Cotton Row

When your Alabama vacation requires fine dining in a historic setting, make a reservation at Cotton Row.

Opened in 2009 by Chef James Boyce, this award-winning restaurant is one of Huntsville's premier culinary experiences. 

Housed in an 1821 three-story brick, shotgun-style building, the restaurant took its name from the cotton exchange era. 

Chef Boyce has crafted Modern American cuisine infused with Southern influences. Combined with the award-winning wine cellar and seasonally driven menu, it's no wonder the restaurant is popular. 

The eatery is part of Boyce Restaurant Concepts, Inc., which also manages Pane e Vino Pizzeria, Commerce Kitchen, and Grille on Main. While each serves different cuisine, each bears the creative touch of Chef Boyce, who brings excellence to every menu.

Cotton Row is renowned for impeccable meal presentations and exceptional service. Here, warm hospitality, atmosphere, and gourmet entrees make for a remarkable dining experience. Patrons often mention that the romantic, sophisticated ambiance is ideal for special occasions.

The menu is where Chef James Boyce flexes his award-winning culinary skills. Using locally sourced ingredients, he crafts regional flavors and Southern classics into bona fide masterpieces of flavor and texture.

Adding Cotton Row to your dining itinerary will reward you with mouth-watering entrees served with elegance in a historical setting.

Vibe

As mentioned, the eatery occupies a stately brick 19th-century building. The corner location makes it easy to find, and the entryway's clean lines and understated elegance set the tone for what awaits inside.

Inside, sophistication combines with an industrial yet refined decor. Soft lighting and rich textures complement warm wood accents and exposed brick walls. White tablecloths adorn the tables, while neutral tones and rustic touches create a harmonious, timeless feel.

The lively and intimate atmosphere offers an ambiance that is comfortable yet undeniably upscale. Such duality makes it ideal for a romantic dinner or celebrating a day exploring the Huntsville Museum of Art.

A variety of dining areas further enhances your meal. Options include a cozy main dining room, a bar area for a more casual setting, and an outdoor seating area. These elements make Cotton Row a must-visit, adding a layer of culinary sophistication to your Huntsville getaway.

Cotton Row: Menu & Drinks

The starters raise the bar regarding appetizers, paving the way for a culinary adventure. The options seem limitless, from the Cornmeal Crusted Apalachicola Oysters and Lightly Seared Sea Scallops to Southern Fried Green Tomatoes and Chef's Charcuterie Board.  

The entrees read like a who's who in regional fare, showcasing seafood and prime beef.

A seasonal fish favorite is the Roasted Gulf Red Snapper. The flavorful dish features rock shrimp, summer succotash, and fresh basil. The pink lemon butter combines the flavor into a seafood lover's dream come true.

The Bourbon Glazed Smoked Duck Breast showcases the best of the South, with flavor bursts of regional bourbon and smokiness from the grill. An orange sauce is the pièce de résistance that perfectly compliments the duck. The meal comes with toasted pecan wild rice, savoy cabbage, and Thumbelina carrots. 

Steak lovers will want to try the Braised Black Angus Beef Short Ribs with portobello mushrooms, arugula, blistered tomatoes, and creamy white grits.  

Another hit is the Cotton Row 8 oz Wagyu Burger. This juicy, mouth-watering handheld features shaved country ham, aged cheddar cheese, and hickory aioli. The parmesan fries are the perfect accompaniment, making the meal a go-to after exploring Big Spring International Park.

Like the food, the drinks are equally impressive, with craft cocktails offering diners a myriad of choices, while the extensive wine list will pair with any entree. 

Cotton Row celebrates regional flavors with impeccable service and a one-of-a-kind ambiance. Dining here will enhance your Alabama trip with its blend of history, culinary artistry, and warm hospitality.