Updated January 2024 by Katie Leigh Matthews
The Lakeview Entertainment District — located in Southside between University Boulevard and 7th Avenue South at 29th Street South — is one of the most bustling spots in downtown Birmingham. Visitors can spend an entire weekend eating and drinking their way through this entertainment hub, and many opt to live in the heart of the action at Rise Lakeview and Met on 7th.
Lakeview’s history dates back to 1883 and holds significance as the site of the first Iron Bowl at Lakeview Park in 1893. (For those keeping score, Auburn came out victorious, winning 32 to 22, and it was the only time the rivalry game was played at this site.) The Lakeview we know and love today was established in 1991, and the entire district extends 36 blocks. This stretch includes Pepper Place and The Market at Pepper Place, and it is home to an array of local businesses and anchor companies like Brasfield & Gorrie.
Today, we’re focusing on the best ways to eat, drink, and play your way through Lakeview’s Entertainment District.
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK
Al’s on 7th
For a little something different to add to your experience, stop by Al’s on 7th. Lakeview’s only gay bar offers drag shows on the weekends that you simply can’t miss. After the weekend shows, stick around to groove on the dance floor to music from one of Birmingham’s top DJs.
The Church Key
More Info: Facebook | Instagram
Head around the corner of 7th Avenue South and 27th Street South to get to Lakeview’s private club, The Church Key. A $5 membership fee grants you access to this quaint and no-nonsense dive bar, where you’ll enjoy tasty drinks, friendly regulars, and no frills. They’re open seven days a week starting at 3 p.m., so if you’re looking for a chill space to unwind from the other Lakeview hotspots, The Church Key is the place to be.
Denim on 7th
More Info: Facebook | Instagram
A new addition to the district, Denim on 7th is a vibrant spot to start the night. Grab an Instagram-worthy cocktail, enjoy local DJs, and rent the VIP room for special events. Its swanky bar and comfortable yet trendy vibe live up to the name. Like a perfect pair of jeans, Denim on 7th fits whatever night you have planned.
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
More Info: hattieb.com
Hattie B’s offers the ultimate experience when it comes to Southern comfort food. The Birmingham arm of this Nashville-based chain does not disappoint, and no one is kidding when they tell you Hattie B’s chicken is hot. If you’re in the mood for mild, order your chicken Southern-style with no heat; if you’re looking to test your limits, opt for the highest heat level with “Shut the Cluck Up.” Delicious sides like greens and pimento mac and cheese complement the chicken, and you can polish it off with peach cobbler or banana pudding.
Innisfree
More Info: Facebook | Instagram
If you want something more laid-back, visit Innisfree, an Irish pub with a more relaxed yet exciting vibe. The DJ spins great music while you mingle with Birmingham’s young, hip crowd. Find a booth where you can cozy up with your friends and indulge in solid drink specials.
Jack Brown’s Beer and Burger Joint
More Info: jackbrownsjoint.com
Those into delicious burgers and good craft beer will find their home at Jack Brown’s. The fare is top-notch, and you could visit Jack Brown’s night after night and never eat the same burger or drink the same beer twice. Prepare to become a repeat customer!
Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant
More Info: Facebook
Los Amigos has been a Birmingham fixture since 1999, starting out on Clairmont Avenue and then moving to its home in Lakeview. This well-respected and popular Mexican restaurant’s digs are spacious and on the corner lot, offering plenty of space to enjoy the traditional Tex-Mex fare and mouthwatering margaritas.
Lou’s Pub and Package Store
More Info: Facebook
It’s not very often you can grab a drink at a bar while simultaneously being at a liquor store, but Lou’s offers the best of both worlds. This unique concept keeps its clientele coming back, and the people at Lou’s are as great as their selection.
Moe’s Original BBQ
More Info: moesoriginalbbq.com
As night falls, Moe’s turns into a popular destination thanks to its lively outdoor patio. But before the crowds show up, stop in for some of the best barbecue in Birmingham. Try any of the classic sandwiches and platters, and treat yourself to some of their mac and cheese, cornbread, and banana pudding.
Mojo Pub
More Info: Facebook | Instagram
Mojo Pub has many regulars, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a mellow pub with craft beers, spirits, live music, and good food to match. The atmosphere is laid-back, the staff is friendly, and an outdoor area adds an extra touch to the otherwise compact space. It has a feeling all its own, and you’ll want to return night after night.
Nana Funks
More Info: Facebook | Instagram
Nana Funks is one of Birmingham’s favorite hotspots. It stays open late, and to say it’s lively is a massive understatement. There is so much fun to be had at Nana Funks that it’s impossible to experience it all in just one night. Prepare to return repeatedly for the atmosphere, dance floor, DJs, and vast beer selection.
Oasis
More Info: Facebook
Oasis is located on the same side of the street as Los Amigos, which you’ll find when you spot the green palm tree and pink neon sign bearing its name. Inside, you’ll find a snug, brick-walled bar with delicious drinks, live music, darts, and great food that all add up to a down-to-earth, casual vibe.
Purple Onion
More Info: thepurpleonion.co
Another Birmingham original, the Purple Onion serves up a unique blend of Mediterranean cuisine and American classics. Whether you’re in the mood for a gyro, wings, hummus, or a burger, they’ve got you covered. The relaxed and casual atmosphere makes it a great spot to fuel up before a night on the town.
The Refinery
More Info: therefinerybham.com
Since opening in 2018, The Refinery has quickly become one of the neighborhood’s most sophisticated and cosmopolitan spots. It serves killer cocktails and seriously delicious American cuisine. We recommend the Conecuh sausage corndogs, grouper tacos, and jalapeño mac and cheese bites. The vibe is great, and they’re open for lunch, too.
Slice
More Info: slicebirmingham.com
Every neighborhood needs a pizza joint, and Slice is Lakeview’s. Grab a beer as you down some of the best pizza in Birmingham, with pies ranging from a classic Margherita pizza to the Hot Mama, comprised of Calabrian peppers, Soppressata salami, fresh mozzarella, asiago, and a drizzle of Mikes Hot Honey. You really can’t choose a bad slice.
Tin Roof
More Info: tinroofbirmingham.com
Halfway between Al’s and Mojo Pub is Tin Roof, which has emerged as a premier live music venue in Birmingham — especially for country music lovers. Wednesday night bingo, karaoke, and weekend DJs are staples, but Tin Roof is in its element with its live music offerings. Its calendar is packed with big names you hear on the radio and artists you may not know but one day will.
Umami
More Info: umamibham.com
What better way to start the night than sushi and cocktails? Umami offers delectable Asian cuisine and sushi that pair perfectly with gorgeous cocktails. Try any of the picture-worthy plates, like Asian-inspired tacos, the “Karen” sushi roll, or the popular baked crab avocado. If the weather is nice, enjoy it all on the roomy outdoor patio!
WHERE TO EXPLORE
Birmingham Rage Room
More Info: birminghamrageroom.com
The idea is simple. Smash stuff. Have fun. That’s all there is to it at the Birmingham Rage Room. They provide safety gear, tools, and breakables for you to blow off steam and have fun smashing, splattering, and otherwise destroying. They also offer paint splatter activities (including a canvas to commemorate your artistic rage!) and have a designated outdoor space for Nerf battles, dodgeball, water wars, and more.
Locked In
More Info: birmingham.lockedin.com
Looking for an exciting way to pass a Saturday afternoon? Visit Locked In — located right next door to Hattie B’s. Teams of two to eight work together to escape from a locked room in 60 minutes or less, finding clues and solving puzzles to get out. Plus, escape rooms aren’t just great to do with friends and family, but as a teambuilding exercise with colleagues or people you volunteer with.
Paperworkers Local
More Info: paperworkerslocal.com
A short stroll from the Tin Roof is Paperworkers Local, an artist co-op offering a community print-making studio and exhibition space. Members can create, learn, and connect with other artists, as well as showcase and sell their work in the shop. Art enthusiasts can attend their exhibitions and workshops and support local artists.
Whatever vibe you’re after, the Lakeview Entertainment District is where it’s at. Enjoy exploring this Birmingham hotspot!
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