You can try this Alabama restaurant’s legendary hot ham and cheese sandwich for less than $10

Tucked away in the small town of Carbon Hill, Alabama, lies a culinary time capsule that has served as a community anchor for over half a century. Pizza Bar, a spot that balances local tradition with a legendary hot ham and cheese sandwich, offers a dining experience that is as friendly to your appetite as it is to your wallet.

A Legacy Rooted in Tradition

Since the doors first opened in 1972 inside a local pool hall, Pizza Bar has been more than just a restaurant. For current owners Jayson and Catie Merchant, who officially purchased the establishment in 2014, the mission is about people, not just pizza. Catie’s history with the shop runs deep—she grew up dining there and eventually managed the kitchen before she and Jayson made their dream of owning the historic eatery a reality.

The walls of the restaurant tell the story of its enduring appeal, literally covered in thousands of customer signatures that date back decades. It remains a space where past and present collide, capturing the same nostalgic energy that first convinced Jayson to buy the shop years before he actually could.

Keeping the Legend Alive

When the Merchants took over, they decided to ignore the pressure to modernize. Instead, they focused on preserving the atmosphere that locals have cherished for 50 years. According to Jayson, the goal is simple: “clean it up and hold the reins and let the horses run.”

While the name implies a focus on pies, the menu is surprisingly diverse. Beyond their pizzas, diners can find barbecue, hamburger steaks, and a variety of sandwiches like roast beef and the “Cubama.” However, the star of the show remains the signature hot ham and cheese. Despite its simplicity, the quality is intentional; the recipe utilizes bread from Gambinos Bakery in New Orleans, Swiss cheese from Wisconsin, and house-shredded ham from North Carolina, all pulled together with homemade garlic butter.

Budget-Friendly Bites

The best part of the Pizza Bar experience is the affordability. You can snag a hearty barbecue plate with three sides for $11.50, or grab a 16-inch pizza starting at $14.50. The legendary ham and cheese sandwich is a steal, costing less than $10 for a full portion and under $6 for a half.

For Jayson Merchant, the true measure of success isn't just the register count—it’s the connection built with every person who walks through the door. If a customer leaves with a full heart and a sense of belonging, the team considers it a job well done.

Pizza Bar is located at 141 2nd Street NW in Carbon Hill and is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. Find out more on their website.