THE BACK PORCH (A CHEF RON'S PLACE)

THE BACK PORCH (A CHEF RON'S PLACE)

1924 1st Ave N, Bessemer, AL 35020, United States

+1 205-760-5035

Restaurant
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About This Place

THE BACK PORCH (A CHEF RON'S PLACE) is a soulful dining gem nestled in the heart of Bessemer, Alabama. Specializing in classic Southern comfort food, this restaurant invites guests to savor homestyle meals that evoke warmth, tradition, and genuine hospitality.

The cuisine at The Back Porch is deeply rooted in Southern flavors, with a menu that spotlights hearty, lovingly prepared dishes. Signature offerings like Tuesday’s Beef Tips and Friday’s Fried Fish celebrate time-honored recipes, perfectly complemented by Chef Ron’s knack for crafting rich gravies, tender meats, and vibrant vegetable sides. Diners often rave about plates filled with baked chicken quarters smothered in savory gravy, accompanied by dressing and sweet potatoes that burst with just the right balance of sweetness. Vegetables such as cabbage, black-eyed peas, creamed corn, and mac & cheese bring a delightful variety of textures and aromas, painting a colorful and satisfying Southern tableau on every plate.

What makes The Back Porch truly stand out is its warm, inviting atmosphere—a cozy spot where friendly smiles and genuine southern hospitality flow as freely as the food. Patrons appreciate being greeted with warmth and treated like family, making every meal more than just nourishment, but an experience steeped in community spirit.

Refreshing beverages like Nana’s Sweet Tea and robust coffee add to the meal’s comforting embrace. Desserts, though sometimes limited by availability, offer unique Southern twists such as a peach cobbler featuring sliced crust pieces, presenting a creative take on a classic treat.

While some reviews mention concerns about the restaurant’s appearance or closures, many longtime supporters express heartfelt appreciation for the generous portions and authentic flavors that make The Back Porch a beloved culinary destination. When the kitchen is in full swing, the combination of soulful cooking, reasonable prices, and the undeniable charm of Chef Ron’s creations promises a thoroughly satisfying Southern dining experience.

Whether you’re seeking a casual lunch filled with rich, home-cooked meals or craving the nostalgic taste of traditional Southern sides, The Back Porch offers an inviting space to indulge in hearty fare that feeds both body and soul.

Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Offers delivery Offers takeaway Serves dine-in
Highlights
Serves great dessert
Popular for
Popular for lunch Popular for dinner Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves comfort food Quick bite Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves lunch Serves dinner Serves dessert
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy Trendy
Crowd
Popular with tourists
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards Accepts debit cards Accepts NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Plenty of parking

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • E R
    2 week ago

    Walked in, then walked out due to the food looking old. I was very disappointed because this restaurant is one of my favorites. The pictures are from a different visit.

  • My Name
    1 month ago

    Update: **Permanently closed*** Why are they closed? I drove to the bldg to see what is going on with them and there is paper all over the window like they are closed for good. I hope they reopen in a cleaner more modern bldg in Bessemer. Posted 4.27.2025 Original review from months ago ---------- Food is very reasonably priced for the amount of food you receive Candy yams- pretty and delicious when fully cooked (sometimes they are undercooked) Dumplings- the sauce and chicken are good, the dumplings taste doey sometimes Rice- good Lemon cake- delicious...have this flavor more often please Cornbread-; good Greens- good I recommend when you have a taste for being at home come to this place. P. S. On Sunday, they sometimes have a LIVE person singing.

  • Sandy Maddox
    1 month ago

    Our first visit to The Back Porch Resturant for lunch. I have to tell you all it was excellent. I had a baked chicken quarter with gravy, dressing, and sweet potatoes. The flavors of each item were excellent! My friend ordered plates to go before we left. If you love the meals of meat and vegetables, you will love this restaurant. My thanks to Chef Ron for the wonderful meals.

  • Jaenelle G
    1 month ago

    So good with great friendly customer service! I ordered two vegetables plates. The cabbage, yams, Mac &chz, black eyed peas, and creamed corn were my favorites. My least favorite was the pinto beans and the collard greens were just ok. Unfortunately they were out of banana pudding (cold). The peach cobbler was unique in that it was served sliced crust pieces. I would have preferred the traditional peach cobbler with lots of crust. The sweet tea was very good.

  • Xavier S
    2 month ago

    I attended on a Sunday afternoon. There was a line of about 15 ppl in front of me but the wait wasn't long at all. I ordered the smothered pork chops over rice with collard greens and yams. Everything was great except the yams. The greens were to die for. I loved it. The staff was friendly and greeted everyone with a smile. I will definitely visit again if I'm in the area.

  • Andreia Summerville
    3 month ago

    This was my first time and I’m from Mississippi. I really enjoyed it! Food was hot and seasoned to perfection. Staff was very friendly. If you’re looking for some good soul food cooking, this is most definitely the place.

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