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Greek/general Mediterranean
Makario’s (Multiple Locations)
- A come-as-you-are Mediterranean grill, Makario’s features classics such as falafel, grilled meats and veggies, shawarma, stuffed grape leaves, and much more. The Birmingham southside location is focused on this menu, while the Vestavia Hills location, which is co-branded with the Ranch House name (from the restaurant it took over) also features breakfast and American offerings such as burgers, wings, and meat & three plates. Vegetarian options are available.
Pita Stop (Birmingham, UAB campus)
- Falafel and hummus and gyros, oh my! A cozy little spot for great Mediterranean grub, just across the street from UAB’s Highlands hospital. It’s a great spot for a meal just before a show at the Alys Stephens Center.
Taziki’s Mediterranean Café (Multiple Locations)
- This chain of fast-casual Greek & Mediterranean restaurants can be found in more than a dozen states – but it all got started right here in Birmingham. You’ll find gyros, sandwiches, salads, and more. Lamb is always a highlight, and the falafel is well worth your time.
Italian & Pizza
Bettola (Birmingham, lakeview)
- Originally just a single store-front space, Bettola featured a brick oven imported from Italy. Word got out about this spot’s great food, and it expanded not only in space, but also in the menu. The pizzas are still great, but definitely not the only option. It’s a good atmosphere, but doesn’t feel pretentious.
Bottega (Birmingham, southside)
- Upscale Italian fare presented by world-famous chef Frank Stitt. Has vegetarian options. Dinner reservations are recommended. Use rideshare or the valet parking, as street parking can sometimes be challenging in this area.
Dave’s Pizza (Homewood)
- A relaxed, inviting pizzeria with a bit of a diner-like feel. Dave’s does some inventive pies, and features a lunch buffet. There is an on-site bar, and you may sometimes be treated to live music.
Gianmarco’s (Homewood)
- Dim the lights, chill the wine. (Unless you’re drinking red, of course.) This spot offers an almost romantic feel with its white tablecloth dinning room. You’ll find upscale Italian dishes for a variety of tastes. If you feel like pulling out all the stops, get the pistachio & goat cheese crusted rack of lamb!
Giuseppe’s Cafe (Birmingham, UAB campus area)
- A small spot on the edge of the UAB campus, it’s popular with the UAB Arts staff. The chicken alfredo and baked ziti are favourites of many regulars. Seating is limited, so booking ahead is advised.
Salvatore’s Pizza & Pasta (Multiple locations)
- An informal pizza joint featuring New York style thin crust and Sicilian deep dish pizzas. Like any good New York pizza joint, Salvatore’s offers slices in addition to whole pies. The calzones and pasta dishes are also good options.
Tortugas (Multiple locations)
- Started by Chicago natives, Tortugas features thin-crust and Chicago deep-dish style pizzas. There is also bar service. The down town location is less than a block from Regions Field so when baseball season is here, it’s great for lunch and a game. (Head to Good People Brewing Company – between Tortugas and the ball park – for some post-game beers.)