Travelers driving through our great state are greeted with “Welcome to Alabama the Beautiful” signs as they cross over into our state lines, and we’ve certainly earned this distinguished recognition. Rolling hills, bodies of water, thriving plant and animal life, along with charming cities and towns keep you in an endless sea of memorable snapshots. Birmingham is the ultimate experience in taking in the beauty of the state. Ruffner Mountain, Peavine Falls, and other magnificent wonders compliment a colorful city that seems to include more murals each week! Eating outside is the best way to appreciate this beauty – we share a few great spots here.
Mayawell Bar
Birmingham’s premiere tequila bar also has some of the best outdoor dining in the city. After grabbing one of the many cocktail options, head towards the back and choose to sit downstairs in front of their massive new mural or journey up the steps to their incredible balcony that feels like a big city apartment rooftop. Grab some tacos or a quesadilla from the always present Mezon Catering and Food Truck and head upstairs to watch the sunset for the perfect evening out with a special someone!
Moon Shine at Elyton Hotel
If you want to take in the beauty of the Magic City, there isn’t a better place to visit than the Moon Shine. Sitting at the top of the historic Elyton Hotel at “The Heaviest Corner on Earth” on 1st Avenue North, this bar is most well-known for their tasty beverages that pair nicely with the spectacular views found on both of the outdoor seating areas. Their oven-baked pizzas make for a delicious pairing with these drinks, and create the perfect scenic night out.
Shu Shop
3rd Avenue North has always been a magnificent road for a quick glimpse at what makes Birmingham so special. The historic Alabama and Lyric theaters light up the road, while some of the best restaurants, book stores, and bars in the city make themselves comfortable in this downtown hub. The beauty of this road took on a whole new meaning last year, as dozens of colorful murals were created to cover broken glass. The murals are still there today, and feel like living in a modern day history book as you drive down 3rd Avenue North to appreciate them. Shu Shop’s limited outdoor dining lets you stop and truly absorb what a powerful place the Magic City can be. Their stellar drink and food menus are a much-welcomed addition to the experience.
Rojo
The Highland Park neighborhood contains some of the city’s finest parks and greenery, along with some of the most pleasant sidewalks to walk in Birmingham. Rojo’s spacious outdoor dining sits directly across from Rushton Park on Highland Avenue, and creates a wonderful environment for lunch, dinner, brunch, or simply stopping by to try one of their incredible spicy jalapeño margaritas! A “Little Free Library” and their famous recycled glass, along with their expansive Latin and American food menus, make this a top Birmingham experience.
Carrigan’s Public House
Carrigan’s has become a Birmingham favorite for their uniquely wonderful menu items (the corn dog and hipster ranch are guaranteed hits) along with top-notch beverages. The 1st Avenue North pub’s upstairs outdoor dining is another reason people keep coming back to this city classic. You can view passing trains, the Vulcan, downtown, and a tribute to one of Birmingham’s most cherished musicians and activists Calla Lee from one location.
Get Outside and Love Your City!
The great thing about Birmingham is that it doesn’t matter where you choose to enjoy an outdoor meal - the view and the food will be an experience. It can be easy to take how beautiful this city is for granted when you experience it every day, but we truly do have a gem on our hands. Hope you are enjoying it for all that it is!
Lead Image: Carrigan’s .
