Eat at Panoptic, burger — Clear frys, full stomachs, can’t lose. Photo via Jacob Blakenship for Bham Now

Award-winning and slider-slinging Eat at Panoptic owner Chef Raquel Ervin is opening the business’s first brick-and-motor cafe in Irondale on Saturday, May 1 at 11AM. We got in for some first looks and first bites.

From four wheels to four walls

Eat at Panoptic owner Chef Ervin — Congratulations, Chef Ervin! Making Birmingham look great and taste even better. *Photo via Jacob Blakenship for Bham Now*

It started in June when Chef Ervin expanded her catering company to a food truck—taking to the streets to serve up stellar sandwiches, dips and more Southern comfort eats with a twist.

Now, nine months later, she’s setting up shop in Irondale as a permanent resident.

“It’s been a very long nine months, but I am reminded that Rome was not built overnight. I’ve pushed to the finish line despite so many challenges. I am nervously excited to be just a couple of weeks away from opening. I am very meticulous, so details matter. I want to put forth my absolute best for new and old supporters, foodie friends, and those who haven’t experienced the taste of Panoptic just yet.
’Impatiently waiting’ is a response I’ve written several times by patrons as the progress has been shown. It’s my hope patrons will enjoy the small intimate atmosphere where I am able to be a little bit more personable than with large eateries and feel the warmth it brings to create food smiles.”
Chef Raquel Ervin

I’ll teach you the electric slid(er) 🍔

Eat at Panoptic 12 INSIDE LOOK: Eat at Panoptic opens in Irondale May 1 — We don’t want none unless you got buns, hun. Photos via Jacob Blakenship for Bham Now

Eat at Panoptic 22 INSIDE LOOK: Eat at Panoptic opens in Irondale May 1 — We don’t want none unless you got buns, hun. Photos via Jacob Blakenship for Bham Now

If you’re a sucker for sliders, this magnificent menu is for you. The cafe will feature 13 popular sliders, including a brunch menu with six breakfast sliders. Plus, Chef Ervin’s personal favorite, the crab cake slider.

You’ll also find:

Chicken & Waffles
Chef Ervin’s signature 6-cheese spinach dip
Four NEW salads

and MORE at the restaurant.

Fill me with food, not facts

Eat at Panoptic 04 INSIDE LOOK: Eat at Panoptic opens in Irondale May 1 — Cut ribbons and into some delicious eats during the grand opening. *Photos via Jacob Blakenship for Bham Now*

Eat at Panoptic 20 INSIDE LOOK: Eat at Panoptic opens in Irondale May 1 — Cut ribbons and into some delicious eats during the grand opening. *Photos via Jacob Blakenship for Bham Now*

Alright, we’ll quit yapping and let the food do the talking. Celebrate with Chef Ervin during the grand opening and ribbon cutting on Saturday, May 1 at 11AM. Dine inside, outdoors, or opt for curbside pickup and delivery.