If you’ve read my post about Why I Keep Returning to Birmingham, you’ve already read that the food I’ve had thus far is part of the reason. In addition to its rich history, Birmingham, Alabama, offers a variety of restaurants to satisfy every craving! While I still have way more places to visit, I wanted to share my current favorite restaurants.
Side note: In 2025, Birmingham restaurants were evaluated as part of Michelin’s inaugural American South Guide, marking the first time the city had been included in a Michelin Guide. Cool, right?
Automatic Seafood and Oysters
Located just south of downtown, Automatic Seafood & Oysters received a Michelin recommendation in 2025. I chose this place specifically because I wanted oysters, and they didn’t disappoint. I visited during their brunch hours, so there wasn’t much of a wait time. I had a great time sampling a variety of salty and sweet oysters while sipping a mimosa. I ordered the Fish and Chips dish, which was delicious and crispy (I guess it was so good that I didn’t have a moment to snap a picture!) I’d love to go back during their dinner hours, when they have a larger selection of fresh seafood dishes. Check out their website here: https://www.automaticseafood.com/.
Rodney Scott’s BBQ
I learned about Rodney Scott while watching Chef’s Table: BBQ on Netflix years ago. I was drawn to him because he’s from a small town in South Carolina called Hemingway, an hour from where my mom grew up. His family owns Scott’s Bar-B-Que, a rugged country restaurant that specializes in pit-roasted pork and chicken dishes. I knew that Rodney had his own restaurant in Charleston, South Carolina, but I hadn’t visited. When I learned he had a location in Birmingham’s Homewood neighborhood, I knew I had to stop by to see what all the hype was about. Rodney is a James Beard Award-winning pitmaster, and I was not disappointed! I ordered a platter that included ribs, pulled pork, and brisket with sides of collard greens and macaroni and cheese. If I had more room in my stomach, I would’ve eaten the entire plate. Each table offered a variety of BBQ sauces, and I stuck with the original sauce. While it has a small, spicy kick, it was a great addition to the meat.
As I write this, I’ve learned that his restaurants have temporarily closed due to financial issues with the restaurant group that operates his locations. It’s unfortunate, and I hope the chain makes a comeback! In the meantime, his website is still active at https://rodneyscottsbbq.com/.
Salud Taqueria
Salud Taqueria is located in the heart of downtown. I didn’t take many pictures while I was there, but trust me when I say they have THE BEST authentic tacos. Their tacos feature handmade corn tortillas filled with a variety of meats. I went with the Pollo (chicken), Panza (pork belly), and Pastor Al Trompo (pork shoulder – only 50 lbs are prepped each day). They also have birria, quesadilla, and burrito options that I’d love to try in the future. They have indoor bar stools facing the street, so it’s a great space to people-watch as you enjoy your food! Check out their website here: https://www.saludbham.com.
Bayonet
Bayonet is located downtown and won a Michelin Bib Gourmand award in 2025. Bayonet offers the best raw bar options. Once again, I was in search of oysters and found more than I expected. While sipping a glass of cabernet sauvignon, I had a front-row seat to the chef who masterfully plated my dinner. I ordered the Raw Situation dish, which offers a variety of seafood options. While it changes with the season, my plate had oysters, mussels, shrimp cocktail, crab dip, and a fish dip. Everything was perfect, and I had no complaints besides my high bill. Bayonet offers other seafood options, and I plan to return to explore more. Check out their website here: https://bayonetbham.com.
Hot & Hot Fish Club
Another Michelin-Recommended restaurant founded by yet another James Beard winner (Chris Hastings), Hot & Hot Fish Club was also a pleasant surprise. It’s located in the Pepper Place district, where there’s a huge farmers market every Saturday (I have to make time to visit then!). I arrived early as reservations were almost completely booked. There were options to sit at a table, cocktail bar, or the chef’s corner. I decided to sit at the chef’s corner and sat in awe as food was prepared throughout the night. I unfortunately didn’t get a Gordon Ramsey experience where the chef yelled out orders. Instead, the team appeared to work like a well-oiled machine. If you haven’t noticed by now, my favorite appetizer is a plate of oysters, which I ordered along with a Garden Spritz made with prosecco, St. Germain, and limoncello. For dinner, I ordered the pork chop dish. Since I was one of the first customers, I caught glimpses of my food being prepared. I left Hot & Hot feeling full and 100% satisfied. There were other dishes I wanted to try, but didn’t have room in my belly or the budget. That just means I have to return! Check out their website here: https://www.hotandhotfishclub.com/.
Again, there are so many restaurants I’ve yet to set foot in! For the ones I have ventured to, I wasn’t disappointed, which is why I’m always eager to return to the area. Whether you’re craving fresh Gulf seafood, authentic tacos, or award-winning BBQ, Birmingham, Alabama, has something for every type of foodie.
Have a favorite Birmingham, Alabama restaurant that I should add to my list? Let me know in the comments! I’m always looking for a great meal in the Magic City.