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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 andamp; Bar

Neighborhood: Springville

More info: Instagram

Ay Güey Taqueria andamp; 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, andamp; 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 andamp; 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 andamp; 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 andamp; Burgers is dishing out delicious dishes that have been local favorites for years.

Want more great Southern dining spots to visit? Subscribe to StyleBlueprint!

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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 serving mouthwatering 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 andamp; 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 andamp; Pig is now Hillside Music andamp; 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.

To stay in the know on the best of Birmingham, subscribe to StyleBlueprint!

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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 city. From mouthwatering 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 andamp; 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, featuring mouth-watering 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.

Looking for more delicious spots to try in the ‘ham? Check out our Food andamp; Dining archives!

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Published June 2024

Written by Paige Townley

Whether you’re craving an elegant fine dining experience, scouting for a new favorite takeout option, seeking a cozy weekend brunch, or in the mood for craft cocktails, Birmingham’s latest culinary arrivals have you covered. Each of these new eateries brings something unique to the table, making them all worthy contenders for a spot on your must-try list.

Freddy’s Bistro andamp; Bar

Neighborhood: Homewood

More Info: freddyswinebar.com

The owners of Freddy’s Bistro andamp; Bar brought their favorite aspects of Europe to Birmingham when they opened their first establishment on Highland Avenue. Now, Freddy’s boasts a second brick-and-mortar location in Homewood!

Opening earlier this month, Freddy’s Bistro andamp; Bar features an extensive drink menu — with everything from international whiskies to specialty cocktails — and a delicious food menu, too. Enjoy snack-sized dishes, charcuterie boards, pasta, flatbread pizzas, and more. You can’t go wrong with the Truffle Roasted ‘Taters, Scampi Fettuccine, and White Flatbread Pizza.

End on a sweet note with the Pot de Crème, featuring chocolate peanut butter, Reese’s Pieces, and honey vanilla whipped cream, or the Italian Affogato, a delightful mix of homemade chocolate chip gelato and espresso.

Rêve

More Info: reve-hautepaysan.com

Rêve offers a delightful upgrade to the Magic City culinary scene. A pop-up dining opportunity that brings the French countryside to Birmingham, Rêve is the brainchild of Chef Jacob M. Stull, who brought his culinary inspiration to town before opening Forte in Tuscaloosa.

Chef Stull is now back with Rêve, which offers an exquisite array of farm-to-table dishes and a taste of France in the American South. This dining experience, whose name translates to “dream,” celebrates fresh, locally sourced ingredients and rustic flavors — a chance for diners to savor the simplicity and elegance of French cuisine in a cozy, intimate setting.

Thai Esane

Neighborhood: Pizitz Food Hall

More Info: thaiesane.com

The Pizitz Food Hall’s newest addition delivers a vibrant infusion of flavor. Thai Esane is known for its authentic Asian cuisine, and its menu combines traditional recipes with a modern twist. From red curry to savory pad thai, each dish is crafted with fresh ingredients and bold spices that successfully transport the tastebuds straight to the streets of Thailand.

Thai Esane started in 1984 when Nina Singto moved to America with her family from Laos. Fast-forward a few decades, and she and her life partner, Tim, launched Thai Esane in 2014. The eatery started in Nashville, but thankfully, it ventured into Alabama with a location in Birmingham.

Alabama Peanut Co.

Neighborhood: Downtown

More Info: alabamapeanut.com

Alabama Peanut Co. might not be new to Birmingham’s food scene, but it recently introduced an exciting twist: Happy Hour. This offering, which is a collaboration with local Birmingham breweries, takes your favorite craft beers and reimagines them as unique boiled peanut flavors — a fun way to enjoy beloved locally brewed beverages and a classic Southern snack.

Want to find out about more great eateries and cafes in Birmingham? Follow us on Instagram.

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Published May 2024

Written by Paige Townley

As spring continues to unfold in Birmingham, so does an array of exciting new dining destinations. The Magic City’s newest restaurants offer the perfect opportunity to savor the season, whether indulging in refreshing patio cocktails or savoring farm-fresh ingredients in innovative dishes. So, whether you’re craving comfort food classics or looking to explore bold new flavors, these new hotspots offer something for everyone.

Current Charcoal Grill

Neighborhood: Parkside

More Info: currentcharcoalgrill.com

The city has been eagerly anticipating the opening of Current Charcoal Grill, the latest culinary gem from nationally acclaimed Chef Adam Evans (of Birmingham favorite Automatic Seafood and Oysters and the 2022 winner of the James Beard Foundation’s Best Chef: South Award), in partnership with Chef Luke Joseph and Raymond J. Harbert.

Inspired by traditional Asian grilling techniques, Current Charcoal Grill showcases a menu highlighting sustainably sourced proteins, thoughtfully curated ingredients, and innovative flavor combinations. From spear-caught fish to locally harvested produce, each dish reflects a commitment to quality and creativity. The rotating menu will feature everything from small bites and sides to larger dishes, wok dishes, charcoal grill box dishes, and a raw bar.

University Tacos

Neighborhood: Southside

More Info: universitytacos.com

Birmingham loves its Mexican food, especially the menu at University Tacos. Lucky for residents across the city, the ever-popular establishment now has a second brick-and-mortar location.

After successfully serving its made-from-scratch Mexican menu at its original location on University Boulevard, the eatery officially opened a second location on Fifth Avenue. The new location still serves all of its authentic favorites, from taco salads and nachos to tacos and tostadas.

Marky’s Kitchen

Neighborhood: Cahaba Heights

More Info: markyskitchen.com

The family that brought us the beloved Zoë’s Kitchen has opened the doors of its latest venture: Marky’s Kitchen. The brainchild of restaurateur and entrepreneur John Cassimus (who founded several other favorites like Maki Fresh, Jinsei, Miss Dots, and Crazy Cowboy’s), the restaurant offers all of the menu items we know and love from Zoë’s Kitchen.

New to the menu, however, is the Smash Special — two smashed burgers with grilled onions, cheese, and pickles on a steamed bun with Marky’s special sauce and a side of fries. Food can be enjoyed indoors — the eatery is in the former Local Roots building — or via the drive-thru.

Frida’s Cocina andamp; Cantina

Neighborhood: English Village

More Info: Facebook

A new Tex-Mex option is now officially open in English Village! Located in Civitas’s prior spot, Frida’s Cocina andamp; Cantina is centered around offering authentic, made-from-scratch dishes. The Tex-Mex dishes include everything from tacos and quesadillas to fajitas and enchiladas.

Hit Different! Barbeque and Grill

Neighborhood: Pelham

More Info: hitdifferentfoodtruck.com

The sweet scent of hickory smoke is a little thicker in Birmingham, thanks to the opening of Hit Different! Barbeque and Grill. Thanks to its food truck, the eatery is already known around town, but its roots go much further back. Owner Zanetta Roberson grew up watching her father create some of the best barbecue around while her mother took care of all the trimmings.

Zanetta put that knowledge to good use throughout her 40-plus-year culinary career. Now, she and her family are plating up that Southern hospitality and soul food for the rest of us to enjoy, too.

Sweet Caroline’s

Neighborhood: Gardendale

More Info: Facebook

Get ready to indulge your sweet tooth at Sweet Caroline’s, a charming family-owned ice cream shop that recently opened its doors in Gardendale.

The shop offers a delightful array of treats, from specialty sundaes to delectable snacks and dozens of ice cream flavors, including Blueberry Cheesecake, Cappuccino Crunch, Smokey Mountain Fudge, and Pistachio. Also on Sweet Caroline’s menu are “dirty sodas,” a unique spin on a regular soda.

Whether you’re craving a classic scoop or an indulgent sundae creation, Sweet Caroline’s is your go-to destination.

Miracle Pizza Co.

Neighborhood: Avondale

More Info: miraclepizzaco.com

When Post Office Pies closed its Avondale location, there was a void in Birmingham’s pizza scene. But no longer. Miracle Pizza Co. has opened up shop (in that very location!) to bring Italian goodness to the city.

The eatery features New York-style pizza, but the unique twist is that it uses a Roman technique featuring a higher hydration level than traditional New York pizza. In fact, the dough is cold fermented for 72 hours, which creates a crispy yet light and airy crust.

Miracle Pizza Co.’s menu offers all the Italian dishes you’ll want, starting with apps like Garlic andamp; Mozz Rolls and Wood-Roasted Mushrooms, then transitioning into salads and pizza offerings. While diners can build their own pie, the menu features several must-try specialty options, such as Magic City Mushroom, Spicy Soppressata, and Meat andamp; Greet. The eatery also offers a few sandwiches, as well as classic Italian desserts like cannolis and gelato.

To stay “in the know” on the best ways to drink and dine your way through Birmingham, subscribe to StyleBlueprint.

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Published April 2024

Written by Paige Townley

As spring continues to cast its glow over the Magic City, the local culinary scene is bursting into bloom, too, with fresh dining experiences. From a family favorite pizzeria to Asian street food and even a renovated bar, there’s no shortage of new options to try. Hope you’re hungry, Birmingham!

Super Chix

Neighborhood: Greystone

More Info: superchix.com

Super Chix is shaking up the chicken game in Birmingham like never before. The Greystone location is technically the second in the Magic City — Hoover is already home to the chicken chain — but it’s the first on Highway 280. The chicken-forward eatery is known for its fresh, hand-breaded chicken. Besides its simple and classic slider, Super Chix offers multiple takes on the classic chicken sandwich — from Nashville Hot to Cheesy BBQ and Bacavo Ranch.

The fresh-cut fries (or cheese fries or even loaded fries) are the perfect side to any sandwich, but no meal is complete without some version of the premium frozen custard. Our pick: any of the hand-spun shakes.

Phil Sandoval’s

Neighborhood: The Village at Brock’s Gap

More Info: philsandovals.com

Residents in North Alabama are already familiar with the flavors of Phil Sandoval’s, and now Birmingham can indulge in the same delicious Mexican cuisine. The brick-and-mortar eatery recently opened up in Hoover’s The Village at Brock’s Gap — its third Alabama location (the other two are in Huntsville and Madison).

Phil Sandoval’s offers an extensive menu of traditional Mexican fare, from tacos and flautas to burritos and nachos, along with signature dishes like White Shrimp Fajitas, Big Fish Tacos, and the Shredded Pork Burrito. However, the best-known menu items might just be the margaritas. Phil Sandoval’s serves up a range of delightful margs to please every palate, from strawberry or jalapeño to the Mambo Taxi, a frozen iteration swirled with sangria.

Bluff Park Coffee Collective

Neighborhood: Bluff Park

More Info: Instagram

Some things just pair well together … peanut butter and chocolate, chips and salsa, and burgers and fries. Also high up on that list is a Daysol Coffee Lab and Good Neighbor Baking combo! Daysol Coffee Lab is known for its fresh and delicious coffee, while Good Neighbor Baking is sought-after for its delicious sweet treats. Fortunately, the two local small businesses teamed up to open Bluff Park Coffee Collective.

The new collaboration brings the best of both worlds to Bluff Park and beyond, with all of Daysol’s best brews available alongside Good Neighbor Baking favorites, including cinnamon rolls, biscuits, blueberry muffin tops, and coffee cake muffins.

Cookie Fix

Neighborhoods: Greystone andamp; The Village at Brock’s Gap

More Info: cookiefix.com

Cookie Fix has been popping up all over the South, and the good news for Birmingham is that two of its newest locations are right here in the Magic City. The sweet. shop recently opened along Highway 280 in Greystone, marking Birmingham’s third brick-and-mortar. Days later, the fourth Cookie Fix opened up in Hoover’s The Village at Brock’s Gap. In addition to the many freshly baked cookie varieties, both Cookie Fix locations offer Frozen Dough to Go.

Slice Pizza andamp; Brew

Neighborhood: Homewood

More Info: slicebirmingham.com

It’s hard to imagine Birmingham without Slice Pizza andamp; Brew. The pizzeria instantly became a fan favorite when it came on the scene in Lakeview in 2011. Since then, the eatery has opened multiple locations across the Magic City — the most recent is in Homewood. Located in Edgewood, it’s Slice’s fifth location, and it dishes out those delicious signature pizzas for which the ever-popular eatery has become known.

Harmonics at WorkPlay

Neighborhood: Southside

More Info: workplay.com

WorkPlay has hosted some of the biggest names in music over the years, and now the bar is ready to host a new generation of music fans (or even those who are simply seeking a deliciously crafted cocktail). The new owners of the longstanding Birmingham institution have opened up a renovated bar, Harmonics at WorkPlay. Open since April 4, the new bar is three times the size of WorkPlay’s original bar. It also happens to be the perfect go-to for anyone looking for a relaxing evening out, gearing up for a night on the town, or seeking pre-show libations.

Glass Panda

Neighborhood: The Village at Brock’s Gap

More Info: glasspandaeats.com

Glass Panda bills itself as the “best Asian street food in Birmingham,” and its menu proves that’s a true statement. The eatery quietly opened up at Hoover’s The Village at Brock’s Gap and features a wide range of Asian dishes (like tempura shrimp, ramen, and wagyu beef) alongside classic American dishes with Asian flair (such as the Kimcheese Burger, Korean Fried Chicken, and Mac and Kimcheese). In addition to boba tea, the eatery also offers a full bar with Boba cocktails and classic beverages.

COMING SOON: Dillard’s Chophouse

Neighborhood: Uptown

More Info: dillardschophouse.com

The Uptown Entertainment District is about to welcome a new eatery: Dillard’s Chophouse. Already a favorite in Tuscaloosa, the traditional steakhouse will open its second location at The Westin Birmingham on April 29. Dillard’s Chophouse is known for its selection of steak, mouthwatering sides, wine list, and cocktail menu.

To stay in the know on more ways to drink and dine your way through Birmingham, subscribe to StyleBlueprint!

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Published March 2024

Written by Paige Townley

As the seasons change in Birmingham, so does its vibrant culinary landscape. Over the past month, the city welcomed a fresh wave of new eateries ready to wow diners with creative offerings. From flavorful Italian to classic American fare, we’re sharing the scoop on these nine newcomers. Hope you’re hungry, Birmingham!

Culinary Dropout

Neighborhood: The Summit

More Info: culinarydropout.com

A long-anticipated new addition at The Summit is finally on the scene! After months of construction, Sam Fox (Fox Restaurant Concepts founder and James Beard nominated restaurateur) has opened Culinary Dropout in Birmingham. The first location in Alabama — and the 12th overall — Culinary Dropout sets itself apart as an upscale neighborhood bar offering lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.

Amid the sleek Gensler-designed aesthetic that celebrates Birmingham’s iron and steel history, patrons can enjoy a menu that focuses on elevated classics, from house-made pretzels with provolone fondue to fried chicken drizzled with honey.

SB Tip: Check out the 360-degree bar, stocked with plenty of TVs for sports viewing!

Frothy Monkey

Neighborhood: Homewood

More Info: frothymonkey.com

One of Birmingham’s favorite all-day cafés is opening up a second location in the Magic City — a brick and mortar in Homewood’s Edgewood neighborhood. Frothy Monkey is well known to the city as a go-to destination for its delicious-anytime menu of everything from breakfast sandwiches and salads to shrimp and grits and chocolate chip cookies. The new location will be open from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m. daily, with a covered front patio in addition to the indoor dining room and coffee bar.

Luca Lagotto and Luca Mercato Lagotto

Neighborhood: Homewood

More Info: eatluca.com

Pihakis Restaurant Group has launched several popular brands in Birmingham — Rodney Scott’s BBQ, Hero Doughnuts andamp; Buns, and Tasty Town, just to name a few. They just opened their latest addition in Homewood, Luca, which includes both a restaurant and market.

Luca Lagotto serves as a casual Italian restaurant, while the neighboring Luca Mercato Lagotto is a market for patrons to pick up items like homemade pasta, pizza, gelato, wine, meat, and cheese. The concept was inspired by traditional Italian markets and restaurants in northern Italy. No passport required!

Pastries On Main

Neighborhood: Columbiana

More Info: Facebook

Columbiana recently welcomed a new spot for sweet treats with the opening of Pastries On Main. Located on South Main Street, the bakery offers practically every delicious concoction you can imagine, from pies and cakes to cookies, fudge, cinnamon rolls, muffins, and donuts. According to its Facebook page, it isn’t open every day, so be sure to keep an eye on their social media for updates, and grab the goodness when you can.

Prime Champagne Bar

Neighborhood: Lakeview Green

More Info: Facebook

The mixed-use development in Lakeview Green recently welcomed its newest tenant, Prime Champagne Bar. The establishment serves a diverse selection of champagne and boasts a vibrant cocktail menu that mirrors the colorful and dynamic decor within its walls. Whether savoring a glass of bubbly or indulging in a handcrafted cocktail, Prime Champagne Bar offers a sophisticated and lively atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their favorite beverages.

Sakana Sushi Bar andamp; Grill

Neighborhood: Hoover

More Info: sakanasushibargri2270.com

For those who can never have too much sushi, Hoover’s latest eatery is just for you. Situated in Hoover Court, Sakana Sushi Bar andamp; Grill offers all-you-can-eat sushi for lunch and dinner. The new eatery offers a range of sushi options to please practically any palate, and its extensive Japanese menu also offers hibachi, sashimi, fried rice, and even desserts like mochi.

Spice of Life Jamaica

Neighborhood: Downtown

More Info: Facebook

The latest addition to the Downtown Birmingham food scene delivers a big bite of international flavor: Spice of Life Jamaica. The restaurant specializes in Jamaican cuisine, with menu highlights including Jerk Chicken, Curry Chicken or Shrimp, Oxtails, and Stewed Beef. Along with those Jamaican classics, Spice of Life Jamaica offers a wide range of traditional American favorites, such as fried chicken, catfish or shrimp, chicken wings, and even a home-style breakfast.

Tina’s Market

Neighborhood: Homewood

More Info: tinasmarketbham.com

Teenie’s Take-Home Market was a longstanding establishment in Mountain Brook Village, and it recently moved to Homewood. The market relocated to the space previously occupied by Hero Doughnuts andamp; Buns before their recent move, and it’s now known as Tina’s Market. The eatery still hopes to host occasional pop-ups in Mountain Brook, but in the meantime, the delicious take-home meals can be enjoyed out of its new location.

Uncle G’s Pizza

Neighborhood: Hoover

More Info: unclegspizza.com

Uncle G’s Pizza has been dishing out its Detroit-style pizza all over Birmingham, thanks to its food truck, and now there’s a brick-and-mortar where you can enjoy the delicious pizzas every day of the week. The brand new eatery, which just held its ribbon cutting on March 27, features some of the best pizzas around town — from the classic Margherita to the Cool it Down, which includes whipped ricotta, fresh mozzarella, shredded cheese, basil, and a hot honey drizzle. Even better, the dessert menu includes mouthwatering cinnamon rolls.

Enjoy your dining adventures, Birmingham!

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