Highlands Bar & Grill   

2011 11th Ave S
Birmingham, AL 35205
205-939-1400
www.highlandsbarandgrill.com

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When a Berkeley-bound Birmingham boy discovers Californias fresh seasonal cuisine and Frances finesse, award-winning Southern cuisine with country French flair is the outcome. Maybe you dont mention Birmingham and gourmet dining in the same breath. Well, Gourmet Magazine does -- it listed Highland Bar & Grill among Americas 50 best restaurants. Chef/owner Frank Stitt also claimed the coveted James Beard award as best regional chef. More kudos followed, and now the line forms across the country, so book early. The place is simple and elegant, never pretentious. Buttery walls, crisp white tablecloths, vintage French posters, fresh flowers and welcoming servers set the mood. Fresh seasonal ingredients are presented in unusual but perfect harmony. The restaurants rabbit version of coq au vin is a signature dish. Stone-ground baked grits with Parmesan and wild mushrooms will make a grit lover out of anybody. Or you can try the beef carpaccio with shaved Parmesan. Seafood is ultra-fresh, from shrimp and gulf crab citrus salad to grilled grouper. If beef is your thing, try the rib-eye steak with Stilton butter and caramelized mashed potatoes. Depending on the time of year, youll find venison, duck and quail. Produce is local, desserts capture the essence of the season, and numerous wines are available by the glass. -- Tracey E. Meloni