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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.