iStock 95997201 XXXLARGE Local chef, Mark Driskill to open Ash restaurant in West Homewood this August — Enjoying delicious comfort food.

A new restaurant name Ash is headed to West Homewood this August. Who’s behind the new restaurant? Local chef, Mark Driskill.

Driskill is a prominent force in the Birmingham culinary scene. Not only does he have 12 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, but he has also worked as head chef at two of Birmingham’s hottest restaurants–Bottega Cafe and Brick & Tin.

Birmingham, Ash Homewood, Ash restaurant, Mark Driskill, restaurants in Homewood, Birmingham restaurants — Photo via Ash Homewood’s Facebook page.

A Peek Inside Ash

So what will Ash bring to Homewood and the greater Birmingham area? A nice blend of Southern and American food in a wood-fired American kitchen.

“The grill will be a very central theme,” said Driskill. “What I would like is an element of every plate, whether that’s a protein or a vegetable or a sauce… something going over that grill and picking up that flavor and essence that you get through cooking over wood.”

Built on the concept that sharing a meal with people you know and love is one of life’s sweetest comforts, Ash’s main goal is to do just that–serve you and the ones you love.

The Menu

What will Ash serve? Comfort foods that are refined and affordable. (This meshes perfectly with the atmosphere which will offer a cozy vibe.)

Dishes will be prepared using mainly local, seasonal and super fresh ingredients. This even includes the kids menu, which will serve items like homemade applesauce, grilled cheese and other foods that usually receive a thumbs up from kids.

Two highlights on the menu include a burger that is ground in-house and several salad options.

Unique Ideas

There are some other things about Ash that will be worth your while, too. Along with a cozy vibe and a menu of comfort foods, Ash will also offer some unique elements. And they are really awesome!

One of these unique elements is that it will allow diners a behind-the-scenes look at the food prep process through windows that look into the kitchen.

Another clever idea Driskill has up his sleeve for Ash is to offer picnic baskets that families can pick up and take to Patriot Park. Sounds like a charming dinner date for a couple or an easy dinner for a family with little ones. I love it!