The Birmingham Sips Guide
If we know one thing, it’s that Alabamians are bonafide booze-lovers and here in Birmingham, we are no exception. Whether you’re looking to swig down some vodka, rum and pineapple juice via a Yellow Hammer or explore the world’s wine regions through generous pours, our establishments are ready to serve. From sunset sips overlooking the energetic cityscape, grain-to-glass brews on the patio with your pup, moody post-dinner date night caps, and everything in between, Birmingham offers an abundance of locations in which to libate. To help you decide where to imbibe, we’ve sipped and scouted a few favorites.
COCKTAIL BARS
JUNIPER
3811 Clairmont Ave S | @juniperbhm | Juniper is as much a treat for the eyes as it is for the taste buds, specializing in gin-based cocktails (hence the name juniper) crafted with unusual yet delicious ingredients served from an elegant atmosphere that melds the Victorian-era with contemporary decor.
KEY CIRCLE COMMONS
2010 Cahaba Rd | @keycirclecommons | From the intimate pods of funky yet comfortable seating to the chapel-like vaulted ceilings and emerald green hand-cut tiling, the decor of this Mountain Brook Lounge is a visual promise for the quality and creativity of the cocktails. Expect an elegant touch on classic and custom cocktails and small plates that play on seasonality.
ADIOS
2218 1st Ave N Suite 100 | @adiosbar | A lively beacon of cultural hospitality, a welcoming respite for all, and an interactive opportunity for guests to experience the ingredients, music, and art that make up the vibrant fabric of Mexico City. Downtown Birmingham’s newest cocktail bar will serve classic cocktails made unique by incorporating Mexican-made-and-grown spirits and ingredients in a cozy and convivial setting.
CARRIGAN’S PUBLIC HOUSE
2430 Morris Avenue | @carriganspub | Carrigan’s Public House is a downtown staple with craft cocktails, beer and upscale bar food located on historic Morris Avenue. With everything you could need for a great night, its a go-to for locals and visitors alike.
NEON MOON
2316 2nd Ave N | @neonmoonbham | This favorite neighborhood dive in downtown Birmingham is known for its no-frills drinks, country ambiance, and fantastic music that will keep you dancing all night long. Crack open a cold one or opt for an original easy-to-drink cocktail while you enjoy the lively crowd.
QUEENS PARK
112 24th St N | @queensparkbham | A go-to for the superb service and stylish decor, this downtown drink spot offers an ultra-fun setting to sip fantastic lesser-known yet undeniably delicious cocktails in addition to unique creations courtesy of their expert mixologists.
WINE BARS
RED OR WHITE
SCOUTED | 3916 Clairmont Ave | @redorwhitebham | This classy wine bar has a strong focus on quality, offering a diverse selection of fine wines complemented by a delectable selection of gourmet bites. Enjoy your sommelier-approved sips from a cozy nook from the rustic-chic interior or take your pours out to the peaceful patio. And be sure to grab a bottle to go in their exquisite wine shop.
AVINE
2225 2nd Ave N | @avinebham | This French-inspired neighborhood wine bar and shop specializes in small production old world wines served from an intimate ambiance. And with a selection of sparkling cocktails (think French 75 and Kir Royale), beer, plus charcuterie and cheeses, even non-wine lovers can find something to love about this place.
GOLDEN AGE WINE
2828 Culver Rd | @goldenagewine | Take a seat inside this ultra-chic, uncluttered wine bar for a trip around the world through a large selection of low-intervention wine by small-operation winemakers in addition to superb cheese and charcuterie. A must for oenophiles, this spot offers a wonderful way to experience the varying flavor nuances unique to the area where each wine was grown.
BREWERIES & DISTILLERIES
AVONDALE BREWING COMPANY
201 41st St S | @avondalebrewing | Whether you come for the live music or just to relax on the spacious patio with a frosty pint of whatever craft brew they’ve got on tap, this concert venue meets brewery (including a full bar!) always promises a great time. And while they don’t have a kitchen, you’re always welcome to bring in whatever food you want to enjoy along with your sips!
BACK FORTY BEER CO.
3201 1st Ave N | @back40bham | With more than 50 different beers introduced annually and as many as 25 different options on tap at any given time, this spacious indoor/outdoor beer garden is sure to have a pint that suits your palate. They’re even serving up gourmet pub grub to perfectly compliment their brews!
CAHABA BREWING CO.
4500 5th Ave S | @cahababrewing | Boasting 8,000 sq. ft of space – including a large outdoor patio and on-site food truck no less – this massive microbrewery and taproom specializes in unique, small batch spirits and experimental beers. Expect a distinctive variety or liquor-based libations, craft brews, and an inviting, low-key vibe atmosphere.
GHOST TRAIN BREWING CO.
3501 1st Ave S | @ghost_train_brewing | Ghost Train Brewing Co. offers multiple ways to imbibe. More than just fantastic brews on tap they’ve got an assortment of standout vodka and tequila canned cocktails for enjoying from industrial indoor digs or on the spacious patio.
GOOD PEOPLE BREWING
114 14th St S | @gpbrewing | Alabama’s oldest brewery, Good People Brewing is a well-loved local hangout for their crowd-pleasing plethora of beers and laid-back patio. From bright and crisp ales perfect for sipping on a hot southern summer day to bold IPAs full of eccentric, local flavor, they’ve got something everyone will love.
REDMONT DISTILLING CO.
4550 5th Ave S | @redmontvodka | Founded in 2014 by Alabama’s own Charles Barkley, Redmont Distilling Co. is Birmingham’s first legal distillery since prohibition serving up 100% gluten-free vodka with an impressively smooth finish. Stop into their distillery to see where it’s all made and to try it for yourself either straight up or crafted into a cocktail.
TRIMTAB BREWING CO.
2721 5th Ave S | @trimtabbrewing | With some impressive awards under its belt, including Best Alabama Brewery according to Thrillist, TrimTab Brewing Co. is known for their expressive IPAs, experimental stouts, and fruited sours. Come for eclectic brews, a vibrant crowd, occasional live music, and a reliably good time.
DREAD RIVER DISTILLING CO.
2400 7th Avenue S | @dreadriverco | Starting out as a small craft whiskey distillery back in 2017, they are now the largest and most product-diverse distillery in all of Alabama. With 9 different spirits to try, be sure to stop by their downtown tasting room for a truly unique and elevated experience unlike anything else in Birmingham.
Don’t forget to tell the Scout sent you! Discover more local favorites by perusing our Insider Guides to Birmingham, AL.
