5 mouthwatering restaurant openings & reopenings in Tuscaloosa

This summer is exciting for foodies in Tuscaloosa. New restaurants are opening their doors and tried-and-true favorites are reopening in exciting locations. We picked out several openings we can’t wait to try!

1. Ichiban Japanese Grill

• Location: 2128 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
• Contact: 205.752.8844 | Facebook

Ichiban is back and better than ever! Tuscaloosa’s favorite Japanese restaurant is relocating to University Boulevard. They’ve already put up the sign at their new location, and we couldn’t be more excited! We’re getting closer and closer to sushi dates at an even better spot. Their sushi platters are the perfect way to elevate any tailgate or party. Ichiban will reopen later this month or in early July. 

2. Walk On’s Sports Bistreaux

• Location: 675 Skyland Blvd E, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
• Contact: 205.722.2045 | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux brings a taste of Louisiana to gameday. Tuscaloosa’s first Walk-On’s location opened this month at 675 Skyland Boulevard, just in front of the Planet Fitness. Their menu features beignets, poboys, corn grits, signature cocktails and more! Walk On’s has a gourmet menu served in a casual setting, so it’s sure to win over anyone. Extra tip: Walk-On’s Tuscaloosa is hiring, and I bet it’s a fun work environment.

3. Sitar of India

• Location: 500 15th St, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
• Contact: 205.345.1419 | Facebook | Instagram

Tuscaloosa’s only Indian restaurant was gone too long! Sitar of India has finally moved to a location just down the road from its original 15th Street spot. The buffet and grill has left me full and satisfied more times than I can count–it’s an especially great spot for hearty vegetarian food. I love Sitar’s palak paneer and samosa chaat, but you can’t go wrong with anything on their menu! Sitar will be reopening later this month. 

4. Slim Chickens

• Location: 635 Skyland Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
• Contact: 479.935.4444 | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

The first Slim Chickens in Alabama will open in Tuscaloosa soon. It’s under construction at 635 Skyland Boulevard, right next to the new Walk-On’s. Slim Chickens has delicious wings and tenders at great prices. It reminds me of Raising Cane’s with more options, and I think it’ll be a perfect match for T-Town. Affordable catering options are also available, so check it out for your next tailgate.

5. Jersey Mike’s

• Location: 1207 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
• Contact: 205.523.8080 | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Can you believe it took Tuscaloosa so long to get a Jersey Mike’s? The home of fresh and fast subs finally arrived this summer! The new Jersey Mike’s is right on the strip, and it’s the perfect spot for late night grub. I went to Jersey Mike’s for the first time this month, and I absolutely loved it! Don’t forget to get the sandwich shop’s signature “juice” on your next sub.

Click here to learn more about Tuscaloosa’s thriving foodie scene!

What’s your favorite restaurant in Tuscaloosa? Tag @thebamabuzz and share the scoop!