Reviewed by: Pat Byington
New restaurant + venue development in TJ Tower to open January
Reading time: 2 minutes
This fall, the historic Thomas Jefferson Tower (TJ Tower) located downtown will be getting a new dining and event venue.
Velvet & Vine, an event venue and full-service restaurant, is located on the second floor of the TJ Tower, which is located at 1623 2nd Ave. North.
The space is 28,000 square feet across four spaces:
- Restaurant
- Outdoor terrace
- Parlor
- Grand ballroom
In January, Velvet & Vine plans to open for brunch and dinner Wednesday through Sunday with a menu offering upscale Southern dining, seasonal dishes and a curated cocktail menu. Thanks to the location at TJ Tower, there will be seating both in the dining room and patio with downtown views.
The executive chef, Hassan Gooden, comes to Velvet & Vine with seasoned fine dining experience, such as working with George Reis of Ocean and in other high-profile kitchens.
“Velvet & Vine will bring something truly special to the heart of Birmingham. The combination of historic character and first-class dining and event space will be a tremendous addition to downtown’s hospitality and entertainment scene.”
Cooper Smith, SRS Real Estate Partners
The venue is also booking events starting January 2026. Velvet & Vine will focus on weddings and corporate events, but all events are welcome. Events can take advantage of in-house catering with a 400-person capacity.
Velvet & Vine: 205-825-1623 | events@velvetandvinebham.com | Website | Facebook | Instagram
Location: 1623 2nd Ave N
