HUNTSVILLE — The table is set and the Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau is ready to treat the palate with a community-wide celebration of the food and drink scene that defines the Rocket City.
It’s time for Culinary Month and the 13th annual Huntsville Restaurant Week.
From atop the 106 Jefferson at Baker & Able in downtown Huntsville, local media, food lovers and social influencers gathered to officially launched what has become a signature summer tradition.
“Throughout August, you are cordially invited to join our month-long celebration of the diverse cuisines and talents that feed the Rocket City,” said Pam Williams, who leads the campaign for the CVB. “Culinary Month’s ‘main course’ is Huntsville Restaurant Week, which extends 10 tasty days, from Aug. 8–17.
“Enjoy exclusive menus and take advantage of special offers from a wide range of restaurateurs.”
Now in its 13th year, Huntsville Restaurant Week was established by the CVB in 2012 to support and promote the area’s dining establishments. In 2022, the event expanded into Culinary Month, a broader initiative recognizing not just restaurants, but the full spectrum of food trucks, breweries, bars and culinary creators across Madison County.
Williams said Huntsville’s growth has brought new flavors and diverse influences to the area.
“Being home to Redstone, Marshall Space Flight Center, and scores of international companies attracts new residents who bring their culinary influences with them,” she said. “This is reflected in the ever-growing variety of options. We encourage everyone to savor the flavors of the local cuisine and take advantage of Culinary Month special events throughout August.”
A feature of this year’s campaign is the Rocket City Dish Pass, a free mobile passport that launches Friday and includes participating restaurants, exclusive specials and local events. Diners can check in at each stop to be entered to win a grand prize, a two-night stay at 106 Jefferson and a $100 gift certificate.
“This is where you’ll find all the specials, the restaurants, and the events throughout August,” Williams said. “Each time you check in, you’re entered to win.”
Rachel Brown, known online as the Rocket City Dietitian, said the week is a highlight of her year.
“This is like our Super Bowl for foodies,” Brown said. “I love supporting local and this is a way to let them shine. You can try lots of different places, and they have really good deals, so it’s a great time to try someplace new or revisit an old favorite.”
Brown, who moved to Huntsville in 2016, said she’s seen the city’s food scene grow dramatically over the past decade.
“I’m so proud of our city. Every year it’s getting better. More things are coming, more openings. Local makes Huntsville Huntsville,” she said.
To follow along or get involved in Culinary Month, visit huntsville.org, diners are also encouraged to tag their experiences using #DineHSV. If you prefer to live vicariously or just want suggestions, Rachel Bown said she will be posting Restaurant Week everyday @RocketCityDietitian on social media.
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