5 Montgomery classics you need to try + our top picks

Capitol Oyster Bar
Capitol Oyster Bar in Montgomery. Photo via Emilyn Hamn for the Bama Buzz

Our State Capitol is packed full of amazing food spots. But, there are some that have been here for a lot longer than others and therefore hold a very special place in the hearts of those from Montgomery. So, we have found and highlighted 5 of the most classic Montgomery restaurants (in no particular order) that you need to try + our top picks at each.

1. Chris’ Famous Hot Dogs

Listed as one of the oldest restaurants in Alabama, Chris’ Hot Dogs is a very special place. It does not get much more classic than this spot, established in 1917. Ask anyone from Montgomery about Chris’, and they will have nothing but praises to sing. We wholeheartedly recommend getting the ‘Chris’ Famous Hotdog,’ so that you can try the renowned kraut and chili sauce.

  • Address: 138 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104
  • Contact: 334.265.6850 | WebsiteFacebook 

2. Martin’s Restaurant

Martin'S Montgomery
Martin’s Restaurant. Photo via Emilyn Hamn for the Bama Buzz

Martin’s is another undeniable classic of Montgomery. It is the perfect Southern spot for the family, as a timeless meat-and-three that we all know and love. You have just got to get ‘Martin’s Famous Fried Chicken’ with your favorite three sides (mine are the fried okra, cole slaw, and cheese grits).

  • Address: 1796 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36106
  • Contact: 334.265.1767 | Website | Facebook

3. Capitol Oyster Bar

Capitol Oyster Bar in Montgomery is definitely a beloved spot for the locals. You know when you can just tell how good a restaurant is going to be by looking at the outside? Well, that is this place. Plus, it has a beautiful riverfront view! Everything here is so good that your best bet is getting the ‘Combination Platter’ to try the shrimp, oysters, and scallops.

  • Address: 617 Shady Street, Montgomery, AL 36104
  • Contact: 334.239.8958 | Website | Facebook

4. Derk’s Filet & Vine

Dirks Filet And Vine Montg
Derk’s Filet & Vine. Photo via Emilyn Hamn for the Bama Buzz

This is not just your normal restaurant. Derk’s Filet & Vine is a deli, market, and bottle shoppe that all started in 1997 (my kind of place). The ‘Gourmet Burger’ is one-of-a-kind, and you can’t beat walking around the market after a good meal looking for the perfect item to walk out with.

  • Address: 431 Cloverdale Road, Montgomery, AL 36106
  • Contact: 334.262.8463 | Website | Facebook 

5. Vintage Year

Vintage Year Montg
Vintage Year Restaurant & Bar. Photo via Emilyn Hamn for the Bama Buzz

Vintage Year is exactly as it sounds: Vintage! It has been around in Montgomery since 1985 for people to come sit back and fine dine at. The ‘Gulf Snapper’ is definitely a must-have, but you can’t go wrong with anything on this menu.

  • Address: 405 Cloverdale Road, Montgomery, AL 36106
  • Contact: 334.819.7215 | Website | Facebook

Did we miss any classic restaurants in Montgomery? Let us know @TheBamaBuzz and make sure to follow us to see more stories like this.

Emilyn Hamn
Emilyn Hamn
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