Madison’s dining scene is getting a new wine-forward addition next month, as Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants prepares to open its first Alabama location on February 9 along Highway 72.
The concept blends a contemporary American restaurant with a Napa-style tasting room and retail market, giving guests a place to dine, sample wines and browse curated selections in one space.
Founded in 2005, the brand has expanded across the country and focuses on pairing approachable dishes with curated wines.
For General Manager Rebekah Casner, the move to Madison was as much about the community as the restaurant itself.
“I did a slight detour to spend a couple of days here, and the people in the shops of downtown Madison were so incredibly friendly. It felt like a Hallmark movie. It convinced me to make the move,” Casner said.
Casner has spent more than a decade with Cooper’s Hawk, beginning her hospitality career at a country club in Illinois.
“I started working Friday night fish fries at our local country club in Illinois when I was young. That was my first serving job and I’ve been in it ever since,” she said.
She has spent the last several years traveling to support restaurant openings and operations across the country, from the Midwest to the East Coast and Southwest.
The Madison culinary team will be led by Danielle Rice in collaboration with Executive Chef Matt McMillin, focusing on contemporary American dishes with international influences. Each menu item is listed with a bin number to guide guests toward recommended wine pairings.
Guests can expect lunch, brunch, happy hour and dinner service, along with gluten-free and kids’ menus, carryout and catering options.
The menu includes dishes such as filet medallions, salmon, gnocchi carbonara and shrimp selections, with suggested wines designed to complement each plate.
Casner said the restaurant’s wine club culture is one of its defining features.
“The loyalty of our wine club members. They take the term ‘regulars’ to a whole new level. There are so many that have become great lifelong friends and a part of our Coopers Hawk Family,” she said.
Cooper’s Hawk produces more than 60 varietals and has received hundreds of wine awards, with options intended to appeal to both casual wine drinkers and seasoned enthusiasts. In addition to wine, the restaurant will offer craft cocktails and wine-based sangrias.
When asked about her favorites on the menu, Casner pointed to comfort food and brunch staples.
“The Short Rib Risotto is my comfort food. Its just so rich and delicious. If I ever need a reason to go out for brunch… Boozey Iced Coffee is that reason,” she said.
The Madison restaurant will include a spacious indoor dining room, a covered patio, private dining space for special events and a tasting room and retail area at the front of the venue.
Designers incorporated nods to Madison’s agricultural roots and the region’s Rocket City identity, using warm tones, natural materials and local artwork to create a welcoming atmosphere.
Casner said she is looking forward to building a local team and becoming part of the community.
“We are really starting to connect as a team on amazing levels. I’m excited to see what we can accomplish here in Madison,” she said.
The opening adds another dining option to the rapidly developing Highway 72 corridor, which continues to attract new restaurants and retail destinations.
Sherri Blevins is a reporter for 256 Today.
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