Bluff Park Diner owner Brett Hubbard got his start in the food industry, working at Western Supermarkets for 21 years. In August 2019, Brett purchased Bluff Park Diner to venture into the world of entrepreneurship, and he has enjoyed being in business in the Shades Mountain community since. Bluff Park Diner has been a staple in the community for nearly 45 years. In the late ‘70s and ‘80s, the diner’s moniker was Bert’s on the Bluff, but no matter the name or ownership, customers would always be guaranteed good food with even greater service. Here, Brett offers insight on the family-friendly diner of which so many Hoover residents have come to know and love.
What does a day in the life look like for you?
As the acting manager and owner of the iconic Bluff Park Diner, Brett Hubbard is responsible for everything that takes place at the diner, including the business’ sales/profit, food quality, service, sanitation, bookkeeping, personnel, scheduling, community involvement, advertising and more. He oversees the restaurant’s inventory, keeps the equipment in good repair, procures products and assists his employees with setting up on a daily basis. Here, Brett offers insight about Bluff Park Diner’s menu and atmosphere–two aspects that keep customers coming back.
What is your favorite part of your job?
I like working here because I enjoy having the freedom to make decisions about what we do and how we do it. I have the best staff, which I am very grateful for, and they enable me to not have to be there at all hours, so I can spend more time with my family. Bluff Park is like my home because I grew up down the street in Birchtree and have lived most of my life in Hoover. The relationships that my wife and I have made with employees, customers and the people of surrounding businesses make it worth getting up to go to work everyday.
What types of foods does Bluff Park Diner serve, and which make this business stand out from other similar businesses?
We are a Southern-cooking, meat and three diner with a pretty traditional menu of entrees such as fried catfish, fried chicken, pork chops, beef tips and baked chicken to name a few. We also have a big selection of cakes and pies, which are all locally made, including cobblers, bread pudding and a jumbo chocolate chip cookie that is always served warm. I think what makes us stand out is a combination of things. We serve tasty, consistent, comfort food, served by a friendly staff in a clean, family-friendly environment.
What foods would you recommend newcomers try first, and which food is your favorite?
The fried catfish, pork chops and fried chicken are our most popular entrees. If you’re not in the mood for fried foods, the turkey with homemade dressing, beef tips or baked chicken would be highly recommended. My personal favorites are our homemade vegetable beef soup (served on Wednesdays) and fried okra dipped in ranch dressing.
What mantra does your staff live by when it comes to friendly service?
We don’t have a regular saying, but I try to instill in everyone to treat others how they would want to be treated. I try to always manage my employees with respect, fairness and honesty, and this keeps everyone in good spirits. Kindness goes a long way.
Visit Bluff Park Diner at 591 Shades Crest Road. The diner is open Monday-Friday from 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Customers can view the full menu at bluffparkdiner.com.
