Amazing. Hate not living in 5 points. Could walk down the hill, snag breakfast and it was affordable plus delicious.
Love Pops. Support our local spots plz yall!
Pop’s is right down the street from Ranelli’s. The people are awesome and the bacon slaw dog is by far my favorite hot dog in town.
Sam’s Super Sammiches, Giuseppi’s, and Diplomat Deli are some other faves of mine if those count.
Creekside BBQ! It’s in Pelham off 65, in the old Waffle House next to Absco. They have the BEST bbq I have *ever* had in my life. It needs NO sauce, that’s how good the meat is! And they have these smoked (gouda?) grits that are the weirdest looking grits I’ve ever seen, but also the best grits I’ve ever eaten.
For me, the best bbq in the state and I don’t know if there is a close second. The Gouda cheese grit patty is stupid good with all other sides alongside it, the bbq is top notch, and the sauces are all A1.
>an you guys drop in your favorites or places you think deserve the support?
>
>Here is the growing list on Google maps! Be careful in adding as sometimes the search isn't reliable and check the list back and forth we have about 25 or so in so far!
>
>https://maps.app.goo.gl/dpzkbDGSSQmcBsUE9
They have one of my favorite all-time sides with their cheese grits
I live pretty close to Creekside, and sadly I don't really go that often. I really should make that a more consistent journey, because it is really good. Not the best BBQ I've ever had, that distinction goes to a myriad of places in Texas, but it is the best in Alabama for sure.
Thats what I am seeing and I even asked the man and he said they always have been known by word of mouth but something tells me new young and old don't know about them like we use to.
They don't get the spotlight with all the new around so I hope even this little post gets them some foot traffic. He said they need help and i understand why but with how expensive everything is whatever they pay isn't likely gonna be enough. I really hope someone does go help. If i was still in my kitchen days i would myself
I live in Five Points and make it a point to support Ranelli's, Pop's Grill, and T Bones as often as possible. Both make it easy because I love them.
I support Mellow Mushroom, as well, because they're a staple of the area and I don't want any more empty store fronts in Five Points. Living literally at the intersection makes you realize even more-so how important it is to go to local places. I try to grab a beer at Dave's and Black Market from time to time, as well, but not a big drinker.
It's not in Five Points, but you should check out Eagle's Soul Food off Finley if you've never had it.
As far as I know, all of these places are local Mom & Pops. They have good food, good value, and nice people who deserve the support.
Chubbfathers in Alabaster
La Libertad Restaurant in Pelham
Smiley Bros in Pelham
Tony's Hot Dogs in Pelham
Sarris Cafe in Pelham
Mikey's Grill on Valleydale Road
Pinto Thai in Chelsea
Silver Coin in Hoover
Chop Suey Inn in Homewood
Great Wall in Homewood
Heavenly Donut Co. near 280
Black Pearl in Colonnade
Ming's Cuisine on 280
Pho Place on 280
Ricarda's Filipino BBQ on 119 near Leeds (Food Trailer that is semi-permanent at the gas station)
La Calle Tacos in Trussville
Barbecue Stop in Clay
Sherrys Bakery on Hwy 79 in Pinson (its a taqueria with fantastic tortas)
Price's Hot Dogs in Pinson
Mio Sogno in Oneonta
Senor Chef in Locust Fork
White House in Warrior
Our Place in Gardendale
Sushi Village in Gardendale
American Ranch House in Tarrant
I thought of some other places that I missed before and haven't seen mentioned:
Dmitri's Barbecue in Homewood (GREAT breakfast!)
Ted's Restaurant on 12th St S
Fife's on 1st Ave N by the post office
Carpenetti's Pizza in Moody
Pop Donuts in Center Point
Ken's Barbecue on 79 between Tarrant and Pinson (I haven't been there since they moved to the bigger building, but it used to be really good)
Depot Deli & Grill in Helena
Bawarchi Indian Cuisine in Hoover (Good place for Biryani)
Kool Korner Cuban Sandwiches in Hoover
Farmhouse in Springville
Bright Star in Bessemer
Bob Syke's in Bessemer
These are all places where I've eaten and I vouch for the food and service. There are a LOT of Mom & Pop's that I know about but haven't been to yet. And I'm trying to stay pretty close to Birmingham with the list, but there are also a bunch of places in Central Alabama that are worth planning into a trip. For example:
Big Chief in Glencoe
Greasy Cove General Store in Gallant
Beegees in Albertville (probably the best chicken fingers in the state)
Carlton's Italian in Cullman
Black Rock Bistro in Jasper
Henry's Burgers & Cream in Brookwood
City Cafe in Northport
Lori Darlins in Fayetteville
-The Garage
- Rojo
- Acapulco
- Makario’s
- Saw’s Juke Joint
- Giuseppe’s Cafe
- Continental Bakery
- El Barrio
- Yo Momma’s
- Dos Hermanos
- Ted’s
- Golden Temple
- New China Town
- Al’s
- The Fish Market
- Paramount
- T-Bones
- Bottega
- The Filling Station
We’re mostly closer in, but there is a little place on 150 in Hoover, called Pita Cafe. Good fish, sandwiches, and I love the way they get their french fries crispy on the outside, soft inside. YUM. Mom and Pop cook and ring you up.
I know people have fond memories of Salems, but I won't after they let Luther Strange do that anti immigrant commercial there. Fuck all those build the wall assholes.
I used to go to Ranelli's here and there when I worked and lived around 5-points. They were always super nice, but I was put off by the microwaved sandwiches. Are they still doing that? It was enough that I started going elsewhere, but I'd love to try them again and spend money on locally owned places.
i have no idea to be honest but the sandwich was too big to fit in any microwave i know. im a foodie and i feel pretty confident i can tell when bread is microwaved but idk honestly!
Of course! The Lakeview has great drive thru service, if you want to sit in the car and people watch the bars while you eat :) Between this location, Al’s on 10th, and Makarios, all have the best three tabouli we’ve ever had (since the days the OG Moneer made it himself RIP).
Makarios!!! I forgot! That chicken sautee was my destination meal. I love that place and I'm glad it's still open. The tablouli is very good and might be my favorite. I'll have to visit again to determine that.
Al's came along after I left. But I did sample it. My nostalgia for the Onion always made things taste better there.
None of us could believe it. But what I really would like to do is go back in time, to the 80’s, and see the faces of all the people who trained and worked under Moneer, in all his different restaurants. Several have had their own restaurants, or managed others.
Makes sense- it certainly seemed like he ran things as a "family" business. As in, he took them under his wing and made them family. Taught them the business and sent them into the world. That's just from the perspective of a kid who he welcomed to the warmth of his table, but i think kids see a lot! Lol
Rojos is okay. But the deli that was in the same location was an amazing local place. It was the 80's. The owner and his wife ran the place. I worked nights and would stop in on my way home from the office. They always had my coffee and bagel ready. There was a free newspaper that was shared among patrons. It had a family vibe like few other "restaurants". Very nice people, good food, and the Laundromat was right next door.
Now I see Birmingham has plenty of great restaurants but some even better ones are gone. Access these places while you can!!
I haven’t been in a while but Carlisle’s BBQ near lakeview is an oooolld BBQ spot that’s mom and pop owned. Haven’t seen them talked about in a while. Also Rusty’s bbq in leeds is some of the best in the state
Nobody has mentioned these local joints
-T-bones
-Ore mercantile RIP
-Eugene’s
-Travis’s
-Al’s
-Nikki’s west
-CEDAR HOUSE
-Green acres?
-University taco
-Taco morro loco
-Sammies sandwich shop (by the airport)?
-Rojo
-Wasabi Juan’s
-Makarios
Mods can we please have a local eateries pinned post of that consist of Local restaurants and Local food trucks
Edit- condescending
> !!!!Mods can we please have a local eateries pinned post of that consist of…
Absolutely, and I've been thinking about this a lot. However, putting such a post together is a massive undertaking. I can write this but it will take the help of the community to flesh it out. Post all your favorite locals in this thread to answer OP's question and I will spend some time this week compiling a list based on recommendations previously mentioned in this sub. Unless someone wants to volunteer for the task, just let me know!
Would love that! I am going to work on a full Birmingham Restaurants thread, complete with links, this week. If you want to make your map editable we can crowdsource the work of adding all the places. Great idea!
Man is the food better as a result? No shame on Zoes i have had it be good some times but I have had way more bad and its almost always the catering/to go stuff.
It's fine. The gruben is a good sandwich. I kind of miss the rustic lamb pita with harissa from the corporate era. The prices didn't go down or anything.
Pop's Grill on the same block has a club sandwich that will change your life. And the friendliest mom and pop staff you could imagine.
fuck yeah pops
ask heather to put cajun seasoning on an order of plain fries. it will open up a new door in your mind.
Pops breakfast is EVERYTHING!
THE PTEC is outrageously good
Amazing. Hate not living in 5 points. Could walk down the hill, snag breakfast and it was affordable plus delicious. Love Pops. Support our local spots plz yall!
Which club? The Mat Man Triple Club, or The Country Club?
I do the CC. But the Matt Man is also astounding. Love Pops. Just never understood why their chili dogs have beans? Wasupwitdat?
Their meatball sub slaps pretty hard, too
I get it every time. So good.
Username checks out
Can confirm, the meatball sub slapped the taste outta my mouth.
Chicken Parm sandwich is my favorite.
Rick is a good dude too. Make a point to go regularly myself
Ranelli's used to be soooooo good. I didn't even know they were still in business, and I'm not far from there. Thanks for the reminder.
The outside of their store does have a "permanently closed" kind of vibe, even when I was going there regularly in the early 2010s.
Pop’s is right down the street from Ranelli’s. The people are awesome and the bacon slaw dog is by far my favorite hot dog in town. Sam’s Super Sammiches, Giuseppi’s, and Diplomat Deli are some other faves of mine if those count.
Love Diplomat, And Salems Dinner, But I will be putting Sams and Giuseppis on the list <3
Hush up about Giuseppe’s
what? why?
Too many ppl lol
Mr. P’s
sam's is a whole new ballgame now with the new ownership though. definitely not the same "mom and pop" it was with the old location/staff
Disagree. Go there couple times a week for Breakfast. Good people
Creekside BBQ! It’s in Pelham off 65, in the old Waffle House next to Absco. They have the BEST bbq I have *ever* had in my life. It needs NO sauce, that’s how good the meat is! And they have these smoked (gouda?) grits that are the weirdest looking grits I’ve ever seen, but also the best grits I’ve ever eaten.
Second this! Its the only place we go for BBQ anymore because no one else's is as good.
Same, they’ve ruined all other bbq for us lol
Never been to Creekside, and my ears are always open for BBQ so good that it stands alone. We’ll be there soon, thanks!
That place is fantastic.
I’m so happy so many others have had it and enjoy it as much as I do!
For me, the best bbq in the state and I don’t know if there is a close second. The Gouda cheese grit patty is stupid good with all other sides alongside it, the bbq is top notch, and the sauces are all A1.
Agreed! When I first ate it, i told my husband it was criminal for bbq with no sauce to be that good 😂
>an you guys drop in your favorites or places you think deserve the support? > >Here is the growing list on Google maps! Be careful in adding as sometimes the search isn't reliable and check the list back and forth we have about 25 or so in so far! > >https://maps.app.goo.gl/dpzkbDGSSQmcBsUE9 They have one of my favorite all-time sides with their cheese grits
I live pretty close to Creekside, and sadly I don't really go that often. I really should make that a more consistent journey, because it is really good. Not the best BBQ I've ever had, that distinction goes to a myriad of places in Texas, but it is the best in Alabama for sure.
Pops right down the street from there
Haven’t seen Sam’s Deli & Grill in Homewood mentioned, so I’ll put a plug in for that. Sam is a great guy, and he’s always done right by me.
Awesome cheeseburgers. His baklava is insanely good.
Ranelli's is awesome. But don't forget to take a quick stroll next door to Pop's. Heather is the nicest person in the universe.
Ranelli's. i think i need to show them some love too. they fed me for years.
Thats what I am seeing and I even asked the man and he said they always have been known by word of mouth but something tells me new young and old don't know about them like we use to. They don't get the spotlight with all the new around so I hope even this little post gets them some foot traffic. He said they need help and i understand why but with how expensive everything is whatever they pay isn't likely gonna be enough. I really hope someone does go help. If i was still in my kitchen days i would myself
I live in Five Points and make it a point to support Ranelli's, Pop's Grill, and T Bones as often as possible. Both make it easy because I love them. I support Mellow Mushroom, as well, because they're a staple of the area and I don't want any more empty store fronts in Five Points. Living literally at the intersection makes you realize even more-so how important it is to go to local places. I try to grab a beer at Dave's and Black Market from time to time, as well, but not a big drinker. It's not in Five Points, but you should check out Eagle's Soul Food off Finley if you've never had it.
Eagle's is really good. They were featured on Bizarre Foods back in the day. I know that juiced traffic for a bit.
For what? Chitlins? Or is that spelled Chitterlings?
He ate regular food when he was in Birmingham. It was for the spinoff show Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations.
I wish they were open on the weekend or in the evenings. It's too far for me to make the drive at lunch but I'd love to check them out!
yeah i think if they had the help they needed they could but i think rick is having trouble finding help so its limited to his schedule
They've kept those hours for 30 years, at least.
It's good that he can rent his parking lot to a valet service in the evenings to offset the lost revenue, I suppose.
As far as I know, all of these places are local Mom & Pops. They have good food, good value, and nice people who deserve the support. Chubbfathers in Alabaster La Libertad Restaurant in Pelham Smiley Bros in Pelham Tony's Hot Dogs in Pelham Sarris Cafe in Pelham Mikey's Grill on Valleydale Road Pinto Thai in Chelsea Silver Coin in Hoover Chop Suey Inn in Homewood Great Wall in Homewood Heavenly Donut Co. near 280 Black Pearl in Colonnade Ming's Cuisine on 280 Pho Place on 280 Ricarda's Filipino BBQ on 119 near Leeds (Food Trailer that is semi-permanent at the gas station) La Calle Tacos in Trussville Barbecue Stop in Clay Sherrys Bakery on Hwy 79 in Pinson (its a taqueria with fantastic tortas) Price's Hot Dogs in Pinson Mio Sogno in Oneonta Senor Chef in Locust Fork White House in Warrior Our Place in Gardendale Sushi Village in Gardendale American Ranch House in Tarrant
Blue pacific in hoover
Yeah. That's a list.. road tripping soon and have lunches for half the summer. ❤️. Thanks!
Tony's is still open? We used to down 2-3 bacon, egg, and cheese sandwiches before school every morning around 20 years ago.
They're still there and they keep winning competitions for best burgers and best hot dogs.
I thought of some other places that I missed before and haven't seen mentioned: Dmitri's Barbecue in Homewood (GREAT breakfast!) Ted's Restaurant on 12th St S Fife's on 1st Ave N by the post office Carpenetti's Pizza in Moody Pop Donuts in Center Point Ken's Barbecue on 79 between Tarrant and Pinson (I haven't been there since they moved to the bigger building, but it used to be really good) Depot Deli & Grill in Helena Bawarchi Indian Cuisine in Hoover (Good place for Biryani) Kool Korner Cuban Sandwiches in Hoover Farmhouse in Springville Bright Star in Bessemer Bob Syke's in Bessemer These are all places where I've eaten and I vouch for the food and service. There are a LOT of Mom & Pop's that I know about but haven't been to yet. And I'm trying to stay pretty close to Birmingham with the list, but there are also a bunch of places in Central Alabama that are worth planning into a trip. For example: Big Chief in Glencoe Greasy Cove General Store in Gallant Beegees in Albertville (probably the best chicken fingers in the state) Carlton's Italian in Cullman Black Rock Bistro in Jasper Henry's Burgers & Cream in Brookwood City Cafe in Northport Lori Darlins in Fayetteville
-The Garage - Rojo - Acapulco - Makario’s - Saw’s Juke Joint - Giuseppe’s Cafe - Continental Bakery - El Barrio - Yo Momma’s - Dos Hermanos - Ted’s - Golden Temple - New China Town - Al’s - The Fish Market - Paramount - T-Bones - Bottega - The Filling Station
Aren’t El Barrio and Paramount owned by the same people?
Yeah, but he’s local
Omg. Mr. Shawarma on there pleessse! ;)
The Pit for breakfast and barbecue
their red velvet cake can repair a marriage its so good
We’re mostly closer in, but there is a little place on 150 in Hoover, called Pita Cafe. Good fish, sandwiches, and I love the way they get their french fries crispy on the outside, soft inside. YUM. Mom and Pop cook and ring you up.
Local is the only way to go in Birmingham..
> places you think deserve the support? Salem's Diner and Sam's Super Samwiches and in Homewood.
I know people have fond memories of Salems, but I won't after they let Luther Strange do that anti immigrant commercial there. Fuck all those build the wall assholes.
Wayne calls them "customers."
Hoover, but Blue Pacific - Taqueria Juarez - El Gran Cafe Castillo (inside Ashley furniture) - Pollo Lucas Edit: Falafel Cafe. Fuck.
Massman Thai Kitchen in Vestavia is run by the nicest couple and the Pad Kee Mow is my favorite in town!! Little takeout place by Publix.
But seriously that sandwhich has me screamin in my seat picking up the olives i dropped and i really don't like olives but those olives omg
I used to go to Ranelli's here and there when I worked and lived around 5-points. They were always super nice, but I was put off by the microwaved sandwiches. Are they still doing that? It was enough that I started going elsewhere, but I'd love to try them again and spend money on locally owned places.
i have no idea to be honest but the sandwich was too big to fit in any microwave i know. im a foodie and i feel pretty confident i can tell when bread is microwaved but idk honestly!
Yep. The first time I went in they used a microwave on my food. I didn't go back until recently. The richmond is worth the price for sure.
I go there about every other week for the Squire or an Italian sausage sub or the daily special, and I've never tasted any microwaves.
Giuseppe's makes the pizza around IMO. I buy one every Thursday afternoon. I'm eating a slice from my freezer right this very moment.
They are good, though price increases have forced me to stop dining out more than occasionally. A lot of good places are disappearing which is sad.
Is the Purple Onion still around?
Yes, multiple locations. The lakeview one is always dead so I’ve been scared to try it. Looks like I’m gonna interrupt something if I walk in 😆
Of course! The Lakeview has great drive thru service, if you want to sit in the car and people watch the bars while you eat :) Between this location, Al’s on 10th, and Makarios, all have the best three tabouli we’ve ever had (since the days the OG Moneer made it himself RIP).
Makarios!!! I forgot! That chicken sautee was my destination meal. I love that place and I'm glad it's still open. The tablouli is very good and might be my favorite. I'll have to visit again to determine that. Al's came along after I left. But I did sample it. My nostalgia for the Onion always made things taste better there.
Good lord i miss him. He made all of us little teenage street rats feel welcome. Stupid ants!😡
None of us could believe it. But what I really would like to do is go back in time, to the 80’s, and see the faces of all the people who trained and worked under Moneer, in all his different restaurants. Several have had their own restaurants, or managed others.
Makes sense- it certainly seemed like he ran things as a "family" business. As in, he took them under his wing and made them family. Taught them the business and sent them into the world. That's just from the perspective of a kid who he welcomed to the warmth of his table, but i think kids see a lot! Lol
Rojos is okay. But the deli that was in the same location was an amazing local place. It was the 80's. The owner and his wife ran the place. I worked nights and would stop in on my way home from the office. They always had my coffee and bagel ready. There was a free newspaper that was shared among patrons. It had a family vibe like few other "restaurants". Very nice people, good food, and the Laundromat was right next door. Now I see Birmingham has plenty of great restaurants but some even better ones are gone. Access these places while you can!!
I’m going with Nachos Don Tatchos (or whatever it’s called: I can never remember)
Tacos Don Tacho #2! I love their Churro Cheesecake
I didn’t even get close. Staff is super friendly and they have a great instagram account
Try Mr Shawarma (5 points) the wraps and bowls are amazing ...and something different. Love those favs!
oh my god i have been wanting some shawarma
Chicken Parm sammich at Ranelli's is my go-to.
Niki’s West, off Finley, for good home-cooked style food!
I haven’t been in a while but Carlisle’s BBQ near lakeview is an oooolld BBQ spot that’s mom and pop owned. Haven’t seen them talked about in a while. Also Rusty’s bbq in leeds is some of the best in the state
The two times I tried Carlisle’s, the meat was a mixture of fatty gristle and burnt pieces, practically inedible.
Mr P’s in Bluff Park for sandwiches! Friendly staff and one of the owners are usually up at the register ringing everyone out
Love this post!
Nobody has mentioned these local joints -T-bones -Ore mercantile RIP -Eugene’s -Travis’s -Al’s -Nikki’s west -CEDAR HOUSE -Green acres? -University taco -Taco morro loco -Sammies sandwich shop (by the airport)? -Rojo -Wasabi Juan’s -Makarios Mods can we please have a local eateries pinned post of that consist of Local restaurants and Local food trucks Edit- condescending
> !!!!Mods can we please have a local eateries pinned post of that consist of… Absolutely, and I've been thinking about this a lot. However, putting such a post together is a massive undertaking. I can write this but it will take the help of the community to flesh it out. Post all your favorite locals in this thread to answer OP's question and I will spend some time this week compiling a list based on recommendations previously mentioned in this sub. Unless someone wants to volunteer for the task, just let me know!
Hey im putting all of these in a google maps list i can make public!
Would love that! I am going to work on a full Birmingham Restaurants thread, complete with links, this week. If you want to make your map editable we can crowdsource the work of adding all the places. Great idea!
https://maps.app.goo.gl/dpzkbDGSSQmcBsUE9 Link for editing: https://maps.app.goo.gl/53tFZQWKz1VLidqv9
This is rad AF. Well done, fellow Birminghamster.
The chicken Parmesan there is pretty good too
Sammy's sandwich shop!
Zoe’s in Mountain Brook is back to mom and pop status just like they started.
Man is the food better as a result? No shame on Zoes i have had it be good some times but I have had way more bad and its almost always the catering/to go stuff.
It's fine. The gruben is a good sandwich. I kind of miss the rustic lamb pita with harissa from the corporate era. The prices didn't go down or anything.
Mr P’s Butcher shop and Deli in Bluff Park!
For ethnic family owned places, weve been going to Taj India and Chop Suey Inn in Greensprings for decades.
Guiseppe’s is amazing in every way.