Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Homewood

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.

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.

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.

If you're looking for a taste of Japan in Homewood, look no further than Okinawa Sushi & Hibachi Steak House. The trendy, modern interiors (complete with waterfall) will make you feel like you're dining in somewhere like Las Vegas or Los Angeles. In addition to a huge selection of delectable sushi, sashimi and hand rolls. they also feature a selection of noodles and lunch specials. If you're looking for something a little meatier, try one of their hibachi plates.