Salem's Diner named best in Alabama by a 3rd different foodie publication

Homewood diner receives national recognition for third time in three and a half years

Mar. 18, 2026 at 8:33am

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Salem's Diner in Homewood, Alabama has been named the best diner in the state by popular national foodie website Tasting Table, marking the third time in the past three and a half years that the old-school American breakfast and lunch spot has received such recognition from a major food publication.

Why it matters

Salem's Diner has become a beloved institution in Homewood, known for its hospitality, classic diner fare, and signature Philly cheesesteaks. The repeated national accolades highlight the diner's enduring popularity and its status as a must-visit destination for food lovers in Alabama.

The details

In May 2025, mashed.com declared Salem's the best diner in Alabama, and three and a half years ago, in 2022, the diner topped Food & Wine's list of the best diners in the state. The latest recognition from Tasting Table cements Salem's reputation as one of the top dining destinations in Alabama.

  • In May 2025, mashed.com declared Salem's the best diner in Alabama.
  • Three and a half years ago, in 2022, Salem's topped Food & Wine's list of the best diners in the state.
  • Tasting Table has now officially named Salem's Diner as the best diner in Alabama in 2026.

The players

Salem's Diner

An old-school American breakfast and lunch spot located in Homewood, Alabama that has received national recognition as the best diner in the state from multiple foodie publications.

Wayne Salem

The current owner of Salem's Diner, who took over the business from his father Ed Salem in 1983 and opened the Homewood location in the mid-2000s.

Jennifer Andress

The Mayor of Homewood, who expressed excitement about the national recognition for Salem's Diner and welcomed visitors to the city to enjoy a great meal there.

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What they’re saying

“Salem's Diner is the very best of Homewood, located right in the heart of downtown and serving the best breakfast, burgers and cheese steak sandwich around. I am thrilled to see Salem's get national recognition, and we welcome everyone to Homewood to visit and enjoy a great meal!”

— Jennifer Andress, Mayor of Homewood

“When we moved operations to Homewood in 2006, I wasn't ready for retirement but I wanted to do something small to keep me occupied. But Salem's Diner just took off—I never imagined I would be this busy.”

— Wayne Salem, Owner, Salem's Diner

What’s next

The continued success and national recognition of Salem's Diner is likely to draw even more visitors to Homewood to experience the classic diner fare and hospitality that has made it a beloved institution in the community.

The takeaway

Salem's Diner's repeated selection as the best diner in Alabama by multiple national foodie publications underscores the enduring appeal of classic American diner culture and the ability of a family-owned, community-focused establishment to thrive in the modern era.