Family-friendly atmosphere – The Little Donkey

From the laid-back atmosphere to the delicious food and friendly wait staff — everything is on-point at The Little Donkey Mexican Restaurant. This Homewood restaurant somehow manages to draw a connection between Southern and Mexican entertainment, and it works. At Little Donkey, you can enjoy a relaxed, laid back meal full of classic Mexican dishes such as tacos with handmade tortillas and street corn. Or, if you’re feeling more like Southern cuisine, enjoy their juicy fried chicken. Due to its popularity, tables fill up fast, so dine during off-peak hours to ensure you get a good spot. Be sure to check out their happy hour as well from 3-6 pm.

Melt-in-your-mouth barbecue – Saw’s BBQ and Jim & Nick’s

There’s nothing like Southern barbecue and Southern hospitality, and it’s impossible to say who does them better: Saw’s BBQ or Jim & Nick’s. Everyone has slightly different preferences and opinions when it comes to how barbecue should taste, but you can’t go wrong dining at Saw’s and Jim & Nick’s, two of Birmingham’s most popular barbecue joints. Make sure you try Saw’s smoked chicken with white barbecue sauce. And trust us, you’ll want to order an extra box of Jim & Nick’s melt-in-your-mouth cheddar biscuits to-go!

Best food truck – Los Dos Hermanos Taco Truck

If you’re looking for the best tacos in Birmingham, try Los Dos Hermanos. Boasting of an extensive menu, mouth-watering eats, and sizable portions, Los Dos Hermanos knocks it out of the park. Don’t be discouraged by the long line; it moves quickly and is a good indication that the food is just that good.

Nationally-recognized diner – Salem’s Diner

Mental Floss dubbed Salem’s the best diner in Alabama, and it’s easy to see why. Salem’s offers a wide assortment of tasty bites. When you walk through the door of the diner, it’s like time slows down. There’s a classic vibe to it, reminiscent of an older America. The owner Wayne Salem greets you like an old friend, and by the time you’ve finished eating, you won’t want to leave. What you should order: a breakfast that tastes so homemade you’ll think your mom made it, or their famous Philly cheesesteak. Some have said it tastes just as good (if not better than) Philadelphian cheesesteaks!

Reservation-worthy – Gianmarco’s

Romantic and intimate, Gianmarco’s is known by devout fans as the best Italian restaurant in Birmingham. You’ll love the romantic ambiance and the delicious Italian menu, full of classics as well as innovative dishes such as their short rib fried ravioli appetizer. Like any good restaurant, Gianmarco’s fills up fast. If you don’t mind eating at the bar, there is always that option, but if you want to enjoy the low-lit main dining area, we recommend calling ahead to make a reservation. It’s worth the extra step to try this place out!

Authentic Asian cuisine – Red Pearl Restaurant

Last but not least, if you’re on the lookout for authentic Asian cuisine, Homewood’s Red Pearl Restaurant is the place to go. Don’t judge this place by its cover, the outside is unassuming and ordinary but inside, Red Pearl is decorated in an Asian style and serves amazing dishes. The restaurant is adjacent to their grocery store, Super Oriental Market. So if you’re inspired to attempt to cook some of the dishes yourself, just head next door for ingredients!

7 of the Best Restaurants to Eat at in Homewood, Alabama