Right in the heart of Birmingham's downtown lies this bright, festive restaurant. With polished wood and a giant, colorful mural adorning the wall, the atmosphere is comfortable and friendly. The menu features dishes inspired from all over Mexico, from of course tacos to dishes like short rib quesadillas, grilled chorizo meatloaf or enchiladas. At the bar, fill up on something from their impressive wine list, one of their four different margaritas or another one of their unique, signature cocktails.
Bottega offers an eclectic menu of Italian-inspired dishes in a very stylish setting. The building resembles a Roman civic structure, with faux archways and a decorative concrete facade. The decor is Art Deco in style, and the furnishings are elegant and tasteful. The menu features a wide array of appetizers and entrees that change daily. Though many of the dishes are Italian-inspired, they also make good use of local ingredients. The dessert menu and the wine lists are extensive to suit all palates.
Niki's West has been a Birmingham institution since 1957, and little has changed since then. Diners can opt for quicker cafeteria service of the classic southern "meat and three", or table service, where you can order more extensive steak and seafood dishes. Get the full range of southern specialties at Niki's West, from country fried steak, fried catfish and crab legs to sides like collared greens, sweet potatoes, lima beans and fried okra.
Located on 11th Court near Five Points South, Hot and Hot Fish Club offers an ever-changing menu of items made from local, organic produce and farm-raised meats. The menu changes daily, but the approach to cooking is consistent in its focus on freshness and variety. The award-winning wine list offers a complement to each dish. With the exposed brick walls decorated with modern art, this is an excellent spot for meetings and intimate gatherings.
Located downtown near the University of Alabama-Birmingham and its medical center, the Fish Market is the cheapest and possibly the best seafood restaurant in Birmingham. The owners are from Greece, so the self-service dining area is decorated with Greek photos and artwork. There is a small grocery area and of course, a fish market. The food is fresh, and the portions large. Be prepared for a crowd at any given time; this place is an unbeatable value and that's a well-known fact.
GianMarco is a collaborative effort between brothers Giani and Marco Respinto. With immense respect for their Italian heritage, their namesake restaurant is an ode to northern Italian gastronomy. Delectable classics including homemade pasta and regional specialties are served in a charming atmosphere that is reminiscent of a quintessential trattoria. They pride themselves on a thoughtful selection of over 300 wines that are sourced from vineyards across Italy. Take in the aromas of the cuisine that promises a whiff of tradition.
Chez Fonfon is the city's French reference point nestled in the heart of Five Points South. Launched in 2000 by Chris Mancill, Frank Stitt and Pardis Stitt, it recreates the classic bistro experience that transports you to the sidewalks of Paris. The menu features specialties such as steak tartare, croque monsieur, duck confit, grilled sausages, chicken liver tartine and beef tongue. The list of libations sees an impressive selection of spirits and wine exclusively supplied from estates across Loire, Provence and Rhône. The decor is a thoughtful assemblage of gaslights, furniture and antiquities sourced from France, with an underlying back-story. Enjoy a game or two at the boule pitch in the courtyard.
If you wanted to explore the fascinating world of Wicca and the occult, then Books Beans & Candles is a great little store from which to start your explorations. With a nice collection of books, candles, tarot cards, herbs, stones and other arcane artefacts, the store is a haven for practitioners and novices alike. The store's charming cafe is a great place to relax with the perfect cup of coffee while checking out what's on offer. With plenty of events and activities, Books Beans & Candles is a lively community space. Drop by for a unique experience, to pick up speciality items, or even just for a special souvenir.
Right in the heart of Birmingham's downtown lies this bright, festive restaurant. With polished wood and a giant, colorful mural adorning the wall, the atmosphere is comfortable and friendly. The menu features dishes inspired from all over Mexico, from of course tacos to dishes like short rib quesadillas, grilled chorizo meatloaf or enchiladas. At the bar, fill up on something from their impressive wine list, one of their four different margaritas or another one of their unique, signature cocktails.
This popular bar and grill, located on 11th Avenue at Five Points South, offers Southern Continental cuisine in an upscale yet relaxed environment. The decor is that of an elegant bistro, with exposed brick walls and track lighting. The menu, though not extensive, offers an ever-changing list of interesting entrees featuring venison, quail, beef, pork and seafood prepared in a continental style.
Fleming's is one of Birmingham's as well as the country's best steak houses. Steak options include Filet Mignon, New York Strip, Beef Flemington, Veal chops, Pork Rib Chop, and Prime Ribs. So take your pick and ask your waiter to help you choose from the 100 different wines. If you're not a meat fan, then sample the fresh seafood and scrumptious side dishes. The Salmon with the signature mashed potatoes are highly recommended.
Located in the Hoover area of Birmingham, Mr. P's Deli is known for their fresh cut sandwiches and wide selection of meats. This popular delicatessen has been open for 37 years and is owned and operated by Mr. P himself, Charles Pilleterie. The shop carries imported groceries as well as local products such as Mr. P's handcrafted spices and marinades. Over two dozen sandwiches are on offer featuring the sliced in-house deli meats, sauces and more. Made to order breakfast sandwiches are served from 8:30-11a and can be called in for pickup.