Reviewed by: Pat Byington
The Bright Star named among “Southern Bucket List” restaurants
Reading time: 2 minutes
For over a century, hungry crowds have flocked to The Bright Star Restaurant for its distinct take on Southern/Greek fusion. Located in the heart of Bessemer, The Bright Star has garnered several awards over the years—including an America’s Classic title from the James Beard Foundation (2010) and Best Local Restaurant in Alabama from Southern Living (2023).
It’s no surprise that a recent Southern Living readership poll chose The Bright Star as one of the top Southern restaurants on their bucket lists.
The Bright Star: an Alabama legend
The Bright Star has many claims to fame—including its status as the oldest family-owned restaurant in Alabama. Opened in Bessemer in 1907, The Bright Star has since grown from its original 12-seat bar to a five-dining-room restaurant that seats up to 330 satisfied customers.
On menu, you’ll find a tasty fusion of Southern and Greek dishes like:
- Greek snapper
- Greek style chicken with rice pilaf
- Shrimp Remoulade
- Lobster and crab meat au-gratin
The Bright Star is located in the heart of Bessemer—Alabama’s ‘Marvel City’—at 304 19th St N, Bessemer, AL 35020.
In a recent Southern Living article titled 15 Southern Restaurants At The Top Of Our Readers’ Bucket Lists, the popular lifestyle magazine ranked The Bright Star among other iconic southern restaurants including:
- Antoine’s (New Orleans, LA)
- Tupelo Honey (Asheville, NC)
- Galatoire’s (New Orleans, LA)
- The Inn At Little Washington (Washington, VA)
- Bern’s Steakhouse (Tampa, FL)
- Brennan’s (New Orleans, LA)
- Southern Soul Barbeque (St. Simons Island, GA)
- Commander’s Palace (New Orleans, LA)
- Angus Barn (Raleigh, NC)
- Chubby Fish (Charleston, SC)
- Mary Mac’s (Atlanta, GA)
- Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room (Savannah, GA)
- Dooky Chase’s (New Orleans, LA)
- The Little Big Cup (Arnaudville, LA)
What is your favorite dish at The Bright Star? Tag us @bhamnow to let us know!
