sweet, they provide weekly sweets like a delicious Caramel Cake and Fudge Brownies!  Classic comfort food in Decatur.

Krab Kingz

107 2nd Ave NE STE A, Decatur, AL 35601, United States // +12566862304

Mostly popular among the locals, this tiny place serves fresh seafood and offers quality service. We really enjoyed our first visit to Krab Kingz. The server had such a great attitude, the crab was easy to crack, and the food was plentiful. 

For starters, there is a bussin shrimp, southern okra, mozzarella sticks, hush puppies, and fried crawfish tails which are such crunchy and delicious appetizers. 

There are fried seafood platters of your choice. My favorite is the large fish fillet, ten fried shrimp paired served with lemon slices and paired with their homemade french fries. This portion is enough for two, and it is worth the price. 

There is also a kid’s menu, such as fried shrimp baskets and shrimp boil. The menu is not very extensive, but indeed everything they have is fresh and delicious. The prices are solid, and the portions are significant. This place will leave you without words!

FAQ

What are the most popular restaurants in Decatur?
The best restaurants in Decatur include:

• The Brick Deli
• Krab Kingz
• Big Bob Gibson’s Bar-B-Que

What are the best restaurants in Decatur that provide takeout?
Some of the most popular restaurants in Decatur that provide takeout are:

• The Brick Deli
• Downtown Dawgs

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Summary About the 10 Best Downtown Decatur AL Restaurants

Decatur features everything from informal restaurants to upscale fine dining venues. The variety of restaurants and cuisines in this city is difficult to top.

Most restaurants in Decatur will provide you with convenience and leisure in addition to fantastic food. So don’t be hesitant to pay this great city a visit and sample its cuisine!

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