Tucked in a corner of a small shopping center in Northport is a southern homestyle cafe called The Blue Plate. Upon walking you see the classic diner decor, colorful walls that feature pictures of classic Hollywood stars, and for some walking in feels like home.

“It’s not typical college kid food, it’s like what my Grandmother would make if I was home,” said Alexis Pruitt, a junior majoring in special and elementary education. “That kind of food, comfort food, is nice to have after a long week.”

Their menu has a wide variety of homemade style meals. Some stand out dishes on their menu are the chicken finger plate, hamburger and french fries, country fried steak, meatloaf, and the BBQ plate with Texas toast. Of course no meal at Blue Plate is complete without an order of fried pickles

“[I like the] many options, and that it’s basically like mom’s cooking,” said Sophi Simmions, a out of town customer. 

The workers at our Blue Plate location in Tuscaloosa are all very kind and personable, which adds to the homey feel of the establishment. Simmions said one of the best qualities about Blue Plate is their hospitality. Pruitt and her friend go there so often that when they walk in, the waitresses know to bring them a order of fried pickles. 

Tiffany Brown, one of the servers at the Blue Plate, said the restaurant’s appeal is their “decent Southern cooking and friendly atmosphere.”

The Blue Plate restaurant in Northport opened in January of 2014. It’s is a small chain with three separate locations, there are also two in Dothan. 

Cris Bradshaw and Allen Aldridge opened their first Blue Plate restaurant in 2004. The two partners wanted to open a place with a wide variety to appeal to the masses but still be prepared in the traditional southern way. The Blue Plate prides themselves on making a memorable dinning experience. The service is quick and the food is good. This establishment is the kind of place you would go to catch up with a friend or spend time with family.

Though their dine is experience is home like and enjoyable, The Blue Plate also has a carry out option, so you may enjoy your Blue Plate favorites from the comfort of your home. The restaurant also caters.

So the next long strenuous week you have or when you just craving a home cooked meal go down to Blue Plate to eat and unwind. It will feel like home.

“The Blue Plate is without a doubt one of my favorite places to eat in Tuscaloosa,” Pruitt said.