It’s not every day one encounters a menu in the shape of a pig wearing a chef’s hat, but vintage menus from the Bay area offer this and more. From unique shapes to unusual menu items and prices that today’s audience would give anything to have back, these menus capture some old favorites that paved the way for the vibrant modern-day restaurant scene.
Ossie’s Bar-B-Q opened in its original location in 1955 on Highway 90. It would ultimately expand to three locations that locals raved about, and this menu from the 1960s featured its delicious offerings. At Ossie’s, a BBQ plate came with beef, pork, ribs, potato salad and rolls, all for only $1.25. A half-dozen oysters was 75 cents, and a hamburger steak came with French fries, salad and rolls for $1.20.
Picklefish was beloved by all for their specialty pizza, burgers and more. With two locations, one Downtown and another by the University of South Alabama, the business remained in operation for about 20 years, from the 1990s through the 2010s. It was the best place to satisfy a late-night craving or join a group of friends for a casual meal.
Roussos Ancient Mariner Restaurant stood on the Causeway until Hurricane Frederic destroyed it in 1979, but the restaurant moved Downtown before closing in 2009. The menu showcased a grizzled seafarer to reflect the seafood-forward menu that included shrimp cocktail and Lobster Thermidor. Some dishes had a Greek flair — reflecting the heritage of owners Zenia and George Roussos — such as the side of Turkish pilaf or Greek salad bowl. Meat options included strip sirloin and Chicken George, so there was something for everyone.
Bayley’s Seafood Restaurant stood on Cedar Point Road. Although known for fresh seafood, Bayley’s also offered prime cuts of meat, and they were so certain of the quality that the menu assured customers of it. The establishment opened in 1947 and closed in 2022, but it will always leave behind its claim to fame as the birthplace of West Indies Salad.
The Nautilus Restaurant was a beloved establishment on Highway 98 in Daphne. The restaurant offered fresh seafood, beautiful views of Mobile Bay and a memorable menu depicting a seashell turned into a sailboat.
In March 1857, the Battle House was only a few years old, but one thing that hasn’t changed over the centuries is its reputation for good food. The menu from the 19th century looked a little different than today’s — boiled tongue, calf’s head brain sauce, mince pies and baked sago pudding. These are just some of the options that modern-day guests might find unusual but, back then, were part of a fine menu.
