This is our annual list of the top five best bars in Birmingham, Alabama. The first five are for this year, and the previous years’ are listed afterward. Do you know of a bar you’d like to see? D.M. us on Instagram or email us at info@abouttown.io and let us know.
Golden Age Wine Garden
Located downtown at 2021 2nd Ave N, the Wine Garden is an indoor & outdoor wine garden, but it’s really just outdoor. And it’s a great outdoor space with rows of crepe myrtles, hydrangeas and intimate lighting. It’s great when it’s kind of cool and they have the fire pits going. No, they don’t have cocktails, but they don’t need them. They take their wine selections very seriously.
Bayonet
Yeah, it’s known predominately as a restaurant. It’s getting all kinds of love from the New York Times article naming it one of the 50 best restaurants in America. But we love it most as a place where you park at the beautiful marble bar and order cocktails and oysters. It’s atmosphere is warm and inviting, and a great place to meet downtown after work.
Nightcap
Nightcap: A Dessert Lounge just opened by the guys that own Bamboo on 2nd across the street. It’s in the former space where Avine, which closed last year, used to be. Their concept caters to the late-night after supper crowd, and features cocktails, coffee and desserts sourced from local bakeries. Nightcap has just opened by the time we were about to go to print, and is open Wednesday thru Saturday- 5pm to Midnight, Sunday- 3 to 10, and is closed Monday and Tuesday.
Up-Down
Up-Down Arcade Bar is located near Region’s Park in Urban Supply. There’s plenty to do here. It’s a classic barcade with skeetball, arcade games, and a killer indoor-outdoor space. It’s 25¢ for almost every game, and maybe 50¢ for pinball. It’s a great deal, and also only $5 for a hot slice of killer pizza. It’s also the place with the stacked box cars, if you’ve seen those pics.
Oasis
We went old school on this one. We love the places that don’t take themselves too seriously. (They have 4 posts on Instagram, and haven’t posted anything in 6 years.) They didn’t spend top dollar on an interior decorator, or have designer cocktails. It’s as laid back as it gets. This Lakeview institution has great local live music, friendly staff, and a totally random crowd where everyone’s welcome. And as random as it may be, it has the best women’s bathroom in town with everything you could ever need.
Tucana Tiki Bar
Located downtown just west of the Barons’ stadium, Tucana 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
Located 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.
Mayawell
First impressions of walking in the front door is that of a cozy little corner bar, but we think it has the best outdoor seating in town. Located near Lakeview, the bar has a roof-top view that faces downtown. Mayawell is a playful twist on the phonetic spelling of the ancient Aztec goddess of the agave plant, Mayahuel. Specializing in agave spirts (Tequila and Mezcal) Owner Neill Crook was inspired by a trip to Mexico City to bring the drinks and the ambiance home to Bham with him.
Otey’s
It’s 3 things that make Otey’s great. The generous pours in styrofoam cups, the convenience and the food. It’s also one of the best sports bars in town. Located in Crestline Village and recently opened in Homewood, the crowd is more local-neighborhood-based than other Birmingham proper spots. The roll up garage doors have merged their indoor-outdoor atmosphere.
Juniper
Tequila has had its moment. Mezcal has had its moment. Bourbon, vodka, etc. have had plenty of exposure. But it seems gin has become the forgotten spirit. Not at Juniper. This elegant and cozy gin bar takes you to a different era. Inspired by the ornate gin places of the Victorian era, its eclectic and botanical vibe entrance leads to a lush courtyard. And the Clairmont Ave location helps bring the neighborhood’s personality to the place.
Mom’s Basement
Somewhat off the beaten path, but conveniently located between Crestwood and Avondale, Mom’s is about as old-school as it gets. The faux wood paneling and hideous couches lend to the super casual atmosphere. With vintage pinball machines, dart boards and a pool table it’s vibe is its name. A beer order may feel apropos, but their frozen drink options should not be missed. Be sure to check out all the Mom pics, and feel free to bring your own.
