Highlands Bar & Grill
| Address: | 2011 11th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205, USA |
| Phone: | +1 205-939-1400 |
| Site: | highlandsbarandgrill.com |
| Rating: | 4.7 |
| Working: | Closed 5:30–10PM 5:30–10PM 5:30–10PM 5:30–10PM 5:30–10:30PM Closed |
Location
Photos 100
Reviews 8
BR
Brad Seehawer
Little did I know when I arrived in Birmingham how much that city features amazing restaurants, and during my stay none of my visits epitomized this more than my visit to Highlands, which was not only the best meal I had in the city, but one of the best meals Ive ever had.
Reservations are definitely a good idea if youre looking for a table, though I after calling ahead to confirm, I was able to easily score a seat at the bar. I was dressed a little less formally, too, so it serves as an easy way to score some great food even if you didnt pack your jacket.
Before the meal began I was given some complimentary fresh, sourdough, wheat, and corn breads, that latter of which was a little heavy on salt, but otherwise were great - you cant beat fresh bread.
Speaking of fresh breads, my meal consisted of lamb sweetbreads, perfectly fried and wonderful tender with a hint of gaminess that worked well with the meatiness of chantrelle mushrooms, the earthiness of shaved truffles, and the sweetness of cooked apples. Served over a bed of creamy grits, it was Southern cooking, but a world of difference from the fried green tomatoes and fried chicken that many consider when they think of traditional Southern cuisine.
Im not traditionally a restaurant dessert kind of guy, but there was a woman eating a delicious-looking peanut butter chocolate pie that I wanted inside me... until I saw the sweet potato pie on the menu. Its served as a little tart, and with a scoop of bourbon ice cream, it was another excellent slice of traditional Southern cooking with a gourmet flair.
It was almost pointless detailing my meal, as the rotating menu ensures it will probably not been seen again for a while, but it goes to show how advanced Birmingham can be with regards to its restaurants. I loved eating in Birmingham, especially in Five Points, and its largely in part thanks to the wonderful meal I had at Highlands.
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A Private User
My son chose Highlands Bar and Grill for his birthday based on the rave reviews and its place in the 1000 Places to See book. I called to be sure that both the restaurant and the restrooms were accessible. After an affirmative reply I made reservations on-line through the open table reservation site via Highlands site. On the day of my sons birthday, July 15th, I received a call from Mark asking about the comment that I had added to our reservation about the need to "park" my husbands scooter while we ate. My husband has Multiple Sclerosis and must use a scooter for mobility. Mark informed me that they had no place to park the scooter, even the sidewalk out front was too narrow and we could not park it there! He said he would put the scooter back in the car for us. When I asked what if my husband had to use the "facilities" he told me they could go get the scooter, but the restroom was not accessible and he would have to go their sister restaurant next door if needed. I was furious. If they had told me that when I called we would never had planned to go to their establishment but as they said it was accessible we made our plans with anticipation of a fantastic meal. Mark did apologize and assure me that wanted us to come, but obviously they do not want people with accessibility issues at their place. As it was we had to scramble for a nice back up. Daniel George was happy to have our business and to accommodate our needs. I do not think I was the first to call and ask about accessibility and I doubt I will be their last. My husband wanted us to go without him but that was not an option and I would not want to give 2 cents to a place that can not accommodate all of our family. Shame on you at Highlands Bar and Grill, you made a grown woman cry on her sons birthday, from frustration, anger and disappointment. May you "walk" a mile in someone else shoes one day, maybe then you will be more understanding.
WI
William Keller
Highlands serves consistently delicious dishes, mostly locally sourced, Southern with French flair, and what Chef Frank Stitt serves is famously restrained. He does not serve dinners covered in heavy sauces, nor does he serve geometrically precious fare spread in a pattern across a plate. Highlands has set the national standard for modern Southern cuisine. Diners can choose from wines carefully chosen from around the world, though mostly from California and France. As a plus, diners sit in a dignified setting, and experienced waiters help without being obsequious or condescending. Be sure to make reservations well in advance, though walk-ins can usually find a stool at the bar or at Chez Fon Fon, Stitts more casual bistro next door. Fon Fon does not take reservations.
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Feliks Yamnik
Ive lived in Birmingham for a little over a year and have heard thats its amazing and its really hard to get a reservation. I now know why. My wife took me to dinner for a small celebration and was able to get a table in the bar area, with a one day notice for a Tuesday. It actually was a lot better than I expected, still white table cloth, great service and not loud at all. We started with the Shoulder Grits as the app. I hate Grits, steer clear of them. These Grits where like a very well organized orchestra. The flavors were amazing! My main course was the Beef Cheeks. Ive never had them before and so glad I decided to try it. It was perfect in every way. Flavor, tenderness, presentation, and portion. I will definitely be eating here again!
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Joel Blackstock
One of the most culinarily interesting restaurants in the city. We go multiple times a year and I have never been bored. I have also never had a dish at highlands that was done better in another restaurant. Most of the dishes are an interest blend of several culinary styles. Highlands speciality is blending french with southern style tradition. The artistry never gets in the way of the food being yummy, but I have always been enamored with the way he blends the two culinary schools. The bar is great too! Some of the most knowledgeable and professional staff you will ever have the pleasure of being served by.
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Brent Gottesman
Just fantastic. Amazingly polite. Wonderful bar staff, knowledgeable wait staff. IMPECCABLE service. Fresh and perfectly cooked food. Get the pecan old fashioned, the oysters and crepinette (if they have it), and the veal with chanterelles and blistered green cherry tomatoes over creamed corn was delightful. And...the fig tart. Never would have picked it, have my waiter free reign. So fresh and simple, with a crunchy yet balanced sweet and salty crust and the freshest figs over medium dense sweet cream and a balsamic reduction. SO GOOD!!!!!
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Edward DeMellier
The finest restaurant in Birmingham and for 8 years running a finalist for the James Beard award as the best restaurant in the US. The menu is always changing to bring the freshest produce to the table. The service is impeccable, the venue is understated and comfortable, and the food is original. They serve the best oysters in town. The bar is busy and serves both inventive and traditional drinks. The wine list cannot be beat. Reservations are a must unless you arrive really early or rather late or are just lucky.
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A Private User
If youre from Florida you will know what I mean: Old Florida style with that quaint island charm but throw in the deep south for a twist on dishes. The combinations were things that I would have never thought to put together and I felt like a kid trying all the new rides at an amusement park. Our waiter was a true southern gentleman, I believe his name is Goren (sp). The prices are right in line with any fine dining restaurant. Frank Stitt definitely hit the mark with Highlands; we will be back.
