In our business we get the chance to play tour guide to incoming residents who choose to make Birmingham either a temporary or permanent home. We’ve had the pleasure of guiding many visitors in the direction of so many attractions, eateries, and local “watering holes” that we’ve created a compilation of our most insightful dining recommendations.
There are so many hot spots to sit, eat, and enjoy that it’s easy to become overwhelmed if left to the task on your own. In fact freelance travel writer Carolanne Roberts of Southern Living says, “there are so many options, you can eat out every day of the year” without re-visitation.
Whether you’re new to town, getting reacquainted with the area or just want a fresh look at the most appetizing dining options, this list is sure to wet your whistle.
A sweet find that’s pet friendly:
As a family and pet friendly community, we relish the chance to brag about local spots that are as welcoming to pets too. The Continental Bakery in Mountain Brook is just such a place. It’s not uncommon to see family members meeting up for breakfast in the morning. Mom’s with strollers meeting their husbands during a workout break with “furry babies” in tow! When we stopped by we happened upon a gorgeous Labradoodle who was more host than pet. He greeted everyone that walked by and made rounds for lots of good rubbings.
Inside the bakery you’ll discover a well stocked wall of artisan breads, local goods & at atmosphere very close to the inside of a French cottage. Before you know it, it’s time to head back to work and you walk out of their oversized antique door, looking forward to tomorrow.
Fine Dining:
Birmingham is known for its fine dining options and three of the most popular with local and visitors alike are Highlands Bar & Grill, Bottega Cafe, and Chez Fonfon. With Master Chef Frank Stitt at the helm, the flavors that exude from any of these three locations will certainly take your taste buds on a trip of a lifetime.
If you’ve never had a chance to taste your way through Europe, seize the day from within the city limits of Birmingham, Alabama.
Highlands Bar & Grill made the number 50 position of Top 100 restaurants in America and is the only Alabama restaurant on the list. You never know who you might see there from celebrities to famous authors, food critics or, your next door neighbor. Fine dining. Superb service. Fabulous cocktails! If you’re a martini snob – it’s the best place ever for a dirty martini.
Bottega Café – Everyone loves Bottega Café, with its option of al fresco outdoor dining, especially at happy hour or brunch. Go there to see and be seen. Everything at Frank and Pardis Stits restaurants is to die for, but our go-to is the Crab cakes—all crab, delicately seasoned, never getting in the way of flavor. Must have drink? Try their famous West Texas Cocktail.
Chez Fon Fon – Everyone loves Bottega Café, with its option of al fresco outdoor dining, especially at happy hour or brunch. Go there to see and be seen. Everything at Frank and Pardis Stits restaurants is to die for, but our go-to is the Crab cakes—all crab, delicately seasoned, never getting in the way of flavor. Must have drink? Try their famous Orange Thing – that’s what you’ll see everyone sipping as they enjoy food and friends at one of Birminghams favorite places.
Night Life:
In downtown Birmingham, 20th Street offers so many choices that it’s tough to pick one. For those who want to take their culinary experience out on the town we suggest you stroll down 20th Street and discover what delights you. “Taste it all” as you stroll the streets, experience the atmosphere and nibble your way through a variety of available eateries.
According to Yelp, reviewers rate these delicious choices as the the top 5 places to stop during your stroll down 2oth Street.
Paramount Bar, Trattoria Centrale, Ono Poke, Brick & Tin, Cafe Dupont
Artistic Flair:
For those inclined to observing art and sipping great wine, Gallery 1930 is the perfect place to start. Here you will find a combined bar and art gallery home to many local artists. Keep an eye out on upcoming events as they like to have artist present their work. For example, they hosted artist Arthur Price in May.
Tech Minded:
The Revelator Coffee House on 3rd Avenue is the perfect environment for the digital nomad. This is not just a quick place to grab a cup of “joe”, but a meticulously thought out environment for serious coffee connoisseurs.
We wanted to try something a bit different to test their skills, and we weren’t disappointed. We ordered the “Capim Branco” brimming with notes of toasted coconut, toffee, chestnut and tamarind. It comes black, so if you want to enjoy the bold notes with cream be sure to ask.
Adorned in a simple layout, magnified with iridescent banners that line the wall from floor to ceiling.
When the morning light hits it just right you will see the life of the city outside dancing around as visitors start their day.
All that’s left is to decide when to go. Enjoy!
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