The Hornet's Nest

For a true taste of Southern hospitality, The Hornet's Nest in Opelika, Alabama, is a local treasure that has earned a remarkable reputation among residents and visitors alike. Nestled conveniently along AL-51, this casual dining restaurant offers an inviting atmosphere where comfort food is crafted with care and genuine kindness is always on the menu. With a stellar 4.9-star rating drawn from over 200 reviews, The Hornet's Nest has quickly become a go-to spot for anyone seeking quality meals at accessible prices, with most guests reporting entrees in the $10–20 range. The team here is fiercely committed to supporting locals, creating a warm environment where every guest feels like a regular and every dish is prepared to order.

The menu is purposefully streamlined to focus on what matters most: exceptional flavor. Diners frequently rave about the mouthwatering burgers, crispy wings, and fresh salads that keep them coming back week after week. House-made sauces like honey mustard and ranch elevate even simple sides into unforgettable experiences, while the milkshakes and iced tea provide the perfect finishing touch. The Hornet's Nest doesn't rely on gimmicks—it relies on quality ingredients, time-tested recipes, and the kind of friendly service that makes you want to linger a little longer.

Services & Facilities

Whether you're stopping by for a relaxed dine-in meal or grabbing takeout on a busy evening, the restaurant is equipped to serve you exactly how you prefer. The interior is described as cool, calm, and classic, evoking the charm of a beloved local diner without feeling dated. For those moments when you need a great meal at home or at the office, the team offers efficient takeout and even no-contact delivery, ensuring that the best flavors in Lee County are never out of reach.

• Dine-In Service: A clean, welcoming dining room perfect for families, couples, and solo diners.
• Takeout & No-Contact Delivery: Fast, accurate orders prepared for pickup or doorstep delivery.
• Online Ordering: Place an order directly through the website for seamless convenience.
• Accessible Location: Easy to find at 9415 AL-51 with ample parking and GPS-friendly navigation.

What We Offer

The Hornet's Nest takes pride in a menu that’s small but mighty. Instead of overwhelming you with endless options, the kitchen focuses on executing a select lineup of American comfort classics to perfection. The Cajun burger has been hailed by reviewers as “the best burger I’ve ever had,” while the signature wings draw crowds looking for that perfect balance of crunch and sauce. If you’re craving something lighter, the Caesar salad and Iced tea make a refreshing pair.

Signature Menu Highlights

• Burgers: Try the legendary Cajun Burger or the Garlic Onion Burger—both cooked to juicy perfection.
• Wings: A customer favorite, available with a range of sauces and always served piping hot.
• Salmon & Entrées: Hearty options for those seeking a protein-packed plate that doesn’t skimp on taste.
• Southern Sides: Fried pickles, corn nuggets, mozzarella sticks, and homemade potato salad.
• Drinks & Desserts: Rich milkshakes, freshly brewed coffee, and sweet tea are always available.

Why Customers Choose Us

Visitors consistently point to three things that set this restaurant apart: the food, the people, and the value. One recent guest summed it up by saying, “Nice people and small menu with quality food,” which captures the essence of the experience. The staff responds to reviews with genuine warmth, thanking patrons for supporting local and expressing excitement to see them again. That personal attention extends into every interaction, from a quick to-go order to a leisurely dinner with friends.

Local Love & Community Commitment

• Personable Service: Staff members are described as extremely nice, attentive, and quick with orders.
• Homemade Touches: Everything from the ranch dressing to the potato salad is prepared in-house.
• Fair Pricing: With most meals falling in the $10–20 range, it’s an affordable indulgence.
• Consistent Excellence: A 4.9-star rating on Google Maps reflects consistent quality and care.

Serving Opelika & Lee County, Alabama

Conveniently situated at 9415 AL-51, The Hornet's Nest is easily accessible for families in Opelika, Abbeville, and the surrounding Lee County area. The restaurant has become a staple for travelers cruising down the state route and for locals looking for a reliable spot to satisfy a craving. The location pairs small-town charm with a modern approach to ordering and service, making it equally suited for a quick lunch break or a relaxed weekend dinner. When you’re in the area looking for a casual dining restaurant that treats you like family, this is the destination that locals recommend first.

Hours, Location & Directions

Planning your visit is simple thanks to the restaurant’s consistent operating schedule. The doors are open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 AM to 9 PM, Friday and Saturday from 11 AM to 9 PM, and Sunday from 10:30 AM to 8 PM. The restaurant is closed on Mondays to give the team a well-deserved rest. Whether you’re using GPS or following the AL-51, you’ll find the restaurant at the address below. Look for the warm lighting and friendly faces—you can’t miss it.

Address: 9415 AL-51, Opelika, AL 36804, United States

Phone: +1 334-917-2003

Hours of Operation: Tuesday–Thursday 11 AM–9 PM | Friday–Saturday 11 AM–9 PM | Sunday 10:30 AM–8 PM | Monday Closed