Niyah's Southern Deli - Huntsville, Alabama

Bailey

Definitely been curious about this spot for a while. This Niyah's is located in the Texaco on South Parkway. It was also a food truck for a time; I don't know if the food truck is still operating. The owner recently opened a restaurant in the Winchester Road area too. My eye was caught after the food truck was featured on an Al.com article a while ago, but this iteration of Niyah's was the easiest to access since idk about the truck status anymore.

As I mentioned, the restaurant is inside a Texaco on South Parkway. There's no huge signage for it but Google Maps will get you there reliably. There's a smoker out front, which I interpret as a good sign.

The food is stored in a hot bar to the left when you walk in. The selection changes daily but some things seem fairly reliably available, like the fried chicken.

The lady working didn't acknowledge me for a bit -- I think she was watching something on her phone since they were slow -- but I think she genuinely didn't see me at first; I don't think she was being rude. When I sort of poked my head around the corner she hopped up instantly and was friendly and apologetic. She was warm and kind.

I'll be honest, I was a little nervous about the food just because a hot bar isn't really the best vehicle for pretty presentation. I got my order to go and it was placed in a styrofoam box and then a plastic bag. I don't think they have beverages but of course you can grab practically anything to drink from the gas station. I think they forgot to put utensils in my bag, which would've been annoying if I weren't headed home to eat anyway.

I got the fried chicken, fried okra, smoked macaroni and cheese, and a roll (cornbread was also offered). Despite my concerns over the appearance in the hot bar, the food was quite yummy! The fried chicken was very crispy and well-seasoned and still plenty moist. Note: I wasn't offered the opportunity to select what piece of meat I wanted, so my husband wound up with some bonus wings that I didn't want, lol. If you're picky about that, definitely pay attention. About half of the okra pieces were a tiny bit soggy but the other half was yummy and crunchy -- they did seem a little old/reheated though. Definitely my least favorite thing. The roll was standard but soft and enjoyable. The shining star for me was the smoked macaroni and cheese. It was delicious! Super flavorful, both in cheesiness and in smokiness.

The price was a little high, but you could easily split a meal with someone else (or have leftovers) and the food quality and taste definitely delivered. Give them a try! I look forward to trying out the new restaurant, too.

Kristen M

Niyah's has the best blue plate I have found in south Huntsville, maybe ALL of Huntsville. I make a point to try new things every time I go and I have not had a bad dish YET. Everything is well seasoned and perfectly cooked, including the vegetable sides. The boiled cabbage I had last time was _so_ tender and flavorful I could have eaten just that and been happy. Do not let the fact that it is located in a gas station scare you. You will find no better meal on the go.

Ever More

The food was great overall… but the mashed potatoes specifically are out of this world and every bite was a healing experience. I plan on going back just for the mashed potatoes alone (and to try everything I can on the rotating menu of course!). Everyone was so incredibly nice as well, so it was a great environment all around! Highly recommend stopping by this absolute gem of a place.

David Walls

I have 2 go to places in Huntsville to eat. This place never disappoints. If you want your food to have flavor, it is a must try. If it was a brick and mortar place, it would be date night dinner every weekend. You can't ask for better people. Blessed to have discovered it awhile back.

Netta Nicole

*Updated Review*
I've visited twice since my initial review and each time has been a complete disappointment. Not sure what has happened. Change of cooks, staff, effort - I don't know. The hype has definitely diminished. This most recent visit, 9/28/24, cabbage tasted like hot water (spice level), chicken was tasteless and very bland, "jerk" chicken was just BBQ sauced chicken, fried okra tasted as though it was reheated from the previous day. The BC casserole was the best tasting thing and it left much to be desired. Me and mom were both disappointed. We spent approximately $18 per plate. I was most disappointed because I've had much better experiences here. This was her visit and impression. I won't return anytime soon.

First time visiting. They're located inside the Texaco. I arrived shortly after opening, and it was already busy. The food was pretty good, particularly the mac & cheese and ribs. I had my mouth set on trying the greens and ordered a side of those, but I received an extra side of queso mac instead. Didn't realize it until I left. I plan to return and try some of their other items.

Christina Hammond

I’m in trouble now that I realize this place is five minutes from me. Today I, proudly, participated in big back activities by purchasing a big smoked turkey leg covered in creole pasta with shrimp and sausage.

Then I took a long nap. It was marvelous. I’ll be back again.

D.D.W. Hudson

Nice and friendly people.
Food is terrible. I'll never buy anything from them . They selling burnt brisket and I am not talking about the good kind of burnt. It was charged crispy and so hard that it was chewy. I spent $24 on trash. Cabbage tasted way off . She took from my plate and dump what I picked off and stirred it back into with the rest.

Duane Dollar

Each time I stop in the food just keeps getting better!!! Always enough for at least two meals! Love this place and the owner is amazing!!!!