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 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.
The Gardens Café by Kathy G. offers a daily lunch Tuesday through Saturday. The café lunch menu reflects the feeling of being 'in the Gardens' and is inspired by local greens and produce. The bi-level café offers a mezzanine and patio dining as well. The Gardens Café is also the perfect venue for intimate wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, bridesmaid luncheons, teas, corporate lunches & dinners, receptions and other private events.
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.