Red or White offers a unique concept that combines a retail wine shop with a full-service…read morerestaurant. As soon as you walk in, you're greeted by shelves of wines, charcuterie boards, and gourmet accompaniments, making it a fun place to browse before your meal.
Unfortunately, my first impression of the service wasn't the strongest. When I approached the host stand, I was greeted with, "What do you want?" While it may have been an off moment or simply a poor choice of words, it didn't feel particularly welcoming. Since I was standing at the host stand in the dining area, I assumed it would be clear that I was there to eat. I was also initially directed toward the bar, despite it being nearly full and located in a busy area where staff were constantly moving through. Since I was dining solo and wanted a more relaxed experience, I asked about patio seating instead, and thankfully that was available.
Once seated, my experience improved considerably. My server struck the perfect balance between being attentive and giving me space to enjoy my meal. Since it was my first visit, I had several questions about the menu, and he was knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely happy to offer recommendations.
I decided to order one of the daily specials along with a build-your-own charcuterie board and a Kir Royale to drink.
The Heirloom Tomato Salad was an excellent choice. It was fresh, vibrant, and had a flavor profile that set it apart from the many tomato salads I've had before. It's the kind of seasonal special I'd happily order again.
For my charcuterie board, I selected Soppressata, Prosciutto, and Gin & Juice for the meats, along with Campo de Montalbán and Midnight Moon cheeses. Everything paired beautifully with the accompanying bread, nuts, and garnishes. Each bite felt thoughtfully curated, and it made for a leisurely meal that encouraged slowing down and savoring each combination.
The Kir Royale was equally enjoyable--light, bubbly, and refreshing. It complemented the charcuterie perfectly and is an easy recommendation if you're looking for a celebratory cocktail.
One of my favorite parts of the visit was the patio. It was the perfect place to enjoy Birmingham's beautiful weather while people-watching and taking in the neighborhood. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, making it easy to linger over the meal.
Before leaving, I had one more interaction with the hostess that left me a bit puzzled. Since I was dining alone, I took my belongings with me when I went to the restroom after letting my server know where I was headed and asking him to bring my check. As I walked back, the hostess commented, "I thought you had gone." While she may not have intended anything by it, the remark came across as though she assumed I had left without paying, which made for another awkward interaction. I settled my bill at the front counter without issue, but it reinforced my initial impression of the hospitality at the host stand.
Overall, I'd rate Red or White an **8/10**. The food, drinks, patio, and service from my server made for a very enjoyable experience, and I would absolutely return for another charcuterie board and cocktail. The only thing holding this visit back from earning a higher rating was my experience with the hostess. Hospitality begins the moment a guest walks through the door, and small interactions can have a lasting impact. Even so, the quality of the food and atmosphere makes this a spot I'd happily visit again.
