This is About Town’s annual list of the top five best bars in Birmingham. Do you know of a bar you’d like to see? D.M. us on Instagram, and let us know. The top 5 from last year were: Juniper, Otey’s, Mayawell, Queen’s Park and Mom’s Basement.
Tucana Tiki Bar
Located downtown just west of the Barons’ stadium, Tucana just opened about year ago, and was started by one of the founders of Queen’s Park, which closed after Christmas. Like the name says, it’s a Tiki Bar specializing exotic tropical rum drinks. Like Queen’s Park, they take presentation very seriously and feature seasonal drink menus.
Adios
Adios is the creation of Jesus Mendez and Jose Medina Camacho, who brought their Mexican roots to the Magic City. Inspired by the energy and music of Mexico City, Adios specializes in Tequila and Mezcal. Located downtown on 1st Ave North, it has a cozy and convivial setting with large tropical plants, comfy chairs and Mexican inspired artwork.
House of Found Objects
The brain child of The Atomic’s founder, Feizal Valli, House of Found Objects is not just about the drinks, it’s about the experience. There’s plenty of conversation pieces all over the place including a video projection behind the bar, typewriters and Elvis costumes. “The idea of a ‘found object’ is once you remove it from its context, it’s free to be whatever you want it to be,” Valli says. “People can come here and be whatever they want to be. In that sense, they are ‘found objects.”
Key Circle Commons
Key Circle Commons is not trying to be a wild and raucous joint. It’s style is more elevated and elegant. Located in English Village, and named after a turn-around just up from it’s Cahaba Road address, it’s look and feel are cozy and warm. Key Circle Commons was started by Mauricio Papapietro, whose portfolio includes Brick and Tin restaurants downtown and nearby Mountain Brook Village. The cocktail and small plate menu is seasonal, and follows Alabama’s growing seasons.
Sloan’s
Just opened on 2nd Ave North, Sloan’s was started by the people at Bocco, and caters to the bourbon aficionado or anyone who wants to be one. Their bourbon flights are informative, fun and taste great. And their happy hour from 4-6pm includes Old Fashioneds for only $8.
