December 2025: 4 Local Restaurant Dishes to Try

From The Hammer burger at The Hammered Cow to the Pan Roasted Snapper at Voyagers, here’s what our food contributors are raving about this month.

The Hammer at The Hammered Cow

The Hammer from The Hammered Cow // Photo by Elizabeth Gelineau

“If you’re in the mood for a serious burger, the Hammer burger from the Hammered Cow at the Insider does not disappoint. Three perfectly seared smash patties are stacked high with your choice of American, provolone and pepper jack cheeses, plus bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion and their signature hammer sauce. Personally, you have got to add jalapenos with pepper jack for a little heat with the savory sauce. Pair it with a side of fries, and you have yourself an all-star meal.” – Andrew Trattles, Technical Assistant to the President / Mechanical Engineer, Hargrove Engineers and Constructors

The Hammered Cow • 518 Dauphin St., Mobile

Cauliflower Steak Sandwich at Kingfisher

“On a whim, I went rogue from my typical orders and ordered the cauliflower steak sandwich at Kingfisher — definitely not my usual pick for a meal. But wow, this dish totally surprised me! The cauliflower was sliced thick and deep-fried. It tasted spicy and was perfectly crispy, with a firm bite that held up like a real steak. Served on a burger bun, it was way more filling and satisfying than I expected. Consider me converted (at least for one meal)!” – Trin Ollinger, Owner, Ollinger Property Management

Kingfisher • 805 S Mobile St., Fairhope. 383-4430

The Philly Cheesesteak Combo at the Shipyard Cafe

“I recently had the opportunity to dine at The Shipyard Cafe. I ordered the fully-loaded Philly Cheesesteak combo with a side of fries, lemon pepper wings and a fresh glass of Southern sweet tea. Wow, talk about flavor and freshness! The shaved steak and cheese went perfectly with the peppers and onions. I highly recommend the entire menu to all, but I have a joy and love for the freshness of the Philly cheesesteak. Enjoy!” – Enoch Lamar Smith, President, Easy Heating & Cooling

The Shipyard Cafe • 101 Telegraph Road, Chickasaw. 457-0066

Pan Roasted Snapper at Voyagers

“Dining at Voyagers is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that captures the essence of coastal fine dining with Southern soul and refined creativity. I enjoyed the pan-roasted snapper, and the fish was flawlessly seared with a perfectly crisp skin. A blend of toasted cumin and coriander gave it a smoky warmth. The pork belly creamed corn was rich and indulgent, adding depth without overpowering the fish. The heirloom tomatoes and Bayou la Batre crab salad finished it off beautifully.” – Tammy Moudy, Administrator & Volunteer Coordinator, South Alabama Land Trust

Voyagers • 27200 Perdido Beach Blvd. #3205, Orange Beach. 981-9811

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