The wait is over: Restaurant finally opens at Fairhope Pier

FAIRHOPE, Ala ( WKRG ) — The wait is finally over. The Blind Tiger at the Fairhope Municipal Pier opened to the public Friday afternoon.

Just in time for Labor Day weekend.

Now, Fairhope visitors and locals can enjoy dinner and a view at the pier.

“Waiting for it has been kind of hard because we want something new here,” Michele Cuevas, a Fairhope local, said. “I just think the food’s going to be fabulous. I’m sure the drinks will be wonderful and the view is great.”

Throughout the week, the restaurant has hosted a series of private gatherings, leaving many residents wondering if it was finally opening.

The head chef, Kevin Preble, said they planned a quiet, soft opening, but word got out on social media.

Earlier on Friday, he told News 5 that the restaurant would unlock its doors and invite people walking down the pier for a bite to eat rather than having a grand announcement.

“I’ve heard some speculation that it could be as early as this afternoon, but I guess we have to wait and see if the door unlocks today,” he said earlier.

Well, the waiting is over, and The Blind Tiger is open and ready for customers.

Preble explained that the menu was inspired by a tropical vacation that makes people forget they’re in Alabama instead of lounging under a palm tree.

“You’re going to feel like you’re on vacation and not in Alabama,” Preble said. “Now, I love Alabama, but you’re going to feel like you’re somewhere on the islands, and it’s really kind of an escape and retreat from everyday life.”

He said some of the menu will change daily, but one thing that will stay is the smash burger, which he claims is the best burger in the area.

“We want people to come hang out at the table and share food, have some drinks and let the kids run around on the pier. And just be friendly and have a real fun atmosphere,” Preble said.

Despite construction from the Working Waterfront Project at the pier, restaurant staff says there is plenty of parking for customers.

The Blind Tiger has over 20 boat slips for customers and is golf cart-friendly. The North Beach parking lot at the pier is also still open throughout the construction.

“I think the food is really different, I think service is great,” Preble said. “I just I’m excited to let Fairhope see what we have.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5.