Whether you’re embracing healthier habits in the new year or simply craving some lighter fare, Birmingham’s salad game is strong. From quick grab-and-go options to leisurely spots perfect for catching up with friends, these bowls go beyond basic greens.
Ashley Mac’s
Neighborhoods: Downtown, Cahaba Heights, Homewood, Inverness
More Info: ashleymacs.com
“Sweet, savory, and satisfying” easily describe the Apple Havarti Salad at Ashley Mac’s. From the crisp apple slices and creamy Havarti cheese to the smoked turkey and toasted pecans that rest atop the bed of fresh mixed greens — not to mention the balsamic drizzle and tangy honey mustard dressing — it’s an ideal salad for lunch any day of the week.
Bamboo On 2nd
Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: bambooon2nd.com
If there was a masterclass in salads, Bamboo On 2nd could be teaching it. The eatery’s Maguro Salad features tuna, crisp cucumber, tomato, and green onion, with a satisfying crunch from peanuts and a burst of fresh herbs from cilantro and mint. The spicy sesame ginger vinaigrette ties it all together with a tangy kick. Want to take it up a notch? Add avocado for the ultimate flavor upgrade.
Bottega Café
Neighborhood: Highland Avenue
More Info: bottegarestaurant.com
Bottega Cafe’s winter menu is always highly anticipated, and the Brussels Sprout Salad tops the list. It features delicately shaved Brussels with crunchy hazelnuts, sweet bites of apple, and a snowy dusting of pecorino cheese, all layered over a creamy lemon aïoli and finished with a bright lemon vinaigrette. The salad is crisp, nutty, and downright dreamy.
Brick & Tin
Neighborhoods: Mountain Brook & Downtown
More Info: brickandtin.com
Brick & Tin has built its reputation on farm-to-table deliciousness, and the Bluebird Salad might just be its crowning achievement. With crisp romaine and spinach, all-natural fried chicken, smoky bacon, creamy avocado, and sweet cherry tomatoes, every bite bursts with fresh, vibrant flavor. Tossed in a heavenly blend of bleu cheese dressing and champagne vinaigrette, this salad is proof that simple ingredients, done right, can truly shine.
Chez Fonfon
Neighborhood: Five Points
More Info: fonfonbham.com
The shrimp and avocado salad from Chez Fonfon never fails to impress. With fresh Gulf shrimp, creamy avocado, tangy sherry vinaigrette, and the perfect touch of sauce rémoulade, this combination delivers on flavor every time.
Chop N Fresh
Neighborhood: Mountain Brook
More Info: chopnfresh.com
The Southwestern Salad at Chop N Fresh brings a little fiesta to your lunch (or dinner) with every bite. Chopped romaine and spring mix create the perfect base, while roasted corn and tomatoes add a touch of sweetness to balance the bold roasted chicken and spicy sunflower seeds. A sprinkle of white cheddar and crispy tortilla strips bring the crunch, all tied together with a smoky chipotle-honey vinaigrette that gives every bite a little kick.
El Barrio
Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: elbarriobirmingham.com
When dining at El Barrio, your mind might go straight to chips and guacamole — but the Chopped Romaine and Spinach Salad could easily bump that off the appetizer list. The salad tops crisp romaine and hearty spinach with sweet red peppers, smoky grilled corn, crispy tortilla strips, toasted pepitas, and perfectly ripe avocado, all tossed in a savory garlic-lime dressing. It’s a flavor-packed medley that can easily stand alone as a satisfying meal. Or, keep it light with a half portion to whet your palate before diving into one of the restaurant’s other incredible dishes. Either way, this salad delivers the perfect balance of freshness and classic Mexican flavors.
Frothy Monkey
Neighborhoods: Downtown & Homewood
More Info: frothymonkey.com
Looking for a lunch that feels indulgent without the heaviness? Look no further than the Salmon Arugula Salad at Frothy Monkey. The smoky, grilled salmon pairs beautifully with the peppery bites of fresh arugula, while pickled onions and sundried tomatoes add a zingy punch. A sprinkling of parmesan brings depth, and the pomegranate vinaigrette offers a refreshing, sweet contrast.
Homewood Gourmet
Neighborhood: Homewood
More Info: homewoodgourmet.com
Carlene’s Plate at Homewood Gourmet is a lunch that easily checks all the boxes. With a bed of baby blue salad topped with smoky BBQ salmon and a side of focaccia, this dish brings together light, satisfying, and savory flavors. The tender salmon adds depth, while the crisp greens and buttery focaccia make every bite an experience worth savoring.
Kale Me Crazy
Neighborhood: Homewood
More Info: kalemecrazy.net
Whether you’re sitting down to enjoy the Farro Salad at Kale Me Crazy or grabbing it to go, it’s a refreshing and filling meal that hits all the right notes. The hearty farro pairs beautifully with the peppery arugula, while crisp apples, crunchy pecans, and sweet golden raisins add a surprising burst of texture and flavor. Topped with a sprinkle of shaved parmesan and drizzled with honey Dijon dressing, this salad strikes the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy in every bite.
Magnolia Point
Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: eatmagnoliapoint.com
Magnolia Point is one of the newer eateries in Birmingham’s culinary scene, but it’s already making waves with its take on the classic Green Goddess Salad. Packed with crisp romaine hearts, creamy avocado, and the refreshing crunch of cucumbers and green peppers, this salad perfectly balances fresh and satisfying. The soft-boiled egg adds richness, while parmesan cheese brings a savory touch to every bite. It’s the kind of salad that turns fresh ingredients into a crave-worthy, guilt-free indulgence — just how it should be.
Real & Rosemary
Neighborhoods: Homewood & The Summit
More Info: realandrosemary.com
Real & Rosemary is a go-to for meals that are as satisfying as they are wholesome. The Upbeet Salad is a perfect example, packed with vibrant spring mix lettuces, earthy red and yellow beets, and sweet citrus from oranges and grapefruit. The addition of juicy pears, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy pistachios creates a delightful balance of textures, while the zesty lemon vinaigrette ties it all together. It’s ideal for a healthy lunch or dinner that won’t leave you feeling hungry.
Taziki’s
Neighborhoods: Multiple locations across the Birmingham metro
More Info: tazikis.com
Taziki’s Signature Pasta is the kind of dish that will make you rethink your weekend plans—because it’s only available on weekends, and trust us, you’ll want to set your alarm for it. A bed of fresh mixed lettuce is mixed with penne pasta and tender grilled chicken, both tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Add a sprinkle of tomatoes, feta, and fresh basil, and you have a dish that perfectly balances hearty and light.
Tre Luna Bar & Kitchen
Neighborhood: Hoover
More Info: trelunabarandkitchen.com
The Red and Golden Beet Salad at Tre Luna is a flavor-packed dish that’s equally beautiful and delicious. The earthy sweetness of the beets pairs perfectly with fresh arugula, while the creamy Bella Chève goat cheese adds a decadent, tangy twist. Topped with toasted pine nuts and tossed in a bright beet vinaigrette, this salad is a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Urban Cookhouse
Neighborhoods: Downtown, Homewood, Mountain Brook, and The Summit
More Info: urbancookhouse.com
Urban Cookhouse’s Pepper Patch Salad is what salad dreams are made of. This vibrant dish combines black beans, corn, red onion, tomatoes, and pepper jack cheese, all tossed in a smoky roasted jalapeño vinaigrette. For the ultimate indulgence — and an additional serving of protein — add lime-marinated steak or wood-fired shrimp. Of course, the salad isn’t complete without Urban Cookhouse’s warm orange roll.
Village Tavern
Neighborhood: The Summit
More Info: villagetavern.com
Sometimes, you just crave a classic Cobb salad. And when that craving hits, Village Tavern is the place to go. There’s something magical about how their ingredients come together — crisp romaine, tender chicken breast, creamy avocado, smoky applewood bacon, crumbled blue cheese, juicy Campari tomatoes, and perfectly cooked egg, all tossed in your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Here’s to getting your greens!
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