Reviewed by: Grace Howard
New dive bar coming to former Parkside on Fifth space in Avondale
Reading time: 3 minutes
A new bar is coming soon to Avondale! Set to open later this year, Lucky Stranger is a refreshing, no-frills bar concept from the minds behind several of Birmingham’s favorite bar and restaurant concepts.
New dive bar, Lucky Stranger, coming soon to Avondale
Avondale is about to get a little more exciting with the arrival of Lucky Stranger, a new dive bar set to take over the former Parkside on Fifth space at 4036 5th Ave S. Set to open later this summer, Lucky Stranger aims to be a place where everyone feels welcome, whether you’re winding down after a concert at Saturn or grabbing a drink after a run.
Lucky Stranger is a new concept from a group of close-knit friends, including Ali Randall (Juniper), Kelsey Drum, Nan Wagner and José de Jesus Medina Camacho (Adiõs and Salud Taqueria). A little less than a year ago, the group started to toss around the idea of opening a new bar in Birmingham.
“Ali had been brainstorming a second concept for some time. After I was laid off from my tech job, it felt like the right time to jump on board. During the process, we got Kelsey and José involved and started looking for a space that would fit our vision.”
Nan Wagner, Co-Owner, Lucky Stranger
When Parkside on Fifth owner Tim Burt announced his plans to (semi) retire and close the bar and restaurant, the team leapt at the chance to open their new concept in a prime piece of Avondale real estate.
Here’s what we can expect at Lucky Stranger
Although the team is still finalizing its concept for Lucky Stranger, the group shared a few details about their vision for the new establishment.
“Lucky Stranger is going to be a place that you can just come as you are and be comfortable, very dive-y. Expect canned beer, a few drafts on tap, canned wine and two-ingredient cocktails—the fanciest drink we’ll carry might be champagne jello shots. We want to encourage a casual, come-as-you-are atmosphere.”
José de Jesus Medina Camacho, Co-Owner, Lucky Stranger
In addition to its no-frills beverage program, Lucky Stranger will eventually serve food; the team is currently in talks with several local restaurateurs to identify a partner.
“At the end of the day, we just want to create a solid community spot for the Avondale neighborhood. Parkside was a pillar of the community; we aren’t trying to recreate Parkside, but we do want Lucky Stranger to be a new, fresh and inviting chapter of that building’s storied history.”
Kelsey Drum, Co-Owner, Lucky Stranger
The team anticipates opening Lucky Stranger by late summer or early fall this year.
Excited to try Lucky Stranger in Avondale later this year? Tag us @bhamnow to let us know!
