Deli Down South: Huntsville Sees Fresh Bites and Farewells

We've got new flavors rolling into town and a few longtime spots closing the door , the kind of churn that keeps our city's heartbeat unpredictable.

• •A new Southern-style deli chain opens in Madison this month, its first Alabama location
• •1892 East, a beloved local restaurant in Five Points, has permanently closed
• •Ora, a Mediterranean concept from local hospitality vets, debuts this summer at MidCity
• •AvantStay launches a luxury short-term rental community near Research Park
• •The closure of a longstanding BBQ joint in Jones Valley leaves a smoky gap in the scene

If you've driven past the old Madison Centre near I-565 and per the sign, something's brewing at the former Panera spot. That's where Buttermilk & Onion, a Nashville-born deli known for catfish sliders and pimento cheese deviled eggs, is setting up shop. The brand confirmed its first Alabama outpost with a soft opening expected in late May. That's big for sandwich lovers , and a nod to how far north Huntsville's dining gravity is pulling.

But it's not all grand openings. 1892 East, the cozy neighborhood bistro tucked into a historic East Huntsville cottage, closed its doors for good in early April. We checked the site Tuesday , the lights were off, and a handwritten note on the door thanked guests. Owner Meg Wilson hasn't made a public statement, but one regular told us over coffee at Frothy Monkey: "It wasn't just dinner. It was like eating at your smart, artistic friend's house."

Here's the thing: 1892 East didn't just serve duck confit and craft cocktails. It anchored a quiet stretch of Oakwood Avenue, drawing foodies from MidCity and beyond. Its closure, while not shocking , the space had turnover issues pre-pandemic , still stings.

On the flip side, Ora, a new Mediterranean restaurant from the team behind El Palacio, is on track to open in July at MidCity District. Per city permits (Madison County Building Permit #B2024-0412), renovations are underway on the former Sweet Frog space. Expect house-made pitas, grilled lamb, and a meze bar. I've been watching this corridor change for years, and MidCity's food game just leveled up.

And look , we can't ignore the rise of luxury rentals. AvantStay, a national operator, just launched a 32-unit furnished rental community off Research Park Boulevard. These aren't Airbnb crash pads. Think smart homes, concierge-style cleaning, and stays aimed at defense contractors and visiting engineers. It's a sign our short-term market is maturing fast.

Not every story has a silver lining. The closure of Big Al's BBQ on Pulaski Pike, confirmed by a city business license cancellation (HVL-BIZ-77201), marks the end of a 28-year run. No word yet on what's next for the lot.

Keep an eye on Ora. And maybe swing by 1892 East one last time , not to eat, but to appreciate what we're losing. Hville Blast was right: this season's lineup is bittersweet.

FAQ

Q: When is Buttermilk & Onion opening in Madison? A: Expected late May 2024, pending final inspections.

Q: Why did 1892 East close? A: No official reason given. Long-term lease and staffing challenges may have contributed.

Q: Is Ora replacing Sweet Frog at MidCity? A: Yes, in the same footprint. Construction began in March.

Q: What's happening to Big Al's BBQ building? A: Undeveloped. The property remains listed for sale.

Q: Are there job openings at the new deli? A: Buttermilk & Onion is hiring , check their website for Madison positions.