Montgomery Celebrates Perennial’s Recognition on The New York Times Restaurant List 2026

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Experience Montgomery is celebrating a major national recognition for Montgomery’s culinary community as Perennial Restaurant has been named to The New York Times Restaurant List 2026, recognizing 50 standout restaurants across the United States.

Perennial is one of only two Alabama restaurants selected for the 2026 list, joining Little Bird in Fairhope and placing Montgomery among destinations represented in one of the country’s most prominent annual restaurant features.

Located at 1914 Mulberry Street in Montgomery, Perennial has built its dining experience around locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and a commitment to sustainability. The restaurant works with farmers and producers throughout Alabama, allowing what is fresh and in season to shape its menu while incorporating thoughtful practices aimed at reducing waste.

“This is an incredible recognition for Perennial and a proud moment for Montgomery,” said Ron Simmons, Chief Destination Officer, Experience Montgomery. “Our culinary community is an important part of the experience we offer visitors, and Perennial represents so much of what makes Montgomery special — creativity, hospitality, and a strong connection to our local community. To see that recognized on a national stage is exciting not only for Perennial, but for our entire destination.”

The New York Times’ 2026 Restaurant List was developed by a 16-person scouting team that traveled across the country in search of memorable dining experiences. The 50 restaurants selected for the list are not ranked. Perennial was recognized for its creative use of Alabama-grown ingredients, vegetable-forward approach, and commitment to using ingredients that might otherwise go to waste.

Perennial’s menu reflects relationships with farms and purveyors throughout Alabama, including producers in Montgomery and across the River Region. Its approach extends beyond the menu: the restaurant’s century-old building incorporates repurposed materials, vintage tableware and other elements that reinforce its focus on sustainability.

The recognition further strengthens the city’s growing reputation as a destination where food, culture and community come together.

“Visitors increasingly want to experience a destination through its food, and Montgomery has a culinary story worth traveling for,” said Ron. “National recognition like this introduces new audiences to what is happening here and gives travelers another reason to put Montgomery on their list.”

Perennial joins a growing collection of locally owned restaurants, chefs, and culinary experiences contributing to Montgomery’s evolving food scene and the overall visitor experience. See the full list at: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2026/dining/best-restaurants-america.html.
To learn more about dining in Montgomery, visit Experience Montgomery and download our app to start exploring all the city has to offer.
 
ABOUT EXPERIENCE MONTGOMERY
Experience Montgomery, a division of the Montgomery Regional Chamber, is the official destination marketing organization for Montgomery, Alabama, and a leading tourism driver for the River Region. With a focus on sharing the city’s powerful story and unmatched southern hospitality, Experience Montgomery promotes the region as a hub for history, culture, sports, outdoor adventure, and group travel—including meetings, conferences, and tournaments. By attracting visitors and events to the area, the organization helps drive regional economic growth, support small businesses, create jobs, and enhance quality of life throughout Central Alabama. Learn more at www.experiencemontgomeryal.org.