11 things we ate + drank in Birmingham this past month
Reading time: 7 minutes
We all know Birmingham has some of the best food and drink around. Here’s a round-up of what we tasted this past November—and what we thought about each bite and sip.
Read on to check it out.
1. The Essential
The Essential has quickly become one of our team’s favorite lunch spots—especially since it’s just a short walk from our office. We recently tried several dishes from their lunch menu, and we were not disappointed. Be sure to stop by for brunch too—you’ll be glad you did.
- Location: 2215 1st Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
- Hours: Monday-Friday 11AM-9PM | Saturday + Sunday 9AM-2PM, 5-9PM
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- What we ordered: Half 5-Grain Salad, Ceaser Salad, Fried Chicken Sandwich
2. Ocean Sushi
The shrimp tempura roll at Ocean was absolutely delicious, and the presentation was just as impressive. It’s hard not to be wowed when a dish looks and tastes this good.
- Location: 1218 20th St S, Birmingham, AL 35205
- Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 5:30-9:30PM | Friday + Saturday 5:30-10PM | Monday + Sunday closed
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- What we ordered: Tempura Shrimp Roll
3. El Royal Cafe
At El Royal, we enjoyed their espresso martini alongside a delicious taco salad. The dressing on the salad is truly unforgettable—I highly recommend it. And in my opinion, ending the night with an espresso martini is always a good idea.
- Location: 2910 6th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
- Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11AM-10PM | Friday + Saturday 11AM-11PM
- Instagram | Website
- What we ordered: Espresso Martini + Taco Salad
4. Lapeer Steak & Seafood
At Lapeer Steak & Seafood, my girl friends and I had a great night out. We shared a few sides and everything was absolutely delicious—perfect for a get-together filled with laughs, good food and great company.
- Location: 2308 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
- Hours:
- Lunch: Monday-Thursday 11AM-2:30PM
- Dinner: Monday 5PM-8PM | Tuesday-Thursday 5PM-9PM | Friday + Saturday 5PM-10PM | Sunday closed
- Website | Instagram | Reservations
- What we ordered: Prime Hanger Steak, Creamed Potato Gratin, Crispy Broccoli, Baked Shells and Cheese and the Burger with Fries
5. Mayawell
Mayawell is back with its seasonal drinks, bringing fresh, vibrant flavors to Birmingham’s beverage scene. From fruity blends to creamy, cozy options, every sip is thoughtfully crafted and perfectly balanced. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing pick-me-up or a festive treat, Mayawell’s seasonal menu has something for everyone.
- Location: 2900 4th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
- Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 4PM-11:30PM | Friday 4PM-12:30 AM | Saturday 2PM-12:30 AM | Sunday + Monday closed
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- What we ordered: The Carajillo
6. Pink Lantern
Pink Lantern is officially the hot new spot in Birmingham. With a fully pink atmosphere, colorful, fun drinks and a friendly staff, everything on the menu is a delight. The space doubles as a cocktail lounge and event venue, making it perfect for a night out or a special occasion.
One standout? The Ube coffee—a trendy, vibrant purple Vietnamese coffee that blends creamy, sweet, nutty ube with strong coffee and is often topped with ube or pandan cold foam. It’s a visually striking and delicious treat for adventurous coffee lovers, showcasing the growing trend of using Filipino ingredients like ube in drinks.
- Location: 2400 1st Ave N, Suite 1
- Hours: Monday-Saturday 7AM-4PM | Sunday 8AM-4PM
- Instagram | Facebook
- What we ordered: The Ube coffee
7. New Big Bad Breakfast in Pelham
Big Bad Breakfast has officially arrived in Pelham, and it’s everything breakfast lovers could hope for. From hearty classics to inventive twists on your morning favorites, the menu has something for everyone. Whether you’re stopping by for brunch with friends or fueling up for the day, this new spot is sure to impress. Wanna know how our experience went? Check it out!
- Pelham Location: 3102 Canopy Trl, Pelham, AL
- Hours: Everyday | 7AM-2:30PM
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- What we ordered: Classic breakfast plate with choice of eggs, meat, a biscuit and a side
8. Ironwood Kitchen and Cocktails
Ironwood Kitchen and Cocktails is the perfect spot for a night out in Birmingham. With a menu full of creative dishes, handcrafted cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere, it delivers both flavor and experience.
- Location: 2727 18th St S, Birmingham, AL 35209
- Hours: Thursday-Sunday 6:30AM-11PM | Friday + Saturday 6:30AM-11PM
- Instagram | Facebook | Website
- What we ordered: The Hanger—bacon, brown sugar and chipotle
9. Trattoria Zaza
Trattoria Zaza is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Italian flavors in Birmingham. From fresh pasta to savory mains and indulgent desserts, every dish is crafted with care. The cozy atmosphere, attentive service and delicious food make it a perfect spot for date night, dinner with friends or any special occasion.
- Location: 207A 20th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
- Hours: Monday-Friday 11AM-9PM | Saturday 10AM-9PM | Sunday 10AM-2PM
- Instagram | Facebook | Website
- What we ordered: Fall Seasonal Tortellini Salad
10. Real & Rosemary
Real & Rosemary is a fresh, vibrant spot in Birmingham that serves up healthy, flavorful dishes you’ll actually look forward to eating. From colorful bowls to creative salads and house-made drinks, everything is thoughtfully crafted and full of flavor. The welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for lunch, brunch or a casual catch-up with friends.
- Location: 1922 29th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35209
- Hours: Monday-Saturday 11AM-8PM | Sunday closed
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- What we ordered: Spice-rubbed Chicken with Mac n Cheese and Fried Green Tomatoes
11. Rocky’s Pizza
The team at Rocky’s Pizza and Italian Foods in Five Points South loves to keep things an exciting menu, often teaming up with other local restaurants to create specialty pizzas. This time, they partnered with Red Pearl—and we got a sneak peek! You can order this unique collaboration all December long.
With Red Pearl serving authentic Chinese food in Birmingham for over 20 years, it’s no surprise that these two local favorites created a fun, flavorful spin on pizza that you won’t want to miss. Wanna know how our experience went? Check it out!
- Location: 1924 11th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205
- Hours: Monday-Wednesday 11AM-12AM | Thursday-Saturday 11AM-2AM | Sunday 11AM-10PM
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- What we ordered: Sesame Chicken and Mongolian Beef Specialty Pizzas
What did you eat this month? tag us @bhamnow and let us know! Get more fun Birmingham news like this when you sign up for our free newsletter.
