5 Best New Restaurants in Hoover, Alabama that People are Raving About

Hoover’s food scene has grown well beyond mall eats and chain restaurants. Around Stadium Trace, Hwy 150, and the Riverchase area, you’ll now find polished Southern kitchens, solid barbecue, and cozy neighborhood spots. These five relatively new or newly buzz‑worthy restaurants are great bets.

1. Tre Luna Bar & Kitchen

Tre Luna brings a modern Italian‑meets‑Southern vibe to Stadium Trace Village. The space feels warm and upscale‑casual, with a lively bar and patio. Expect wood‑fired pizzas, fresh pastas, steak, seafood, and shareable starters like burrata, meatballs, and crispy calamari. Brunch (with mimosas and hearty plates) is a local favorite.

2. Refined To Go (Refined “To Go” Kitchen & Bar)

This spot takes the idea of “to‑go” food and gives it a chef‑driven twist. Inside, it’s casual but stylish, and the menu leans elevated comfort: creative burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, flatbreads, salads, and rotating specials. Think fast‑casual format with restaurant‑quality flavors, plus cocktails and local beers if you’re dining in.

3. Farrelly’s Southern Bar & Kitchen

Farrelly’s feels like a modern Southern neighborhood restaurant: dark wood, comfy booths, and a menu built around classics done right. You’ll see shrimp and grits, chicken‑fried steak, deviled eggs, fried green tomatoes, and big entrée salads, along with steaks and burgers. The bar is strong on bourbon and cocktails, making it a nice weeknight or date‑night choice.

4. MELT (Hoover)

MELT takes grilled cheese and comfort food and turns it into a full menu. The vibe is bright and fun, with a big patio and a family‑friendly feel. Expect over‑the‑top grilled cheese sandwiches, mac and cheese, loaded fries, burgers, and solid vegetarian options, plus milkshakes, beer, and cocktails. Great for casual hangs and game days.

5. Blueprint on 3rd (nearby Birmingham option locals drive for)

While technically in nearby Birmingham, Blueprint on 3rd is close enough that Hoover folks treat it as part of their dining rotation. It’s a bistro‑style restaurant with a focus on fresh Gulf seafood, regional Southern ingredients, and seasonal small plates. Expect dishes like crab claws, fish specials, hearty mains, and an excellent wine list—worth the short drive.