8 exciting new openings + updates around Huntsville + 1 business closing its doors

Etta's Tavern exterior — We’ve got eight openings + one closing to cover this week. (Lauren Denman / Hville Blast)

🤩 Hey Huntsville!

It’s time for the last openings guide of September — we’ve got plenty of exciting stuff to cover this week, including Waldo’s Chicken & Beer and the massive new gym, Elev8 Fitness.

Keep an eye on our Facebook + Instagram for a first-hand look at some of these new businesses!

Read more below, and make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to get news like this delivered to your inbox.

Check out these 8 new openings around Huntsville

Waldo’s Chicken & Beer

Interior of Waldo's — Waldo’s is based out of Nashville. (Lauren Denman / Hville Blast)

What: Waldo’s is bringing its signature fried chicken to Huntsville — this is the chain’s first North Alabama location and fourth in the state overall
Where: 2100 Cecil Ashburn Dr SE, Huntsville, AL 35802
When: NOW OPEN: Mon-Sun, 11AM-9PM
Website | Facebook | Instagram

Elev8 Fitness

Workout equipment — Elev8 Fitness definitely has you covered on cardio machines. (Lauren Denman / Hville Blast)

What: Check out this 24-hour, state-of-the-art gym now open in Athens that has a smoothie bar, tanning beds, childcare options + more
Where: 15340 Flinders Ln, Athens, AL 35611
When: NOW OPEN 24 HOURS | Staffed hours announced soon
Website | Facebook | Instagram

Mazaj Cafe

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What: The taste of Syria is coming to Huntsville! This coffee shop will serve specialty drinks, desserts, pastries + more
Where: 532 Jordan Ln NW, Huntsville, AL 35805
When: COMING SOON!
Instagram

Etta’s Tavern

What: Brought to Huntsville by the creators of Good Company Cafe, this new spot will have great vibes, a full bar + your favorite Southern comfort foods
Where: 720 Pratt Ave NE, Huntsville, AL 35801
When: OPENING OCTOBER 31
Facebook | Instagram

The Independent Cinema

Independent Cinema owners — The Independent opened on October 31, 2025. (Ben Johnson / Hville Blast)

What: The beloved movie theater announced on September 28 that it will remain open at Studio 150 in Lowe Mill.
Where: 2211 Seminole Dr SW, Huntsville, AL 35805 Studio #150
When: NOW OPEN
Website | Facebook | Instagram

Southern Catfish and Creole

What: In the former spot of Libby’s Catfish, this spot serves a delicious menu of seafood, gumbo + much more
Where: 234 Lime Quarry Rd, Madison, AL 35758
When: NOW OPEN: Mon-Wed, 10:30AM-3PM | Thu-Sat, 10:30AM-8PM | Sun, closed

Starbucks on County Line

What: The ultra-popular coffee chain will be opening a new location directly next to the Dairy Queen on County Line in Madison
Where: 11104 County Line Rd, Madison, AL 35756
When: COMING SOON
Website | Facebook | Instagram

Two new emergency rooms announced

Huntsville Hospital consistently ranks as one of the top in the state. (Hville Blast)

What: Two new free-standing emergency rooms will be coming to Huntsville. Each one will be worth $41M and have eight exam rooms.
Where: North Huntsville location | South Huntsville location
When: COMING LATE 2027

[CLOSING💔] Beer Hog

The popular spot known for its craft beer, food, games and live events has officially closed its doors as of September 28. Opened back in 2024, this spot served our community for nearly two years.