Wheelhouse - Opp, Alabama

Erika

Tried 2 dishes:
- NOLA SHRIMP & GRITS - $25
Blackened Wild American Shrimp/Smoked
Gouda Grits/ New Orleans BBQ
Sauce
- FRIED GREEN TOMATOES - $13
Wicked Pimento Cheese/Bacon Jam

The Nola shrimp and grits popped with different flavors. After squeezing the fresh lime on to the center of dish to blend with the onions and tomotoes it was pure delight. The shrimp required no additional sauce because it would interfere with grilled spices that were already present. I particularly liked the creamy texture that the Gouda added to the grits. My spouse would have preferred more fresh ingredients, but it would not be a deal breaker for me. I would gladly order this again. It was filling and hit the spot after a long day.

The fried green tomatoes were a suprising new take on traditional southern comfort appetizer. Wheel House strives to offer modern southern dishes. With that in mind, I have a few observations, the skewer stick holds the multiple layers together and it’s beautiful for presentation, however, it is then left to the imagination has to how to consume it. I attempted to cut it into smaller pieces and I was unable to keep the layers intact. The sauce on the top does not extend to the lower layers, so to remedy this, I sought out combinations of the pimento and fried tomato to dip in the sauce. Then I thought perhaps you were supposed to cut it all up and then mix it with the arugula. I humbly recommend considering making smaller bite-size versions of the dish. This would maintain the integrity of the stacked flavor profile and help customers like me navigate the modern twist. This is the reason for 4 instead if 5 stars.

As a traveler passing through, the staff was very kind and the ambience was welcoming during my first visit to Wheel House. I saw the strings of lights on the patio and look foward to sitting there next time and trying other dishes on their menu. My compliments to whomever created the menu names for the dishes because they were extremely creative amongst all the menus I have ever read and filled me with joy.

Gabriel R

Restaurant Review: The Wheelhouse Restaurant, Alabama

During our recent visit to The Wheelhouse Restaurant in Alabama, we had an overall enjoyable experience, though there were a few aspects of the meal that fell short of expectations.

Starting with the French onion soup, it was a comforting dish, but there was a surprising twist: it was made with oregano instead of thyme. While oregano is a flavorful herb, it didn't quite provide the classic taste profile that makes French onion soup so beloved. It was a unique take, but we found ourselves missing the familiar warmth of thyme. They, as many others choose the topping of Swiss, instead of Gruyère. Another disappointment.

The clam chowder had good flavor, but there was a slight issue with the cream. It seemed like it hadn't fully cooked or blended, which affected the texture. While it was still enjoyable, this detail kept it from being truly memorable.

On a brighter note, the smoked wings were a highlight. They were packed with flavor, perfectly smoky, and had just the right amount of spice. They’re definitely a must-try if you visit.

The Pimento cheese Fried Green Tomatoes were unfortunately a mess. The dish felt disjointed, with flavors that didn’t quite come together, making it a bit of a disappointment.

Finally, the Birria tacos were lacking in seasoning, which was surprising. Tacos usually burst with bold flavors, but these seemed to be missing some key ingredients that would have made them stand out.

Overall, The Wheelhouse Restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere and some enjoyable dishes, particularly the smoked wings. However, a few missteps in seasoning and preparation kept the experience from being exceptional. With a bit of fine-tuning, this place has the potential to be a go-to spot for a delicious meal in the Covington county area of Alabama.

P.S. the GM / bartender was extremely nice & helpful to answer any questions we had about the menu, food, and area.

Mike Raffield

This place is Amazing!! Stopped by for lunch, plenty of inside or outside seating. Staff was friendly and attentive. The menu is really different with lots to choose from. Prices are reasonable. Food was perfect!! Looked around on the way out, the place is very clean. Everything I would want in a restaurant. A really great place.

jamie osmon

It took a little time to be seated, but it was right after football, lunchtime on a Saturday, and there was a car show happening at their front door, so it was understandable. The wait for the food was long, but it was busy, as I said. Our appetizer arrived timely, and our drinks were refilled timely as well. Initially, I thought the food was going to be overpriced. I was wrong. The food was phenomenal, next level. The quality of the food was above the price point, IMO. My wife had the smoked wings and fries with garlic parm, and they were on point. The fries were really good. I had the brisket grilled cheese and spicy mac and cheese, witch were next level and super good, especially for the price....Our waitress, sorry I don't remember her name, but she was dressed as an angel (Halloween), was awesome and made sure we were taken good care of! Highly recommend, and if we are in Opp again, we are from Enterprise, we will definitely come back. Next time, I think I want to try the birria tacos and gouda grits.

Sylvia Roberson

My husband and I stopped in on our way through town. It was hands down amazing! We do not live anywhere near Opp Alabama but we will always find an excuse to come through and grab a bite to eat. I tell all of my family and friends anytime they want a good place to stop and eat this is the place to go it is very out of the way for us but very much worth the drive. I do have some dietary issues and they are accommodating and understanding 5 stars all the way around!

anne hames

We had to wait for over an hour to get our food after we had to go and check with one of the waitresses several times. She never kept us updated. My food was all dried out as if it sat under a heating light for a long time. We had to ask for our check 4 times. Again, the waitress seemed to just ignore us. And to top it all off, the price she charged us did not match the price of the menu. I will not return to the Wheel House.

Cornelia Thrash

The food is remarkable! I love dining here!

So today, 08/02/22, I visited one of my favorite restaurants. My past review of the Wheelhouse restaurant was a testament to my experiences dining in. But today I called in my order. Upon getting to my office, which is 3 minutes away, and opening my meal, I was shocked to see that 5 pieces of thinely sliced grilled squash/zucchini cost me $4! The picture isn't lying! I have not eaten any of the food prior to taking the picture! The fried calamari was very salty, soggy with grease, and cold! Making it inedible! $18.70 spent on a meal and I can only consume the 5 vegetable slices! This is the absolute worst meal I've ever had here. I don't know what the problem may have been, but I pray they work it out because I love this place and I love supporting local non-chain restaurants.

Deamian Fischer

Tried to eat there last night. Restaurant half full 630 pm. Ordered a salad and two entrees. 67 minutes later no food. More importantly the waitress never came back to refill water or check on us. Nothing. Got up to leave. Was asked if we were canceling our order. No apologies no manager Nothing.