The Atomic Lounge

“Inventive, sophisticated setting for modern Mexican cuisine & spirits amid bold art & rich woods.”

“A gregarious crowd fills the outdoor patio and rooftop bar of this sprawling industrial space. The inventive cocktails incorporate curious ingredients—TY KU Coconut Sake, Icebox cold-brewed coffee, flamed orange (thankfully not all in one drink). Insider Tip: Carrigan’s elevated pub fare is deliciously capricious. Opt for the gussied-up corn dog topped with guajillo ketchup, Cotija cheese, and cilantro.”

“An Asian-inspired restaurant and bar located in the Downtown Loft District of Birmingham, AL. www.bambooon2nd.com ”

“If there’s one person paving the way for female chefs and restaurateurs in Birmingham, it’s Kristen Farmer Hall. Owner and pastry chef at The Essential and the newly opened Bandit Patisserie, Hall has made a name for herself through her perfect pastries and thoughtful cuisine conceptualized with chef and business partner Victor King. The cafe is open for all three meals each day (except Sundays, which are brunch only), offering a breakfast menu in the mornings and a combined lunch and dinner menu from 11 a.m. onwards. With European cafe vibes, The Essential is not a large restaurant, yet it finds room for a banquette running the length of the dining room, several tables, a full-service bar/coffee bar, and an open window to the kitchen. What to Order: Housemade pastas, Half Chicken Piri Piri, croissant Hot Tip: Hall makes homemade brioche buns for the sandwiches on the menu.”

“With an old-school arcade in the back, this kid-friendly bar serves up playful cocktails (Pabst Cup: Pimm’s, simple syrup, lemon, and PBR), flights that pair drinks with arcade games, and 20 beers on tap.”