
Central Restaurant
Experience sophisticated American dining in a dramatic, renovated warehouse. Creative fare, impeccable service, and an inviting atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

Central Restaurant

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience sophisticated American dining in a dramatic, renovated warehouse. Creative fare, impeccable service, and an inviting atmosphere.
"The food was absolutely amazing! Rivals all of the posh 5 star restaurants in Nashville!"
Book Ahead
Reservations are recommended to guarantee a table at this popular spot.
Beat Parking Hassles
Consider off-peak times or weekdays for easier parking.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
American
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Upscale Warehouse Ambiance
Sophisticated dining in a beautifully renovated 1890s warehouse with exposed brick and gas lanterns.

Skillfully Prepared American Fare
Creative American dishes with Southern twists, using local and seasonal ingredients.

Exceptional Service
Impeccable and personalized service, with staff going the extra mile to create a memorable experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ahead
Reservations are recommended to guarantee a table at this popular spot.
Beat Parking Hassles
Consider off-peak times or weekdays for easier parking.
Explore Unique Flavors
Try inventive dishes like Gochujang rubbed Lamb Ribs for an exceptional taste.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ahead
Reservations are recommended to guarantee a table at this popular spot.
Beat Parking Hassles
Consider off-peak times or weekdays for easier parking.
Explore Unique Flavors
Try inventive dishes like Gochujang rubbed Lamb Ribs for an exceptional taste.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Central Restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with impeccable service and a captivating atmosphere in a historic warehouse setting. Guests rave about the creative American cuisine, noting dishes like the short ribs and sea bass, though some find the overall food experience not entirely living up to the hype. Parking can be a challenge, and some diners noted minor inconsistencies with food preparation or staff attire not matching the upscale ambiance.
"We used to come here all the time when we lived in Alabama. After being away for 2 and a half years, it's still one of the best restaurants we've been to. They changed their short rib recipe a bit. It's still divine, but we prefer the old recipe"
Sam Liaw
"The atmosphere was great and the service was over the top. One of the servers took the time to sing. You’re so beautiful to me for my wife. Overall, that was a great evening. Unfortunately, the food was not up to the hype that I have been given. I would say it was an OK meal but nothing that was not my socks off. We may go back again, but not for sure."
RVPeak
"Incredible experience with Cece on the evening of July 26th! I cannot say enough good things about this establishment. From the service to the ambiance to the perfectly curated menu… absolutely in love with this place! The gas lanterns on the wall and the stunning flower arrangement in the center made for a beautiful setting. The huge light fixtures above us had the perfect amount of light that was calm and not too bright. The staff is so pleasant and makes sure that everything is well cared for. The bartender made a virgin Bloody Mary and it wasn’t an issue which I have ran into in the past at other places I’ve visited. They were very accommodating to anyone with a food allergy. I had the pork tenderloin with a strawberry sauce that was beyond delicious. My sister had the lamb and my dad had the teres major. We had the best desserts here and the presentation for every single plate was top notch. I’ve eaten at Michelin Star restaurants and truly this presentation is up there with the best! You will not be disappointed in your experience here. 12/10"
Felicia Weston
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Central Restaurant serves sophisticated American cuisine with creative twists and Southern influences.
Yes, it is highly recommended to make reservations in advance to secure a table, especially during peak times.
The restaurant is set in a beautifully renovated 1890s warehouse, featuring an upscale and inviting atmosphere with exposed brick and gas lanterns.
Diners suggest trying unique dishes like Gochujang rubbed Lamb Ribs or the wood-roasted oyster appetizer.
Parking can be a challenge, so it's advisable to plan for extra time to find a spot, especially on busier evenings.
Yes, the restaurant is accommodating to food allergies and offers vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
Top Restaurants In Montgomery Alabama
Nestled in the heart of Montgomery’s downtown district, Central is one of the most exciting restaurants in the city, and is situated within a beautifully renovated former warehouse built in the 1890s. Boasting an interior full of exposed brick, gently flickering gas lanterns, a central bar made from reclaimed wood and a busy open kitchen the restaurant is all about class, while head chef Leonardo Maurelli, a native of Panama and winner of the Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Alliance’s 2011 Chef of the Year Award, creates seasonal menus based around traditional and contemporary American cuisine with a distinct Southern twist. Menu highlights include dishes such as the wood-roasted oyster appetiser and hickory-crisped duck quarters entrée.
Three Enchanting Getaways in Montgomery for Valentine's Day
Central has a Valentine's Day menu featuring delights such as velvety Lobster Bisque, a tantalizing Surf and Turf, and the sweet perfection of a Chocolate Lava Cake. Opt for the classic route and make reservations for a fine dining experience at Ravello Ristorante Montgomery. Savor the exquisite culinary offerings at Taste, where their specially curated four-course Valentine's Day menu ensures a palate-pleasing journey and the creation of enduring memories on this special evening dedicated to love and exceptional cuisine.
The Best Restaurants in Montgomery, a City Serious About Eating
Downtown Montgomery gets a dose of metropolitan cool at Central, housed in a historic building with exposed brick and soaring ceilings. Chef Jason McGarry’s menu blends Southern staples with global influences, but the fresh catch pictured here is a standout: blackened and served over clams, mussels, shrimp, potatoes, cipollini onions, and a broth of smoked tomato and fennel. The cocktails are just as serious as the food—ask for the bartender’s off-menu recommendations and thank me later.
Fine Dining Guide For Montgomery, Alabama – Simply Southern Mom
Central Located in Downtown Montgomery, Central is an “upscale casual restaurant.” Executive Chef Brandon Burleson believes in creating traditional Southern fare with new twists. He utilizes local and seasonal ingredients in his dishes and partners with local farmers, cheese makers, and craft breweries. This is working because Central has been the number one rated restaurant in Montgomery, AL on TripAdviser and the OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award recipient for the third year in a row.
9 Gorgeous Wedding Venues in Montgomery, AL (2022)
’ to a downtown warehouse from 1895 for your industrial wedding venue in Montgomery. This fully-renovated second-story space sits above Central Restaurant is known as 129 Coosa, featuring a full-service bar, state-of-the-art sound system, and 600-square-foot balcony to go with 3,000-square-foot indoor space. Tables, linens, china, a dance floor, premium sound system, and more come with your rental for 150 seated people or 300 for a cocktail reception.
Meet Montgomery's Most Beloved Restaurants
According to Alabama News Center, “For a fine-dining experience that spotlights unique dishes made from regionally sourced ingredients, look no further than Central in downtown Montgomery. Central is an upscale casual restaurant with an eclectic menu that offers a memorable meal no matter what you’re craving. Its dinner entrees include fresh seafood from the Alabama Gulf, hot honey fried chicken and pasta made in-house.
15 Best Restaurants in Montgomery, AL (2023 Update)
Central is an upscale traditional American restaurant known for its expansive warehouse dining area and creative menu. It is located in the center of Montgomery’s downtown district serving some of the most exciting food in the city. The menu features dishes from all sorts of international persuasions, including honey-whipped goats cheese, hickory-crisped duck quarters, and cornmeal-dusted, pan-fried trout.
Guide to the Best Restaurants in Mongomery, AL
Central Restaurant is one of the most popular spots in town, and even better, it's owned by local Montgomery residents. If you're looking for tasty starters, then you should try the Central's Charcuterie Board, the Shrimp Bao Buns, the She Crab Bisque, or the Gochujang Rubbed Lamb. For your main dish, try the Scallops, the Slow Cooked Beef Short Rib, the Chilean Sea Bass, or the Pork Tenderloin.
Moving to Montgomery? Here Are 12 Things to Know
Order the Wild Mushroom Farrotto, Roasted Guinea Fowl, or Duck Au Poivre at Central, one of Montgomery’s best restaurants. Sit down to order fresh and delicious Montgomery seafood like Argentina Shrimp, Alaskan Snow Crab Legs, or a Scallop Po-Boy Sandwich at Capitol Oyster Bar. Enjoy the tastes of Central America with the Coctel de Camaron, Puerco Verde, or Alambre de Bistec at Sol Restaurante.
8 Favorite Places to Eat in Montgomery, Alabama
If you’re looking to splurge on evening of fine dining, Central is the place to go. Although not the cheapest in town, Central offers a delicious fusion twist on classic Southern dishes. Paired with the delightful ambiance of a warm, exposed, red-brick converted warehouse complete with flickering gas lanterns, it’s easy to understand why Central is a “worth-the-splurge” town favorite.
48 Best Things to Do in Montgomery, Alabama at Night
Indulge in a culinary adventure at Central Restaurant, a renowned dining establishment in Montgomery, AL. Known for its exquisite cuisine and warm ambiance, Central Restaurant offers a menu that combines classic flavors with a modern twist. From delectable appetizers to mouthwatering main courses and decadent desserts, every dish is meticulously prepared using the finest ingredients.
Where To Eat in Montgomery
After exploring Montgomery’s fabulous museums, a dinner at Central will be the pièce de résistance. It’s located steps away from The Legacy Museum and the Hank Williams Museum. It has a cozy dining room, but the outdoor patio gets my recommendation as a great place for enjoying your meal, people watching, and listening to the occasional live music that is played in the alley.
15 Best Restaurants In Montgomery AL You Must Try
Central Restaurant is one of the upscale downtown Montgomery restaurants that is locally owned and sources its ingredients locally. It has been rated one of the best restaurants in the area and prides itself on being. acasual upscale dining experience and even offers private dining rooms for those celebrating special occasions with friends and family or work events.
6 more Montgomery dishes to add to your
With such an enticing menu, it would be easy to fill up on appetizers, cocktails and entrees at Central restaurant in Montgomery, but we’re telling you now: don’t skip dessert. Specifically, don’t skip the Georgia Peach Cheesecake, which is made with graham crumbs, fresh peach compote and a vanilla bean Chantilly cream for a taste that is as fresh as it is sweet.
Where to Eat and Drink in Montgomery, Alabama
Central is an upscale eatery offering down-home cooking with a special spin courtesy of Executive Chef Brandon Burleson, whose culinary style has been molded by foodie meccas like New Orleans and the Caribbean. I ordered blackened shrimp served on a bed of orecchiette pasta and tossed in an herb cream sauce, and it hit that sweet spot of familiar but unexpected.
Best Places to Eat in Montgomery, AL
The atmosphere at Central perfectly aligns with the style of food: true southern comfort food with a sophisticated twist and a touch of cajun influence. This is why Central has made my list of best places to eat in Montgomery AL. Another reason, Central is on my list of the best places to eat in Montgomery, AL is because I just love the open kitchen concept.
Top Fine Dining Restaurants in Montgomery, AL
Housed in a beautifully restored warehouse in downtown Montgomery, Central blends rustic charm with urban elegance. The open kitchen concept allows guests to see chefs at work, crafting dishes that highlight Southern roots with contemporary flair. Think wood-fired Gulf fish, house-made pasta, and creative appetizers like duck confit egg rolls.
Coffee, doughnuts and a nice walk: 24 Hours in Montgomery
The best restaurant in town, and by far, is Central, which serves clever regional cuisine in a historic downtown warehouse (it's adjacent to the Legacy Museum). The avocado and watermelon gazpacho is a unique refresher, but whatever you do, order the chef's doughnuts, perfectly fried and with a miraculous lemon custard for dipping.
The 10 Best Wedding Venues in Montgomery (City), AL
Central is an historic wedding venue located in Montgomery, Alabama. A converted 19th-century warehouse, the venue is a...Read more restaurant that offers a classic vintage ambiance for hosting wedding events.Facilities and Capacities Central offers three indoor and outdoor event spaces. The largest of these is...
48 Hours in Montgomery, Alabama: Travel Guide
If you stay at the Renaissance Hotel while in Montgomery, Central will be extremely close to you and you will definitely want to check it out. Central is rated as the #1 restaurant in Montgomery on TripAdvisor. In addition, it was also the 2019 OpenTable Diner’s Choice Award recipient for the fourth year in a row.
Wedding Reception Venues in Montgomery, Alabama – The Checkers Montgomery
Central is a semi-formal restaurant and event venue, located in the heart of Montgomery’s Down-town entertainment district. Rated the best restaurant in Montgomery, Alabama in the 2107 OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award for the third consecutive year. Central offers three private rooms accommodating 10-300 guests.
15 Best Things To Do In Montgomery, Alabama
Feast on internationally influenced Southern dishes made with local ingredients at Central. Conjure up the Amalfi Coast with simple but elegant Italian fare at Ravello Ristorante. Vintage Year, a wine shop turned fine dining restaurant, wows with its decadent steak and excellent wine list.
Highest-rated Restaurants in Montgomery, According to Tripadvisor
- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (742 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5)- Type of cuisine: American- Price: $$$$- Address: 129 Coosa St, Montgomery, AL 36104-2506- Read more on Tripadvisor. You may also like: Coat drives near Montgomery
16 Best Restaurants in Montgomery, AL 2023
Central is in the middle of downtown Montgomery and has some of the most interesting food the city has to offer. The menu has dishes from all over the world, like hickory-crisped duck quarters, honey-whipped goat cheese, and pan-fried trout that has been dusted with cornmeal.
7 Things To Do In Montgomery, AL (That Won't Break The Bank)
Start your gastronomic adventure at Central, a downtown favorite known for its innovative Southern cuisine. Housed in a converted warehouse, the restaurant offers a unique blend of rustic charm and contemporary style, with dishes that highlight fresh, local ingredients.
12 Best Restaurants in Montgomery, Alabama – Tidetrips
History and Significance: Opened in 2018, Central’s creative farm-to-table dishes quickly earned acclaim. Its dedicated use of local ingredients helps redefine Montgomery’s dining scene with seasonal delicacies. The Chef received a James Beard Award nomination in 2020.
List of best restaurants & breakfast spots in Montgomery AL
What customers say: This upscale American restaurant gets top reviews for the quality of food and exquisite service. Central would be a great date night spot after the games on Saturday. The menu includes fresh Gulf seafood, local meats, greens and more.
Exploring the Best Places to Eat in Montgomery, AL
Next up is Central Restaurant, a popular spot for lunch and dinner. The restaurant offers traditional American fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and some specialty dishes. The hearty portions are sure to leave you full and satisfied.
19 Best Restaurants in Montgomery, Alabama to Try Today
This sophisticated restaurant will leave a lasting impression. The interior is decorated boldly and dramatically, yet it still feels cozy. Since the building is from the late 19th century, you can feel the history in the dining room!
The 20 Best Dining Spots in Montgomery for 2023, Expertly Reviewed and Ranked
129 Coosa StreetMontgomery, AL 36104(334) 517-1155 Visit Website See Menu Open in Google Maps. Central is an upscale traditional American restaurant known for its expansive warehouse dining area and creative menu.
23 THINGS TO DO IN MONTGOMERY AL TO CAPTURE ITS RIVETING PAST AND PRESENT
Sandwiched between The Legacy Museum and Riverwalk Stadium, Central is the top-rated restaurant in Montgomery, and for good reason. We enjoyed dinner and cocktails here after catching a Montgomery Biscuits game.
Where to Eat in Montgomery, Alabama
Central– (Downtown) This is the nicest restaurant in Montgomery. The menu constantly changes and it is always phenomenal. Central is located in an old downtown warehouse building with an awesome atmosphere.
Montgomery, Alabama Weekend Getaway
Central – I think Central ties with Vintage Year for the absolute best food we had on our trip to Montgomery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit