bhammagFINALno copy

Illustration by Yellowhammer Creative

By Jimmy Lichtenwalter



During the summer, Birmingham magazine readers cast more than 15,000 nominations and votes for their favorite things in 50 categories. After establishing the top five vote getters in each category, readers selected their favorites. The remainder of the top five (or more, in the case of ties) are listed as finalists.

We invite you to join Birmingham magazine on Sept. 18 to celebrate the 2014 Best of Birmingham winners.



Arts & Entertainment



Best Annual Event

Do Dah Day

May | Highland Avenue Parks | dodahday.org

Complete with a live music, booths, food, beer and its famed pet parade, Do Dah Day offers fun for the whole family — especially the four-legged members. The event attracts visitors from all over the country and celebrated its 35th anniversary in May.

Finalists: Magic City BrewFest | June | Sloss Furnaces, 20 32nd St. N. | magiccitybrewfest.com | Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival | August | Downtown theater district | sidewalkfest.com | 205-324-0888 | Slicefest | June | 725 29th St. S., Lakeview | slicefest.com | ArtWalk | September | First and Second avenues north, 22nd and 24th streets north and Morris Avenue, downtown | birminghamartwalk.org

Best Art Gallery

Birmingham Museum of Art

2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., downtown | 205-254-2565 | artsbma.org

Founded in 1951, the Birmingham Museum of Art's collection includes more than 26,000 works of art. The museum is world renowned and an important institution of the city.

Finalists: Naked Art | 3831 Clairmont Ave. S., Forest Park |

205-595-3553 | nakedartusa.com | Daniel Day | 3025 Sixth Ave. S., Southside | 205-731-9420 | dreammeccastudio.com | Gallery 1930 | 1930 Cahaba Road, Mountain Brook | 205-870-1930 | artgallery1930.com | Littlehouse Galleries | 2915 Linden Ave., Homewood | 205-879-7022 | littlehousegalleries.com

Best Cultural Institution

McWane Science Center

200 19th St. N., downtown | 205-714-8300 | mcwane.org

Sporting a massive IMAX Dome Theater, a collection of dinosaur fossils and an aquarium, the McWane Science Center always has something exciting to see and is fun for children and adults alike.

Finalists: Birmingham Museum of Art | 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., downtown | 205-254-2565 | artsbma.org | Birmingham Civil Right Institute | 520 16th St. N., downtown | 205-328-9696, ext. 203 | bcri.org | Vulcan Park and Museum | 1701 Valley View Drive | 205-933-1409 | visitvulcan.com | Alabama Symphony Orchestra | 3621 Sixth Ave. S., Avondale | 205-251-6929 | 205-975-2787 | alabamasymphony.org

Best Live Music Venue

Iron City

513 22nd St. S., Southside | 205-202-5483 | ironcitybham.com

Complete with a full bar, grill and standing room for 1,300 people, Iron City is a perfect place to see your favorite performer. The venue is small enough that you aren't yards from the stage, but large enough to attract big-name artists.

Finalists: WorkPlay | 500 23rd St. S., Southside | 205-879-4773 | workplay.com | Bottletree Café | 3719 Third Ave. S., Avondale | 205-533-6288 | thebottletree.com | Oak Mountain Amphitheatre | 1000 Amphitheatre Road, Pelham | 205-985-0703 | theoakmountainamphitheater.com | Alabama Theatre | 1817 Third Ave. N., downtown | 205-252-2262 | alabamatheatre.com

Best Local Band

St. Paul and the Broken Bones

stpaulandthebrokenbones.com

In the past year, St. Paul and the Broken Bones released their first studio album, were profiled by NPR and the Hollywood Reporter and performed on the Jimmy Kimmel Show and CBS This Morning: Saturday. The local soul band will be back in town for back-to-back shows at the Alabama Theatre Nov. 13 and 14. Tickets to the Nov. 14 show were almost sold out as of press time (Nov. 13 already sold out), so don't wait to buy yours.

Finalists: Jasper Coal | jaspercoal.com | Festival Expressions | festivalexpressions.com | Marc Phillips and Groove Daddy | marcphillipsandgroovedaddy.com | Gentleman Zero |

gentlemanzero.com

Best Place to Take Someone from Out of Town

Barons Game

Regions Field | 1401 First Ave. S., Southside | 205-988-3200 | barons.com

Since it opened in 2013, Regions Field has been home to

Birmingham's own minor league team, the Barons. Situated in the new Parkside District and able to seat 8,500, the stadium is certainly one of the city's must-see spots

Finalists: Vulcan Park and Museum | 1701 Valley View Drive | 205-933-1409 | visitvulcan.com

Highlands Bar and Grill | 2011 11th Ave. S., Southside | 205-939-1400 | highlandsbarandgrill.com | Avondale Brewery | 201 41st St. S., Avondale | 205-777-5456 | avondalebrewing.com | The Boot at Preserve Village | 616 Preserve Parkway, Suite 112, Hoover | 205-978-8988 | thebootatpreservevillage.vpweb.com

Best Radio Station

Birmingham Mountain Radio

107.3 FM | 500 23rd St. S. | bhammountainradio.com

Reigning Best of Birmingham champ Birmingham Mountain Radio celebrates its fourth year taking home this award. The adult alternative station began in 2010 as an Internet station but is now being broadcast on 107.3 FM. Its playlist, with the likes of Mumford and Sons, Bob Dylan and John Mayer, never disappoints.

Finalists: WBHM 90.3 FM | 650 11th St. S. | 205-934-2606 | whbm.org | WJOX 94.5 FM | 244 Goodwin Crest Drive | 205-945-4646 | joxfm.com | WZZK 104.7 FM | 2700 Corporate Drive, Suite 115 | 205-916-1100 | wzzk.com | The Bull 102.5 FM | 600 Beacon Parkway W., Suite 400 | 205-439-9600 | 1025thebull.com

Best Theater Company

Red Mountain Theatre Company

3028 Seventh Ave. S., Southside | 205-324-2424 | redmountaintheatre.org

For the 2014-2015 season, Red Mountain Theatre Company has a wide variety of shows planned including "Young Frankenstein" and "The Wiz." It's sure to be another year showcasing some of the area's best acting talent, both from adults and kids.

Finalists: Terrific New Theater | 2821 Second Ave. S., Southside | 205-328-0868 | terrificnewtheatre.com | Birmingham Festival Theatre | 1901 1/2 11th Ave. S., Southside | 205-933-2383 | bftonline.org | Birmingham Children's Theatre | 2130 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N., downtown | 205-458-8181 | bct123.org | Theatre Downtown | 2410 Fifth Ave. S., Southside | 205-565-8838 | theatredowntown.org



Food & Drink



Best Bar

The Garage

2304 10th Terrace S., Southside | 205-322-3220 | garagecafe.us

Known for its mellow ambiance and sprawling patio seating, The Garage is a classic Birmingham hangout.

Finalists: Collins Bar | 2125 Second Ave. N., downtown | 205-323-7995 | collinsbirmingham.com | Carrigan's Public House | 2430 Morris Ave., downtown | 205-440-2430 | carriganspub.com | Parkside Café | 4036 Fifth Ave. S., Avondale | 205-595-0920 | The J. Clyde | 1312 Cobb Lane, Southside | 205-939-1312 | jclyde.com

Best Barbecue

Saw's

multiple locations | 205-879-1937 | sawsbbq.com

Founded in 2009, Saw's Barbecue has since become a Birmingham staple. The original restaurant spawned Saw's Juke Joint and Saw's Soul Kitchen. Visit any of the three locations for what our readers have dubbed the best barbecue in town.

Finalists: Jim 'n Nick's | multiple locations | jimnnicks.com | Full Moon | multiple locations | fullmoonbbq.com | Dreamland | multiple locations | dreamlandbbq.com | Moe's | multiple locations | moesoriginalbbq.com

Best Brunch

Big Bad Breakfast

5361 U.S. 280 | 205-490-7568

A brand-new addition to Birmingham's food culture, Big Bad Breakfast seems to have already impressed. With dishes like the Double Fried Pork Belly Quesadilla and the Elvis peanut butter, banana-and-bacon sandwich, the latest effort by Oxford, Miss.'s James Beard award-winning chef John Currence certainly is a must-try.

Finalists: Five | 744 29th St. S., Lakeview | 205-868-3841 | five-bar.com | Cosmo's Pizza | 2012 Magnolia Ave., Southside | 205-930-9971 | Trattoria Centrale | 207 A 20th St. N., downtown | 205-202-5612 | trattoriacentrale.com | Silvertron Café | 3813 Clairmont Ave. S., Forest Park | 205-591-3707 | silvertroncafe.us

Best Burger

Chez Fonfon

2007 11th Ave. S., Southside | 205-939-3221 | fonfonbham.com

Specializing in French-inspired cuisine, Chez Fonfon also has the best burger in Birmingham: the Hamburger Fonfon.

Finalists: Mugshots | 1919 Kentucky Ave., Suite 101, Vestavia Hills | 205-824-9030 | 2311 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N., Suite 100, downtown | 205-933-7575 | mugshotsgrillandbar.com | Five Guys | multiple locations | fiveguys.com | Saw's | multiple locations | sawsbbq.com | Hamburger Heaven | multiple locations | hamburgerheavenrestaurants.com

Best Coffee Shop

O'Henry's

multiple locations | ohenryscoffees.com

A Birmingham staple since 1993, O'Henry's offers a variety of quality coffees and espresso drinks, in addition to a satisfying breakfast and lunch menu.

Finalists: Urban Standard | 2320 Second Ave. N., downtown | 205-250-8200 | urbandstandard.net | Octane Coffee | 2821 Central Ave., Homewood | 205-969-1177 | 2221 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N., downtown | 205-545-5076 | octanecoffee.com | Starbucks | multiple locations | starbucks.com | Crestwood Coffee | 5512 Crestwood Blvd., Crestwood | 205-595-0300 | crestwoodcafe.com

Best Cupcake

Dreamcakes

960 Oxmoor Road, Homewood | 205-871-9377 |

dreamcakes-bakery.com

Chocolate chip cookie dough, maple bacon and wedding cake are just a few of the numerous flavors of cupcakes offered by Dreamcakes. Stop by the Homewood location or track down the Dreamcakes truck to try one of these delicious desserts.

Finalists: Gigi's Cupcakes | 4745 Chace Circle, Suite 121, Hoover | 205-444-4170 | 1483 Gadsden Highway, Suite 114, Trussville | 205-661-4650 | gigiscupcakesusa.com | Urban Standard | 2320 Second Ave. N., downtown | 205-250-8200 | urbanstandard.net | Ashley Mac's | multiple locations | ashleymacs.com | Edgar's Bakery | multiple locations | edgarsbakery.com

Best Food Truck

Melt

meltbham.com

This specialty grilled cheese truck throws an interesting assortment of ingredients into its sandwiches. You can't go wrong with the Classic Melt or by spicing things up with the Ragin' Cajun, which includes blackened chicken, habanero jack cheese and coleslaw on Texas toast.

Finalists: Cantina | cantinaonwheels.com | Dreamcakes | dreamcakes-bakery.com | Shindigs | shindigscateringtrucks.com | Off the Hook | ryouhooked.com

Best Italian Food

GianMarco's

721 Broadway St., Homewood | 205-871-9622

With a wide selection of traditional Italian fare, a great wine list and wonderful atmosphere, GianMarco's is a neighborhood favorite but also draws diners from all around town.

Finalists: Bellini's | 6801 Cahaba Valley Road, Suite 106, U.S. 280 | 205-981-5380 | ourbellinis.supportlocalflavor.com | Joe's Italian | 21 Weatherly Club Drive, Alabaster | 205-663-4111 | joesitalianonline.com | Bettola | 2901 Second Ave. S., Pepper Place | 205-731-6499 | Bottega | 2240 Highland Ave. S., Southside | 205-939-1000 | bottegarestaurant.com

Best Chef

Frank Stitt

Highlands Bar and Grill | 2011 11th Ave. S., Southside | 205-939-1400 | highlandsbarandgrill.com; Bottega | 2240 Highland Ave. S., Southside | 205-939-1000 | bottegarestaurant.com; Chez Fonfon | 2007 11th Ave. S., Southside | 205-939-3221 | fonfonbham.com

Birmingham is known as a food town, and Frank Stitt is its godfather. His Highlands Bar & Grill, Bottega and Chez Fonfon have helped set a standard and develop talent in the local culinary scene.

Finalists: Matthew Lagace, Bellini's, 6801 Cahaba Valley Road, Suite 106, U.S. 280 | 205-981-5380 | ourbellinis.supportlocalflavor.com | Chris Hastings, Hot and Hot Fish Club | 2180 11th Court S., Southside | 205-933-5474 | hotandhotfishclub.com | Haller Magee, Grace Revival | 2212 Second Ave. N., downtown | opening this fall | Chris Dupont, Café Dupont | 113 20th St. N., downtown | 205-322-1282 | cafedupont.net and Tau Poco | 121 20th St. N., downtown | 205-322-9909 | taupoco.com

Best Outdoor Dining

Chuy's

216 Summit Blvd., Suite 135, U.S. 280 | 205-977-4224 | chuys.com

Perched atop a hill at a corner of The Summit and overlooking U.S. 280, Chuy's wide patio offers a great outdoor dining experience, giving patrons a great view while they enjoy their food.

Finalists: Rojo | 2921 Highland Ave. S., Southside | 205-328-4733 | rojobirmingham.com | Bottega | 2240 Highland Ave. S., Southside | 205-939-1000 | bottegarestaurant.com | Slice | 725 29th St. S., Lakeview | 205-715-9300 | slicebirmingham.com | Dixie Fish Co. | 101 Resource Center Parkway, U.S. 280 | 205-924-3493 | dixiefish.com

Best Mediterranean Food

Taziki's

multiple locations | tazikiscafe.com

In terms of Mediterranean fare, it's hard to top Taziki's. Its Friday Pasta is one of the most popular dishes offered in the area.

Finalists: Makarios Kabob & Grill | 940 20th St. S., Southside | 205-731-7414 | makarioskabob.com | Nabeel's Café & Market | 1706 Oxmoor Road, Homewood | 205-879-9292 | nabeels.com | The Pita Stop | 1106 12th St. S., Southside | 205-328-2749 | 3908 Cross Haven Drive, Cahaba Heights | 205-969-7482 | thepitastop.com | Olive Branch | 3236 Cahaba Heights Road, Cahaba Heights | 205-967-4600 | olivebranchbham.com

Best Mexican Food

El Barrio

2211 Second Ave. N., downtown | 205-868-3737 |

elbarriobirmingham.com

El Barrio offers an interpretation of Mexican cuisine, brought to you by the same culinary talents behind Trattoria Centrale and Paramount.

Finalists: Little Donkey | 2821 Central Ave., Homewood | 205-703-7000 | thelittledonkey.com | La Paz | 99 Euclid Ave., Crestline Village | 205-879-2225 | 3340 Galleria Circle, Hoover | 205-444-2035 | eatatlapaz.com | Cantina | 2901 Second Ave. N., Pepper Place | 205-323-6980 | cantinatortillagrill.com | Chuy's | 216 Summit Blvd., Suite 135 | 205-977-4224 | chuys.com

Best New Restaurant

Post Office Pies

209 41st St. S., Avondale | 205-599-9900

The buzz around Post Office Pies began even before it opened its doors in March. The restaurant features wood-fired pizza and Avondale Brewing Co. beer.

Finalists: Primeaux Cheese and Vino | 300 Summit Place | 205-623-5593 | primeauxcheeseandvino.com | Big Bad Breakfast | 5361 U.S. 280 | 205-490-7568 | Paramount | 200 20th St. N., downtown | 205-320-2824 | paramountbirmingham.com | FoodBar | 3156 Heights Village, Cahaba Heights | 205-876-8100 | foodbarbham.com

Best Pizza

Slice

725 29th St. S., Lakeview | 205-715-9300 | slicebirmingham.com

Located in Lakeview, Slice is known for its great outdoor seating and variety of specialty pizzas. The restaurant's menu offers pizza and beer pairings, emphasizing local brews.

Finalists: Jim Davenport's Pizza Palace | 2837 Cahaba Road, Mountain Brook Village | 205-879-8603 | davenportspizza.com | Post Office Pies | 209 41st St. S., Avondale | 205-599-9900 | New York Pizza | 1010 Oxmoor Road, Homewood | 205-871-4000 | thenewyorkpizza.com | Tortugas | 2801 John Hawkins Parkway, Hoover | 205-403-9800 | tortugaspizza.com

Best Place for a Frozen Treat

Steel City Pops

multiple locations | steelcitypops.com

With a rotating menu of seasonal flavors, this Homewood original has quickly declared itself a favorite in Birmingham and beyond as it opens locations in other cities and states.

Finalists: Edgewood Creamery | 936 Oxmoor Road, Homewood | 205-874-1999 | Doodle's Homemade Sorbets and Ices | 3238 Cahaba Heights Road, Cahaba Heights | 205-478-6082 | Yogurt Mountain | multiple locations | yogurtmountain.com | Mountain Brook Creamery | 2715 Cahaba Road, Mountain Brook Village | 205-870-0092



Best Steak

Fleming's Steakhouse

103 Summit Blvd. | 205-262-9463 | flemingssteakhouse.com

Fleming's Steakhouse is an upscale choice for any special occasion. Its quality steaks are complemented by a wine list with more than 100 options.

Finalists: Ruth's Chris Steak House | 2300 Woodcrest Place | 205-879-9995 | ruthschris.com | MetroPrime Steakhouse | 1035 20th St. S., Southside | 205-623-5288 | metroprimesteak.com | Firebirds | 191 Main St., Hoover | 205-733-2002 | firebirdsrestaurants.com | Outback Steakhouse | multiple locations | outback.com

Best Asian Restaurant

Surin

multiple locations | surinofthailand.com | surinwest.com

Surin's Asian fare is a local favorite, whether you're seeking traditional Thai or sushi.

Finalists: Red Pearl | 243 W. Valley Ave., Homewood | 205-945-9558 | superorientalmkt.com |Mr. Chen's | 1917 Hoover Court, Hoover | 205-824-8283 | mrchenschineseal.com | P.F. Chang's | 233 Summit Blvd. | 205-967-0040 | pfchangs.com | Jinsei Sushi | 1830 29th Ave. S., Homewood | 205-802-1440 | jinseisushi.com

Best Vegetarian Food

Surin

multiple locations | surinofthailand.com | surinwest.com

Surin also offers a number of vegetarian options, including tofu substituted for meat in any dish.

Finalists: Silver Coin Indian | 3321 Lorna Road, Suite 13, Hoover | 205-823-9070 | silvercoinusa.com | Golden Temple | multiple locations | goldentemplehealthfoods.com | Bottletree Café | 3719 Third Ave. S., Avondale | 205-533-6288 | thebottletree.com | Taj India | 2226 Highland Ave. S., Southside | 205-939-3805 | tajindia.net

Best Seafood Restaurant

The Fish Market

612 22nd St. S., Southside | 205-322-3330 | thefishmarket.net | 5407 U.S. 280 | 205-980-8600 | 1681 U.S. 31 | 205-823-3474 | fishmarketrestaurant.com

The Fish Market claims the freshest fish around, available for on-site dining in a variety of Greek-inspired dishes, or for cooking at home thanks to market purchases at George Sarris' Southside location.

Finalists: Ocean | 1218 20th St. S., Southside | 205-933-0999 | oceanbirmingham.com | Dixie Fish Co. | 101 Resource Center Parkway, U.S. 280 | 205-924-3493 | dixiefish.com | Hot and Hot Fish Club | 2180 11th Court S., Southside | 205-933-5474 | hotandhotfishclub.com | Bonefish Grill | 3430 Galleria Circle, Hoover | 205-985-9545 | bonefishgrill.com

Best Local Brewery

Avondale Brewing Company

201 41st St. S., Avondale | 205-777-5456 | avondalebrewing.com

This local brewery is one the most popular stops in Birmingham, with a variety of beers with names that reflect the area's history. The tap room and extensive outdoor space are often hopping, thanks in part to a number of concerts and festivals.

Finalists: Good People Brewing Co. | 114 14th St. S., Southside | 205-286-2337 | goodpeoplebrewing.com | Cahaba Brewing Co. | 2616 Third Ave. S., Lakeview | 205-578-2616 | cahababrewing.com | Trim Tab Brewing Co. | 2721 Fifth Ave. S., Lakeview | 828-545-4746 | trimtabbrewing.com

Best Bartender

Berkley Seay

Iron City | 513 22nd St. S., Southside | 205-202-5483 |

ironcitybham.com; Marty's | 1813 10th Ct. S., Southside; The Nick | 2514 10th Ave. S., Southside | 205-252-3831 | thenickrocks.com; Rojo | 2921 Highland Ave. S., Highland Park | 205-328-4733 | rojobirmingham.com

If you've spent much time at the city's favorite drinking establishments, you've probably come across Berkley Seay. Seay is attentive and always up for a laugh, and his regulars especially love him for his genuine personality.

Finalists: Feizal Valli, Collins Bar | 2125 Second Ave. N., downtown | 205-323-7995 | collinsbirmingham.com | Ashton Dobbs, The Boot at Preserve Village | 616 Preserve Parkway, Suite 112, Hoover | 205-978-8988 | thebootatpreservevillage.vpweb.com | Steva Casey, Garden & Galley | 2220 Highland Ave. S., Southside | 205-939-5551 and Collins Bar | 2125 Second Ave. N., downtown | 205-323-7995 | collinsbirmingham.com | Jason Brunson, Stillwater Pub | 2109 Seventh Ave. S., Southside | 205-202-5625 | stillwaterpub.com

Best Happy Hour

The J. Clyde

1312 Cobb Lane, Southside | 205-939-1312 | jclyde.com

You really can't beat The J. Clyde's Happy Hour, which is Monday through Saturday from 2-6 p.m. In addition to $1 off beer and wine and $3 off well liquor, The J. Clyde also offers a variety of beer specials throughout the week. Mondays are flight nights, during which a pre-selected flight of beers is $10. Enjoy Alabama beers for half price on Tuesdays, select wine and sour beers by the glass on Wild Wine Wednesdays, a new dinner and beer pairing each Thursday and cask tappings on Firkin Fridays.

Finalists: Black Market Bar and Grill | 2011 Highland Ave. S., Southside | 205-933-8035 | 3411 Colonnade Parkway, U.S. 280 | 205-967-8787 | evilbartenders.com | The Boot at Preserve Village | 616 Preserve Parkway, Suite 112, Hoover | 205-978-8988 | thebootatpreservevillage.vpweb.com | Dave's Pub | 1128 20th St. S., Southside | 205-933-4030 | davespubbirmingham.com | Applebee's | multiple locations | applebees.com | DoDiYós | 1831 28th Ave. S., Suite 110, Homewood | 205-453-9300 | dodiyos.com | Mafiaoza's | 2 Dexter Ave., Crestline Village | 205-414-7878 | mafiaozas.com | Merk's Tavern & Kitchen | 1000 Riverchase Galleria, Hoover | 205-404-5731 | On Tap | multiple locations | ontapsportscafe.com



People, Places & Things



Best Hotel

Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort and Spa

4000 Grand Ave., Hoover | 205-916-7677 | marriott.com

Ross Bridge offers guests quite a lot to do. Spend the day playing on the picturesque golf course or relaxing in the spa. There is a wide variety of comfortable rooms to choose from within the beautiful hotel, which boasts all the amenities you've come to expect from Renaissance resorts.

Finalists: The Westin | 2221 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N., downtown | 205-307-3600 | westinbirmingham.com | Aloft | 1903 29th Ave. S., Homewood | 205-874-8055 | aloftbirminghamsohosquare.com | Tutwiler | 2021 Park Place, downtown | 205-322-2100 | hilton.com | The Redmont Hotel | 2101 Fifth Ave. N., downtown | 205-324-2101

Best Boy or Girl Made Good

Condoleezza Rice

Birmingham native Condoleezza Rice served as secretary of state under President George W. Bush from 2005-2009. Before that, Rice served as his national security advisor and the provost of Stanford University.

Finalists: Courteney Cox | Eric Guster

Taylor Hicks | Ruben Studdard

Best Trail or Park

Oak Mountain State Park

200 Terrace Drive, Pelham | 205-620-2524 | alapark.com/oakmountain

The best part of Oak Mountain might be its range of things to do. You could spend a week there and not do everything. Horseback riding, golfing, hiking and camping are just a few of the activities the park has to offer.

Finalists Railroad Park | 1600 First Ave. S., Southside | 205-521-9933 | railroadpark.org | Red Mountain Park | 2011 Frankfurt Drive | 205-202-6043 | redmountainpark.org | Ruffner Mountain | 1214 81st St. S., East Lake | 205-833-8264 | ruffnermountain.org | Moss Rock Preserve | 617 Preserve Parkway, Hoover | 205-739-7141 | hooveral.org

Best TV or Radio Personality

James Spann

James Spann is Birmingham's beloved meteorologist. Through his weather blog, social media and ABC 33/40 News, he brings the city the latest weather updates. His expertise has been a saving grace for residents during unexpected snow and tornadoes.

Finalists: Patrick Claybon, CBS 42 | Scott Register, Birmingham Mountain Radio, 107.3 FM | Rick & Bubba, WZZK 104.7 FM | Mickey Ferguson, FOX6

Best Sports Commentator

Eli Gold, Crimson Tide Radio Network

Eli Gold is probably best known as the radio voice for the University of Alabama football team, but college football is not the only sport he lends his voice to. Gold has also covered NASCAR, Arena Football and NFL games.

Finalists: Patrick Claybon, CBS 42 | Jim Dunaway, WJOX 94.5 FM and CBS 42 | Rick Karle, FOX6 | Paul Finebaum, SEC Network

Best View of the City

The Club

1 Robert S. Smith Drive | 205-323-5821 | theclubinc.org

Set high top Red Mountain, The Club looks out over all of Birmingham. Its astonishing view has made it a favorite spot for meetings, weddings, receptions and all manner of events.

Finalists: Vulcan Park and Museum | 1701 Valley View Drive | 205-933-1409 | visitvulcan.com | Atop Red Mountain | Railroad Park | 1600 First Ave. S., Southside | 205-521-9933 | railroadpark.org | Altamont Road | Redmont Park neighborhood



Shopping & Services



Best Book Store

2nd and Charles

1705 Montgomery Highway S., Hoover | 205-444-0509 | 2ndandcharles.com

2nd and Charles is the area's largest new and used bookstore. Trade in your old books, CDs, DVDs and video games for cash or store credit, then browse the warehouse-sized shop's selection of materials.

Finalists: Barnes & Noble | 201 Summit Blvd., Suite 100 | 205-298-0665 | 171 Main St., Hoover | 205-682-4467 | barnesandnoble.com | Reed Books | 2021 Third Ave. N., downtown | 205-326-4460 | jimreedbooks.com | Alabama Booksmith | 2626 19th Place S., Homewood | 205-870-4242 | alabamabooksmith.com | Books-A-Million | multiple locations | booksamillion.com

Best Boutique

Soca

2820 18th St S, Homewood | 205-879-6788 | socaclothing.com

Whether you're looking to add a few garments to your wardrobe, pick out a new outfit or find something for a special occasion, Soca is the place to go for a variety of women's trends. It's also a local favorite for designer denim.

Finalists: Renaissance Consignment & Marketplace | 6801 Cahaba Valley Road | 205-980-4471 | renaissanceconsignment.com | Lou Lou's | 160 Main Street, Suite 128, Hoover | 205-982-5117 | shopatloulous.com | Mia Moda | 1425 Montgomery Highway, Suite 105, Vestavia Hills | 205-824-9441 | Gus Mayer | 225 Summit Blvd., Suite 700 | 205-870-3300 | gusmayer.com

Best Caterers

Jim n' Nick's BBQ

multiple locations | jimnnicks.com

Jim n' Nick's, which is also a finalist in the best barbecue category, takes home the award for best catering in the city. The barbecue joint offers boxed lunches, a variety of smoked meats and party platters, trimmings and desserts.

Finalists: Kathy G. & Co. | 11 W. Park Circle, Homewood | 205-942-4210 | kathyg.com | Ashley Mac's | multiple locations | ashleymacs.com | Everything Iz | multiple locations | everythingiz.com | Happy Catering Company | 225 Oxmoor Circle, Suite 802, Homewood | 205-251-8925 | happycatering.net

Best Consignment Shop

Renaissance Consignment and Marketplace

6801 Cahaba Valley Road | 205-980-4471 | renaissanceconsignment.com

Whether you're looking for a piece of furniture to liven up a room or an outfit for a special occasion, Renaissance has you covered. The consignment shop has a huge selection of items, so you're likely to find something during each visit.



Finalists: Zoe Consignment and Vintage | 3900 Clairmont Ave. S., Forest Park | 205-595-9049 | zoeshop.com | Collage | 1802 29th Ave. S., Homewood | 205-879-6163 | 700 Montgomery Highway, Suite 106, Vestavia Hills | 205-822-3991 | shopcollage.com | Second Hand Rose | 2015 Valleydale Road, Hoover | 205-987-7027 | 4200 Oakview Lane, Cahaba Heights | 205-970-7997 | shrose.com | Clotheshorse Consignment | 3348 Morgan Drive, Vestavia Hills | 205-823-9144

Best Home or Garden Shop

Leaf & Petal

multiple locations | leafnpetal.com

Those with a green thumb—or aspiring to develop one—should stop by one of Leaf & Petal's three Birmingham locations. With a variety of garden tools, outdoor furniture and jewelry, Leaf & Petal has a variety of options to spruce up your yard or deck.

Finalists: Renaissance Consignment and Marketplace 6801 Cahaba Valley Road, U.S. 280 | 205-980-4471 | renaissanceconsignment.com | Sweet Peas Garden Shop | 2829 Linden Ave., Homewood | 205-879-3839 | sweetpeasgardenshop.com | Charlie Thigpen's | 2805 Second Ave. S., Pepper Place | 205-328-1000 | charlie-thigpen.squarespace.com | Hanna's Garden Shop | 5485 U.S. 280 | 205-991-2939 | hannasgardenshop.com | Andy's Nursery | multiple locations | andysgardencenter.com

Best Jeweler

Diamonds Direct

2800 Cahaba Village Plaza, Suite 150, Cahaba Heights | 205-201-7400 | diamonds-direct.com

Diamonds Direct offers a large selection of rings, earrings and necklaces from a variety of quality of designers, all at competitive prices.

Finalists: Isbell Jewelers | 448 Cahaba Park Circle, Inverness | 205-995-7990 | isbelljewelers.com | Levy's Fine Jewelry | 2116 Second Ave. N., downtown | 205-251-3381 | levysfinejewelry.com | Bromberg & Co. | 2800 Cahaba Road, Mountain Brook Village | 205-871-3276 | 131 Summit Blvd. | 205-969-1776 | brombergs.com | Southeastern Jewelers | 5299 Valleydale Ridge Road, Suite 111 | 205-980-9030 | southeasternjewelers.net

Best Veterinarian

Caldwell Mill Animal Clinic

5196 Caldwell Mill Road, Valleydale | 205-991-7986 | cmacvet.com

With its staff of well-trained professionals, Caldwell Mill Animal Clinic is the perfect place to take your beloved pets for their necessary shots and procedures. The clinic offers everything from surgery and tooth care to grooming and obedience training. Caldwell Mill also offers boarding so while traveling, you'll have peace of mind knowing that your pets are in the best care.

Finalists: William Weber, Eastwood Animal Clinic | 4678 Crestwood Blvd., Irondale | 205-956-4555 | Standifer Animal Clinic | 2810 19th Place S., Homewood | 205-871-8186 | standiferanimalclinic.com | Nall Daniels | 2829 Central Ave., Homewood | 205-879-3409 | nalldaniels.com | Andy Sokol, Caldwell Animal Clinic | 5196 Caldwell Mill Road, Valleydale | 205-991-7986 | cmacvet.com | Hope Animal Clinic | 3051 Morgan Road SE, Bessemer | 205-426-2828

Best Moving Company

Two Men and a Truck

3114 Belwood Drive, Hoover | 205-970-2272 | twomenandatruck.com

When moving, Two Men and a Truck are the people to call. The moving company boasts a 96 percent referral rate, so you know you're leaving your possessions in good hands.

Finalists: Changing Spaces Moving | 130 Inverness Plaza, Suite 243, Inverness | 205-972-0744 | changingspacesmoving.com | Flemming Transfer Co. | 2701 11th Ave. N., downtown | 205-252-0800 | flemmingtransfer.com | McCorquodale Transfer | 381 Summit Blvd. | 205-870-7474 | mtmoves.com | All My Sons Moving and Storage | multiple locations | allmysons.com | New Latitude | 600 University Park Drive, Homewood | 205-970-2222 | 2161 Highway 33, Pelham | 205-988-9000 | newlatitudemovers.com | Motivated Movers | 1969 Chandalar Drive, Suite A | 205-995-7585 | motivatedmoversbham.com

Best Men's Store

Brooks Brothers

205 Summit Blvd., Suite 400 | 205-970-3977 | brooksbrothers.com

Whether you're looking for a new outfit for a work or just something casual to wear around the house, Brooks Brothers is the place to go. The store has an assortment of great-looking sport coats, suits, ties and polo shirts. Look to its Black Fleece line for an even finer still selection of attire.

Finalists: Shaia's | 2818 18th St. S., Homewood | 205-871-1312 | shaias.com | Remon's Clothier | 123 Summit Blvd. | 205-977-5512 | remonsclothier.com | Mobley and Sons | 112 Euclid Ave., Crestline Village | 205-870-7929 | mobleyandsonsclothing.com | Baer's Den | 2800 Cahaba Village Plaza, Suite 160, Cahaba Heights | 205-970-4990 | thebaersden.com

Best Shopping District

The Summit

214 Summit Blvd., Suite 150 | 205-967-0111 | thesummitonline.com

The Summit has everything a shopper is looking for: an assortment of great stores and restaurants, with more opening all the time. Tumi, Calypso St. Barth, Kendra Scott, Lilly Pulitzer and The Art of Shaving are all set to open this fall.

Finalists: Homewood | Riverchase Galleria | 2000 Riverchase Galleria, Hoover | 205-984-3020 | riverchasegalleria.com | The Outlet Shops of Grand River | 6200 Grand River Blvd. E., Leeds | 205-699-3700 | shopsofgrandriver.com | Colonial Brookwood Village | 780 Brookwood Village, Homewood | 205-871-0406 | shopbrookwoodvillage.com



Sports & Leisure



Best Family Outing

Barons Game

Regions Field | 1401 First Ave S., Southside | 205-988-3200 |

barons.com

A night at a Barons game truly is fun for the whole family. Mom and dad can grab a beer while the kids can munch on hot dogs or hamburgers. The new Regions Field has a family friendly vibe at an affordable price. Try the outfield's lawn seating, where you can bring a blanket or chairs and set up shop waiting for a homerun ball to come your way.

Finalists: Birmingham Zoo | 2630 Cahaba Road | 205-879-0409 | birminghamzoo.com | Oak Mountain State Park | 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham | 205-620-2524 | alapark.com/oakmountain | Symphony in the Park | alabamasymphony.org | Railroad Park | 1600 First Ave. S., Southside | 205-521-9933 | railroadpark.org

Best Golf Experience

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Ross Bridge

4000 Grand Ave., Hoover | 205-949-3085 | rtjgolf.com

Looking for a great round of golf? Look no further than the 18-hole Robert Trent Jones course at Ross Bridge. Tee off and play through one of the most beautiful courses in the country, a standout among the trail's renowned options.

Finalists: Roebuck Municipal Golf Course | 8920 Roebuck Blvd., Roebuck | 205-836-7318 | Highland Park Golf Course | 3300 Highland Ave. S., Highland Park | 205-322-1902 | highlandparkgolf.com | Shoal Creek Golf and Country Club | 100 New Williamsburg Drive | 205-991-9000 | shoalcreekclub.com | Ballantrae Golf Club | 1300 Ballantrae Club Drive, Pelham | 205-620-4653 | ballantraegolf.com

Best Gym

YMCA

multiple locations | ymcabham.org

With a membership to the YMCA, you get a lot of amenities, including a full gym with the latest equipment, personal trainers, a pool and even a nutrition consultant. With locations throughout the Greater Birmingham area, there's sure to be a Y for you.

Finalists: Lifetime Fitness | 3051 Healthy Way, Vestavia Hills | 205-547-3100 | lifetimefitness.com | Gold's Gym | multiple locations | goldsgym.com | Fitness 4U 24/7 | 2539 John Hawkins Parkway, Suite 113 | 205-403-3305 | fitness4u247.com | Planet Fitness | multiple locations | planetfitness.com

Best Rock Climbing Spot

Moss Rock Preserve

617 Preserve Parkway, Hoover | 205-739-7141 | hooveral.org

Dozens of climbable boulders cover the Moss Rock Preserve. The challenge varies from boulder to boulder, ranging from easy to hard. It has become a beloved spot for rock climbers, whether they're amateurs or experts.

Finalists: First Avenue Rocks | 2417 First Ave. S., Southside | 205-320-2277 | firstaverocks.com | Horse Pens 40 | 3525 County Road 42, Steele | 256-538-7439 | horsepens40.tripod.com | Oak Mountain State Park | 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham | 205-620-2524 | alapark.com/oakmountain | Ruffner Mountain | 1214 81st St. S., East Lake | 205-833-8264 | ruffnermountain.org | Red Mountain Park | 2011 Frankfurt Drive | 205-202-6043 | redmountainpark.org | UAB Campus Recreation Center | 1501 University Blvd., Southside | 205-934-8224 | uab.edu/campusrecreation