Mobile’s Best Historic Neighborhood Eateries
Words by Paige Townley
Mobile may be known as the city that was Born to Celebrate, but this picturesque community on the Bay does more than plan a good party. It also offers an incredibly unique history, one that includes seven national register historic districts throughout downtown and midtown Mobile. This city is also one that knows how to eat and it has the restaurants to prove it. From Cajun to creole, southern to Mediterranean, Mobile has a dinner table you certainly want to sit at while there, many of which are located within its seven historic district. Here are some of the must-visit eateries found in Mobile’s historic neighborhoods.
Oakleigh Garden District
Callaghan’s Irish Social Club: Opened in 1946, Callaghan’s Irish Social Club sits in the heart of the Oakleigh Garden District. While it’s certainly known as one of the friendliest pubs around, its menu is the true showstopper. Besides an incredible brunch offerings, the menu features a local favorite: the Callaghan’s Irish Social Club hamburger. The burger was not only voted best burger in Mobile, but it has also been voted the best burger in the state.
The Hummingbird Way: Regional cuisine at its best can be found at The Hummingbird Way, a new concept by Chef Jim Smith. Each and every southern classic on the menu utilizes only freshest produce and seafood.
Midtown Historic District
Ashland Midtown Pub: If you’re looking for gourmet Italian, Ashland Midtown Pub is it. Whether it’s pizzas, subs, pastas, or calzones, the menu at this Midtown Historic District eatery will transport you straight to Italy.
Nixon: In the heart of the Midtown Historic District is Nixon. Located in what used to be a drugstore, Nixon serves up made-from-scratch sandwiches and wraps that will instantly have you planning out a second visit. Another top draw to the historic Mobile institution is its 20-plus taps serving up an extensive beer list.
Dew Drop Inn: Perhaps the oldest restaurant in Mobile is Midtown Historic District’s Dew Drop Inn. Established in 1924, Dew Drop Inn is built around the hot dog—it’s “World Famous Dew Drop Inn Hot Dog,” to be exact. This hot dog—which features sauerkraut, pickle, chili, mustard, and ketchup—draws hungry visitors from not only all over Mobile, but all over the South.
DESSERT BONUS: Cammie’s Old Dutch Ice Cream Shoppe: No meal is ever complete without a delicious dessert, and in Mobile that’s always found at Cammie’s Old Dust Ice Cream Shoppe. The shop has been dishing out its 47 flavors since it first opened in 1969.
Detonti Square Historic District
Front Yard Tacos: It’s always time for a good taco, and in Mobile, that means it’s always time for Front Yard Taco. In addition to more common pairings—like the Carne Asada Taco or Avocado Taco—the eatery features a number of unique dishes, such as the B.E.C. (bacon, egg, and cheese) Taco and the B ‘n P Taco, which includes sweet potato and chipotle maple black beans.
Old Dauphin Way Historic District
Red or White Wine & Gourmet Center: One of the city’s most refined offerings is Red or White Wine & Gourmet Center. Along with its many globally-sourced wines by the glass, the menu features perfect pairings such as cheese boards, bruschetta, pizza, and even pate.