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Birmingham, Alabama
Birmingham, the city that's home to Southern Accents, provides inspiration, culture, and a lifestyle that can't be beat, not to mention enough shopping and restaurants to keep us content
Highlands Bar and Grill
 (Photo: Julian Wass)
Produced by
Karen Phillips Irons

With its series of charming neighborhoods, Birmingham has become a destination known for its talented chefs, designers, and architects. We asked chef Frank Stitt, designer Mary Evelyn McKee, and urban developer Cathy Crenshaw to share a few of their favorite spots. We hope you'll feel as inspired as we are every time we traverse the streets of our fair city.

Restaurants & Hotels

The city has its share of barbecue restaurants (it’s a Southern tradition) and meat-and-threes (order a meat and three side dishes, ranging from fried okra to macaroni and cheese), but the story here really focuses on Cullman native turned Birmingham entrepreneur Frank Stitt. He has three restaurants in the city and can always be found at one of them, turning out the finest French and Italian cooking using local ingredients and Southern culinary traditions.


WHERE TO EAT

Bettola
Our newest upscale pizzeria with antipasti served in the traditional way. Try the mushroom paté. 2901 Second Ave. S, 205/731-6499.

Bottega and Bottega Café
One of chef Frank Stitt's restaurants, Bottega is known for its Parmesan soufflé. Next door, at the café, don't miss the heavenly chicken scaloppine. 2240 Highland Ave. S, 205/ 939-1000 (restaurant), or 205/ 933-2001 (café), www.bottegarestaurant.com.

Café Dupont
A premier downtown spot with a classic bistro setting. Enjoy the beignet dessert. 113 20th St. N, 205/322-1282, www.birminghammenus.com/cafedupont.

Chez Fonfon
A real French bistro; try a game of boules just outside the back door. 2007 11th Ave. S, 205/ 939-3221.

Chez LuLu
Fun, funky, and casual. Delicious soups, quiches, and breads. 1911 Cahaba Rd., 205/870-7011, www.birminghammenus.com/chezlulu.

Daniel George
Excellent salmon tartare, fried oysters, and lava cake. 2837 Culver Rd., 205/871-3266, www.birminghammenus.com/danielgeorge.

Gilchrist
Known for its soda fountain, limeade, and pimento cheese sandwiches. 2805 Cahaba Rd., 205/871-2181.

Highlands Bar and Grill
Stitt's nationally known restaurant is among the best in the country. 2011 11th Ave. S, 205/ 939-1400, www.highlandsbar andgrill.com.

Hot and Hot Fish Club
Upscale, seasonal cuisine with local organic produce. 2180 11th Ct. S, 205/933-5474, www.hotandhotfishclub.com.

Little Savannah
Neighborhood charm, intimate space, and great food. 3811 Clairmont Ave., 205/591-1119, www.birminghammenus.com/littlesavannah.

Ocean
Fresh seafood in an upbeat, fun atmosphere. 1218 20th St. S, 205/933-0999, www.birminghammenus.com/ocean.

Olexa's
The ambience of a European courtyard. Tasty salads and warm buttercream cake. 2838 Culver Rd., 205/871-2060.

Sol Y Luna
Mexican tapas and tequilas. 2811 Seventh Ave. S, 205/322-1186, www.birminghammenus.com/solyluna.

Taj India
Lamb delicacies, seafood, spicy curries, and vegetarian dishes. 2226 Highland Ave. S, 205/ 939-3805, www.tajindia.net.

Twenty-Six
Wood-fired oven and great bar. 1210 20th St. S, 205/918-0726, www.birminghammenus.com/26.

WHERE TO STAY

Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort and Spa
Scottish castle -- inspired hotel tucked away in the natural landscape of the award-winning Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Be sure to try the tapas at Brock's restaurant. 4000 Grand Ave., 205/916-7677, www.rossbridgeresort.com.

The Tutwiler
Conveniently located in the heart of downtown. The hotel recently completed a $9 million restoration. 2021 Park Place N, 205/322-2100, www.thetutwilerhotel.com.
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