News Summary
Birmingham is witnessing exciting transformations in its culinary and retail sector with several new openings and some bittersweet closures. Notable additions include the city’s first dessert bar, Ampersand Cocktails & Desserts, The Yard Gym, and The Toasted Yolk Cafe. The community also welcomes popular brands like Kung Fu Tea and OsteoStrong, expanding their reach in the area. While the changes are thrilling, Birmingham bids farewell to Red Bird Produce and Uproot Brewing, reminding us to support local favorites during these transitions.
Exciting Changes Rock Birmingham’s Culinary and Retail Scene!
Hey, Birmingham! It’s that time again when our lovely city experiences some amazing changes in the culinary and retail landscape. The past few weeks have been buzzing with thrilling openings and a few closures that will surely make waves in our community. Let’s dive into the delicious and trendy updates happening around town!
A Sweet New Spot
On July 3, Birmingham celebrated the grand opening of Ampersand Cocktails & Desserts, the city’s very first dedicated dessert bar! Get ready to indulge in high-end, alcohol-infused treats paired with craft cocktails. It’s a perfect place for dessert lovers to try something new and thrilling!
Fitness Meets Fun
Fitness enthusiasts, listen up! The Yard Gym has just opened its doors, nestled conveniently between the UAB and VA Medical Center. This innovative gym focuses on individual and group performances, tailored to meet every fitness dream you might have. Founded by Aussie duo Tiarne and Daniel Bova, it promises to bring a fresh approach to health and wellness!
Bone & Joint Care Expansion
Good news for those looking to boost their bone health! OsteoStrong, a global franchise specializing in bone and joint wellness, expanded to a new location in Hoover. This marks the second location for local team Matthew and Ashley Laird, who are excited to help our community thrive.
Brunch Lovers Rejoice!
If breakfast and brunch are your jam, you’re in for a treat! The Toasted Yolk Cafe, hailing from Houston, Texas, is all set to open its third Alabama location at the 20 Midtown development on July 14. You won’t want to miss their mouth-watering brunch specialties!
Bubble Tea Delight
A new wave of beverage excitement is hitting Birmingham with the upcoming opening of Kung Fu Tea at Tattersall Park on Highway 280 and U.S. 119. Known for a colorful array of customizable bubble tea drinks, this is the perfect place to quench your thirst on a hot day!
Italian Flavors Coming Soon
If you’re an Italian cuisine fan, good news is on the horizon! Locanda Brasato is slated to open in the fall in the former Post Office Pies space at Lane Parke, promising to deliver some delightful culinary experiences. Keep your taste buds at the ready!
Bird Lovers Unite!
Embracing nature is what Birmingham is all about! Wild Birds Unlimited is expanding with a second location, offering birdseed, feeders, houses, and all sorts of lovely gifts for birding enthusiasts. It’s a feathered friend paradise!
A Bittersweet Goodbye
In the world of closures, Birmingham will bid farewell to Red Bird Produce effective July 12. This closure serves as a reminder to support local favorites like Cha House and Veggie Fiend. Similarly, Uproot Brewing will be closing its physical space on July 6, but don’t worry! They plan to continue their brews by partnering with another local brewery.
A Fresh Sandwich Scene
Good sandwiches are never far away! The Electric East has just opened in Avondale, an exciting expansion from Bluff Park’s popular The Electric, brought to you by the husband-and-wife duo Ben and Laura Smith. Meanwhile, On A Bun BHAM is gearing up to launch on 2nd Ave N with a gluten-friendly menu inspired by Yo’ Mama’s!
New Experiences Await
New venues are also popping up! Horton Enterprise Studios on 5th Ave N is ready to host various events, while Pop Up Bar Bham has opened at Canvas on Morris, bringing a tropical-themed entertainment experience. Get ready to make some unforgettable memories!
More Chicken and Comfort Food!
Chicken lovers will find joy at the newly opened Waldo’s Chicken & Beer in Vestavia Hills, alongside the original Guthrie’s location that’s also opened on Montgomery Highway. Plus, don’t miss Thelma’s Place in Pleasant Grove, where a rotating menu of delicious southern comfort food will keep you coming back for more!
Exciting Retail Additions
On the retail side, Alo Yoga, the high-end yoga retailer known for its superior yoga apparel, is set to light up The Summit. Furthermore, keep an eye out for Curry Up Now, the fast-casual Indian street food restaurant bringing exciting flavors to the city, and Saffron & Silk, an upcoming supper club slated to open in 2025!
Birmingham is buzzing and our community is continuously evolving with these new openings and bittersweet closures. Whether you’re looking for delicious bites, fitness fun, or unique shopping experiences, there’s something for everyone in Birmingham’s vibrant scene!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Huntsville Celebrates Fourth of July with Gourmet Hot Dogs
Exploring Birmingham’s Diverse Museums
Birmingham Welcomes First Dessert Bar with Ampersand Cocktails & Desserts
The Toasted Yolk Cafe Opens in Birmingham
Birmingham Welcomes The Toasted Yolk Cafe
Birmingham Welcomes New Steakhouse ‘Armour House’
Raising Cane’s Set to Open New Location in Birmingham
Brandon Welcomes Slutty Vegan: A New Culinary Adventure
Locanda Brasato to Open in Mountain Brook
Birmingham’s Wine Scene Faces Tariff Challenges
Additional Resources
- Bham Now: 5 Openings & 1 Closure
- AL.com: Birmingham Business Alliance
- AL.com: 17 Businesses Coming to Birmingham Area
- Bham Now: 6 New Coming Soon Businesses
- Crain’s Detroit: RH Birmingham Opening Date
- Wikipedia: Birmingham
- Google Search: Birmingham news
- Google Scholar: Birmingham businesses
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Birmingham
- Google News: Birmingham business news
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.
