Your guide to martinis in the Magic City

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IMG 1698 Your guide to martinis in the Magic City
Martinis and seafood at Bayonet—what could be better! (Wesley Chandler / Bham Now)

Birmingham is home to some of the best bars around, and right now, martinis are stealing the spotlight. We’ve rounded up 13 must-visit spots here in the Magic City where you can sip your way through the martini craze. Cheers!

1. Bottega

martini monday
‘Orange Thing’ at Bottega. (Lauren Perry / Bham Now)

Bottega, a culinary gem, captures the essence of Italian dining while infusing it with Southern charm. Make sure to order Bottega’s famous Orange Thing for a sweet vodka martini.

2. Key Circle Commons

martini monday
Key Circle Commons in English Village. (Lauren Perry / Bham Now)

Key Circle Commons is the perfect place to go as the temperatures are rising. Enjoy an espresso martini with friends to kick your summer nights off.

3. Freddy’s

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Enjoy fun martinis at Freddy’s Wine Bar. (Freddy’s Wine Bar)

Stop by Freddy’s in Highland Park and Homewood to enjoy the patio + explore the happy hour deals Monday through Thursday and unwind with your favorite drinks—including martinis!

4. Chez Fonfon

Chez Fonfon, located in the vibrant Five Points South neighborhood, is a delightful bistro that captures the essence of French dining and ambiance. Enjoy a martini and instantly be transported into the charming streets of France.

5. Juniper

A personal favorite, Juniper is a cozy and elegant cocktail bar nestled in the heart of the Forest Park historic district. Enjoy views while you sip your drink from the lush outdoor garden or the sheek boho interior.

6. The Collins Bar

The Collins Bar in downtown Birmingham is renowned for its expertise in crafting custom cocktails. With skilled mixologists, this bar is the perfect spot for Martini Monday.

7. Paper Doll

Located in the heart of Birmingham, Paper Doll is an upscale bar with a refined and sophisticated atmosphere for a Martini.

8. Mayawell Bar

Dedicated to crafting creative cocktails inspired by the rich and vibrant culture of Mexico, Mayawell’s martinis never disappoint.

9. Vino

One of my favorite patios to enjoy a martini is Vino’s. Sit under the twinkly lights and make sure to order a side of the Bang Bang Cauliflower.

10. The Marble Ring

Head over to Avondale and check out The Marble Ring, where the art of cocktail making is taken seriously. Enjoy a carefully curated selection of classic cocktails and innovative concoctions, each served in elegant glassware.

11. Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar

Pilcrow 102 Your guide to martinis in the Magic City
Pilcrow brings a fun spooky vibe to Birmingham. (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

Beneath the Founder’s Station lies a well-kept secret: a bar that specializes in craft cocktails and agave spirits.

12. Hot and Hot Fish Club

The Hot and Hot Fish Club 108 Your guide to martinis in the Magic City
Hot and Hot Fish Club has some of the best drinks. (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

Located in Pepper Place, the Hot and Hot Fish Club is a lovely spot to grab a martini. Sit outside on the patio for an evening of fun, and pair your drink with a delicious meal.

13. Cahaba Brewing Co.

martini monday
Cheers Birmingham! (Bham Now)

Though it’s most well-known as a fixture in the local brewing scene, Cahaba Brewing also has some excellent martinis.

Where is your go-to martini spot in Birmingham? Tag  Bham Now on Instagram and let us know!

Contributors to this guide include Lauren Perry and Grace Garrison.

Lauren Perry
Lauren Perry
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