7 best things we ate in Birmingham in December

What better way to start a new year than by reminiscing on all the best food in Birmingham we ate in December? Whether we’re chowing down on heavenly desserts or digging into savory pasta, you could say we’re experts on Birmingham’s food scene. Here are seven of our favorite dishes this month—dig in!

1. Lemon meringue tart from The Essential

“This was one of the most heavenly desserts I’ve had in a long time. It tastes just as good as it looks—the tart lemon filling pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the meringue. Plus the gold flakes make you feel extra fancy!”

Gabby Gervais, Content Producer

• Location: 2018 Morris Ave, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Hours: Wednesday-Friday 11AM-10PM | Saturday 9AM-2PM, 5-10PM | Sunday 9AM-2PM | Closed Jan. 3-11
• Website | Instagram | Facebook

2. Pancakes from Ruby Sunshine

“It was so fun to go by Ruby Sunshine’s new location! I went for a classic breakfast—fluffy pancakes topped with melted butter and rich maple syrup. Perfect way to start the day!”

Madison Croxson, Content Producer

• Location: (Brook Highland) 5243 US-280, Birmingham, AL 35242 | (Homewood) 1017 Oxmoor Rd Suite 101, Birmingham, AL 35209
• Hours: Monday-Friday 7:30AM-2PM, Saturday-Sunday 7:30AM-3PM
• Website | Instagram | Facebook

3. The burger at The Standard

“When I’m in the mood for a classic cheeseburger, The Standard at The Pizitz is always my go-to! You can watch them make it right in front of you and the fries are always just the right amount of salty and crispy.”

Nathan Watson, Content Producer

• Location: 1821 2nd Ave N #188, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Hours: Monday-Saturday 11AM-8PM | Sunday 11AM-4PM
• Website | Instagram | Facebook

4. Fried chicken sandwich from Little Donkey

“This was my first time at Little Donkey, but THE fried chicken sandwich did not disappoint. This came recommended to me by the friendly staff at this location and features the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken, sauce and Wickles Pickles. I will definitely be back!” 

Olivia Moses, Instagram Manager + Content Producer

• Location: 2701 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209
• Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11AM-9PM | Friday-Saturday 11AM-10PM
• Website | Instagram | Facebook

5. Bucatini Carbonara from Bettola

“Carbonara is one of my favorite pasta dishes and Bettola’s Bucatini Carbonara is creamy, garlicky heaven. They throw in their house-made Italian sausage that adds just the right amount of spice to the dish, and the pasta is always perfectly cooked.”

Miranda Shaffer, Content Producer

• Location: 2930 3rd Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
• Hours: Tuesday-Thursday, 11AM-9PM | Friday, 11AM-10PM | Saturday, 5-10PM
• Website | Instagram | Facebook

6. Build-your-own poké bowl from The Ono Poké

“Sometimes, you don’t get to have much say in what’s going on in life—but you always get a say in what goes in your bowl at The Ono Poké. My go-to bowl includes rice, spicy tuna (yum), edamame, avocado, green onions, tons of spicy mayo and a dumb amount of crunch (inspired by fellow Bham Now’er Jess). It’s perfect when I’m craving sushi but want something that’ll be more filling.”

Cecilia Wood, Content Producer + Social Media Manager

• Location: (The Pizitz) 1821 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203 | (Edgewood) 934 Oxmoor Rd, Homewood, AL 35209
• Hours: (The Pizitz) Monday-Sunday 11AM-7PM | (Edgewood) Monday-Saturday 11AM-8PM, Sunday Noon-7:30PM
• Website | Instagram | Facebook

7. Pepperoni pizza from Pizza Grace

“The pizza life chose me. Enough said.”

Jacob Blankenship, Channel Analyst + Photographer

• Location: 2212 Morris Ave Suite 105, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Hours: Stay tuned for lunchtime + dinner hours after their grand opening
• Website | Instagram | Facebook

Now we need to know—what was the best food in Birmingham YOU ate in December? Tag @BhamNow in your drool-worthy foodie pics + let us know.