Mobile’s restaurant world turned over a fresh leaf at the start of 2022, with familiar favorites closing their doors, new concepts opening, and a local chef landing a national television spot.
Cortlandt’s Pizza Pub says goodbye to Spring Hill
The Old Shell Road shopping center lost one of its most popular gathering spots when Cortlandt’s Pizza Pub announced in early January that it would close. The pizzeria had built a loyal following thanks to its lively bar, well-regarded happy hour and attentive staff. Ownership pointed to the widespread staffing shortages that have strained the industry as a factor in the decision. The space sits alongside Rouses, Hemline and Ace Hardware, and the neighboring Red Beard’s Outfitter has also relocated farther east near Nixon’s and the Dew Drop Inn.
Spiffy Fox exits Leinkauf
Leinkauf’s Spiffy Fox Pizza and Pub also confirmed it would shut down permanently. The Irish- and Gaelic-inspired pizzeria, known as well for its fish and chips, had celebrated its first anniversary just as the pandemic upended the industry. Compounding business struggles with recent health issues for its ownership made continuing difficult. The building has a long history of turning out well-loved pizza.
T Marie’s brings Italian to the Loop
Midtown gained a new Italian destination as T Marie’s Ristorante Italiano opened at 2056 Government Street in the Loop. The restaurant grew out of the former Mirko Pasta location; local owners purchased the franchise rights outright, securing access to the recipes without running afoul of naming restrictions tied to the original franchise agreement. On its third day open, the kitchen was still working through a new point-of-sale system and awaiting a liquor license expected in February, but early visitors found the food worth the wait. A second room expands the footprint and helps fill Midtown’s appetite for Italian fare.
Bistro St. Emanuel opens at Fort Conde Inn
Late 2021 brought the debut of Bistro St. Emanuel inside the Fort Conde Inn at 200 St. Emanuel Street. The renovated space offers daily breakfast from 7 to 10 a.m., with several takes on eggs Benedict, a range of omelets, waffles, French toast and pancakes. Sunday brunch runs until 2 p.m.
Mediterranean Sandwich Co. returns downtown
A downtown favorite came back to life: the refreshed Mediterranean Sandwich Co. reopened with its gyros, pita sandwiches, orzo and hummus. Customers who can’t make it in person can order online for delivery.
SOCU’s Erica Barrett heads to the Food Network
Erica Barrett, the force behind SOCU Southern Kitchen and Oyster Bar on Dauphin Street, will appear on Food Network’s competition series “Raid the Fridge.” The show, which airs its episode featuring Barrett on Tuesday, Jan. 25, challenges chefs to build dishes from mystery refrigerators. Barrett is no stranger to national television, having appeared on ABC’s “Shark Tank” and CNBC’s “The Profit,” and her Southern Culture Artisan Foods grits earned a spot on Oprah’s Favorite Things in 2016. The restaurant is also preparing to open SOCU Coffee Bar directly across the street.