Pike County restaurants are featured in ‘Alabama Food’

Patricia “Sister Schubert” Barnes, founder of Sister Schubert Homemade Rolls, wrote the foreword to “Alabama Food,” a publication that complements the state tourism department’s “Year of Alabama Food” promotion.

Barnes wrote of her memories of growing up in Troy and being blessed to come from five generations of great cooks who all contributed to her love — her passion — for cooking and baking.

“Nowadays, I am creating new memories by visiting and dining in some of the greatest restaurants in America being operated by outstanding and unique chefs right here in Alabama,” Barnes said.

On the pages that follow in “Alabama Food,” are scores of restaurants from the northern tier of the state to the Gulf Coast Region, from Wintzell’s in Mobile to Ol’ Heidelberg in Huntsville.

The regions — the North, Central, South and Gulf Coast — all have something to boast and brag about.

“There’s not one region in Alabama that doesn’t have something to brag about when it comes to good food and outstanding restaurants,” said Shelia Jackson, Troy Tourism director. “Southerners are known for their cooking and we like to think that we have some of the best cooks and best and most unique restaurants right here in Pike County.”

Evidently, the Alabama Tourism Department agreed because rural Pike County had several listings in ‘Alabama Food.’

Jackson said Sisters Restaurant that is famous for its banana pudding is one of the restaurants featured on the promotional poster titled: The Best Way to Experience Alabama? On an empty stomach.

“A photograph of Sisters’ banana pudding is feature in ‘Alabama Food’ and a photograph of Mossy Grove Schoolhouse Restaurant in Troy is also featured in the book.”

“Alabama Food” warns not to let Sit ‘N’ Sip in Brundidge fool you. It’s not “just another coffee shop.” Its signature food is listed as the chicken salad plate and pear salad.

The Old Barn Restaurant in Goshen, which is housed in a 100-year-old barn, is noted for its rum bread pudding.

“The Old Barn features recipes that have been handed down for generations,” Jackson said. “Crowe’s in Troy is famous for its dipping sauce and, of course, its chicken fingers. Momma Goldberg’s in Troy is among the listings for its Momma’s Love sandwich.”

Restaurants not in Pike County but popular among locals that are included in “Alabama Food” are Huggin’ Molly’s in Abbeville, Red’s Little Schoolhouse in Grady and Hilltop Grill in Union Springs.

“Not to mention Dreamland and Chris’ Hotdogs in Montgomery,” Jackson said. “Everybody enjoys eating and Tourism’s ‘Alabama Food’ highlights some of the best and most unique restaurants in the state. You won’t find a better restaurant guide than ‘Alabama Food.’ It includes restaurants in out of the way places as well as those in the hub of Alabama’s cities and towns.

Jackson said she hopes everyone will visit the local restaurants featured in the book.

“Like the book says, ‘Learn where the locals eat and what they order. Spread a napkin on your lap and put a big smile on your face,’ and experience Alabama food.