Reviewed by: Patience Itson
Top 5 stories this week, including a $32M makeover for Bill Noble Park + a huge addition to the Birmingham skyline
Reading time: 5 minutes
Happy Monday, Birmingham! As you gear yourself up for the week, read on for some of the hottest stories you may have missed, including Interstellar Ginger Beer in Alabaster closing, Bill Noble Park’s $32M makeover and more.
Bar La Fête makes Robb Report’s list of 25 most beautiful restaurants
What’s happening: Downtown Birmingham’s very own taste of Paris, Bar la Fête, landed a spot on Robb Report’s list of the 25 most beautiful restaurants in the US in 2022. The luxury lifestyle magazine gave extra props to the classy spot for its exquisite decor, including exterior floral + greenery and walnut stained-wood accents.
“If you can’t travel to Paris, Birmingham’s Bar La Fête might be your next best bet.”
Robb Report
Why it matters: Since its opening in September 2022, Bar la Fête has been a local favorite for an upscale experience with French wines, high-end spirits and French-inspired plates.
HUGE Alexander Shunnarah sign coming to Birmingham skyline
What’s happening: Alabama’s best-known attorney, Alexander Shunnarah, has taken over one of his most prominent billboards yet. Located in downtown Birmingham from the top of the Two North Twentieth building, the billboard stands 26-feet tall, 176-feet long and is visible for miles.
Why it matters: According to our LinkedIn poll, 38% of our audience members are not a fan of the Birmingham skylines newest addition. While many believe it’s an eyesore, 8% of our audience voted that they’d love the new billboard. Naturally, Alexander Shunnarah is proud to be there:
“It is important to me that a local company secured the spot that looks over the city that I started my law firm in over 20 years ago. Even though my firm has expanded nationally, I continue to lead my firm from Birmingham at our headquarters near Pepper Place. The city of Birmingham has always been my home, and I will continue to give back to the city and its people.”
Alexander Shunnarah
Interstellar Ginger Beer and Exploration in Alabaster to close January 28
What’s happening: In a website + Instagram post, Interstellar Ginger Beer and Exploration in Alabaster announced it’s closing on January 28.
“This business is a challenging one and, since the birth of my baby girl, I have been thinking about moving on to have more time with her. Six years is a long time to run a small business, and I have recently begun to realize that Interstellar has taken so much of my time and energy but given little back financially. It’s time for me to walk away, sell assets and look for the next opportunity. We will cherish the friends we made on the way and the customers we served. We will see you down the road.”
Interstellar Ginger Beer and Exploration on Instagram
Why it matters: It’s sad to see a local business go, but we wish them the best of luck in the future. Founded by Shane Kelly and Daniel Sims, Interstellar is one of the first breweries to open in Shelby County. When it opened in 2017, it was promoted as the only brewery in the country to use ginger instead of hops or barley, with some brews designed to glow in the dark under ultraviolet light.
Cala Coffee + 4 other new and coming soon businesses in Birmingham
Let’s dive in to some new spots that recently opened around town. Trust us, you’ve got options for your caffeine fix this week.
Now Open:
- Santos Coffee, a popular Guatemalan coffee shop, has officially opened their third Birmingham-area location on Acton Road.
- Barbeque & Biryani is a new family-owned restaurant featuring South Central Indian cuisine in the heart of the UAB medical district.
- Retrograde Dept, a luxury vintage and consignment shop, is now open with unique streetwear and more on 3rd Ave West.
- Vulcan Wellness & Aesthetics is now open in Vestavia Hills, offering weight and hormone management and aesthetic treatments to help you be your best.
- Cala Coffee has officially opened its first brick-and-mortar location in Vestavia Hills after years of popular pop-ups and coffee cart rentals around town.
Bill Noble Park in Gardendale is getting a new $32M makeover
What’s happening: A $32 million renovation is in the works for Bill Noble Park in Gardendale. Set to attract athletes from all over the Southeast, the City of Gardendale is working with Stone Building Company to add new fields and amenities to the park. Here’s what else is on the way:
- 3 concession stands
- 8 tennis courts
- 9 baseball and softball fields
- 11 pickleball courts
Why it matters: People of all ages and athletic abilities will enjoy the new and improved amenities at Bill Noble Park. Mark your calendars to head to this sporty spot by Spring 2023.
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