Selma is not best place to be in when you’re on a diet.

Being the Queen City of the South means dozens of restaurants offering barbecue, soul food, Mexican, Chinese and for those in a hurry, fast food.

In Selma, there is always something good to eat.

Recently, the Alabama Bureau of Tourism and Travel has begun telling visitors about the joys of living in a city full of food.

Selma was among more than 80 cities listed in the agency’s brochure, “100 dishes to eat in Alabama before you die.”

The brochure is part of the state travel agency’s theme of “The Year of Alabama Food.”

Selma, along with 16 other cities, had more than three entries.

Dishes from four Selma restaurants – Major Grumbles, St. James Hotel, Tally-Ho, and Our House – are listed among the state’s must-eats.

The marinated chicken breast sandwich at Major Grumbles, the New York Strip at Tally-Ho, pecan-crusted catfish at the St. James Hotel and tomato pie at Our House were selected as the best dishes to eat in town.

The stage agency compiled the list after months of extensive research that included suggestions from locals, according to ABTT Director Lee Sentell.

“Locals know about these great restaurants and the best things to eat there, but travelers usually rely on recommendations,” Sentell said. “Our office has taken the initiative to make those recommendations.”

Hopefully, the brochure will help bring food lovers from across the country to Selma to enjoy our tasty delights.

And, while they are here, they can take in the many other attractions this city has to offer.

The brochures are now available at the state’s eight Welcome Centers or by contacting the ABTT at 1-800-Alabama (252-2262)

or online at www.800alabama.com.