Birmingham, October 15, 2025
News Summary
Birmingham’s business scene is transforming with several new establishments launching while some long-standing businesses close. New dessert lounge Nightcap and women’s boutique Southside Southern are among the fresh offerings, while historic businesses like Homewood Shoe Hospital are adapting to challenges. The ongoing development indicates a thriving economy where consumer demands shape the landscape, highlighting the vibrant culture in Birmingham.
Birmingham is experiencing a dynamic shift in its business landscape as a string of new establishments open their doors while a few long-standing businesses prepare to close. This trend highlights the ongoing evolution of Birmingham’s vibrant economy and community needs.
New Openings
Among the recent additions is Nightcap, a dessert lounge located on 2nd Ave North in downtown Birmingham. This venue meets the growing demand for late-night sweet treats following dinner. On the retail front, Southside Southern, a women’s boutique offering everyday wear, jewelry, and game day clothes, has opened in the Cahaba Market shopping center on Highway 280.
Additionally, Blazer’s Grill has rebranded the restaurant at the renovated Hilton Birmingham Downtown at UAB, featuring a menu that includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner with various vegan and vegetarian options. Another noteworthy opening is El Tigre, a new establishment by local entrepreneur Jesus Mendez, set to debut in the historic Brown Marx Annex in downtown Birmingham.
Another significant development is a new Chick-fil-A coming to Chelsea as part of the $75 million Chelsea Plaza development off Hwy 280. The plaza indicates a larger trend of investment in retail and dining experiences in the area.
Habaneros Mexican Grill has also reopened in a new location on Montgomery Highway in Hoover after having closed earlier this year. Meanwhile, Stone Hollow Farmstead launched a second retail location in Homewood, showcasing seasonal provisions and heirloom goods.
On the culinary front, The Chaat Room specializing in Indian-fusion cuisine is preparing to open soon at The Village at Brock’s Gap in Hoover. Additionally, Encore Rouge, known for its Southern and Cajun-inspired comfort food, plans to relocate to downtown Birmingham’s Two North Twentieth building.
Other upcoming developments include Orange Theory merging its downtown location with its Vestavia Hills branch after the last class on October 23, and a new Joy East Buffet, which is set to open in Trussville at the former location of Red Robin.
Business Closures
Amid these new openings, there are some closures to note. Homewood Shoe Hospital, a local business in operation since the 1960s, will be closing its doors in December and shifting to a shoe lift service. This decision underscores the challenges faced by small businesses amidst changing consumer behaviors.
Additionally, Yo’ Mama’s Restaurant is relocating to 2024 Fourth Ave. N. on January 6 after moving from Second Avenue North, indicating a shift in the local dining scene.
Future Developments
The excitement won’t end here, as several additional projects are planned for the Birmingham area. Onelife Fitness is projected to open at least six health clubs in the Birmingham area, with the first scheduled for December in McCalla. Raising Cane’s is also looking to expand into Birmingham following the successful opening of 118 restaurants nationwide in 2024.
Lastly, Cattywampus, a bar in downtown Columbiana, will start serving a limited menu of prepackaged snacks soon. Meanwhile, Wooden City Birmingham gears up for its opening with a menu that will include wood fire pizza and various house specials. The El Royale Cafe, a new Mexican restaurant, is also scheduled to launch in spring at the former Carrigan’s Beer Garden location.
Conclusion
The changes in Birmingham’s business landscape reflect the city’s ability to adapt and evolve, offering a mix of dining, shopping, and fitness options for residents and visitors alike. As new businesses emerge and old ones close, Birmingham continues to shape its identity as an exciting place to live and work.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What new dessert lounge has opened in Birmingham?
The new dessert lounge is called Nightcap.
Where is Southside Southern located?
Southside Southern is located in the Cahaba Market shopping center on Highway 280.
What is unique about Blazer’s Grill?
Blazer’s Grill offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including various vegan and vegetarian options.
What is happening to the Homewood Shoe Hospital?
Homewood Shoe Hospital will close its doors in December and transition to a shoe lift service.
What new restaurant is opening in Trussville?
Joy East Buffet is set to open in Trussville at the former location of Red Robin.
Summary of Business Changes in Birmingham
| Business | Status | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Nightcap | Opened | 2nd Ave North |
| Southside Southern | Opened | Cahaba Market on Hwy 280 |
| Blazer’s Grill | Rebranded | Hilton Birmingham Downtown at UAB |
| Habaneros Mexican Grill | Reopened | Montgomery Highway in Hoover |
| Homewood Shoe Hospital | Closing | Homewood |
| Joy East Buffet | Coming Soon | Former Red Robin in Trussville |
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Additional Resources
- WVTM 13: Alabama Birmingham NBA Basketball Game Events Local Business
- Wikipedia: Birmingham, Alabama
- Bham Now: 6 New Businesses & 1 Closure in Birmingham Area
- Google Search: Birmingham Alabama businesses
- AL.com: Homewood Business Closing
- Google Scholar: Birmingham Alabama business trends
- Bham Now: 6 New Coming Soon Businesses in Birmingham
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Birmingham Alabama
- AL.com: Businesses Coming to Birmingham Area
- Google News: Birmingham Alabama new businesses
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
