Alabama, September 14, 2025
News Summary
Alabama has been recognized for its warm hospitality with three local businesses making the list of the ’20 Friendliest Places in the South.’ Bottega restaurant in Birmingham, The Laurel Hotel and Spa in Auburn, and WaWa convenience stores in Mobile are celebrated for their exceptional service and inviting atmospheres. These establishments embody what it means to be hospitable, ensuring guests feel welcomed and appreciated. This recognition highlights Alabama’s enduring reputation for friendly service and community spirit.
Three Alabama Businesses Shine as the Friendliest Places in the South
When it comes to hospitality, you really can’t beat Alabama. Recently, three wonderful businesses from the Heart of Dixie were recognized in a feature celebrating the “20 Friendliest Places in the South.” This list highlights spots known not just for their great food and service, but for making customers feel truly welcome.
Bottega Restaurant in Birmingham
First up, we have the charming Bottega restaurant, located in Birmingham. This popular venue has been delighting diners since its opening in 1988, serving up a mix of Southern-Italian cuisine that keeps patrons coming back for more. With each visit, guests are treated to a fine-dining experience that’s not just about the food but is a whole vibe—“like a hug,” if you will!
The greatness of Bottega goes beyond just the exquisite menu crafted by talented chefs. The incredible team here is especially known for their warm, inviting service, making everyone feel right at home. It’s this kind of atmosphere that truly defines what it means to eat out in Alabama.
The Laurel Hotel and Spa in Auburn
Next on the list is the stunning Laurel Hotel and Spa in Auburn, which just recently opened its doors in 2022. This AAA Five Diamond establishment stands out not only for its luxurious accommodations but also for its dedicated staff. Interestingly, a large portion of the team is made up of students from Auburn University’s Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management. Surely, they provide that extra touch of Southern hospitality!
At the Laurel, guests are greeted with a delightful Champagne toast upon arrival, setting a celebratory tone from the start. The unique concierge-level check-in process conducted at The Library also adds a sophisticated yet friendly touch that enhances the entire experience.
WaWa Convenience Stores in Mobile
Finally, we can’t forget about the WaWa convenience stores that have recently made their way into Alabama. The first location opened in Fairhope in 2024, and since then, the store chain has expanded into several locations around the Mobile area. What sets WaWa apart is their commitment to providing familiar and dependable service. Customers often feel that they enter as strangers and leave feeling like friends!
WaWa has become a community staple, enhancing the customer experience by ensuring that each visit feels personal and friendly. With such attention to service, it’s no wonder they’ve made the list!
Alabama’s Hospitality Shines Bright
Overall, being recognized among the friendliest places in the South highlights Alabama’s long-standing reputation for warmth and hospitality. It’s a place where businesses are not only focused on providing a service but also on creating an inviting atmosphere that invites patrons to return.
It’s worth mentioning that thousands of businesses were nominated by readers from across the South, but these three stand out thanks to their unwavering commitment to welcoming hospitality. So, if you’re in Alabama, make sure to check out Bottega, the Laurel Hotel and Spa, and WaWa! You’ll experience firsthand why Southern hospitality is legendary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the three Alabama businesses recognized for their hospitality?
The three businesses are Bottega restaurant in Birmingham, The Laurel Hotel and Spa in Auburn, and WaWa convenience stores in the Mobile area.
What type of cuisine does Bottega restaurant offer?
Bottega specializes in Southern-Italian cuisine, offering a rich menu that has delighted customers since 1988.
What makes The Laurel Hotel and Spa unique?
Opened in 2022, The Laurel Hotel and Spa is a AAA Five Diamond establishment primarily staffed by students from Auburn University’s hospitality program, providing a special touch to guest services.
When did WaWa open its first location in Alabama?
WaWa opened its first location in Fairhope in 2024 and has since expanded throughout the Mobile area.
Key Features of the Recognized Businesses
| Business | Location | Year Established | Notable Aspects |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bottega | Birmingham | 1988 | Southern-Italian cuisine, welcoming service |
| The Laurel Hotel and Spa | Auburn | 2022 | AAA Five Diamond, student staff |
| WaWa | Mobile Area | 2024 | Friendly service, community-focused convenience |
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Additional Resources
- Southern Living: Friendliest Places 2025
- AL.com: Alabama’s Friendliest Places
- AL.com: Alabama Birthday Celebrations
- World Atlas: Friendliest Small Town
- The Bama Buzz: Alabama’s 5th Friendliest City
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
