Vestavia Hills is a city southeast of Birmingham, Alabama that is known for its excellent schools, green spaces, and thriving local food scene. This Birmingham suburb has a population of around 34,000 residents and is located in Jefferson and Shelby Counties.
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| FoodBar | Variety | Seasonal menu, locally sourced ingredients |
| The Ridge Eat & Drink | American | Live music, variety of dishes |
| Bistro V | American/Bistro | Fresh ingredients, cozy atmosphere |
| Diplomat Deli | Deli | Wide selection of beers, unique sandwiches |
| Sol Azteca | Mexican | Authentic Mexican cuisine, family-friendly |
| Samurai Japan | Japanese | Sushi, traditional Japanese dishes |
| Mudtown Eat & Drink | American | Laid-back setting, hearty portions |
| The Olive Branch | Mediterranean | Fresh, healthy options, Mediterranean flavors |
| Newk’s Eatery | Fast Casual | Quick service, fresh salads and sandwiches |
| Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen | Seafood | Large portions, festive atmosphere |
| BrickTop’s | American | Upscale dining, classic American fare |
| Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint | Barbecue | Traditional BBQ, smoked meats |
Vestavia Hills has a fantastic selection of restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets. From longtime local favourites to new hotspots, there is something for everyone. The city has a range of high-end fine dining establishments as well as casual eateries serving comfort foods.
The farm-to-table movement is strong here, with various restaurants focused on using fresh, seasonal ingredients from local producers. Barbecue joints, bakeries, international cuisines – you name it, Vestavia Hills has it.
In this article, we have rounded up 12 of the best, must-try restaurants that showcase the diversity and quality of Vestavia Hills’ dining scene. For foodies visiting the area or residents looking to try somewhere new, this list offers something for all appetites.
OvenBird
Name and Location: OvenBird is located at 2810 3rd Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233.
History and Significance: OvenBird is a popular restaurant in Birmingham known for its wood-fired dishes and innovative Southern cuisine. It was opened in 2015 by award-winning chef Chris Hastings and his wife, Idie Hastings. The restaurant has gained national recognition for its unique approach to Southern cooking.
What to Expect: At OvenBird, you can expect a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients cooked in a live-fire oven. The dishes are inspired by the flavors of the South and often have a creative twist. The restaurant has a rustic, intimate atmosphere with an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work.
Visitor Information: OvenBird is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Reservations are recommended and can be made online or by phone. The restaurant has a casual dress code and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Parking is available in the adjacent lot or on the street.
OvenBird is located right in the heart of downtown Vestavia Hills, making it a perfect spot for a night out. Headed up by chef and James Beard semifinalist Chris Hastings, OvenBird serves creative Southern small plates bursting with flavor.
The menu changes seasonally to highlight the best local ingredients. Expect items like chicken liver mousse with pickled blueberries, diver scallops with sweet corn purée, and bacon-wrapped quail over squash casserole. The cocktail program is also fantastic, putting twists on classics like the mint julep. With its buzzing atmosphere and talented kitchen team, it’s no surprise OvenBird is one of the hottest dinner destinations in town.
Bettola
Name and Location: Bettola is located at 2930 3rd Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233.
History and Significance: Bettola is an Italian restaurant that has been serving authentic Neapolitan pizza and other Italian dishes since 2006. The restaurant is owned by James Lewis, who trained in Italy to perfect his pizza-making skills. Bettola has been praised by local and national media for its high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
What to Expect: At Bettola, you can expect a menu featuring handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and other classic Italian dishes. The restaurant uses high-quality, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with exposed brick walls and a rustic decor.
Visitor Information: Bettola is open for lunch Tuesday through Friday from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm and for dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Reservations are recommended and can be made online or by phone. The restaurant has a casual dress code and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Parking is available in the adjacent lot or on the street.
For superb Italian food made with homemade pasta and sauces, look no further than Bettola. This laid-back but upscale eatery is helmed by chef and co-owner James Lewis, who keeps things simple by letting the high-quality ingredients shine.
Start off your meal with the burrata appetizer served with roasted tomatoes, basil pesto, and crostini before moving on to house specialities like cacio e pepe, oven-roasted chicken Parmesan, or a juicy pork chop Milanese. Gluten-free and vegan options are also available.
Bettola has an extensive Italian wine list to complement the rustic yet refined dishes. The friendly, knowledgeable service makes dinner here a true treat.
Taziki’s Mediterranean Café
Name and Location: Taziki’s Mediterranean Café has multiple locations in Birmingham, including 2737 US-280, Birmingham, AL 35223 and 4520 Overton Rd, Birmingham, AL 35210.
History and Significance: Taziki’s Mediterranean Café is a fast-casual chain that was founded in Birmingham in 1998. The restaurant is known for its healthy, fresh Mediterranean cuisine and has expanded to over 90 locations across the Southeast.
What to Expect: At Taziki’s, you can expect a menu featuring traditional Mediterranean dishes such as gyros, hummus, and falafel. The restaurant uses fresh, high-quality ingredients and offers vegetarian and gluten-free options. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly.
Visitor Information: Taziki’s is open for lunch and dinner daily, with hours varying by location. No reservations are required, and orders can be placed at the counter for dine-in or takeout. The restaurant has a casual dress code and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Parking is available in the restaurant’s lot or in nearby shopping centers.
Fast casual restaurant Taziki’s brings a taste of the Mediterranean to Vestavia Hills. Their menu focuses on dishes inspired by Greek, Italian, and Middle Eastern cuisines, with customizable salad, sandwich, pizza, pasta, and plate options. Fan favorites include the grilled chicken pasta topped with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and feta and the rich chicken Parmesan sandwich.
Taziki’s sets itself apart with its from-scratch sauces and dressings, like the creamy signature sauce the restaurant got its name from. There are also Greek frozen yogurt options for dessert.
This fast-paced spot has a laid-back dining room decorated with Mediterranean accents. Taziki’s is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner when you’re craving falafel, gyros, or other Mediterranean flavours.
Brick & Tin
Name and Location: Brick & Tin has two locations in Birmingham: 214 20th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203 and 2901 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223.
History and Significance: Brick & Tin is a locally owned sandwich shop that opened its first location in downtown Birmingham in 2010. The restaurant is known for its creative sandwiches made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Brick & Tin has been featured in local and national media for its unique offerings and commitment to sustainability.
What to Expect: At Brick & Tin, you can expect a menu featuring gourmet sandwiches, salads, and soups. The restaurant uses fresh, seasonal ingredients and offers vegetarian and gluten-free options. The atmosphere is casual and industrial, with exposed brick walls and metal accents.
Visitor Information: Brick & Tin is open for lunch Monday through Saturday from 10:30 am to 3:00 pm. No reservations are required, and orders can be placed at the counter for dine-in or takeout. The restaurant has a casual dress code and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Parking is available on the street or in nearby garages.
The trendy Brick & Tin brings a modern twist to classic Southern comfort food favorites. Set in a former gas station space, the vibe here is chill and stylish. From the monumental biscuits smothered in decadent sauces to the expertly fried chicken, everything tastes like it came straight from your grandma’s kitchen but with chef Rob McDaniel’s gourmet flair.
Standout menu picks include shrimp and creamy stone-ground Alabama grits, chicken and waffles with spiced honey, and the best pimento cheeseburger around. There’s also an extensive craft cocktail program that pairs perfectly with this reimagined Southern fare. Brick & Tin’s hip ambiance and nostalgic dishes keep diners coming back again and again.
GianMarco’s
Name and Location: GianMarco’s is located at 721 Broadway St, Homewood, AL 35209.
History and Significance: GianMarco’s is an upscale Italian restaurant that has been serving authentic Italian cuisine since 2003. The restaurant is owned by brothers Giani and Marco Respinto, who grew up in the restaurant business in Italy. GianMarco’s has been praised by local and national media for its high-quality ingredients, traditional recipes, and exceptional service.
What to Expect: At GianMarco’s, you can expect a menu featuring classic Italian dishes such as handmade pasta, fresh seafood, and wood-fired pizza. The restaurant uses high-quality, imported ingredients and offers an extensive wine list. The atmosphere is elegant and intimate, with white tablecloths and soft lighting.
Visitor Information: GianMarco’s is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made online or by phone. The restaurant has a business casual dress code and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Parking is available on the street or in a nearby lot.
GianMarco’s offers an upscale Italian dining experience in a romantic, old-world atmosphere. Owner and head chef GianMarco Bonanotte hails from Milan and brings his own family recipes to life at this local favorite Vestavia Hills spot.
Start your meal with bruschetta or a Caprese salad before moving on to homemade pastas like lobster ravioli in a brandy cream sauce or seafood linguine loaded with mussels, shrimp, and calamari. If pasta isn’t your thing, you can’t go wrong with specialty dishes like veal osso buco or Parmesan-crusted snapper. Save room for tiramisu or another classic Italian dessert. GianMarco’s has an award-winning wine list with lots of Italian vintages. Between the cooking and ambiance, you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to a trattoria in Tuscany.
Eugene’s Hot Chicken
Name and Location: Eugene’s Hot Chicken is located at 2268 9th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203.
History and Significance: Eugene’s Hot Chicken is a popular fast-casual restaurant that specializes in Nashville-style hot chicken. The restaurant was opened in 2015 by owner Zebbie Carney, who named it after his father, Eugene. Eugene’s has gained a loyal following for its spicy, crispy chicken and friendly service.
What to Expect: At Eugene’s, you can expect a menu featuring hot chicken sandwiches, tenders, and sides. The chicken is available in varying levels of spice, from mild to “stupid hot.” The restaurant also offers a selection of craft beer and other beverages. The atmosphere is casual and lively, with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating.
Visitor Information: Eugene’s is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm. No reservations are required, and orders can be placed at the counter for dine-in or takeout. The restaurant has a casual dress code and can get busy during peak hours. Parking is available on the street or in a nearby lot.
If you like your chicken with some serious heat, add Eugene’s Hot Chicken to your Vestavia Hills restaurant bucket list. This hot chicken shop lets you choose your spice level, from “Country” (no heat) up to “Eugene’s Hellfire” for only the bravest diners. The chicken is marinated for 24 hours in a secret blend before getting dredged and fried to order.
In addition to tenders and wings, Eugene’s serves fried chicken sandwiches plus Southern sides like potato salad, slaw, baked beans, and mac and cheese. Cool off with some sweet tea or banana pudding for dessert! Eugene’s Hellfire challenge requires signing a waiver – do you dare give it a try? This hot chicken joint lives up to its Nashville roots with flavorful spicy chicken done right.
Little London Kitchen
Name and Location: Little London Kitchen is located at 162 Main St, Columbiana, AL 35051.
History and Significance: Little London Kitchen is a quaint British-style tearoom and café that opened in the historic district of Columbiana in 2018. The restaurant is owned by British expat Jayne Flint, who wanted to bring a taste of her homeland to Alabama. Little London Kitchen has become a popular destination for afternoon tea and British comfort food.
What to Expect: At Little London Kitchen, you can expect a menu featuring traditional British dishes such as fish and chips, bangers and mash, and shepherd’s pie. The restaurant also offers a selection of loose-leaf teas and homemade pastries. The atmosphere is cozy and charming, with mismatched china and vintage decor.
Visitor Information: Little London Kitchen is open for lunch Wednesday through Saturday from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm and for afternoon tea on Saturdays from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Reservations are recommended for afternoon tea and can be made by phone. The restaurant has a casual dress code and limited seating. Parking is available on the street or in a nearby lot.
For a taste of the UK without crossing the pond, check out Little London Kitchen. As the name suggests, this restaurant serves classic British staples like fish and chips, bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, and Scotch eggs. But Little London Kitchen also incorporates local Southern ingredients into the menu with dishes like chicken and waffles with chipotle Tabasco gravy.
The vibe is fun and laid-back, with British flags and memorabilia throughout. You can grab a pint from the bar to complete your Anglo dining experience. With its casual setting and hearty, comforting pub grub classics, Little London Kitchen makes you feel right at home. The fusion of English and Southern flavors creates a uniquely delicious menu not found anywhere else in town.
The Whole Scoop
Name and Location: The Whole Scoop is located at 414 Oak St, Helena, AL 35080.
History and Significance: The Whole Scoop is an old-fashioned ice cream parlor that has been serving homemade ice cream and other sweet treats since 2015. The shop is owned by local couple Josh and Anna Kate Giammarco, who use fresh, high-quality ingredients to create their signature flavors. The Whole Scoop has become a beloved community gathering spot and a destination for ice cream lovers.
What to Expect: At The Whole Scoop, you can expect a menu featuring over 20 flavors of homemade ice cream, as well as sundaes, milkshakes, and other desserts. The shop also offers a selection of vegan and gluten-free options. The atmosphere is nostalgic and family-friendly, with a classic soda fountain and colorful decor.
Visitor Information: The Whole Scoop is open daily from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm. No reservations are required, and orders can be placed at the counter for dine-in or takeout. The shop has a casual dress code and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Parking is available on the street or in a nearby lot.
No list of the best Vestavia Hills eateries would be complete without mentioning The Whole Scoop. This beloved ice cream shop offers an ever-changing array of homemade flavors that make use of fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Some customer favorites include the lemon blackberry custard and salted caramel pretzel scoops. There are also tons of mix-in and topping options, from chocolate chips to cheesecake bites, so you can build your own perfect cup or cone. In addition to scooped ice cream, The Whole Scoop serves sundaes, milkshakes, and floats. The shop itself has a fun, old-fashioned parlor atmosphere with cute details like an ice cream truck model suspended from the ceiling. For a sweet cold treat, The Whole Scoop can’t be beat.
Johnny’s
Name and Location: Johnny’s is located at 2902 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209.
History and Significance: Johnny’s is a beloved Greek and Southern restaurant that has been serving the Homewood community since 1944. The restaurant was founded by Greek immigrant Johnny Hontzas and has been passed down through three generations of the family. Johnny’s is known for its classic meat-and-three plates, Greek specialties, and friendly service.
What to Expect: At Johnny’s, you can expect a menu featuring Southern classics like fried chicken, collard greens, and mac and cheese, as well as Greek favorites like dolmades, spanakopita, and souvlaki. The restaurant also offers a selection of homemade desserts and freshly brewed iced tea. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with a mix of booths and tables.
Visitor Information: Johnny’s is open for lunch Monday through Friday from 10:45 am to 2:30 pm and for dinner Thursday and Friday from 4:30 pm to 8:00 pm. No reservations are required, and orders can be placed at the counter for dine-in or takeout. The restaurant has a casual dress code and can get busy during peak hours. Parking is available in the restaurant’s lot or on the street.
For delicious New York-style pizza and Italian food, Johnny’s is a go-to spot. Family owned and operated since 1977, this casual pizzeria serves up pies with perfectly thin and crispy crusts topped with sweet, zesty sauce and melted mozzarella.
In addition to pizza, Johnny’s has pasta dishes like chicken Parmesan and lasagna along with subs, wings, and salads. No matter what you order, the portions are very generous. Save room for canoli or another Italian dessert. From the classic red-and-white checkered tablecloths to the aroma of garlic and tomatoes, Johnny’s brings all the best parts of Little Italy to Vestavia Hills. This neighborhood joint has long been a local favorite.
Rogue Tavern
Name and Location: Rogue Tavern is located at 2312 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203.
History and Significance: Rogue Tavern is a popular gastropub that opened in downtown Birmingham in 2010. The restaurant is housed in a historic building that was once a jail and later a jazz club. Rogue Tavern is known for its creative cocktails, craft beer selection, and elevated pub fare.
What to Expect: At Rogue Tavern, you can expect a menu featuring upscale versions of classic pub dishes like burgers, fish and chips, and poutine. The restaurant also offers a selection of shareable plates and daily specials. The bar program focuses on craft cocktails, local beers, and a curated wine list. The atmosphere is lively and industrial, with exposed brick walls and dim lighting.
Visitor Information: Rogue Tavern is open for dinner Monday through Thursday from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm, and Sunday from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Reservations are recommended for large parties and can be made online or by phone. The restaurant has a casual dress code and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Parking is available on the street or in nearby garages.
The trendy Rogue Tavern puts a contemporary spin on gastropub fare like gourmet burgers, elevated bar snacks, and creative entrees. The menu takes inspiration from different culinary traditions, fusing things like Korean barbeque quesadillas, Indian butter chicken flatbread pizzas, and Asian noodle bowls. No matter what global flavor profile you’re craving, Rogue Tavern aims to please.
In addition to the food menu, Rogue Tavern has an extensive drink selection including local craft beers on tap, curated bourbons, and unique seasonal cocktails. The setting itself is very modern and chic, with fun touches like an indoor swing and graffiti murals. Rogue Tavern’s hip vibe, internationally-inspired dishes, and great drinks keep patrons coming back.
Savage’s Bakery
Name and Location: Savage’s Bakery is located at 2916 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209.
History and Significance: Savage’s Bakery is a beloved Homewood institution that has been serving fresh-baked goods since 1939. The bakery was founded by William Savage and has been passed down through three generations of the family. Savage’s is known for its signature iced cookies, custom cakes, and friendly service.
What to Expect: At Savage’s Bakery, you can expect a menu featuring a wide variety of baked goods, including cookies, cakes, pies, pastries, and bread. The bakery also offers custom cakes and catering services for special events. The atmosphere is classic and cozy, with a vintage bakery counter and seating area.
Visitor Information: Savage’s Bakery is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and Saturday from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. No reservations are required, and orders can be placed at the counter for takeout or limited dine-in seating. The bakery has a casual dress code and can get busy during peak hours. Parking is available in the bakery’s lot or on the street.
When a sweet craving hits, Vestavia Hills locals head straight to Savage’s Bakery. Family owned since 1967, Savage’s bakes a wide array of delicious homemade goodies like cookies, cupcakes, pies, cakes, and artisan breads.
Top sellers include the chocolate chess pie, lemon icebox pie, and seasonal fruit tarts, though you really can’t go wrong. Savage’s also does custom cakes for special occasions. The bakery itself has a charming, old-timey atmosphere that makes you feel like you stepped back in time. Stop by Savage’s to pick up a treat (or several) and you’ll see why this beloved bakery has thrived for over 50 years. Their tried-and-true recipes and scratch baking create sweet Southern goodness you can’t find elsewhere.
Tribe Foods
Name and Location: Tribe Foods is located at 4700 US-280, Birmingham, AL 35242.
History and Significance: Tribe Foods is a health-focused fast-casual restaurant that opened in the Birmingham area in 2022. The restaurant was founded by local entrepreneur and health enthusiast, Tiffany Simmons. Tribe Foods is known for its customizable grain bowls, smoothies, and fresh pressed juices.
What to Expect: At Tribe Foods, you can expect a menu featuring build-your-own grain bowls with a variety of bases, proteins, vegetables, and sauces. The restaurant also offers a selection of signature bowls, smoothies, and juices. All ingredients are fresh, organic, and locally sourced when possible. The atmosphere is bright and modern, with colorful decor and plenty of seating.
Visitor Information: Tribe Foods is open daily from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. No reservations are required, and orders can be placed at the counter for dine-in or takeout. The restaurant has a casual dress code and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Parking is available in the shopping center lot.
For fresh, healthy Mediterranean cuisine, Tribe Foods is a great addition to Vestavia Hills’ restaurant landscape. This fast-casual spot serves up grain bowls, wraps, salads, and sides bursting with flavor and nutrition. Tribe Foods’ ingredients spotlight Mediterranean superfoods like kale, quinoa, chickpeas, feta, avocado, pistachios, and more.
Menu highlights include quinoa tabbouleh, Moroccan chickpea soup, salmon poke bowls, and custom salad creations. There are even wholesome lunch options for kids.
Everything at Tribe Foods is made in-house using organic produce, chicken, and grass-fed steak. Whether you grab a quick lunch or sit-down dinner, Tribe Foods provides a nourishing meal in a vibrant setting.
Foothills Wine & Cheese
Name and Location: Foothills Wine & Cheese is located at 109 S Court St, Talladega, AL 35160.
History and Significance: Foothills Wine & Cheese is a specialty shop and tasting room that opened in the historic downtown square of Tal.
Last but certainly not least is Foothills Wine & Cheese, a cozy spot offering charcuterie boards, sandwiches, small plates, and (as the name promises) tons of wine and artisanal cheeses. This is the perfect place for an intimate meal or to grab a light bite and glass of wine at the bar.
The ever-changing cheese and charcuterie selections let you try unique imported and domestic varieties you won’t find elsewhere. Foothills also has a rotating selection of paninis, flatbreads, salads, and desserts.
And with nearly 30 wines by the glass and over 100 bottles to choose from, even the pickiest oenophiles will discover new favorites. Between the upscale yet laid-back setting and thoughtful food and drink menu, Foothills Wine & Cheese is ideal for any occasion – date night, girls’ night out, or just because.
Conclusion
The dining scene in Vestavia Hills encompasses everything from established mainstays to exciting new restaurants popping up on the Birmingham suburb foodie radar. As shown in this list of 12 of the best local eateries, Vestavia Hills has incredible culinary diversity – with Southern cooking, Italian cuisine, Mediterranean eats, gastropubs, bakeries, and more.
Food-focused travelers will have their choice of charming neighborhood gems like Johnny’s Pizzeria or award-winning high-end spots such as chef Chris Hastings’ OvenBird. Longtime institutions still draw loyal regulars several decades in, while fresh contemporary concepts create buzzworthy dining experiences.
No matter your tastes or budget, Vestavia Hills’ vibrant and ever-evolving restaurant selection offers something tempting. So next time you’re in the area, be sure to stop for a meal at one of these standout local restaurants!