Tupelo Honey Brings Contemporary Southern Delight to MidCity
As the sun sets over Huntsville, a new culinary destination has opened its doors to eager foodies and families alike. Tupelo Honey, a beloved Asheville-based eatery, has recently unveiled its vibrant “Southern Kitchen and Bar” at MidCity, and folks are buzzing about what it has to offer.
A Bright Atmosphere
Walking into the restaurant, you’re immediately greeted by an open layout filled with light wood finishes and chic boho-inspired beaded chandeliers. This isn’t your grandmother’s Southern diner! Instead, Tupelo Honey proudly presents a contemporary twist on Southern classics, showing diners that Southern food can be modern and exciting.
“I’m so glad we made reservations!” I said to my husband as we maneuvered through the bustling space. The place was packed, and several groups of hopeful diners were turning away after learning about the wait time. It’s clear that word has spread quickly about this tasty hotspot!
Cheers to the Weekend!
Our friendly waitress, a spirited young woman with curly red hair tucked neatly into a bandana, greeted us enthusiastically. I decided to kick off my weekend vibes with a refreshing “Buzz-Free” Bee’s Knees, a spirit-free cocktail that was “just the thing” for a Friday lunch. The icy drink was bursting with vibrant citrus flavors, delivering a sip of pure joy. Perfect for that craving for the weekend while still facing the workday.
Brunching Right
After a moment of relishing the lively atmosphere, we dove into the menu. My eyes landed on the mountain morning bowl—ideal for anyone who wants a taste of everything without the fear of missing out. Served in a rustic cast-iron skillet, this bowl had it all: two perfectly sunny-side-up eggs, crispy potatoes, savory cheese, and delectable bacon, all layered atop a hearty serving of grits. Add in some green tomato salsa and a sweet red pepper coulis, and you’ve got a dish that’s as much about the sights as it is about the flavors.
Meanwhile, my husband opted for the renowned sweet and spicy fried chicken that Tupelo Honey is known for. Now, here’s where it gets interesting: guests can customize their order to include all white meat, all dark meat, or a mix. In the spirit of culinary research, Andy decided to try both. With a glaze that was sweet at first and then kicked up with just the right amount of heat, this dish is a modern take on Southern fried chicken. Juicy bone-in chicken paired with crispy fries and a side of pickles made for a deliciously balanced meal.
Behind the Scenes
To our delight, Alesha Sisk, Tupelo’s Vice President of People and Culture, stopped by our table. She shared that even though the MidCity location had only opened in the first week of November, certain menu items were already flying off the shelves. “Our mahi-mahi and the bourbon peppercorn-glazed meatloaf are incredibly popular,” Sisk said, smiling. “And let’s not forget chicken and waffles—we have three versions, and they’re all a hit!”
One highlight that truly caught my attention was their “biscuits for a cause.” This initiative began during the pandemic as a way to support employees facing hardships. Sisk shared that the program continues to thrive, providing assistance to Asheville-area employees even amid recent challenges like Hurricane Helene. “These biscuits mean a lot to our team,” she said, genuinely, “and I see their impact every day.”
A Sweet Ending
Having already indulged so much, we decided to treat ourselves to a slice of brown butter pecan pie—an absolute must-share dessert! Rich, nutty, and oh-so-decadent, this pie sealed our dining experience perfectly. For those wanting to impress at home, Tupelo Honey has even shared the recipe on their website, so you can whip up this delightful treat for your Thanksgiving gathering.
As we wrapped up our meal, we noted our total was around $75 after tip, but a more moderate order would easily bring that down. While reservations are not absolutely necessary, I highly recommend making one to ensure you don’t miss out on the exciting flavors and lively ambiance!
So for anyone looking to savor a modern twist on Southern food, be sure to check out Tupelo Honey at MidCity. It might just become your new go-to spot in Huntsville!
