There's no better time than at the beginning of the year to make a bucket list of all the restaurants you've been wanting to visit. Listed below are 12 Alabama restaurants that everyone should give a try. Instead of trying them all at once, they've been divided up monthly. Also, because of their delicious food and welcoming atmosphere, they're considered some of the best restaurants in Alabama. So, don't forget to add them to your dining bucket list. You're going to love them!

1. The Bright Star - Bessemer (January)

The Bright Star is a great restaurant to kick off the new year with a delicious meal. Established in 1907, it's Alabama's oldest family-owned restaurant. It specializes in Greek-style steak and seafood, and it welcomes visitors from all across the Southeast and beyond. The next time you're in the Bessemer area, consider giving this historic restaurant a try. You won't be disappointed!

You can learn more about The Bright Star.

2. Dot's Soul Food Restaurant - Hillsboro (February)

Dot's Soul Food Restaurant is a wonderful place to escape the cold and warm up with a plate of delicious country cuisine. From crispy fried chicken to perfectly creamed potatoes, there's something on the menu for everyone. It's so good that it'll remind you of Grandma's cooking.

You can learn more about Dot's Soul Food Restaurant.

3. 360 Grille - Florence (March)

For an incredible view to go along with your dinner, a visit to Alabama's 360 Grille is a must. 360 Grille is located atop of the city of Florence's Renaissance Tower and offers an incredible view of the Tennessee River Valley. It's also Alabama's only revolving restaurant. For an unforgettable dining experience, be sure to make a reservation at this one-of-a-kind restaurant. You can learn more about 360 Grille.

4. The Garage - Birmingham (April)

When the weather is warm, you'll want to give The Garage a try. The Garage is one of Alabama's most quirky restaurants because of its courtyard, which consists of concrete patio furniture, metal junk pieces, etc. Because of the restaurant's delicious homemade sandwiches, The Garage has become a popular lunch spot over the years. You can learn more about The Garage.

5. Rattlesnake Saloon - Tuscumbia (May)

Rattlesnake Saloon, which is located off the beaten path, opened for business in 2009 and is one of Alabama's most unique restaurants. Situated in the side of a cave, this award-winning restaurant welcomes countless visitors each year because of its one-of-a-kind atmosphere. It's also been featured on television and in several types of publications. You can learn more about Rattlesnake Saloon.

6. Lulu's - Gulf Shores (June)

During the summer, you might be traveling to the Gulf Shores area. If so, you'll want to give Lulu's a try. This family-friendly restaurant offers a variety of delicious food, in addition to several fun outside activities. If you have children, you'll definitely want to give this restaurant a try. You can learn more about Lulu's.

7. Kowaliga Restaurant - Alexander City (July)

Another restaurant where you'll enjoy a one-of-a-kind view, especially as the sun sets, is Kowaliga Restaurant, which is located on the banks of Lake Martin. Since opening for business in the 1950s, this secluded lakefront restaurant has welcomed people from all across the state and beyond for its delicious food and spectacular view. You can learn more about Kowaliga Restaurant.

8. Mossy Grove Schoolhouse Restaurant - Troy (August)

As the new school year begins for most towns in Alabama, you'll want to try Mossy Grove Schoolhouse Restaurant. This unique restaurant is one of Troy's best-kept secrets. Housed inside of a former schoolhouse that first operated in 1856, this restaurant specializes in delicious Southern cuisine. There's something on the menu for everyone. You can learn more about Mossy Grove Schoolhouse Restaurant.

9. Dreamland Bar-B-Que - Tuscaloosa (September)

The original Dreamland Bar-B-Que is a great place to eat during football season on Game Day. This famous barbecue restaurant, which has been in business since 1958, is most famous for its ribs. If you love barbecue, you'll certainly want to add this restaurant to your bucket list. After just one visit, you'll wonder why you waited so long to give it a try. You can learn more about Dreamland Bar-B-Que.

10. Gaines Ridge Dinner Club - Camden (October)

During the Halloween season, a great restaurant to try is Gaines Ridge Dinner Club. Located inside of an 1820s antebellum home, it's one of Alabama's most haunted restaurants. Constant cries from a baby have been heard, and a woman has also been seen floating past a window. If you're not afraid of experiencing a little paranormal activity with your meal, you'll want to give this restaurant a try. You can learn more about Gaines Ridge Dinner Club.

11. Bates House of Turkey - Greenville (November)

When Thanksgiving Day arrives, you'll be eating lots and lots of turkey, so what better place to fit in some practice than at Bates House of Turkey. This family owned and operated restaurant opened for business in 1970 and serves everything turkey, including turkey wraps, turkey sandwiches, turkey salads, and turkey soups. If you're the ultimate turkey lover, you'll love everything about this restaurant.

You can learn more about Bates House of Turkey.

12. Wildflower Cafe - Mentone (December)

What better way to close out the year than with a trip to the mountains. One of Alabama's most popular mountain towns is Mentone. If you happen to be in this mountain town in December, consider giving the Wildflower Cafe a try. It's one of Alabama's most charming restaurants, and its famous tomato pie can't be beat! After just one bite, you'll quickly agree.

You can learn more about Wildflower Cafe.

Have you ever eaten at any of these 12 Alabama restaurants? If so, please share your dining experience(s) with us in the comments below. If you think any other restaurants belong on this list, please share those with us as well.

For more information about The Bright Star, be sure to take a look at the following article: 10 Interesting Facts You Might Not Know About The Bright Star, Alabama’s Oldest Restaurant.