After a long and busy day of juggling work and parenthood, few things are more enjoyable to me than a good meal or drink out on the town! Thankfully, my neighborhood’s vibrant food scene provides a plethora of options for all kinds of experiences and palates. So, here are my top restaurant picks for date night in Homewood.
Freddy’s Wine Bar
Originating from the Highland Park neighborhood, Freddy’s is a cozy spot with a great selection of wine and delicious food to accompany. The Homewood location opened this summer in the building that formerly housed Nabeel’s. The dinner menu features a seasonal selection of boards, appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and some heartier main dishes. It’s also an ideal place to grab a drink and small bites before dinner or enjoy an after-dinner beverage and dessert.
Frothy Monkey
Birmingham’s second Frothy Monkey location is also newer to the Homewood scene and has been a delightful addition to downtown Edgewood! This hip all-day cafe and coffee shop offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with top-notch espresso beverages, pastries, wine, cocktails, and beer. I’d describe the food as creative and elevated classics made with fresh ingredients. It’s a good spot for a casual dinner, post dinner drink, dessert, coffee, or really anything!
Gian Marco’s
Celebrating a special occasion? Gian Marco’s is the place to go! This neighborhood favorite tucked off Broadway is always busy for good reason. Classic Italian food, an extensive wine menu, and charming ambiance combine for a date night to remember. The menu includes hearty pastas, delicious steak, chicken, seafood, several desserts, and more. If you can’t get a spot in the main dining room, the restaurant also offers a full-service bar and wine bar.
Ironwood Kitchen & Cocktails
Located in the bottom of The Valley Hotel on 18th Street, Ironwood Kitchen & Cocktails features elevated southern comfort food in a spacious industrial setting that feels both moody and elegant. They serve up breakfast, lunch, dinner, as well as a weekend brunch. I highly recommend enjoying the outdoor patio if the weather is nice!
Jinsei
This swanky sushi joint serves up brunch, lunch, and dinner in the heart of downtown Homewood. Jinsei offers an extensive sushi menu alongside several Asian-inspired dishes. Complete your meal with a glass of wine, sake, or even a craft cocktail.
Little Donkey
If you’re craving Mexican food for your date night, look no further than Little Donkey. This restaurant has a fun and vibrant atmosphere that is perfect for a laid-back night out. On the menu, you’ll find Mexican favorites with a Southern twist. The smoked and fried chicken are both customer favorites. I also highly suggest trying one of their fresh margaritas!
Luca Lagotto
One of the newest restaurants to the Homewood scene, Luca has been bustling with activity since the doors opened. The menu showcases fresh pasta dishes, pizzas, salads, and entree dishes. One unique feature is the thick crust pizza made with focaccia bread. This restaurant also has a market in front-selling specialty products and gelato.
Pizzeria GM
Another great spot for pizza is West Homewood’s Pizzeria GM. A sister restaurant to the previously mentioned Gian Marco’s, Pizzeria GM serves up pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, and salads in a casual, old-school atmosphere. Grab a bite to eat and then take a stroll around the nearby Patriot Park!
The Soho Trifecta: Social Taco, Soho Social, & Soho Standard
Social Taco, Soho Social, and Soho Standard are three sister restaurants located in Soho Square in Homewood. Each restaurant offers something different when it comes to food, but they all have a fantastic happy hour and a warm, welcoming environment. The original Soho business, Soho Social, offers up burgers, sandwiches, salads, etc., in an upbeat, family-friendly space. Soho Standard’s menu features more sophisticated fare in a space that’s both relaxed and elegant. The newest of the three, Social Taco, serves delicious and super fresh Mexican food. All three spaces have outdoor seating, too!