INN & OUT: BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA
God, I love the mid-south & mid-west of the USA.
Some of the best cooking, cocktail bars, architecture and enriched American history.
This is what I’d recommend in Birmingham, Alabama.
RESTAURANTS:
Helen: If the old early 1900 building doesn’t wow you… the story of Helen will certainly endear you. But, this place’s food? Dang! The biscuits w/ brown sugar butter were unforgettable and hard to stop eating. We also split the short rib which was as tender and flavorable as one could hope for. Their bar can sling just about any cocktail you can imagine, as well!
Saw’s BBQ: I make it a point to find the best BBQ in the south. This one was fantastic! Specifically, the smoked sausage, mac & cheese and baked beans. PS: Those beans come with a kick!
Automatic Seafood & Oysters: Alabama oysters, anyone? The Lady said she had the best octopus she’s ever had.
LIBATIONS:
Queens Park: If you’re into craft cocktails & the art of mixology… this place can do anything you want but I highly recommend you trying a few of their own signature cocktails. The vibe is phenomenal, as were the tunes. Bathrooms also are adorable for an old building!
Tip: Try the ‘Daily Punch!’ Made everyday differently was the vibe I got!
House of Found Objects: I’m going to attempt to quickly describe this place… but there is no way you’d believe me. Just go and check it out. Craft cocktails & little Miller High Life pony’s play second fiddle behind everywhere your eyes can see. Hopefully, ‘The Womb Room” is open. Yeah, thats right… “Womb Room.”
Collins Bar: You know the place has an A+ in mixology when there is a customized & local periodic table of elements behind the bar. Solid happy hour and GREAT songs.
Adios: The most contemporary cocktail bar (with a Mexican twist) we popped in, very cool spot. Try to beat the crowd!
COFFEE:
The Red Cat Coffee House: Great coffee & vibes in an old Dr. Pepper warehouse at Pepper Place.
Tip: About a block away is a Billy Reid brick & mortar shop. One of my favorite designers!
ACTIVITIES:
Birmingham Civil Rights Institute: Some museums are beautiful paintings to ‘ooh & ahh’ at, others teach you something about yourself and the type of person you want to be for this world. Not only did I learn so much about the timeline in Civil Rights history year by year, but I felt at times I was emotionally there.
Tip: Upon exiting the museum look left… the historic 16th Street Church is right there. Chills.
Cheers, gents!
By, Brian McAleer
CEO & Co-Founder
Gent Life