Cafe Dupont maintains a close relationship with the farmers of the region, and owner Chris Dupont handpicks the ingredients for his guests. This French restaurant believes in the "Slow Food" philosophy with its use of organically grown local produce. The restaurant has a concise menu and you won't have any trouble deciding on the Apalachiola oyster and okra with horseradish, followed by a dessert of dark chocolate cake and bananas foster. Have a glass of cordial before you say au revoir!

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.

The Original Pancake House offers breakfast and lunch in a bustling yet relaxed atmosphere. The breakfast diner décor is anything but cramped; the two dining areas can (and often do) accommodate great crowds who swarm. Although they serve omelettes, crepes, sandwiches, and salads, the Pancake House specializes in spectacular plates of pancakes that are cooked on a griddle, then baked. And the portions are amazing!

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 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!