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 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.
Trattoria Centrale is a popular, casual place located in Birmingham's bustling downtown. The trattoria serves Italian-inspired dishes, from pizzas with toppings ranging from three cheese to sweet potato or egg to pastas and salads. The trattoria is especially well known for its daily specials, which might be anything from Chicken Piccata to Panzanella. They also source much of their produce from their own rooftop garden, and are especially popular for their Sunday brunch.
Rojo is a popular choice for people looking for outstanding Latin and American menus in one trendy place. Diners can take their pick of American favorites like cheesesteaks, burgers, wings and big salads, or Latin dishes like tacos, burritos and quesadillas. There is also a gluten-free menu and a kids menu. Also popular is the weekend brunch with a small but solid selection of breakfast burritos, egg dishes and Mexican-inspired foods. Daily specials include a weekday happy hour, sangria Sundays and Corona Tuesdays.
Located on First Avenue North in downtown Irondale, Irondale Café, the original WhistleStop Café, has been serving traditional Southern food at the same location for years. The cafe is a traditional Southern restaurant where the customers order their food cafeteria-style, then carry the tray to a seat. The cafe became famous to the rest of the world when it was the setting for the book and film Fried Green Tomatoes. Though judging from its large and loyal clientele, it became famous in Irondale many years before that for its quality and consistency—and cornbread rolls!
This bright, casual restaurant is a favorite in Birmingham for serving up flavorful portions of Mediterranean favorites with a twist. Feast on dishes like gyros, grilled meat plates and some incredible hummus. For a family meal, Taziki's does a "Dinner for 4" package with a choice of grilled meats (including a whole roast chicken or pork loin) with sauce, Greek salad, pita chips and rice or potatoes. For some healthy, fresh Mediterranean food, head to Taziki's.
Since being opened in 2009, Saw's BBQ has skyrocketed to the top of the list of best BBQ joints, not just in the area, but in the country. Get BBQ classics like racks of ribs, pulled pork and chicken either on a platter or sandwich all come covered in Saw's famous sauce, but that's not all. Make sure to try the incredible pork stuffed tater, a baked potato crammed full of juicy pulled pork. All the classic sides are available too.
Trattoria Centrale is a popular, casual place located in Birmingham's bustling downtown. The trattoria serves Italian-inspired dishes, from pizzas with toppings ranging from three cheese to sweet potato or egg to pastas and salads. The trattoria is especially well known for its daily specials, which might be anything from Chicken Piccata to Panzanella. They also source much of their produce from their own rooftop garden, and are especially popular for their Sunday brunch.
MELT began as a food truck and soon gained so much fame that it opened this restaurant in Avondale. The food truck still runs around Birmingham but this sit-down eatery allows you to sample their food in leisure. Its quirky patio and interior decor use reclaimed wood in innovative ways, creating an ambiance that is cool and casual. The menu is high on American comfort food, with several gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. They also have vegan cheese to flavor grilled sandwiches. Enjoy Ragin' Cajun Sandwich made by stuffing Texas toast with coleslaw, blackened chicken and Habañero Jack cheese. Try Autumn Apple Salad, Tomato Basil Soup and Deep Fried Oreos as well. Grilled cheese sandwich is available here in many variations, including the classic style. Local craft beer, vodkas, craft cocktails and cold bar snacks are the bar favorites.
The cafe opened its doors to public in the year 2013. They serve tasty handmade donuts and other baked goodies along with coffee in a relaxed atmosphere. Try their peach fritter which is very popular and has been named as the must try donut in the state of Alabama. They also serve beignets every Saturday. Since their opening they have received several accolades and the cafe is an ideal place to drop by enjoy a quick snack with your friends, or meet someone for business, or simply sit down with your laptop and use their free WiFi while you enjoy their baked treats.
Housed in an old post office, the 41st Street South-located Post Office Pies draws you with its appetizing wood fired pizzas and chilled hooch. Nestled in the historic area of Birmingham, this pizza eatery remains popular for delicious thin-crust pizzas, topped with zesty sauces and seasonings. Owned and operated by industry veterans include John Hall, Brandon Cain and Mike Wilson, it also serves heavenly salads and beverages in a wonderful setting. Dig into a hearty 12-inch 'Swine Pie' pizza and round it off with the savory brews from Avondale Brewing Company.
Found in the bustling downtown area of Birmingham, Brick & Tin offers an impressive menu comprising flavorsome sandwiches, delectable soups and salads. Owned by Mauricio Papapietro, this sandwich joint is creatively done up with exposed, brick walls and comfortable seating. Brick & Tin procures all ingredients from local farms, while the meats are always freshly cut and hormone-free. The well-stocked bar offers unrestricted views of its kitchen, so you know that everything is being prepared in a healthy way. Brick & Tin also offers interesting options for non-meat lovers.