J & J Grocery — Restaurant in Alabama

Edit with response to business owner response... The way I feel is irrelevant. The way you handle things is what is at issue. I can't make you do right, and won't try. Just go back and read your own responses...

I really prefer to support local businesses... when they deserve it. I remember J & J as one of the BEST places to get a Philly Cheesesteak. That changed over time.

They let their standards slip.... I've walked in there to see cigarette smoking going on behind the line, in more than one occasion, for example. The other thing seems to be a cleanliness issue. I know running a restaurant is hard - I've done it. However, as soon as your standards start slipping, that's a big problem. Are there dates on items in the cooler, for example. Simple things.

Now as I write this, I did see a couple of responses to reviews were a bit nasty, to some fair critiques. I saw one review, where they are like "maybe you should go to Burger King." A bit uncalled for, on a 5 year old review, and it doesn't make the business look good at all.

Feedback from customers is a gift... Just because you don't hear negative feedback, doesn't mean you're perfect. It means, that people are voting with their feet, they've given up, and they don't want to waste time giving a review anymore.......

I am leaving the review, in hopes that the ownership can RESTORE the experience, to its former glory. As I said, it was pretty darn good, until it wasn't.

No need to reply to me... since I see how you're replying to others (not cool)... I was definitely a long-time customer, who supported you as long as I could.... but I can't in good conscience go back, unless and until a big change happens, which certainly...

You wouldn't expect a grocery store to serve amazing cheeseburgers, but this hidden gem does just that. Their burgers are some of the best I've ever had, seasoned to perfection and cooked just right. Each bite is juicy and flavorful, making it hard to resist.

But it doesn't stop there. The onion rings are a fantastic sidekick to these burgers. They're crispy, golden, and perfectly cooked, providing a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the juicy burger. And don't forget to dip them in the homemade Boom Boom sauce. This tangy, slightly spicy sauce is a game-changer and complements both the burger and the onion rings beautifully.

For the ultimate experience, add bacon and jalapeños to your burger. The smoky bacon and spicy jalapeños add an extra layer of flavor that takes the burger to a whole new level.

So, if you're looking for a killer burger and some top-notch onion rings, this grocery store is the place to go. You won't be disappointed!

TL;DR: This hole-in-the-wall grocery store serves some of the best seasoned cheeseburgers and crispy onion rings around. Add bacon and jalapeños for an extra kick, and don't miss out on the homemade...

I didn't believe the hype about the burgers but, let me tell you, they're even better than I could have hoped. Everything about this place is great. It's a run down little corner store that really provides the authentic dive experience. The staff is extremely friendly and welcoming and, although I'm not an Alabama country boy, I felt right at home from the moment I walked in. It is extremely busy at lunch so be prepared for right seating but it's a good opportunity to chat with the locals. The ordering/paying process is a not confusing because it's not obvious when or where you pay but it's a laid back enough place that it's not a big deal. But the food.... Oh my heavens! I am honestly admitting that the best burger I've had in years I had right here at this run down little dive in Bessemer! I tried the Boom boom burger as a combo with fries and a drink. The burger was about as perfect as you could imagine - messy, huge and cooked perfectly. The fries were also among the best I've ever had. I will definitely be back. I just wish they were...