50 Best American Restaurants near Forestdale

“My family and I came to this area just a couple of hours ago and the cashier name Angelo was very friendly and professional to me and my family and wasn't rushing me to order and she has a beautiful smile Angelo was very specific and suggested other items for my order and the last thing she asked was that I need any dipping sauce for my order and that really lighten my day that she was very concerned about me and my family to get everything we need and that's great customer service and me and my family will be back very soon and also the food was great and the tea was amazing Angelo did a very great job she does need a raise with that wonderful caring customer services that's an A+ great job Angelo..smile on our faces“

“General manager is doing great with the trainee and staff he was in the lobby while i dined in saturday our cashier she was simply amazing but he just made me feel so at home this store is always so organized polite and clean so its no wonder he was chosen to train here hes doing a really good job and learning alot can’t wait to find out where his location is so I can check it out as well“

“This was our first time and it was absolutely excellent from start to finish! The manager, Brandon, was SO genuinely welcoming and accommodating. Our server, Parker, was flawless and so much fun (request him!). Every dish was perfectly cooked, refined and full of flavor (smoked salmon, fried green tomatoes, fried oysters, rainbow trout, swordfish with andouille, ribeye with truffle fondue). The cocktails and wine all perfect. Will definitely return and want to thank Blueprint for a truly wonderful experience!“

“We came for our 37th wedding anniversary. It was our 1st time eating here. Our server was Bishop. Bishop was amazing....staring woth the glass of celebratory champaign, picking a perfect wine pairing, explaining the dishes, great sense of humor....he helped make our experience fun and memorable. The food....OH. MY. GOODNESS!!! The food was amazing. Cooked to perfection! From the bread, Amuse Bouche, appetizer (great fried green tomatoes, by the way!!!) Intermezzo, main course (ribeye and braised rabbit), and dessert with coffee....every step was amazing! A truly wonderful sensual experience from all the aromas, flavors, and ambiance. We will definitely be back, and will definitely recommend Cafe DuPont to others. Thank you for making our celebration special!“

“The service was excellent! Love their gluten free options.❤️“

“Everything I had was great and fresh the atmosphere and energy was amazing I’ll definitely be back“

“Great food and atmosphere ! And the Ashley Mac Burger (only served on Friday and Saturday) is well worth the wait !“

“This is the place to come if you want down home cooking atits finest. Whenever I am nearby at lunch time I always choose Paw Paw Catch. The food is cooked to perfection and there's plenty of variety. This cafeteria style restaurant has meats and vegetables as well as delicious desserts. The staff will make you feel right at home and the price will absolutely leave with a smile on your face. Great food, even better prices and they are open for lunch and dinner. They haven't been around as long as they have without being the best choice.“

“The Cedar House Cafeteria has been in business fourty-nine years in the same location. Throughout the years there have been changes made here and there but the quality of the food and service has always been
remarkable. Stop by and enjoy this iconic landmark and see for yourself what has kept the doors
open all this time. Delicious food, prompt friendly service all at a great price. You will become a regular Cedar House patron too!!“

“Small place, but very nice and they’ve made awesome use of additional outdoor seating. The menu is small, but extremely well thought out and delicious! We had the smash burger and the French dip. Regular fries and the truffle fries, cheese sticks, and a delicious salad. It was 10/10!“

“Great food and a fancy experience that is very high touch and low worry!“

“I've been driving past this place for months and thought I needed to try it. Today was the day, Chili Cheese dogs for me and Slaw dogs for a co-worker. Fries and Tots too, both of out meals were good, friendly people behind the counter too. Looks like they have a good variety of other standards for this type of small restaurant. I/we'll be back soon. Thanks Guys.“

“Breakfast was great and prices nice .“

“Easy access on a corner, this small café is a hidden gem brimming with Southern hospitality. From the moment we walked in, the staff made us feel like family, greeting us with warm smiles and genuine kindness. The food was just as memorable—homestyle classics cooked to perfection, with fresh ingredients and rich flavors that reminded me of a southern, home-cooked meal. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast or an affordable lunch, this charming spot is the perfect place to relax and savor great food in a welcoming atmosphere. Highly recommend!“

“The food was Amazing! I had the Mandarin crunch chicken wrap with broccoli salad, it was so light and delicious! My dad had the chicken salad fruit plate and Oh My Goodness you won't believe how great this meal was, bonus-value to portion was incredible!! If you are looking for fresh meal this is the place!!“

“Food is good Fresh as well 10/10“

“I am so happy that Zoes Kitchen BHM is back! All of the original menu items are available. Had lunch there this week and enjoyed the Grilled Chicken Pita with Slaw and extra slaw for my side—thought I had died and gone to Heaven!“

“We visited from Texas and were pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere and food at Urban Cookhouse. I’d be curious to try other sandwiches, but would definitely pair it with more broccoli salad.

Parking: I walked up to the restaurant, but I did notice plenty of street parking available.“

“Love the food service is good food good great conversation“

“This place is a hidden gem in Pleasant Grove. 15-20 minutes from Birmingham and with the drive. The owner is so friendly and welcoming. The food is very fresh and delicious, you can tell there's a lot of love put into it. There are American choices for the less adventurous eaters and children's menu, also vegetarian options! My personal favorites are the falafel plate, Greek salad, tahini sauce, hummus and baklava. All homemade! Go try it, you won't be disappointed!“

“Great food and nice outside table area. Attire is dressy casual“

“Wow, wow, wow. When I asked the waiter, how long the restaurant had been there, I was almost mad at myself when he told me it has been in Birmingham eight years. Why didn’t I find this place sooner? I went with my sister and my brother-in-law for dinner, we felt like we were eating in the French quarter. It’s the best Cajun food I’ve had north of New Orleans. You must try the shrimp, poor boy, better yet get the surf and turf because the roast beef will blow your mind. My sister and I also had the gumbo, the hush puppies are Devine, succotash was really good, and oh my wonderful tastebuds, the muffaletta was something like you would have on Bourbon Street. If you like Cajun food, this place has great food and a fun environment with lots of outdoor seating. Dog friendly to boot! I highly recommend that you try this at least once if you live in Birmingham or are visiting.“

“It's in the middle of the city basically and, they do give military discounts so I got 15% off military discount babe I mean the food's not to die for but the food is good, it's better than you can make it home, but it's expensive. And I mean I believe that it's more expensive than your average restaurant, I mean it's not McDonald's either so, you get better food for the same price then you would at McDonald's but it's still $20 to go in there and eat and so I just think that that's getting too expensive I guess it's comparable to anywhere else, but it's still ridiculous“

“Excellent staff and superb menu!! Highly recommend!!“

“Our family (my husband & I & our three toddlers) was in the area today & were recommended Real & Rosemary for lunch. We had a wonderful experience. The staff was incredibly welcoming & accommodating! The food was absolutely delicious! We will definitely be adding this to our list of favorites in the Birmingham/Homewood area!“

“The food is great along with the atmosphere. We didn't have to wait on anything the food came out quickly. Devin was out waiter and he was outstanding. He was right there with refills and our food and was just as nice as he could be. We had a wonderful experience and I would recommend it to everyone. Well done“

“I’m a trucker and I’ve been to this place 2 times. N this is some good eating.“

“This is my favorite restaurant in the Birmingham area. I almost always get the fish of the day, served on a grit cake with a cream sauce. Delicious every time!“

“This place is absolutely amazing. Took my smokin’ hott wife here on date night. Tiffany was our server and she was amazing. The food is better than a home cooked meal and the price is well worth it. Again ***** 5 STAR“

“Great food, fabulous service, and friendly faces! And, they stay open later!“

“Came in for a quick lunch with my husband before a movie! We really enjoyed our double bacon burgers. 🍔 if you are thinking about getting some fry’s just do it!“

“It was my very first time here and the service was amazing, I can’t wait to come back and bring me family.“

“Try the philly cheese steak! So good!“

“Went with my wife and had an incredible experience. The atmosphere was beautiful, the food was excellent, and the service was top-notch. Everything exceeded expectations — a true 5-star experience. We will absolutely be coming back.“

“Had been wanting to get here since they opened and it just hadn’t worked out. Well, my wife and I remedied that and what a great experience!! We love Automatic and just knew this would be a hit. Did not disappoint in the least, from the moment you walk in, atmosphere is welcoming and on point, friendliness of the staff was top notch!

We had a drink in the bar while we waited for our reservation, they could have seated us but we wanted to experience a drink at the bar, bartenders were super professional and made excellent drinks!

The food, what can I say, everything we tried we amazing. We will be back soon as there are so many others items that looked amazing and the menu does change with the seasons. I had the short rib, Bulgogi tacos, they were so dang good!! Wife had the curry noodles, I would say the best I’ve ever had!

All in all, I highly recommend this restaurant!!!“

“Being from this side of town, I'm glad to find a place to eat that reminds me of where and how I grew up. When I get a feen for a down home hot dog or cheese burger, I've always been able to get it here. I've always been met by the staff with a super friendly 'Hey baby, whatchu gone have'. .. reminds me of my big mama.... I love them deeply for being my conduit to my maternal past. The
dogs are always perfect and hit the spot....bag of chips and cold soda and I'm good for the day. And I've never been in line more than 7 minutes. Much love for the small business feel.“

“Look past where this place is, it's Birmingham, the whole place sucks, just focus on what you're ordering and don't hand out change. It'll start a feeding frenzy with the locals. Good food from a slept on eatery. Lock your doors when you go in.“

“We had a wonderful time at the Collard Green Cook-off. The venue, the people, the food, were all excellent t. Such courteous people. My daughter and granddaughter and I really enjoyed it. My granddaughter, Dani, sings with the Alabama Blues Project, thst entertained the crowd. Awesome day!“

“Amazing food, great staff and beautiful space“

“Highlands Bar and Grill is a culinary masterpiece in Birmingham. From the moment you enter, you’re greeted with warmth and elegance. The menu is a celebration of Southern cuisine with a modern twist. Each dish is a work of art, featuring locally sourced ingredients bursting with flavor. The service is impeccable, and the wine list is extensive. Dining here is an experience that tantalizes the taste buds and nourishes the soul. If you appreciate fine dining and Southern hospitality, Highlands Bar and Grill is a must-visit in Birmingham.“

“Consistently good food at a reasonable price.“

“It had been a long time since we had a sneaky Pete's hot dog, so, we stopped at a drive thru at Forestdale. I got two chili cheese 🧀 dogs with fries 🍟, my wife got two sneaky Pete's, and i ate one.of them! They were really good and the 🍟 were hot 🔥 it was just a good lunch! People at.the window were very nice and I could see inside the kitchen, my truck sits really high, it.was.very clean. Give sneaky Pete's a try, I think you will enjoy it! Nuff said..“

“I've been eating Sneaky Pete's hotdog since I was a little kid. The food is great, but it's much more than that. It's more than just a hot dog restaurant, it's a Birmingham icon. Everyone from here and travels through here should have a Sneaky Pete's hot dog.“

“Stopped in for lunch with my toddler and sat outside. Staff was super friendly and welcoming, which was a nice start. Food-wise…it wasn’t the best I’ve ever had, but definitely not the worst either. I’d eat here again.

The kid’s corn dogs were a hit and my daughter devoured them. Fries were very salty (which I actually love), but a bit much for my toddler, so I kept those to myself. The egg rolls were just okay, like a 3/5. They needed a better dipping sauce…. not sure what exactly, but the ones that came with it were kinda blah.

Wings had good flavor, but they had that weird fridge taste… might’ve just been me. I took them home, tossed them in some hot BBQ sauce, hit them with the air fryer, and they turned out pretty tasty.

Sitting outside was fine, but a few patio fans would’ve helped with the heat. There were a lot of flies, but hey….. that’s just outdoor dining sometimes.

Oh and when it’s time to pay, you have to pay on their handheld device and it’s just annoying to me. It’s 2025, just give me a receipt with a QR Code to scan (with exception of paying cash).

Overall, chill spot. I’d come back.“

“I dined in and honestly thought of my future review on here as I did so I did a little extra "digging in" to things I might not normally have noticed just in the area I could see while dining. The light fixtures, chairs, tables, floor were all clean, and no noted light bulbs were needing replaced. No noted dust on the light fixtures. The vent return cover (think that's what its called) was very minimally dusty.
The food was great and the portion sizing seemed generous to me. I ate alone following an out of town appointment. Now that I have found this place, it's hard for me try another since finding it at my last appointment. I work in healthcare, so I suppose I notice infection control practices in restaurants a little more than I wish I did for my sanity. I have never observed an issue here. In case you have never been here, you order at the register, but they bring you food and then they clean the tables after you are finished. (You don't have to dump trays or anything). You don't really have table service though, unless you realize you need something else at that initial food drop off time. Polite staff, but I did feel a little hurried to make my decision on ordering, although there wasn't a line. I paid a little more for lunch there than I could do on the daily, I received back just loose change from $19 for just me.
The atmosphere is pleasant and calming. I was just behind a fairly large group of apparent local exterminators (according to their labels on their clotging) and I was impressed that I didn't heart 1 single grumbling regarding anything with their order out of a fairly large group for barely lunchtime.“

“Annie’s kitchen food overall amazing. I had a brunch catering for graduation. The food was amazing overall 9/10. I would definitely use Annie again. She was professional and quick when it came to responding to messages. Had great team to help her. I would 100% recommend for catering services. Thank you Annie.“

“Delicious! Best hamburger and wings. Excellent service from our bartender, Savannah. She's the best!“

“Good food, drinks and Dj Bad boy Butch“

“AHKI’S is a flavorful and satisfying Mediterranean‑inspired restaurant that delivers bold taste with generous portions. From the first bite, you can tell the focus here is on fresh ingredients and rich seasonings. The menu leans into classic Mediterranean street‑food vibes — think tender grilled chicken, juicy steak, and perfectly seasoned rice — but with enough personality to make each visit feel distinct.

One of the best things about AHKI’S is the sauces and toppings. The creamy white sauce adds brightness to every dish, while the spicier sauces bring a pleasant kick without overwhelming the palate. Whether you’re ordering a bowl, pita wrap, or platter, the flavors are balanced and layered, making even simple combinations taste exciting. The salads are crisp and refreshing, giving a nice contrast to the heartier proteins and starches.“

“Amazing food and great service. 🙂“