Birmingham, Alabama, a city rich in Civil Rights history and Southern charm, has quietly transformed into a culinary powerhouse.
Beyond its legendary barbecue, a new generation of chefs and restaurateurs are crafting diverse, exciting, and genuinely world-class dining experiences.
From innovative Southern cuisine to upscale international flavors and vibrant casual eateries, the city offers a truly exciting culinary landscape.
1. Highlands Bar & Grill
Highlands Bar & Grill is a Birmingham institution and a Southern culinary landmark, consistently ranked among the nation’s best for its exquisite French-inspired Southern cuisine.
Chef Frank Stitt’s commitment to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients is legendary, and his tasting menu offers a refined culinary journey through the best of Alabama’s bounty.
The ambiance is elegant yet intimate, perfect for a truly special occasion or a memorable gastronomic adventure. Highlands Bar & Grill represents the pinnacle of Birmingham’s commitment to culinary excellence and farm-to-table philosophy, offering a timeless and sophisticated dining experience.
2. Hot and Hot Fish Club
Hot and Hot Fish Club offers a vibrant and sophisticated dining experience in Birmingham, focusing on contemporary American cuisine with a strong emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Chef Chris Hastings, a James Beard Award winner, brings his innovative approach to a menu that changes daily, highlighting the freshest available produce and proteins.
The ambiance is chic and lively, with an open kitchen that adds to the energetic atmosphere.
Don’t miss their perfectly seared fish, creative small plates, or the inventive preparations of local vegetables.
3. OvenBird
OvenBird, another gem from Chef Frank Stitt, offers a unique and highly engaging dining experience inspired by open-fire cooking traditions from around the world.
Located in the Pepper Place district, the restaurant features a vibrant, rustic-chic ambiance with a focus on communal dining and shareable small plates.
The menu is diverse and constantly evolving, showcasing the incredible versatility of cooking with live fire.
4. Automatic Seafood and Oysters
Automatic Seafood and Oysters brings a taste of the coast to Birmingham, offering a vibrant and sophisticated seafood experience in the Lakeview district.
The ambiance is chic and airy, with a beautiful oyster bar and a lively atmosphere that evokes a seaside escape.
Chef Adam Evans, a James Beard Award winner, focuses on fresh, sustainably sourced seafood, with an impressive selection of oysters, crudo, and expertly prepared entrées.
Don’t miss their perfectly grilled fish, creative seafood pasta, or the crispy fried shrimp. Automatic Seafood also boasts an excellent cocktail program and a thoughtful wine list.
It’s perfect for a lively night out, a sophisticated dinner, or simply indulging in the best of Birmingham’s seafood offerings, epitomizing the city’s growing appreciation for high-quality seafood.
5. Saw’s Soul Kitchen
Saw’s Soul Kitchen delivers authentic and soulful Southern comfort food that warms the heart and soul.
Located in Avondale, this unpretentious restaurant offers classic dishes prepared with passion and tradition, focusing on barbecue and comforting sides.
Don’t miss their famous pulled pork, tender ribs, smoked chicken, and incredible mac and cheese.
The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and filled with the kind of genuine hospitality that defines true Southern dining.
Get the All-American Travel Secrets!
Don't miss out on America's hidden gems!
