10 Must-Try Flavors At Alabama Peanut Co. Tuscaloosa: The 117-Year-Old Southern Secret Is Now Open!

The iconic Southern tradition of boiled peanuts has found a new, vibrant home in the heart of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, as of late 2024. The Alabama Peanut Company, a beloved purveyor with roots tracing back over a century, has officially opened its second brick-and-mortar location in the city, bringing its famous 100+ rotating flavors to the home of the Crimson Tide. This expansion is more than just a new store; it’s the continuation of a 117-year-old legacy, redefining a classic snack for a new generation of peanut enthusiasts. As of December 15, 2025, the Tuscaloosa store is fully operational, located conveniently in the downtown area. The company, which originated in Birmingham and is owned by the celebrated Jaime Thursby, has quickly become a local hotspot, offering a dizzying array of unique and traditional peanut preparations that elevate the humble legume to an art form. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the classic Southern boiled peanut or a curious newcomer, the new location promises a fresh and unforgettable snacking experience.

The Legacy of Alabama Peanut Co. and Owner Jaime Thursby

The story of the Alabama Peanut Company is deeply intertwined with the history of its original location on Morris Avenue in Birmingham. Peanuts have been sold from that historic spot since 1907, establishing the business as America's oldest peanut shop. The current iteration of the company, and its expansion into Tuscaloosa, is spearheaded by owner Jaime Thursby.

Jaime Thursby: Owner Profile and Biography

• Name: Jaime Thursby
• Role: Owner of Alabama Peanut Co.
• Origin Story: Started the business with a modest investment—a $20 turkey fryer and a small batch of boiled peanuts—which he sold at a local makers market.
• Business Growth: Grew the small market venture into a thriving retail brand with two locations (Birmingham and Tuscaloosa).
• Recognition: Named the Bronze Alabama Retailer of the Year by the Alabama Retail Association for his entrepreneurial success and commitment to the brand.
• Vision: Preserved the history of the original location while modernizing the peanut experience, notably by introducing a vast array of unique flavors.

Thursby’s journey is a testament to entrepreneurial spirit, transforming a simple Southern tradition into a dynamic retail concept. He preserved the layout and historical essence of the original Birmingham location, ensuring the legacy of the "Peanut Depot" lives on. The decision to expand to Tuscaloosa was driven by a desire to connect with the city's strong community spirit, a factor teased on the company's Instagram before the opening.

The Tuscaloosa Location: Address, Hours, and Experience

The new Alabama Peanut Co. store is strategically situated in Downtown Tuscaloosa, making it easily accessible for students, locals, and visitors alike.

Location and Operating Hours

The store is located at 411 23rd Ave. in Downtown Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401.

The current operating hours are:

• Tuesday - Thursday: 11 AM - 9 PM
• Friday & Saturday: 11 AM - 11 PM
• Sunday: 12 PM - 9 PM

The atmosphere is designed to be a welcoming spot for a quick snack or a longer stay. Customers have noted the enjoyable experience of sitting at the bar, having a drink, and savoring the delicious peanuts. This setting creates a unique blend of a traditional snack shop and a modern, relaxed social spot. The Tuscaloosa store is redefining the way people consume this iconic Southern food.

10 Must-Try Unique Peanut Flavors and Products

What truly sets the Alabama Peanut Company apart is its commitment to flavor innovation. They boast a rotating menu of over 100 flavors of boiled peanuts, a number that sounds almost unbelievable until you see the selection. This massive variety ensures that every visit offers a new discovery. While the exact flavors rotate daily, here are 10 types of peanuts and products that represent the incredible range and creativity found at the Tuscaloosa location:

1. Classic Salted Boiled Peanuts: The foundational Southern snack, perfectly cooked and seasoned. A must for purists.
2. Cajun/Spicy Boiled Peanuts: A flavorful kick with a blend of Cajun spices, offering a satisfying heat that is highly addictive.
3. Dill Pickle Boiled Peanuts: A surprisingly popular and tangy flavor that captures the sour, briny essence of a dill pickle.
4. Garlic Parmesan Boiled Peanuts: An Italian-inspired twist, featuring savory garlic and salty Parmesan cheese.
5. Sweet Tea Boiled Peanuts: A truly Southern fusion, incorporating the region’s favorite beverage into the cooking process for a subtle, sweet finish.
6. Smoked Boiled Peanuts: Infused with a deep, smoky flavor that mimics a barbecue experience.
7. Buffalo Ranch Boiled Peanuts: Combining the zesty heat of buffalo sauce with the cool, creamy tang of ranch dressing.
8. Fresh Roasted Peanuts: For those who prefer the traditional, dry-roasted crunch, these are roasted fresh daily.
9. Chocolate-Covered Peanuts: A classic confectionary treat using their high-quality peanuts.
10. Seasonal/Limited Edition Flavors: Keep an eye out for unique, rotating options that might include anything from cinnamon roll to jalapeño cheddar, ensuring the menu is always fresh and exciting.

The Art of the Boiled Peanut

Boiled peanuts are a Southern delicacy where raw, green peanuts are boiled in a salty brine for hours until they are soft and tender, having a texture similar to a bean. The Alabama Peanut Co. takes this traditional process and experiments with the brine, using different spices, herbs, and seasonings to create their vast flavor catalog. This meticulous approach to the iconic snack is what has earned the company its loyal following and its reputation for redefining the category. The Tuscaloosa store’s expansion marks a significant moment for the local food scene, introducing a unique and historic retail experience to the area. Whether you’re stocking up for a game day tailgate or simply looking for a new favorite snack, the Alabama Peanut Co. provides a taste of history and innovation in every shell. The fact that their peanuts are also confirmed to be gluten-free is an added bonus for many customers.