TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (WBRC) – Tuscaloosa restaurants were preparing for crowds ahead of the Alabama-Georgia football weekend as Hurricane Isaias threatened the area.
Alabama wide receiver Ryan Coleman-Williams (1) dives for a touchdown against Mississippi State during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026. (AP Photo/James Pugh)(James Pugh | AP Photo/James Pugh)
Owners of Thai Basil and Baumhower’s said they planned to remain open as long as they had power, but would keep an eye on conditions and prioritize employee safety.
Thai Basil owner Net Mengumpum said the restaurant planned to open from 11 a.m. to midnight for the game. He said the storm was on his mind, but the restaurant had a plan if conditions worsened.
“We’ll have to pay attention, keep an eye on it, how bad will it get,” Mengumpum said. “We worry about if it gets really bad we might to have close up a little bit for the safety of our employees and everybody.”
Mengumpum said the restaurant also has a walk-in cooler that could shelter a few customers and employees if needed.
Baumhower’s General Manager Troy Jenkins said the restaurant was staffed and ready for a busy weekend, while monitoring the storm.
“We always think about our employees’ safety first, and we want to make sure we provide a safe work environment,” Jenkins said. “We’re monitoring it and right now we will definitely be open for business unless we do not have power.”
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Dining and Cooking