Restauranting - Birmingham, AL

My trip to Birmingham was in 2007 when I was with Deloitte (yes, that same trip when I met Patrick Dempsey...mmmmm - and yes I realize I've used this picture before - but it doesn't get old).

I was to be there for 2 weeks (and later 3 more), and couldn't go home on the weekend. I'd listened to Greg on 94/7 (patience, there IS a point to this) every morning since they became "94/7 alternative Portland" (after that huge issue when the knrk dj's played and made fun of the guy being beheaded in 2004 - they canned the station and restarted with a much better version, that is unless you loved Linkin Park. Ironically enough, the same radio call numbers were for a 40s/50s oldies station my parents used to listen to - and won a cruise from. I think they cried when it shut down. Either way, the station has been in my life for awhile...but I've digressed).

Anyway, Greg had played a large part of my wake-up routine, with his indie alt music, minimal news, and soothing voice. I knew random things about him, like his cat's names and where he grew up! So I took a chance and sent him an email requesting suggestions. He came back with an awesome list, which I promptly wrote down (this was well before smart phones were "the thing", and when Rachael Ray's $40 a day was the best way to find out about restaurants in other cities - Birmingham wasn't on her show) and carried with me to B-Ham.

As you can see, if was well used. This was my first experience traveling alone, (my coworker was set to get there the 2nd week) and I had never eaten at restaurants by myself either! I learned quickly that sitting at bars makes you feel less awkward, and is the best way to get to know people. And (as you can see), I met a few people and had many places to go added while I was out and about.

Where I went: (and forgive me, going all Instagram on my food wasn't the thing back then - so no food pics - and I may not remember what I had! The only one that has closed on the list is the Grey House Grille)

Garage Cafe - great bar in a hidden part of town, lots of unique sculptures and statues all over (something Alia would love). Definitely the place to grab a beer! (or to meet, and have a stranger take you to the airport to pick up a coworker...haha)

Garage Cafe - entrance

Billy's

Milo's - their version of a Bob's/ In'n'Out Burger. Must get sweet tea - also my first experience with this!
Billy's - though I went on the 2nd trip - was a cool English pub!
Highlands Bar and Grill - this was one of the places I got more suggestions from and met a great couple Mandy and Mitch. We hung out for the evening, and took me to another bar. I also got a note for Greg with the menu - but never was able to meet up with him! Still have it to this day - is that creepy? I had the warm peach crostata and a peach drink. Very good!

Blue Monkey

Bottega - both the cafe for lunch and the restaurant for dinner. As Greg told me - it's the place to see old money and see people trying to get money. Great Italian food - well worth it! Of course, I went with money, and didn't have to pay for anything - go me;-), and it was the first time I've liked scallops.
Dreamland - Alabama BBQ! Complete with wonder bread on the table. Definitely a do:-) 'bama is a pork place.
Blue Monkey - really cool underground style bar with more of a hipster feel.

Fried Cookie Dough

Jackson's Bar and Bistro - in Homewood, AMAZING Cookie-Dough Egg Rolls! Nothing better than fried cookie dough!!

(not mentioned - Surin West for Thai, and La Paz for Mexican. I'm sure they were fine, but don't remember them well enough)

I know I had more, but those were the highlights. It was an unexpected treasure-trove of food, and I would say definitely go if you get the chance! (also, go to the Barber motor sports track - grand am style - no nascar-circles here! and they have a huge car museum)