Huntsville, AL, February 4, 2026
Huntsville’s culinary scene expands with the opening of Brick & Tin’s fourth local restaurant. This move reflects the growth of local entrepreneurship and economic development in the Rocket City, highlighting the appeal of Huntsville as a thriving business environment. Brick & Tin embraces a farm-to-table approach, offering a menu inspired by local ingredients, which resonates with the community’s appreciation for sustainable dining options.
Huntsville Welcomes Brick & Tin: A Testament to Local Entrepreneurial Growth
Huntsville’s vibrant culinary landscape continues its impressive expansion with the recent opening of Brick & Tin’s fourth local establishment, marking a significant milestone for the acclaimed restaurant group and a clear indicator of the Rocket City’s burgeoning economic appeal. This move highlights the resilience and innovative spirit of Alabama’s entrepreneurs, who are finding fertile ground for growth in a city known for fostering a supportive business environment.
The decision by Brick & Tin to establish a presence in Huntsville underscores a broader trend of thriving small businesses and strategic private investments propelling economic development across the region. Such expansions not only introduce diverse dining options but also contribute to job creation and the revitalization of historic districts, showcasing the benefits of a dynamic local economy where business initiative is celebrated.
Brick & Tin’s Huntsville Debut: A Culinary Expansion
Brick & Tin officially opened its first location outside the Birmingham metropolitan area in Huntsville on December 12th. This new establishment is situated within the historic Lewter Hardware store, located at 222 Washington St. NE, Suite 100, integrating modern culinary offerings with the rich architectural heritage of the area. The restaurant spans a generous 5,500 square feet, providing seating for 116 customers, with an inviting 46 outdoor spaces available for diners.
Mauricio Papapietro, the owner, noted the particular challenge of securing a historic property that aligned with Brick & Tin’s specific operational and aesthetic requirements amidst Huntsville’s rapid development. The adaptive reuse of the century-old Lewter Hardware building into a chef-driven fast-casual restaurant and bar exemplifies a thoughtful transformation that honors history while cultivating new, lively community spaces. Patrons in Huntsville can expect the same menu that has garnered popularity in its Birmingham locations, featuring small plates and creatively crafted dishes, complemented by an extensive drink menu. The construction phase for the Huntsville site commenced in early 2025, culminating in its much-anticipated opening.
The Vision Behind Brick & Tin: A Farm-to-Table Philosophy
The foundation of Brick & Tin’s success lies in its commitment to a chef-driven concept, where every item is prepared from scratch. Central to their philosophy is the emphasis on sourcing ingredients locally from farmers and adapting menus to seasonal availability, with changes occurring four to six times annually. This dedication ensures freshness and supports local agricultural endeavors, a practice that resonates with consumers increasingly mindful of their food’s origins.
The restaurant is also committed to using high-quality, all-natural, humanely raised, and free-roaming meats. Their purveyors often obtain animal welfare certification, reflecting Brick & Tin’s stringent standards for ethical sourcing. The very name “Brick & Tin” emerged during the renovation of their inaugural downtown Birmingham location, revealing the original brick walls and a pressed tin ceiling as new layers were peeled back. Chef Mauricio Papapietro’s culinary philosophy was refined through his extensive experience in the kitchens of esteemed Birmingham chefs Frank Stitt and Chris Hastings. A standout item on their menu, the brisket panini, has been a bestseller for 15 years. It features Certified Angus Beef that undergoes a meticulous two-day brining process followed by five hours of brazing.
Huntsville’s Magnetic Pull for Entrepreneurs
Huntsville, AL, continues to solidify its reputation as a premier destination for entrepreneurs and expanding businesses, attracting ventures like Brick & Tin with its dynamic economic environment and supportive infrastructure. The city has earned national recognition, ranking #4 among U.S. cities for small businesses in a recent report. This achievement is attributed to several compelling factors, including a notable 31.2% growth in job opportunities and a 10.6% increase in business establishments over the past year (City-level).
Furthermore, Huntsville offers a competitive advantage with the cost of doing business being 12% lower than the national average (City-level), providing tangible benefits for both startups and established companies seeking to expand. The city’s robust entrepreneurial ecosystem is strengthened by more than 40 co-working spaces, comprehensive local business support programs, and a highly educated workforce, with 39.5% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher (City-level). This blend of innovation, affordability, and a skilled talent pool makes Huntsville an attractive location for diverse industries, including the burgeoning culinary sector. The city’s forward-thinking approach to economic development was further acknowledged in 2025 when it was named among the World’s Most Innovative Cities by Fast Company, a first for any city in this esteemed ranking. This recognition highlights Huntsville’s strategic investments, including its innovative use of music as a catalyst for economic growth. Overall, Alabama consistently ranks among the top 10 states for doing business, reflecting a statewide commitment to fostering a favorable climate for commerce and investment.
Alabama’s Broader Economic Landscape and Small Business Vitality
The expansion of businesses like Brick & Tin is part of a larger narrative of strong economic health and entrepreneurial drive across Alabama. The state’s small business sector is a cornerstone of its economy, comprising over 465,600 small businesses and employing nearly half (46%) of the state’s workforce as of 2025 (State-level). This vital sector is a significant engine for job creation and economic output.
In 2025, the eating and drinking places industry in Alabama is projected to contribute substantially to the state’s economy, with a direct economic output of $19.85 billion. This industry supports 202,634 jobs and generates $5.68 billion in total labor income, encompassing wages, salaries, proprietors’ income, and benefits (State-level). When considering the indirect and induced impacts stemming from employees and suppliers, the industry’s total economic contribution is even more pronounced, rising to $31.85 billion in output, supporting 259,874 jobs, and providing $9.03 billion in total labor income (State-level). These economic activities also generate significant public revenue, with direct contributions from the eating and drinking places industry totaling $3.04 billion in taxes to various levels of government in Alabama. This includes $157.20 million in county taxes, $999.17 million in state taxes, and $1.31 billion in federal taxes (State-level).
Between March 2021 and March 2022, Alabama experienced a net increase of 5,516 establishments, with small businesses playing a crucial role by accounting for 13,976 openings during this period. Small businesses further demonstrated their impact by contributing a net increase of 34,663 jobs, representing 66.2 percent of the total net job increase in Alabama for that timeframe (State-level). This growth is supported by initiatives such as the Alabama Small Business Development Center (SBDC) network, which provides essential management and technical assistance to small businesses throughout the state, fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurial success.
The Power of Private Investment and Adaptive Reuse
The transformation of the historic Lewter Hardware store into a modern Brick & Tin restaurant serves as a prime example of how private investment, coupled with adaptive reuse, can breathe new life into existing structures and contribute to urban renewal. This approach not only preserves the unique character and history of a building but also creates new commercial opportunities and vibrant community spaces.
This trend aligns seamlessly with Huntsville’s broader economic development strategies, which prioritize the preservation of industrial heritage alongside fostering new business growth and innovation. Such projects are instrumental in generating new jobs and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents by creating engaging destinations. Huntsville has been a hotbed of significant development, including a $240 million retail and restaurant project in its northern sector, slated to introduce over 500,000 square feet of new retail and dining establishments. These investments underscore a collective vision for a city that balances respect for its past with an energetic pursuit of future prosperity.
Conclusion
The opening of Brick & Tin’s newest location in Huntsville is a clear indicator of the city’s dynamic economic environment and the thriving spirit of its local entrepreneurs. This expansion not only enriches Huntsville’s culinary scene but also stands as a testament to the power of private investment and innovative business models in driving regional growth. With its supportive business climate, increasing job opportunities, and strategic focus on development, Huntsville continues to attract and foster the kind of entrepreneurial success that benefits the entire community. We encourage everyone to support local businesses, explore the diverse offerings, and remain engaged in the exciting economic future of Huntsville, AL.
Frequently Asked Questions About Brick & Tin’s Expansion and Huntsville’s Economy
What is Brick & Tin?
Brick & Tin is a restaurant group known for its chef-driven concept, focusing on scratch-made dishes using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. They emphasize high-quality, all-natural, humanely raised meats.
Where is Brick & Tin’s new Huntsville location?
The new Brick & Tin restaurant in Huntsville is located in the historic Lewter Hardware store at 222 Washington St. NE, Suite 100.
When did Brick & Tin open in Huntsville?
Brick & Tin opened its Huntsville location on December 12th.
What is the capacity of the new Huntsville Brick & Tin restaurant?
The new Huntsville Brick & Tin restaurant is 5,500 square feet and can serve 116 customers, including 46 outside.
Who is the owner of Brick & Tin?
The owner and chef of Brick & Tin is Mauricio Papapietro.
How many locations does Brick & Tin now have?
Brick & Tin now has a total of four local spots, with the Huntsville location being its first outside the Birmingham metro area.
Why is Huntsville an attractive location for businesses?
Huntsville is attractive due to its impressive growth, thriving economy, supportive business environment, 31.2% growth in job opportunities, 10.6% increase in business establishments over the past year (City-level), and a cost of doing business that is 12% lower than the national average (City-level). The city also has over 40 co-working spaces and a highly educated workforce.
What is the economic impact of the eating and drinking places industry in Alabama?
In 2025, Alabama’s eating and drinking places are projected to contribute $19.85 billion in direct economic output to the state’s economy, support 202,634 jobs, and deliver $5.68 billion in total labor income (State-level). Including indirect and induced impacts, the total economic impact rises to $31.85 billion in output, supporting 259,874 jobs, and $9.03 billion in total labor income (State-level).
Key Features of Brick & Tin’s Huntsville Expansion
| Feature | Details | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| New Location Address | 222 Washington St. NE, Suite 100, Huntsville, AL | Local |
| Opening Date | December 12th | Local |
| Building Type | Historic Lewter Hardware store | Local |
| Square Footage | 5,500 square feet | Local |
| Seating Capacity | 116 customers (46 outside) | Local |
| Owner/Chef | Mauricio Papapietro | Local |
| Restaurant Concept | Chef-driven, scratch-made, locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, humanely raised meats | Local |
| Number of Locations | Fourth local spot | Regional |
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Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison 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 Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
