Salem’s Diner named best in Alabama by a 3rd different foodie publication

Popular national foodie website Tasting Table has officially named Homewood’s Salem’s Diner as the best diner in Alabama. 

This is the third different national publication to recognize the old-school American breakfast and lunch spot in the past three and a half years. 

In May 2025, mashed.com declared Salem’s the best in the Yellowhammer State. Three and half years ago, in 2022, Salem’s topped Food & Wine’s best diner in the state list.

“Salem’s Diner is the very best of Homewood, located right in the heart of downtown and serving the best breakfast, burgers and cheese steak sandwich around. I am thrilled to see Salem’s get national recognition, and we welcome everyone to Homewood to visit and enjoy a great meal!”

Jennifer Andress, Mayor of Homewood

About Salem’s Diner

Salem’s Diner traces its origins to the 1950’s, when famed Crimson Tide quarterback Ed Salem opened a series of Ed Salem’s Drive-In’s around the Birmingham area. His son, Wayne, took over the business in 1983 and opened Salem’s Diner at 2913 18th St S in Homewood in the mid-2000s. 

“When we moved operations to Homewood in 2006, I wasn’t ready for retirement but I wanted to do something small to keep me occupied. But Salem’s Diner just took off—I never imagined I would be this busy.”

Wayne Salem, Salem’s Diner told Bham Now in 2025

Known for its hospitality and philly cheesesteaks, Salem’s is open from 6:30AM to 1:00PM every day except Sunday.

Do you have a favorite Salem’s Diner memory? Tell us on social media in the comment section at @bhamnow

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