My go to spot to chill and have a nice glass of Chardonnay or a shot of Espolon blanco. The bartenders are very personable and you have the option to sit inside or outside. They do have a boxcar that serves food. Parking is not a problem. read more

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This is probably my favorite patio in Birmingham. Gorgeous outdoor space with plenty of seating, the nicest staff, cheap-ish beer, and the food is amazing! Street parking can be tricky, but it's one of my fave places. Do not skip out on the food. The salt & vinegar chickpeas are the perfect bar snack. I dream about those chickpeas! The fried okra is absolutely perfect- crispy tempura batter over whole okra makes for a beautiful presentation. And the SMASH BURGER is SO GOOD!!!! Definitely put this spot on your rotation! read more

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Fun vibe with interesting artwork and a cozy outdoor space with a fire pit. Lots of table seating but you have to order and pay at the bar.They serve elevated bar food; the chef came out to greet us and tell us about some of our dishes. The cocktails and food were good but a bit overpriced. The staff were quirky about the menus and just hit or miss in general depending on which person was waiting on our party. read more

I had to try this place out as I heard so much about this particular burger that had great reviews. The parkside burger is amazing and I enjoyed everything about it. The fries were a bit salty but not unbearable. I enjoyed the aesthetics and the back patio with the heat lamps. The servers/bartenders are really knowledgeable about the everything on the menu especially the drinks. I did not order a drink but they did look amazing and I will be back to try them. read more

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The decor is ok from previous ownership. Food was good. However was meeting with a friend who is a tad extroverted and they cut her off from serving drinks when I know she was fine. Was there for several hours catching up and was asked "are u still here". Not an atmosphere I would call welcoming. Ok for one drink. read more

Let me just say you've got to experience the whole place to really appreciate it. The first time we visited we stayed in the front room primarily because there was an open table and we went for it. The cocktails were nothing fancy. I got a cranberry and vodka. There were lots of tables and both times we visited it was really packed! There is also a side deck with a fire pit, great for cold evenings, as well as an outside deck bar. I sure it is incredible on warmer nights. However I think my favorite is the back bar. It is small and can get really crowded, but is a cozy place if there are not too many people. I definitely want to go back in the spring and summer. read more

Parkside - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

Justin was very efficient. We had A Surprise 60th Birthday Gathering for Friend. The Food was delicious and served very fast. We will be back soon. read more

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We just happened upon this beautiful bar and restaurant for a night cap while spending the weekend in Birmingham. This inviting bar was within walking distance of our AirBnB. The owner/manager made us feel so welcome that we returned a second time! Justin, a bartender, was also very hospitable and could pour a delicious cocktail. The burger was one of the best burgers I've eaten! The atmosphere was quiet enough but balanced with a lively environment and a great playlist! We will definitely be back when we're in the area again. Go! Don't wait! It's a gem! read more

The back bar had an awesome part time bartender who was truly a pro. Went back one day and found she had had enough of the owner's narcissistic nonsense and left. Well, I left too, as have many I know. Bham has too many choices to have to put up with this type of childish behavior from the owner. read more

Quaint little drinking hole in Avondale. Dog friendly. Nice patio with plenty of seating. Decent draught beer selection. Friendly staff. Ignore the haters' posts. Just bc George Floyd was a martyr during the last 8 minutes of his life, does not mean he wasn't a "thug" the throughout rest of it. His lengthy criminal record is clear evidence. He obviously did NOT deserve a death sentence, but he was by no means the innocent upstanding citizen he is now celebrated as. Way to go for not pandering to intolerant hypocrites! read more

One of my go-to spots in Avondale when I want to chill and grab a drink. Great for a date night or to catch up with friends. The inside offers a cool retro-hipster vibe and the outside space is fantastic - large with lots of seating options. They have a nice selection of local beers on draft, as well as many bottled options. They also have a pretty extensive bar, but I definitely recommend sticking to the basics. If you order something fancy, I can imagine it wouldn't be well-received (I have no evidence for this, just a feeling). Think Jack and Coke, not Manhattan. Another plus, it is also welcoming to fur babies, both inside and out. read more

I love this place. It's conveniently located right on the edge of Avondale and within walking distance to so many great places to eat here. Most of my friends love the outside patio, but the inside is just as chill to hang out in. They have great bartenders and can make almost any mixed drink for you. Though I haven't tried the food truck, there is one in the back which is perfect for when you don't want to leave the patio. Watch out for the koi pond after a few drinks though! read more

Parkside - Amaretto sour - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

A great staple to the Avondale neighborhood in Birmingham. Parkside offers a quirky spirit and good hipster vibe experience that has always been a fun experience and treat for me and friends. Between the inside and outdoor patio, plus additional bar hut in the back, there's plenty of space to entertain friends and guests. The venue is also pet friendly so feel free to bring along your furry guest for the social outing. As far as drink selection goes, I think they could do a little by better. They have a good variety of whiskeys and other alcohol, but when I did try ordering an Old Fashion at one point they weren't able to oblige. The draft menu is filled with decent beers, many local, but not as extensive as one might wish (bottles/cans seems to be more plentiful). Where Parkside does great is, as I mentioned earlier, the interior vibes and outside patio space. They have a great staff and have always been accommodating to me, but can work on drink selection and variety. They don't have food (to my knowledge, at least), but a food truck is conveniently located on the back patio that is pretty excellent. read more

Parkside - Did I say it was quirky? - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

Every year a group of us look forward to participating in Birmingham Restaurant Week. We like too go to restaurants that we have never been to before. This year one of the restaurants we chose was Parkside on Fifth. We called ahead & made reservations. We went to the Marble Ring first & had a cocktail. Then we went next door to Parkside. We had a wonderful time. The staff was very friendly and attentive to our group. We all ordered from the Restaurant week menu. Most people had the tempura fried whole okra as a starter. The okra were delicious and the servings were huge. A few got the cowboy caviar with chips which was very good also. Everyone ordered the salmon that was served with delicious vegetables and a couscous salad. AND THE DESERTS!!! Parkside has its own pastry chief ! It is a real toss up as to wether the goat cheese cheesecake topped with lemon curd or the white chocolate bread pudding was more fabulous. The drinks were also very good & the wine pours were good, We were also lucky enough to meet Tim who owns Parkside. He is now our new best friend. He even gave us candles that I believe he has made. We went in late July so it was too hot to sit out side BUT OH THE PATIO !!!!! What a fabulous spot! We cannot wait for the temperature to get cooler so that we can return & sit outside. So if you are looking for a new spot , I strongly suggest you give Parkside a try & hopefully you'll be able to meet Tim. read more

Always had good service and food here. I thought the house cocktails were priced well and there was a good selection of NA choices for nights where I'm not drinking. Music was not too loud. read more

I can't help but love this place! The front of there bar has all these beautiful Chinese lanterns that make you feel like you aren't in your typical bham bar. There is also a house cat that lives here and you will find him roaming around or chilling at the bar. I'm usually not a cat fan but this little guy is pretty cute. The outside patio is pretty large. You wouldn't expect it while driving past. They also have a late night eating truck in the back called "Hotbox" (try the burger!) They alway have local beers on draft and a wide selection liquor. I also must add that this is the place my now fiancé and I went on our first date. And also was part of the scavenger hunt he took me on to propose It's a must go-to place in bham. read more

Parkside - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

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Parkside quickly climbed the ranks of "top o' the list" bars in Birmingham. The downstairs, inside bar isn't huge, but it's spacious enough to get around. Don't worry, you won't be in there long. The patio is too perfect to avoid. When you get outside, you can go right or left, because the seating area wraps around both sides of the building. There are enough tables and benches to handle the rear ends of you, all of your friends, and all of their friends acquaintances. There is a "barn" like structure that contains even more seating and a separate bar. This is where I find the only downside of Parkside. Unfortunately, the outside bar is only partially stocked. The leaves me going back inside for most of my drinks, but it's really not that big of a deal. It's generally not open to the public, but they've got a great upstairs if you need a private space for a get together. Just try to not like the patio, go ahead. read more

Parkside - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

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First time in this place and the staff and ambiance was chill. Drinks were quality over other local options.

https://www.yelp.com/biz/hotbox-birmingham?hrid=2oINGJcNfoNlvJhmeE-6jw&utm_source=ishare&utm_content=review Posted this review on the former hotbox page since I was specifically referring to the food, but my understanding is that they're officially one in the same place now. Gotta give it a shot. A personal 2-3 Michelin star location. As in, would go way out of my way to eat here and take people here. read more

I can't believe I've never written a review for Parkside. I guess I remember writing one for Hotbox and thought I'd done both. My favorite part of Parkside is the decor. The inside has all of this funky, fun decor that makes you feel like you're in some sort of eclectic house party. The outside isn't too shabby either with the fish pond, fire pit, deck, and array of tables. Plus there's a small outdoor bar and garage type seating area where there is sometimes music. Parkside's resident cat, Brandon, is awesome. He'll let you hold him for very brief periods of time but is happier napping on various pieces of furniture around the bar. Dogs are also allowed. They prefer they stay outside, but they are alright with you bringing one inside to order from the bar (you order, not your dog). The food situation is great here in that they have Hotbox. The downside is, if you're just coming for a drink and have leftovers from somewhere else, they have to store them behind the bar for you. You aren't allowed to eat food from anywhere other than Hotbox in Parkside. I get it as long as they continue storing my leftover pizza and don't make me throw it away. It does get pretty packed in here, but during the week it's the perfect place to come for a nice, chill drink. read more

Parkside is one of my favorites for a chilled out atmosphere. It is hipster in decoration with really fun Chinese lanterns adorning the ceilings. It has a great outdoor are, a "smoke box" and complete with a permanent food truck. My only complaint is that their drink selection isn't my favorite. But to their defense I am very picky. This is definitely perfect for your standard drink (spirit+mixer) or a beer. They generally have a couple of the local brews on tap. There is an awesome cat that takes residence in a stool during the evenings so be sure not to steal it's spot! Overall I come here for atmosphere and a chilled place to hang out with friends. read more

Parkside - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

Very negative experience here Friday night. Met some old friends for drinks who were sitting out on the patio. Stopped at the bar inside for drinks after greeting our friends. Male bartender behind the bar asked for our two friends' IDs.. questioned one about the middle name on his ID and the other about her zip code. He proceeded to interrogate her and said "that's definitely not correct." After a few exchanges back and forth and reiterating she KNOWS her zip code, she stated she no longer wanted to be at the bar and just would like her ID back. The bartenders unprofessional, snarky response? "Same." He then didn't card me or my fiancé, and our friends stated they weren't carded either. Not sure why he randomly felt like picking on our two friends. We're almost 30 and don't look underage. Extremely weird situation. I'll also add the espresso martini was disgusting but we did enjoy the Whitney. We're new to Birmingham and had high hopes for this spot but unfortunately we won't be back. After reading the other reviews about the rude bartenders it seems it wasn't an off night but rather par for the course at this spot. read more

Park side is an eclectic neighborhood bar which attracts locals and out of towners alike. There is always a mixed and diverse crowd which makes for a cool atmosphere to either grab a drink no matter what the occasion. They have a very good beer selection with a number of beers on tap which rotate over time, standard range of wine and all the spirits you could need. They have a pets welcome policy making it a great place to bring your pooch. Hotbox is out back if you get hungry and the food is delicious. If it get busy enough they have another bar out back to help deal with the swelling crowd. You'll always end up having a grand time at park side. read more

Parkside - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

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Great little place to have drinks and enjoy some good food.. bartenders are great and know how to take care of you. If you haven't checked it out you should. read more

Parkside - Korean bbq bowl is delicious - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

This is a really cool bar and one of the first to pop up in Avondale. I have been on several occasions for several different reasons. The atmosphere has changed every time. I have been in there early and late. Been when its crowded and when its not so much. I have been for a concert and for a chill night. It is one of the coolest atmospheres in Birmingham. When the open air back (yard?) is filled, the place has a buzz about it. The inside is usually always hopping. The bartenders are quick and responsive. The prices are pretty decent too. The one downfall is the bathroom situation. One men' and one women's SINGLE bathroom. It can prove to have some pretty long lines on busy nights. But if you don't mind waiting for the bathroom, a great bar to check out. read more

One of my favorite bars in Birmingham. It's conveniently located in Avondale and they have amazing food provided by Hot Box in the back. This casual bar atmosphere makes you feel comfortable...so comfortable that you can hang out with the bar cat named Brandon. He's pretty famous, so if you see him, be sure to take a photo with him and tag him on Instagram! I like that Parkside always has rotating beers and a lot are local either from Birmingham or the entire state of Alabama. Prices are also reasonable. My friends and I came to Parkside to grab a beer while we waited for a table to open up at Fancy's on Fifth next door. We weren't there long, but it was a nice experience. We'll for sure be back! read more

Got here on a late Kentucky Derby Saturday afternoon. Sat inside with friends and had a couple drinks and watched the derby. Featured locally brewed favorites on tap and opted for: Vanillaphant Porter A superb vanilla porter 6.2% ABV 25 IBU 55° BEST TEMP Avondale's beloved Miss Fancy the Elephant's favorite pastime was to guzzle bootleg beer and whiskey. We share Miss Fancy's affinity for tasty brews, which is why we were inspired to add a twist to one of our favorites. The ale is surprisingly light bodied for its robust flavor and has all the chocolate and roasted nut flavors you would expect in a porter but with a special vanilla twist at the end. We use the world's finest hand selected vanilla beans from the bourbon. A pretty good dark beer that most everyone at the table enjoyed. Once the race was over we went to the back patio area. Pretty large space that was very crowded. Pet friendly and all were having a good time. Food trucks are available if you get hungry and they were busy all night long. We enjoyed the environment and will go back in the future. read more

Parkside - Trivia night at Parkside - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

The bad - Male bartender in the back bar with the ponytail was rude to my friends and I from start to finish. The good - the food was amazing. I ordered the kimchi fries and cucumber salad. Portions are generous, spice level is perfect, and my friends and I, who were traveling just for the weekend, had a great experience (as far as food goes). read more

Parkside - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

I really enjoyed Parkside!!! We came here at the suggestion of a friend, and I'm glad we did! I really loved the vibe of this bar, Star Trek Memorabilia,Music posters, and more cover the walls. There is plenty of seating inside, and a really nice courtyard in the back. It was relaxed and casual, perfect for relaxing at the end of a rough weekend! There is a Hotbox food truck in the back of the courtyard. Unfortunately, we didn't get to sample it because it was closed on the Sunday night we went. The bartender was polite and super fast and the drinks tasty. It's nice to find another place that allows dogs to join their humans! read more

Fun, lot of space, big-patio, live-music, good drinks, and alternative look! One of my favorites nighttime spots in B'ham! read more

The Avondale area is great and has a lot to offer including this little gem. Located across the street from Avondale Park is Parkside. I believe the front of the bar is the only way to get in. I personally love the atmosphere of the patio. It has patio lights and a nice little walk way leading you to the food truck in the back call hotbox. They offer a fusion of Asian-American food. What's not to love?! Possibly one of my favorite bars in Birmingham besides The Marble ring. read more

Parkside - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

This is my go to place on a sunny Sunday afternoon. Very laidback. They have a beautiful big courtyard out back with bamboo and a little fish pond. Plenty of places to sit and enjoy a ice cold beer, and a cig while catching some rays! The inside is super cool as well, covered in tons of old signs that have come from all over Birmingham. If you are wanting a cold beer, or a gin and tonic this is your place to go. Don't expect to get a martini or anything, keep it simple. Saturday nights can also be fun here, but it's definitely more crowded. Go check it out! read more

Cool neighborhood bar. This was our first stop when we went bar hopping Saturday night. It was not very crowded considering it was still a little early. The atmosphere/decor of this place is really cool. It has Chinese lanterns and all kinds of funky art. The vibe is definitely very hipster. We ordered hurricanes to drink. The bartender was not particularly friendly or personable. But, he did make the drinks decent and strong. Apparently they have a nice patio with a food truck in the back. It was pouring rain when we were here so we did not get out to see it. Also, I see from other reviews that this place is dog friendly which definitely makes me inclined to come back. read more

Parkside is one of the coolest bars in Birmingham that just doesn't get enough credit. It's a cool, laid back bar with a nice mix of all the eclectic crowds Birmingham has to offer. The inside has a sizable bar, surrounded by random vintage tables and chairs. Venture a bit farther to the back and you'll find larger tables and the restroom. Take a seat out on the huge back patio in the "food court" style area, the garden oasis, the pond or the back bar. Parkside is just so much larger than one would think. Above all else, the two things that make this bar unique are the cat mascot and the food truck outback. When I say cat mascot, I literally mean the bar has adopted a cat as it's on who sometimes sits on a makeshift thrown at the back door. Look but don't touch, this cat is awfully spoiled a bit of a dick. Although I've never ordered anything from the food truck (which is why I haven't reviewed Hotbox) I've heard nothing but good things. I've ventured over a couple of times to order food for a friend who had one too many and the employees are always very nice and the food looks and smells SO good. I believe I'll have to try them really soon! I can't really speak to the variety of beers, wines and/or liquors because for some reason I always order PBR when I go, which are only $3.50 for a 16 oz, btw; but the bartenders have always been absolutely lovely. Parkside is just a place where I (among many other people) feel like I don't have to put on aires or be on my guard. I can just really relax and have a chill time by myself or enjoy some drinks and conversation with friends. read more

Great beer selection, full bar, plenty of seating inside and out. Bring your dog. Bring your friend. Bring your dog's friend. This bar has a cat named Henry that just lounges about as though he's seen it all. There's some kind of koi pond/fountain thingy outside with flowing water. When its freezing there's a hut in the back where you can smoke without getting frostbite on your fingers. The crowd is younger,(under 30ish), but generally well behaved. You could walk in with 10 people and find your own spot to hang out, or just take a friend and grab a table for 2 or sit at the bar. Rotating beer selection means they keep it fresh for all those who enjoy experimenting with a variety of brews, and there's a built in food truck out back that will sell you a variety of things to munch on. Its like if a dive bar were populated solely by people who were raised right and had instincts to keep things clean. Bathrooms are 1 person only so you can pee in whichever you like while avoiding the complex politics of where to urinate. Smart. Its on the same block as well...everything else in Avondale. So go there. Get a drink. If you like it, stay, if not, get a drink at the next bar on the same block. read more

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Parkside is fun but not my favorite bham bar. It's a little smoky outside with cigarettes. The cocktails are good, but nothing special. Brandon The Cat is definitely the highlight of visiting. Sadly we didn't see him last time. read more

Parkside - Brandon The Cat - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

Great before or after dinner OR the burgers looks amazing, drinks are perfect, and the cicada are loud in the tree. read more

Parkside - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

My boyfriend and I love this bar. We come here multiple times a week, so often that many of the bartenders remember our order without asking. Can be nice and quiet on weekdays and in the earlier hours, but pretty happening weekend nights. We aren't really fans of the food truck out back. The food isn't bad, just a little too salty for my taste. A great place to come in Avondale if you're just wanting a couple of drinks! read more

This reminded me of "Cheer's from the TV Show of the same name. It's a large room with a bar in the middle with a collection of people enjoying themselves on a Friday night. Music is in the background but everyone is just minding their business and not bothered if they hear it or not. If I saw a mailman walk in to an already waiting beer I wouldn't have been shocked. It's a cool bar in a college town with cool people. If I lived nearby I would be a regular person and eat every meal from the place outside. More on that later. read more

Parkside is that bar you always wished you could call your local. With the great prices, well made cocktails, cold beer (they even serve the great local stuff from Avondale Brewery down the road) and eclectic decor, it's the place to be. When it's cold outside, they utilize an awesome firepit in part of their massive outdoor space. Speaking of being outside- that's the BEST part about Parkside- it has an incredible, private, even somewhat calming back patio with foliage, twinkle lights, ample tables and chairs with umbrellas, and ambience to spare. There's even a little house with a pool table, darts, and a bit of mystery back there. And, it seems to draw in a range of people- from young professionals to funky hipster musicians to the college kids who made their way down to Avondale. The bathroom is huge and always clean- a must for a place I'm going to frequent. So, if you want to grab a drink with friends or show out-of-towners a cool local spot, Parkside is your best bet. read more