The Avenue Pub – A Review

On Friday, two friends and I had lunch at the Avenue Pub in Temerson Square in downtown Tuscaloosa. This was the first time for me and I wasn't disappointed.

First of all, the lunch menu was very manageable. It included just 4 "starters", 3 "salads" and 5 "main" courses. A small menu means a better lunch. I didn't have to comb over it for 20 minutes and our server could answer any question in about 1 second and when the chef can narrow his/her focus, there's more love on your plate. Two of us ordered the fish tacos and the other the grilled chicken club.

I love a fish taco. The Avenue Pub's fish tacos may be the best I have had in Tuscaloosa. Pan seared cod on two flour tortillas, topped with house made tartar sauce, queso fresco cheese (a Mexican fresh white cheese that's firm-textured and slightly salty), red onions, house made guacamole (next level people) and cilantro served with black beans and rice and a lime wedge on the side.

The combination of flavors is hard to describe. Fresh is the first word that comes to mind. I squeezed the lime wedge over both tacos and and after the first bite I swear I heard seagulls. It's one of those lunches where I was a little sad when it was gone. I complimented my lunch with a Yellowhammer Belgian White(with an orange slice) from their extensive Alabama craft beer choices.

I didn't taste the chicken club this time but that's what I'm ordering next time. (the next time coming soon). It comes fried or grilled and topped with provolone, bacon and spicy mustard served with mixed greens, red onions and mayo. I want to try everything on the menu!

The Avenue Pub is owned and operated by Craig Williams. I made it a point to find the him and personally tell him how fantastic I thought the food was. This past January, they celebrated their first year of business. I wish them many more successful years!