10 hidden gems in Huntsville our followers think you should know about

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downtown hidden gems in Huntsville
You might not know about these hidden gems throughout town. (Jacob Blankenship / Hville Blast)

We asked our followers what some of their favorite hidden gems in Huntsville are, and we were met with a long list of recommendations. From family-owned restaurants to an upbeat night club and a used book store, everything submitted by our followers were locations they think deserve more recognition.

Take a look through this list of hidden gems in Huntsville — you might find your new favorite local spot!

1. Tastee’s

First up on our list is Tastee’s, a sandwich shop on Jeff Road. Some of their most popular menu items include the Coney Dog, the Tastee Club and the Tastee BLT. We’ve also heard they have delicious coffee and ice cream.

2. Stanlieo’s Sub Villa

Stanlieo's
This family-operated spot has been open since 1971. (Stanlieo’s of Huntsville / Facebook)

Stanlieo’s has a wide selection of Italian-style subs, although you can make your own if you’d like. Their most popular menu item is The Kitchen Sink, described on their website as “a monster of a sandwich.” It includes three cheeses, onions, pickles and tomatoes.

3. Panda

Panda is serving familiar Chinese favorites with a modern twist. Be sure to try their Chow Mein, Chop Suey or Moo Shy, and check out their extensive sushi menu! The friendly team at Panda has been serving fresh food to the Huntsville area for 20 years.

4. Booklegger Used Books

Booklegger Used Books back to school.
Endless genres and opportunities to learn! (Booklegger Used Books / Facebook)

Stepping away from the restaurant recommendations for a moment, our followers also told us you should check out Booklegger Used Books. If you haven’t visited their location on Holmes Avenue yet, make sure to purchase your next book here! They will also buy your used books and offer you store credit in exchange.

5. Los Arcos

Continuing on this list’s theme of restaurants, our followers also recommended Los Arcos in Madison. One of the most popular items on their menu is the Fajita Bowl, which is a savory combination of your choice of fajitas cooked with onions, bell peppers and tomatoes, all served on rice and delicious white cheese sauce.

6. Hildegard’s German Cuisine

Hildegard's German Cuisine
Everything on the menu is a mouthwatering taste of German culture. (Hildegard’s German Cuisine / Facebook)

Some of the greatest hidden gems in Huntsville are the unique international restaurants — Hildegard’s is no exception. If you want to have a taste of Hildegard’s top featured menu items, try out the Hildegard’s Sampler, which includes chicken schnitzel, Polish and kraut, Geschnetzeltes and spätzle. They also have a gluten-free menu and an irresistible dessert menu.

7. Vibes of Huntsville

Since it opened last September, Vibes of Huntsville has been a chill spot for food and entertainment. They have luxurious cabana and couch rentals, bottle service, live DJs and more. Their menu includes small bites like loaded nachos and hush puppies, as well as entrées like fried catfish and chicken tenders.

8. Sac’s Kitchen

Carlos and Sarah from Sac's Kitchen
Carlos and Sarah are the mother-son duo who run this delicious soul food restaurant. (Sac’s Kitchen / Facebook)

Sac’s Kitchen is a family-owned restaurant that is serving up fresh, homemade food every day. Their menu has a little bit of everything — from baked lemon pepper chicken to salmon patties. They also have an array of sandwiches to choose from, like the Philly cheesesteak sandwich or the grilled chicken sandwich.

9. Tim’s Cajun Kitchen

Searching for great Cajun food in Huntsville? Look no further than Tim’s Cajun Kitchen, serving favorites like the Jambalaya Entrée, Shrimp Po’ Boy and the Gumbo Entrée since 1992. Their restaurant was also once voted best wings in Huntsville.

10. Rafael’s Table

Rafael's Table
If you sign up for one of their classes, you can learn how to make dishes like this! (Rafael’s Table / Facebook)

Located inside Lowe Mill, Rafael’s Table is a gourmet food shop that specializes in home-made small-batch pasta. They also sell candied pecans, crêpe mixes and salt and herb blends. Sign up for one of their cooking classes if you’re interested in making your own amazing dishes!

Which of these hidden gems in Huntsville are your favorite, and which ones do you have yet to try? If we missed any of your favorite spots, reach out to us on social media @hvilleblast and let us know — we just might make a part two!

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Curtis Venetta
Curtis Venetta
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