December has arrived, bringing holiday cheer and a feast of new flavors to Birmingham’s dining scene. Whether you’re craving cozy comfort food or festive global fare, there’s no shortage of delicious spots to explore this month. Bon appétit!
Pogo
Neighborhood: Downtown
More info: armour-house.com
Birmingham’s nightlife just got a stylish upgrade with the opening of Pogo, a speakeasy-inspired cocktail bar tucked beneath the historic Armour House. Open since November 22, Pogo invites guests to step into a world where pre-prohibition elegance meets modern flair.
Snag made-to-order seasonal drinks crafted with premium spirits, in-house barrel-aged cocktails, and a non-traditional wine list featuring adventurous, worldly varietals. Signature sips like The Layover (a bold mix of Old Forester 100, lemon, Mommenpop Blood Orange, Cardamaro, and an absinthe rinse) and the Orchard Waltz (a refreshing zero-proof option) showcase Pogo’s knack for innovation.
Lag’s Eatery
Neighborhood: Avondale
More info: lagseatery.com
In the 1970s, Anthony “Lag” Gagliano opened a cozy neighborhood café in Homewood with a simple yet heartfelt mission: to create “a place to meet friends, see friends, and be friends,” all while serving up good food. For two decades, Lag’s Eatery was a beloved spot for breakfast and lunch staples like sandwiches, hamburgers, and hot dogs. When Lag retired, he still came in every morning to answer the phone, and Gerard DeFrank took the reins of the restaurant before it eventually closed its doors.
Now, 15 years after its closure, Lag’s Eatery is back, reopening in Avondale. With its rich history and timeless appeal, this revamped classic offers a fresh chance to experience the community spirit and comforting flavors that made it a Birmingham favorite.
Kyuramen
Neighborhood: Inverness
More info: kyuramen.com
Kyuramen has made its way to Birmingham, opening its doors in the former Newk’s location in Inverness Corners along Highway 280. The founder’s journey to ramen mastery started with a passion for the dish, sparking repeated trips to Japan to explore different flavors and noodle styles. His goal? To make authentic Japanese ramen a more affordable, everyday treat.
Now, Birmingham can indulge in rich, flavorful soup bases topped with fresh Japanese-style pork roast, a perfectly boiled egg, and chopped green onions in a new eatery that brings a taste of Japan to the heart of the city. And there are plenty of non-ramen dishes, too!
Miracle on 24th Street
Neighborhood: Downtown
More info: Instagram
Queen’s Park closed its doors and rebranded as Hold Your Horses last year, and many fans of the bar’s beloved Christmas pop-up feared the festive tradition would be lost. But fear not — Hold Your Horses is keeping the magic alive with Miracle on 24th Street, even though Hold Your Horses isn’t even officially open yet. Running through New Year’s Eve, the pop-up bar is the spot to sip on holiday-inspired cocktails and bask in the seasonal cheer.
Yamato Japanese Steakhouse
Neighborhood: Pelham
More info: yamatopelham.com
Yamato Japanese Steakhouse has officially opened its doors in Pelham Plaza Shopping Center, bringing a fresh take on classic Japanese cuisine to the area. This new spot offers a variety of delicious options, from fresh sushi to sizzling hibachi grill entrées, all rooted in authentic flavors. The open-concept kitchen lets diners watch as their meals are prepared right before their eyes, adding an extra touch of excitement to the experience.
Miss Astrid’s Tavern
Neighborhood: Cahaba Heights
More info: Facebook
Miss Astrid’s Tavern is gearing up to welcome diners with a full lunch, brunch, and dinner service. Occupying the former The Fig Tree locale, the new spot brings together a dynamic culinary duo — Chef Jessica Armstrong (a seasoned veteran of Birmingham’s country club kitchens) and Chef James Bennett (known for his work at The Fennec and the Birmingham Country Club). The new eatery will feature southern-forward dishes, including meat-and-three lunch options. The mocktail menu is crafted by bar consultant Nicholas Wansten, promising inventive, alcohol-free delights.
Hillside Music & Que
Neighborhood: Vestavia Hills
More info: Facebook
A few short months ago, Hillside Music & Que closed its doors, but the Vestavia restaurant has officially reopened in the very same spot. The Highway 31 restaurant has an updated, refreshed look but still serves its ever-popular burgers, fries, tacos, and other delicious offerings.
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Published November 2024
Written by Paige Townley
November is here, and with it comes a flurry of activity and plenty to be thankful for — including Birmingham’s ever-growing dining scene. With new spots popping up all over town, there’s no shortage of options to try, from indulgent comfort foods to unique global dishes. Dig in!
Armour House
Neighborhood: Downtown
More info: armour-house.com
Executive Chef Jeffrey Compton, alongside partners Rollins Montgomery and Chris Reebals, has opened a new neighborhood brasserie in the heart of Downtown Birmingham. Armour House offers a refined menu inspired by Compton’s travels through Southern Europe, complete with a raw bar, premium proteins, and locally sourced produce.
With standout dishes like Bluefin Tuna Crudo and Black Angus Beef Tenderloin, and a seasonally revolving beverage program featuring inventive cocktails and a 300+ wine list, Armour House promises unforgettable flavors and impeccable service.
Dave’s Hot Chicken
Neighborhood: Vestavia Hills
More info: daveshotchicken.com
Get ready for some seriously hot bites, Birmingham! Dave’s Hot Chicken, one of the fastest-growing restaurant chains in the U.S., has brought its signature Nashville-style hot chicken to Alabama. Located in the Vestavia City Center, the newly opened location marks a significant milestone for the popular chain, which has garnered a loyal following thanks to its mouthwatering Hot Chicken Sliders and a range of heat levels — from “No Spice” to the fiery “Reaper.”
Whether you’re a spice newbie or a heat enthusiast, there’s something for everyone at this new spot, which also offers comforting sides like kale slaw, mac & cheese, and top-loaded milkshakes to help cool things down.
Chengdu Cuisine
Neighborhood: Hoover
More info: chengducuisineal.com
Chengdu Cuisine has officially taken over the former Mandarin House spot on Highway 31 in Hoover, bringing new flavor to the area with its bold and authentic Sichuan dishes. Known for its hotpot, dim sum, and spicy noodle bowls, the restaurant brings a fresh twist on traditional Chinese dining.
With a focus on vibrant, pepper-forward flavors, Chengdu Cuisine offers a tantalizing dining experience for those craving a mix of spice and flavor.
Sands of Sahara
Neighborhood: Homewood
More info: Instagram
Sands of Sahara, a new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and bar, has opened its doors in Homewood, bringing a luxurious lounge experience to Birmingham. Focusing on Mediterranean flavors infused with American flair, the menu features crowd favorites like hummus, flavorful kebabs, and an impressive selection of craft cocktails.
Neon Moon Lounge
Neighborhood: Leeds
More info: Facebook
An old hotspot for fun and entertainment has returned — Neon Moon, now open in Leeds! The bar offers a lively atmosphere with weekly karaoke nights, a pool table, and an array of games to keep guests entertained. The lounge also welcomes food trucks for a tasty lineup of bites, making it the perfect place to hang out with friends and let loose.
Corbeau Wine Bar
Neighborhood: Homewood
More info: corbeaubar.com
It wasn’t all that long ago that Corbeau Wine Bar opened its very first location in Trussville, offering a cozy and refined spot for wine lovers to gather and unwind. Now, the wine bar is expanding to its second location at The Edge in Homewood, bringing its carefully curated selection of wines, small plates, and welcoming atmosphere to a whole new crowd.
The latest spot promises to provide the same exceptional service and vibrant ambiance that made the original location such a hit, all while adding a touch of sophistication to the bustling Homewood area.
Do Not Disturb
Neighborhood: Homewood
More info: dnd-bhm.com
Homewood’s newest addition, Do Not Disturb, isn’t your typical sports bar. With its sleek, upscale ambiance, it combines the energy of a lounge with the comforts of a high-end sports bar, creating a space that’s as inviting for game day as it is for date night.
Located on Lakeshore Parkway, Do Not Disturb features a New Orleans-inspired menu — with favorites like Fried Pickles, Boudain Balls, Catfish on Toast, and Crawfish Nachos. You’ll also find a creative cocktail list, making it a fun new spot for date nights, happy hours, or catching the big game with friends.
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Published October 2024
Written by Paige Townley
It’s a busy time of year, and Birmingham’s food scene is keeping pace, thanks to the exciting new openings around towmouthwateringwatering comfort food to international flavors, this season’s newest lineup offers something for every palate. Check out the latest additions and discover your next go-to spot!
Salud Taqueria
Neighborhood: Downtown
More info: saludbham.com
Salud Taqueria is the latest venture from Jesús Méndez, owner of Unos Tacos and The Louis and co-owner of Adiós cocktail bar. Created as a tribute to his parents, Salud brings the heart of authentic Mexican cuisine to life in a fast-casual setting.
With handmade masa tortillas, traditional tacos, and a beverage menu crafted by José Medina Camacho, Salud promises a delicious and immersive experience — complete with a window into the tortilla-making process and a warm, welcoming design inspired by Méndez’s heritage.
Asian Bistro at The Marble Ring
Neighborhood: Avondale
More info: Facebook
The Marble Ring is mixing things up, adding a brand-new food menu to its offerings: Asian Bistro at The Marble Ring. The new late-night food option adds a modern retro Asian fusion vibe to the ambiance of the existing speakeasy and plans to feature a rotating menu of dishes, including bar snacks and small plates.
Ramblers Sports Bar & Grill at The Fennec
Neighborhood: Parkside
More info: ramblerssportsbar.com
Birmingham’s new go-to spot for game days is Ramblers Sports Bar & Grill, now open at The Fennec. This sports bar brings a lively atmosphere, perfect for catching your favorite team’s games or just hanging out with friends any day of the week.
With plenty of screens and a menu featuring fan favorites like Conecuh Corndogs, Pimento Cheese Balls, burgers, and tacos, Ramblers is primed to be the ultimate sports destination.
Sloan’s
Neighborhood: Downtown
More info: Instagram
Sloan’s is shaking up Birmingham’s bar scene! Nestled on 2nd Ave N, this new bourbon haven opened its doors on September 24, inviting bourbon connoisseurs and casual sippers alike to dive into a world of elevated cocktails and cozy vibes.
Whether you’re looking for a smooth nightcap or an entire evening of refined indulgence, Sloan’s promises to deliver with its curated menu of elevated bites and extensive bourbon selection.
Surf Hound
Neighborhood: Mountain Brook
More info: eatsurfhound.com
Surf Hound, Mountain Brook’s newest eatery, brings a splash of the 1960s and ‘70s surf culture to Magic City. Opened by Chef Abhi Sainju — of Birmingham Abhi Eatery + Bar and Maro — this coastal-inspired eatery serves up fresh, beach-inspired flavors with items like fish tacos, octopus salad, and fresh oysters.
Denim on 7th
Neighborhood: Lakeview
More info: denimon7th.com
Denim on 7th hasn’t been a part of the Birmingham scene for very long — it opened just last year — but it’s already stepping up its game by adding a kitchen to meet the growing request for food options. Known for its laid-back, denim-infused atmosphere, the bar will now offer a curated menu to complement its popular drink options.
BACK OPEN: Yum Yai Street Thai
Neighborhood: Highway 280
More info: yumyaibham.com
Yum Yai Street Thai took a brief hiatus for a remodel and expansion, but it’s reopening on Tuesday, October 22, to serve the Birmingham community. A local favorite since it opened five years ago, the eatery will once again delight patrons wmouthwateringwatering flavors and signature Thai dishes. Don’t miss the chance to dive back into its incredible menu!
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Published September 2024
Written by Paige Townley
Birmingham never disappoints when it comes to its ever-growing food scene, and this season is no exception. Whether you’re craving comfort food or bold, global flavors, there’s something to explore for even the most seasoned culinary enthusiast. Add these 11 spots to your rotation!
Trampled By Tacos
Neighborhood: Greystone
More info: yelp.com
Trampled By Tacos quietly opened earlier this month, bringing fresh, bold flavors to Highway 280. This brand-new taco spot, located in the space formerly occupied by Little Donkey, is sure to be your new go-to for tacos, burritos, and, of course, chips and queso. The new eatery is also a laid-back location for enjoying one of its many margaritas, beers, or other cocktails on the menu.
The Wine Bunker
Neighborhood: Alabaster
More info: thewinebunker.com
The Wine Bunker debuted in Alabaster this month, bringing a fresh new take on wine and whiskey. The unique spot offers a curated selection of wines in a chic atmosphere, making it the ideal locale for casual sippers or more refined aficionados. Along with an extensive menu of wine, beer, rye, whiskey, and scotch, The Wine Bunker also features a food menu with a range of small bites and charcuterie.
Vocelli Pizza
Neighborhood: Southside
More info: Instagram
The Magic City’s pizza scene just got a major upgrade with the arrival of Vocelli Pizza. The eatery’s backstory is as flavorful as its artisanal pies. Founder Varol Ablak (who moved with his family to the U.S. from Turkey instead of following in his father’s footsteps as an engineer) shifted to the world of pizza — starting with washing dishes at a local pizza shop in Biloxi, MS. His entrepreneurial spirit took off, leading to the opening of his first pizza shop. Now, he’s brought his pepperoni perfection to Birmingham.
Ay Güey Taqueria & Bar
Neighborhood: Springville
More info: Instagram
Ay Güey Taqueria & Bar is so much more than your typical taco joint. This vibrant taqueria, opened by husband-and-wife team Arturo and Diana Flores, serves up flavorful Mexican dishes in an environment centered around a Mexican wrestling theme. While enjoying the eatery’s authentic Mexican menu (featuring tacos, burritos, nachos, quesadillas, and all of the accoutrements you’d expect), guests can check out the extensive wrestling memorabilia that adds a fun flare to the atmosphere.
Sunshine’s Bakery
Neighborhood: Irondale
More info: sunshinebakeshop.com
Culinary options in Irondale just got a little sweeter with the recent opening of Sunshine’s Bakery. Opened by husband-and-wife duo Sunshine Dang and Ronald Williamson, the bakery’s menu features a variety of sweet treats — from muffins and Danishes to cinnamon rolls and even chocolate chip cookies. The bakery also offers freshly baked sourdough bread.
Grimaldi’s
Neighborhood: Hoover
More info: grimaldispizzeria.com
Another option for a coal-fired, brick oven pizza has arrived in Hoover with the opening of Grimaldi’s. The new brick-and-mortar brings a slice of New York’s iconic pizza culture to the Magic City, including its hand-tossed dough that’s made in-house daily. The only problem is picking just one pie. A few crowd favorites include the White with Garlic Pizza, Margherita, and the Traditional Pizza, which features the eatery’s secret recipe tomato sauce.
Dave’s Pub
Neighborhood: Five Points
More info: davespub.com
Dave’s Pub has officially reopened; for Birmingham locals, it’s a big deal. The Five Points South watering hole has been a beloved institution for decades, known for its laid-back vibe, friendly crowd, and great drink selection. After a brief hiatus, it’s back and better than ever, ready to claim its spot as a neighborhood favorite.
Rocky’s Pizza and Italian Foods
Neighborhood: Five Points
More info: Facebook
After an eight-year hiatus and much anticipation, Rocky’s Pizza and Italian Foods is back in business. The renowned ’80s-era pizzeria was long known for its boxing theme almost as much as its delicious pizzas. Now, patrons can once again enjoy both. Located in the former Little Italy space in Five Points, Rocky’s — named after original owner Dennis Dunlap’s appreciation of boxer Rocky Marciano — is being reopened by his son Joshua, his daughter Cynthia, and René Mercado Angeles, who spent nearly 20 years at Gianmarco’s Restaurant.
HERO
Neighborhoods: Railroad Park, Trussville, Hoover, & Homewood
More info: eatathero.com
HERO doughnut fans, you’re in luck! Now, your love for their delicious treats can carry you through to dinner, too. All Birmingham locations have extended hours until 8 p.m., so patrons can indulge in longstanding favorites and even a few new menu offerings. You can grab dishes such as the Fried Pork Chop Sandwich, Fried Bologna Sandwich, and Cucumber Tomato Salad — and even grab a doughnut or two for tomorrow.
Bandido Coffee Parlor
Neighborhood: Five Points
More info: Instagram
The wait is finally over! Bandido Coffee Parlor officially opened its doors earlier this month, bringing new flavors to the Birmingham coffee scene with specialty coffees. It even has a delicious option for non-coffee drinkers, the Berry Hibiscus Tea.
Luke’s Hotdogs & Burgers
Neighborhood: Argo
More info: Facebook
Paul’s Hot Dogs served only the best hot dogs in Argo for 30 years before closing in August last year. Now, the original owner’s grandson, Luke, is bringing it back with a new name: Luke’s Hotdogs & Burgers. As a teen, Luke joined his grandfather at the original eatery, working with him for over a decade. With the same beloved recipes and a fresh new name, Luke’s Hotdogs & Burgers is dishing out delicious dishes that have been local favorites for years.
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Published August 2024
Written by Paige Townley
As the dog days of summer blaze on, Birmingham’s dining scene is simmering, too. From award-winning burgers to authentic Indian and Italian cuisine, these openings are offering exciting new options for your rotation. Add these eight spots to your must-try list!
Baba Java
Neighborhood: Homewood
More info: babajavacoffee.com
Baba Java Coffee officially got its start in Birmingham in 2019 when the first location opened, and now it has already opened the doors of its third shop. Known for its commitment to quality and passion for ethically sourced coffee, Baba Java has quickly become a local favorite. Its newest location in The Edge Homewood continues to serve up the rich, flavorful brews that have made it a critical part of the Magic City’s coffee scene.
Black Market Bar + Grill
Neighborhood: Avondale
More info: evilbartenders.com
Black Market Bar + Grill established itself as a local favorite when it opened its first location at the Colonnade in 2009. Now, it’s expanding to Avondale. In addition to its fabulous drink menu, the eatery offers an extensive menu, including a late-night menu featuring typical favorites like wings, cheese sticks, chicken fingers, egg rolls, and grilled cheese.
Curry Corner
Neighborhood: Mountain Brook
More info: currycornerbham.com
Curry Corner is adding a bold new flavor to Birmingham’s culinary landscape with its debut in English Village. This addition offers vibrant, authentic Indian cuisine. With a menu that celebrates the richness of spices and flavors, Curry Corner offers everything from crispy Pakora, a perfectly spiced vegetable fritter, to classic favorites like Chicken Curry and Shrimp Masala.
Joyland
Neighborhood: Avondale
More info: eatjoyland.com
Joyland, the brainchild of James Beard Award-winning chef Sean Brock and hospitality veterans Nick Pihakis and Paul Mishkin, made its highly anticipated debut in the Magic City on August 15. A nostalgic nod to the golden era of fast food, Joyland is a fast-casual eatery reimagined with Chef Brock’s creative twist.
Just like the restaurant’s Nashville location, the menu is brimming with thoughtfully sourced ingredients and playful takes on classic favorites, like the Joystick — a fusion of Japanese kushikatsu and Mississippi’s fried chicken-on-a-stick tradition — and the famous buttermilk biscuits, which are even available gluten-free.
Like the menu, Joyland’s dining room is vibrantly designed to evoke a sense of joy and nostalgia, along with a colorful outdoor patio featuring murals by local muralist Marcus Fetch.
Salvatore’s Pizza and Pasta
Neighborhood: Downtown
More info: salvatorespizzapasta.com
Salvatore’s Pizza and Pasta is bringing its beloved New York-style slices and hearty Italian dishes to a new spot in Birmingham, and we couldn’t be more excited! Nestled near UAB, this new location continues the tradition of mouthwateringwatering pizzas, rich pasta, and classic Italian favorites that have made Salvatore’s a go-to dining destination.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick slice between classes or settling in for a cozy dinner with friends, Salvatore’s promises the same delicious experience that Birmingham locals have come to know and love.
Meri Moon
Neighborhood: Montevallo
More info: Facebook
A new coffee shop has moved into Montevallo. Situated in the former Strand Theatre building on Main Street, Meri Moon started out focusing exclusively on breakfast and lunch, serving delicious menu items like muffins, waffles, sandwiches, and salads. Lucky for us, the eatery has also expanded its hours to serve dinner.
Santos Coffee
Neighborhood: Irondale
More info: Facebook
Santos Coffee is on the move again; this time, it’s brewing up excitement in Irondale. With the opening of its seventh Birmingham location, this local favorite is quickly becoming a city staple, beloved for its rich, aromatic brews and cozy atmosphere. Known for serving up coffee made from beans sourced directly from family farms in South America, Santos has cultivated a loyal following, and it’s no wonder they’re expanding so rapidly.
Irondale’s newest spot is set to offer the same exceptional coffee experience that Birmingham residents have come to adore — one cup at a time.
Hillside Music & Que
Neighborhood: Vestavia
More info: thehillsidemq.com
While this restaurant might not be brand new, its rebranding marks a fresh chapter with an exciting new vibe. After a significant makeover and change in ownership, Palm & Pig is now Hillside Music & Que. The reinvention breathes new life into a familiar favorite, promising a rejuvenated dining experience with a new food and drink menu, including pork sandwiches, po’boys, ribs, burgers, and hot dogs. All of these can be enjoyed on the lively patio featuring live local musicians.
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Published July 2024
Written by Paige Townley
What better way to beat this summer heat than a refreshing cocktail or a cold, decadent dessert? Luckily, this month brings a fresh wave of new dining options to the citmouthwateringwatering burgers to coastal-themed bar offerings, you’ll want to add these new Birmingham restaurants to your rotation!
The Craft Burger
Neighborhood: Greystone
More info: thecraftburger.com
The Craft Burger has been known to Birmingham diners for years thanks to its classic American fare, and its new location has finally opened its doors. The much-anticipated restaurant brings its signature craft burgers, gourmet fries, delicious hot dogs, and other offerings like sandwiches, salads, and wraps to the Highway 280 corridor.
As with its other locations, each of those items continues to be made with quality ingredients, making for a new and welcoming spot for a delicious meal.
Magnolia Point
Neighborhood: Southside
More info: eatmagnoliapoint.com
Pihakis Restaurant Group — known for Birmingham favorites like Rodney Scott’s BBQ, Hero Doughnuts & Buns, and Little Donkey — just opened the city’s newest seafood restaurant, Magnolia Point. The casual eatery brings the charm of beach bars and surfside restaurants to the heart of the Magic City, with a special nod to the nostalgic fish camps often found along the Gulf Coast.
Led by Executive Chef Paul Yeck and Chef Dave Atkinson, Magnolia Point offers a menu with plenty of seafood fare — from seafood baskets and platters to po’boys and even shrimp and grits — as well as land-lover favorites like burgers, wings, and steak.
Milky Way Ice Cream Bar
Neighborhood: Southside
More info: Instagram
Milky Way Ice Cream Bar is the perfect destination for cooling off this summer in Birmingham. Located in Southside — next to Wilson’s Market — the ice cream shop features a menu that satisfies any sweet tooth or craving, from single scoops of ice cream to popsicles, milkshakes, floats, snow cones, and smoothies.
Milky Way Ice Cream Bar boasts more than 20 different ice cream flavors, including unique options like banana pudding, red velvet cake, and pistachio almond.
Nawlins Style Po’boys
Neighborhood: Alabaster
More info: nawlinsstylepoboys.com
Birmingham’s culinary scene just got a lot spicier with the opening of Nawlins Style Po’boys. The eatery has been serving its tasty offerings for the last few years with its food truck, but the new brick-and-mortar location is bringing the best flavors and spices straight from Louisiana.
Nawlins Style Po’boys promises to deliver authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine, femouthwateringwatering po’boys packed with perfectly seasoned meats, fresh seafood, and crisp, flavorful toppings. From the classic shrimp po’boy to the seafood baskets, each bite transports you to the bustling streets of the Big Easy.
Valhalla Board Game Café
Neighborhood: Pelham
More info: valhallaboardgames.com
One of the Magic City’s most unique cafes is now open in Pelham. Valhalla Board Game Café is an innovative café that combines a love for food and drinks with the excitement of board games, creating the perfect spot for friends and family to gather. Valhalla has something for everyone, whether you’re a strategy game enthusiast or just looking to enjoy a cozy atmosphere with a cup of coffee.
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