9 places in Birmingham that feel like New York City

I know what you’re thinking: “I wish I could enjoy a bagel on the streets of New York City, but without paying a fortune for a flight out of BHM.”

What if I told you that you could get the NYC experience right here in The Magic City? Here are nine local spots that rival the Big Apple experience.

1. AHKI’S

AHKI’S has been a Bham Now team favorite since our first visit.

The New York-style street food joint serves chicken, lamb, falafel and beef platters, along with pita roll-ups, burritos and more.

• Location: 121 20th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203

2. Redmont Hotel rooftop

Redmont Hotel (Bham Now)

In my humble opinion, few things compare to the Birmingham skyline.

You can see it at its peak on top of the Redmont Hotel—and enjoy some great cocktails while you’re there.

• Location: 2101 5th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

3. Slim’s Pizzeria

The double doors leading you into an elegant dining room of checkered floors and curated bar, Slim’s Pizzeria in Crestline mirrors NYC’s Sardis (only better).

• Location: 65 Church Street Birmingham, AL 35213

4. Linn-Henley Research Library

One of my favorite spots in town—the Linn-Henley Research Library.

Located right off the street yet secluded from all the hustle and bustle of downtown Birmingham, filled with thousands of books and beautiful designs, the research library reminds me of the iconic New York Public Library.

• Location: 2100 Park Pl, Birmingham, AL 35203

5. New York Butcher Shoppe

New York Butcher Shoppe serves specialty meat, food and wine. Its perfect on-the-go selection feels like the classic fast-paced New York deli atmosphere.

• Location: 3158 Heights Village Birmingham, AL, 35243

6. Crestline Bagel Co.

Crestline Bagel Co. (Bham Now)

We can’t make a NYC-inspired guide without mentioning a local bagel shop.

Crestline Bagel Co. offers dozens of flavors and varieties of bagels. Pop in, grab a bagel to go, walk the streets of Birmingham and live your New York dreams.

• Locations:
  • Crestline Village, 66 Church St B, Mountain Brook, AL 35213
  • Cahaba Heights, 4117 Crosshaven Dr #5230, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243
  • Downtown, 1500 1st Ave N Suite 31, Birmingham, AL 35203

7. Railroad Park

Railroad Park is one of my favorite spots in town, and it’s probably because it’s center-of-the-city vibes remind me of NYC’s Central Park.

You’ll find open grass to play in, walking trails and surrounding coffee shops and restaurants. The city skyline view is a nice touch, too.

• Location: 1600 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

8. Bottega

Bottega (Bham Now)

Local favorite Bottega serves award-winning cuisine in a gorgeous dining room and a distinguished atmosphere.

This intimate dining experience rivals the elegant restaurants you’ll find on the Upper East Side.

• Location: 2240 Highland Ave, Birmingham, AL 35205

9. Birmingham Amtrak

Birmingham’s Amtrak Station hosts the Crescent train and takes you to dozens of cities including (you guessed it) New York City.

You can head to the actual Big Apple for a couple hundred dollars and the experience of a lifetime.

• Location: 1801 Morris Ave, Birmingham, AL 35203

Which NYC-inspired spot is your favorite? Let us know @bhamnow.