INSIDE LOOK: Eat at Panoptic opens in Irondale May 1

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) 🍔

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

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.

Will we see you on Saturday, Birmingham? Let us know on social @BhamNow + @now_bham on Twitter.

Irene Richardson
Irene Richardson
Articles: 385