Arts & Entertainment
Best Annual Event
INDY GRAND PRIX OF ALABAMA
6040 Barber Motorsports Parkway | (877) 332-7804 | barbermotorsports.com
After
three great years, this event has already become the favorite with
voters. In terms of pure speed and adrenaline, there's been nothing else
like it in town.
FINALISTS | Earth Month at Richard Joseph SalonSpa, Multiple locations, richardjosephsalonspa.com | SEC Baseball Tournament, Regions Park, 100 Ben Chapman Drive, Hoover, (205) 988-3200, secsports.com
Best Art Festival
BBVA COMPASS MAGIC CITY ART CONNECTION
Three
decades old, this fantastic downtown arts festival has launched the
careers of many artists and has made a name for Birmingham as a cultural
destination.
FINALISTS | Art Walk, Sept. 7-8, birminghamartwalk.org | Moss Rock Festival, mossrockfestival.com
Best Art Gallery
NAKED ART GALLERY
3831 Clairmont Ave., Forest Park | (205) 595-3553 | nakedartusa.com
Funky
and fun, this Forest Park gallery, owned by Veronique Vanblaere, is a
hit with locals and visitors for its fresh take on art that is
meaningful but not intimidating.
FINALISTS | Matt Jones Art Gallery, 2830 6th Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 521-6656, mattjonesgallery.com | Monty Stabler Galleries, 1811 29th Avenue South, Homewood, (205) 879-9888, montystablergalleries.com
Best Charity Event
EARTH MONTH, RICHARD JOSEPH SALONSPA
This
fundraiser is part of Aveda's "Every Drop Matters" Campaign. Locally,
the event donates 100 percent of proceeds to the Cahaba River Society.
It's a great party with a real purpose.
FINALISTS | Alys Robinson Stephens Center VIVA Health Starlight Gala, 1200 10th Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 975-2787, alysstephens.uab.edu | CCA Crawfest at Birmingham Zoo, 2630 Cahaba Road, Birmingham, (205) 879-0409, birminghamzoo.com
Best Cultural Institution
BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART
2000 8th Avenue South, Birmingham | (205) 254-2565 | artsbma.org
With
its impressive permanent collection and notable temporary exhibits, not
to mention the new Bartís Art Adventure for kids and summertime Art on
the Rocks events, the Birmingham Museum of Art continues to justify its
role as the city's number-one cultural institution.
FINALISTS | Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, 520 16th Street North, Birmingham, (205) 328-9696, bcri.org | McWane Science Center, 205 19th Street North, Birmingham, (205) 714-8300, mcwane.org
Best Kids' Dance Classes
CHILDREN'S DANCE FOUNDATION
1715 27th Court South, Homewood | (205) 870-0073 | childrensdancefoundation.org
Over
the past 37 years, the dance studio in downtown Homewood has become
something of an institution. Offering far more than just kids' classes,
CDF is the top choice for locals looking for some of the best dance
instruction anywhere.
FINALISTS | ArtPlay, 1530 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 975-4769, artplayasc.org | Dale Serrano Dance Studio, 2121 Arbor Hill Parkway, Birmingham, (205) 682-0800, daleserranodance.com
Best Kids' Music Lessons
MASON MUSIC
3187 Cahaba Heights Road, Vestavia Hills | (205) 908-7059 | masonmusicstudios.com
This
Cahaba Heights studio is the natural next step for owners Will and
Sarah Mason, musicians who once traveled to homes around town teaching
classes. They offer lessons in guitar, drums, voice, piano and group
performance.
FINALISTS | ArtPlay 1530 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 975-4769, artplayasc.org | Birmingham School of Music, 800 Olde Towne Road, Vestavia Hills, (205) 969-8763, birminghamschoolofmusic.com
Best Live Music Venue
BOTTLETREE CAFÈ
3719 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham | (205) 533-6288 | thebottletree.com
Although
it's not huge, Bottletree has developed such an impressive reputation
with both performers and show attendees that many significant acts put
the Avondale location on their tour map. The Airstream accommodations
and delicious vegetarian food are also big hits.
FINALISTS | Workplay, 500 23rd Street South, Birmingham, (205) 879-4773, workplay.com | Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center, 1200 10th Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 975-2787, alysstephens.uab.edu
Best Local Actor or Actress
HAL WORD
Hal
Word has proven himself to be one of Birmingham's most versatile
actors, whether in musicals "The Wild Party" at the Virginia Samford
Theatre; "The Sound of Music" at Red Mountain Theatre Company), comedy
("China: The Whole Enchilada" at Terrific New Theatre) or in more
dramatic roles ("Becky Shaw" at Birmingham Festival Theatre).
FINALISTS | Ben Taylor | Jan Hunter
Best Local Artist
MICHAEL SWANN
Painter, printmaker and photographer Michael Swann creates works that celebrate the human form.
FINALISTS | Gary Chapman, garychapmanart.com | Sherri Van Pelt, birminghamartwalk.org
Best Local Band (original music)
THE GREAT BOOK OF JOHN
As
soon as this handful of area musicians joined forces to form The Great
Book of John, the crowd followed. Richly produced and dense with sound,
this band is also known for its impressive songwriting.
FINALISTS | Matthew Mayfield, matthewmayfield.com | Within Reason, withinreasonmusic.com
Best Local Cover Band
GENTLEMAN ZERO
205-908-3829 | gentlemanzero.com
This
dynamic band features members from diverse backgrounds, a key reason
why their sound is so flexible and so exciting. Find them at
Café Firenze, Courtyard on 280 and other area bars.
FINALISTS | The Raygun Administration, theraygunadministration.net | Black Jacket Symphony, blackjacketsymphony.com
Best Local Music Festival
SCHAEFFER EYE CENTER CRAWFISH BOIL
It
just keeps going-and growing. The Schaeffer Eye Center Crawfish Boil
has become the dominant music festival in the metro area with more
impressive acts every year.
FINALISTS | Secret Stages, secretstages.net | The Preserve Jazz Festival, preservejazz.com
Best Marching Band
HOMEWOOD HIGH SCHOOL
Music
instruction is a key element of education in the Homewood City School
System, and the marching band is the most visible example of the
system's success. Marching in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and the
Rose Bowl Parade in recent years, this band has a following far beyond
its immediate community.
FINALISTS | Hoover High School | UAB
Best Night Club
THE QUEST CLUB
416 24th Street South, Birmingham | (205) 251-4313 | quest-club.com
Great
music, an accepting vibe (everyone is welcome, any night of the week),
and everything from karaoke, drag shows and more. Oh, and it's open
24/7.
FINALISTS | Aqua, 2824 5th Avenue South, Birmingham (205) 396-7238, aquabham.com | Workplay, 500 23rd Street South, Birmingham, (205) 879-4773, workplay.com
Best Place to Take an Out-of-Towner
VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM
1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham | (205) 933-1409 | visitvulcan.com
What's
not to like? It's got history, it's got a great view of both Jones
Valley and Shades Mountain, it's close to everything-and it has a giant
cast iron statue of a Roman god with a bare derriere.
FINALISTS | Barber Motorsports Park, 6040 Barber Motorsports Parkway, (877) 332-7804, barbermotorsports.com | Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, 520 16th Street North, Birmingham (205) 328-9696, bcri.org
Best Place to Watch a Movie
RAVE THEATRES
When
the latest blockbuster is out, you gotta go big. Big seats, big screen,
big popcorn, big drink. Rave is the city's favorite movie location
hands down.
FINALISTS | Free Friday Flicks, homewoodparks.com | The Edge, edgetheaters.com
Best Radio Station
BIRMINGHAM MOUNTAIN RADIO
Only
a few years old, this Internet radio station scored some major local
talent from the get-go and built some top-notch programs that have
secured a solid listener base. Best of all: You can enjoy it on your
computer at work.
Best Theater Company
TERRIFIC NEW THEATRE
2821 2nd Avenue South, Birmingham | (205) 328-0868 | terrificnewtheatre.com
This
26-year-old theater group performs all manner of things from their
intimate stage at Pepper Place. No matter what the show, you can bet
it's always going to be something memorable at TNT.
FINALISTS | ArtPlay, 1530 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 975-4769, artplayasc.org | Red Mountain Theatre Company, 301 19th Street North, Birmingham, (205) 324-2424, redmountaintheatre.org
Best TV Station
FOX 6
With
a stable of highly experienced on-air, production and reporting talent,
and a deeply entrenched brand in the community, Fox 6 wins this
category handily.
FINALISTS | ABC 33/40 | CBS 42
Food
Best Bar
THE BARKING KUDU
2929 7th Avenue South, Birmingham | (205) 328-1748 | thebarkingkudu.com
Now
something of a local institution, this Lakeview Bar has enough space to
pack in a party. Live music and regular drink specials keep the people
coming year round.
FINALISTS | Good People Brewing Company, 114 14th Street South, Birmingham, (205) 286-2337, goodpeoplebrewing.com | Old Car Heaven, 115 35th Street South, Birmingham, (205) 326-8902, oldcarheaven.com
Best Barbecue
SAW'S BBQ
1008 Oxmoor Road, Homewood | (205) 879-1937 | sawsbbq.com
Like
a barbecue siren song, Mike Wilson's Edgewood joint beckons customers
from far and wide with its ubiquitous wood smoke. Inside, fans are
rewarded with fork-tender smoked chicken and pork, massive ribs, and an
assortment of homemade sides and desserts that change seasonally.
FINALISTS | Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q, multiple locations, jimnnicks.com | Dreamland BBQ, 1427 14th Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 933-2133, dreamlandbbq.com
Best Brunch
OVER EASY
358 Hollywood Boulevard, Homewood | (205) 639-1910 |
eatovereasy.com
The
relatively new restaurant at Hollywood Boulevard and Highway 280
intersection is packed on weekend mornings, and with good reason. Fresh
and healthy menu items, many sourced locally, have made believers out of
Birmingham. Make sure to try the blue grits.
FINALISTS | Trattoria Centrale, 207 20th Street South, Birmingham, (205) 202-5612, trattoriacentrale.com | The Bottletree Café, 3719 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 533-6288, thebottletree.com
Best Burger
FIVE GUYS
Although
it's a chain, the high-quality ingredients, nearly countless
combinations of toppings and to-die-for fries at Five Guys has convinced
locals that they deserve the top spot. Anyplace that serves malt
vinegar has got to be a winner.
FINALISTS | Chez Fonfon, 2007 11th Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 939-3221, fonfonbham.com | The J. Clyde, 1312 Cobb Lane, Birmingham, (205) 939-1312, jclyde.com
Best Chinese
SHANGRI-LA
4500 Montevallo Road, Birmingham | (205) 951-3168 | shangrila3168.com
The elegant interior of this Eastwood restaurant is instantly calming; the comprehensive menu and full bar is utterly rewarding.
FINALISTS | Mr. Chen’s, 1917 Hoover Court, Birmingham, (205) 824-8283, mrchenschinesecooking.com | PF Chang’s, Summit Boulevard, Birmingham, (205) 967-0040, pfchangs.com
Best Coffee Shop
LUCY'S COFFEE AND TEA
2007 University Boulevard, Birmingham | (205) 328-2007 | lucyscoffeeandtea.com
This
Southside coffee shop is more than just a place to get a cup of joe.
It's a community. If you're in need of a pick-me-up, in the form or
caffeine or just a cheerful hello and a fresh sandwich on a bright
yellow plate, this is the place for you.
FINALISTS | O’Henry’s, Multiple locations, ohenryscoffees.com | Primavera Coffee Roasters, 4133 White Oak Drive, Birmingham, (205) 969-1177, primaveracoffee.com
Best Cupcake
DREAMCAKES
960 Oxmoor Road, Homewood | (205) 871-9377 | dreamcakes-bakery.com
If
you haven't had one of Jan Moon's cupcakes by now, you are in a
shrinking minority. The little Cahaba Heights shop relocated to
Edgewood, bought a food truck, and watched its business explode. These
delectable delights are not to be missed.
FINALISTS | Edgar’s Bakery, Multiple locations, edgarsbakery.com | Gigi’s Cupcakes, 4745 Chace Circle #121, Hoover, (205) 444-4170, gigiscupcakesusa.com
Best Deli
MAX'S DELICATESSEN
3431 Colonnade Parkway, Birmingham | (205) 968-7600 | maxsdelionline.com
Piled
high with meat and cheese and supplemented with delicious salads, chips
and pickles, the sandwiches at Max's Deli are the closest thing to the
real New York deal anywhere here in Birmingham. The pastrami is amazing.
FINALISTS | Mr. P’s Deli, 813 Shades Crest Road, Hoover, (205) 823-6136, mrpdeli.com | Diplomat Deli, 1425 Montgomery Highway, Vestavia Hills, (205) 979-1515, diplomatdeli.com
Best Dessert
EDGAR'S BAKERY
Multiple locations, edgarsbakery.com
So
many choices, so little time. Cookies? Brownies? Cake? Pie? Cupcakes?
Muffins? Pastries? Edgar's has it all, beautifully displayed and
lovingly made.
FINALISTS | Cheesecake Factory, 236 Summit Boulevard, Birmingham, (205) 262-1800, thecheesecakefactory.com | Red Mango Frozen Yogurt and Smoothies, two locations, redmangousa.com
Best Food and/or Drink Festival
BREAK 'N BREAD
Now
sprawling across Railroad Park and featuring a growing number of
participating restaurants, this festival benefits the Birmingham
Originals, a collective of local chefs.
FINALISTS | Greek Food Festival, bhamgreekfestival.org | Magic City Brewfest, magiccitybrewfest.com
Best Food Truck
CANTINA ON WHEELS
Cantina
has been at it's brick-and-mortar location in Pepper Place for a
decade, so it's no surprise that when the late, great Guillermo Castro
took his Mexican street food to, wellÖthe street, that people would
respond. Nothing is happier than the sight of hot fish tacos being
served just down the block.
FINALISTS | Shindigs Catering, shindigscateringtrucks.com | Dreamcakes Bakery, dreamcakes-bakery.com
Best Girls' Night Out
BOTTEGA CAFÈ
2240 Highland Avenue South, Birmingham | (205) 939-1000 | bottegarestaurant.com
Yes,
it has some of the best food in the nation. But Bottega is also a hip,
happening hot spot and wins big in the Girls' Night Out category. If you
want to see and be seen, you can't do any better than Bottega.
FINALISTS | Chez Fonfon, 2007 11th Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 939-3221, fonfonbham.com | Sips ‘n Strokes, Multiple locations,
sipsnstrokes.com
Best Italian Food
BOTTEGA CAFÈ
2240 Highland Avenue South, Birmingham | (205) 939-1000 | bottegarestaurant.com
Frank
Stitt's brilliant two-sided restaurant on Highland Avenue has
completely transformed the way we think about food in Birmingham. The
café side specializes in seasonal, casual Italian food featuring local
ingredients.
FINALISTS
| Gianmarco’s, 721 Broadway Street, Homewood, (205) 871-9622 | Joe’s
Italian, 21 Weatherly Club Drive, Alabaster, (205) 663-4111, joesitalianonline.com
Best Local Chef
CHRIS HASTINGS
2180 11th Court South, Birmingham | (205) 933-5474 | hotandhotfishclub.com
Birmingham's
first Iron Chef winner has earned his title through hard work both at
home and on the Food Network sound stage. Inside his restaurant, Hot and
Hot Fish Club, and through his cookbooks and other regional menus,
Hastings has built a mighty reputation all his own.
FINALISTS | Frank Stitt, Highlands Bar and Grill, 2011 11th Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 939-1400, highlandsbarandgrill.com | Becky Satterfield, Satterfield’s Restaurant, 3161 Cahaba Heights Road, Vestavia Hills, (205) 969-9690, satterfieldsrestaurant.com
Best Mediterranean Food
AL'S DELI AND GRILL
21629 10th Avenue South, Birmingham | (205) 939-4278 | alsdeliandgrill.com
A UAB favorite, Al's Deli and Grill says it all on their website: "Where the service is fast and the portions are large!"
FINALISTS | DoDiYos, 1831 28th Avenue South, Homewood, (205) 453-9300, dodiyos.com | Nabeel’s Café, 1706 Oxmoor Road, Homewood, (205) 879-9292, nabeels.com
Best Mexican Food
SOL Y LUNA
2811 7th Avenue South, Birmingham | (205) 322-1186 | solylunabirmingham.com
Guillermo
Castro opened his Mexican tapas restaurant more than a decade ago and
saw an immediate success. Years later, this local gem still features
fresh Gulf seafood, a large selection of high-end tequilas and a
gorgeous second-floor patio. We miss you, Guillermo, but your vision
lives on.
FINALISTS | El Barrio, 2211 2nd Avenue North, Birmingham, (205) 868-3737, elbarriobirmingham.com | Sol Azteca, 1360 Montgomery Highway, Vestavia Hills, (205) 979-4902
Best New Restaurant
LITTLE DONKEY
2821 Central Avenue, Homewood | (205) 703-7000 | thelittledonkey.com
Opened
by Jim 'N Nicks owners Fresh Hospitality, this authentic taqueria found
a home in an underused brick building in Homewood and almost
immediately transformed the entire block into a hip food zone. A variety
of tacos, served in fresh corn tortillas made on site daily, share menu
space with fascinating soups, sides and a cocktail menu you'll be
dreaming about for days after.
FINALISTS | O Sushi, 5519 Grove Boulevard, Hoover, (205) 733-3736 | FIVE, 744 29th Street South, Birmingham (205) 868-3841, five-restaurant.com
Best Pizza
SLICE PIZZA & BREW
725 29th Street South, Birmingham | (205) 715-9300 | slicebirmingham.com
The
Bajalieh brothers have taken a classic pairing: pizza and beer, and
have elevated both to a new level. An impressive menu of hand-crafted
pizzas and an amazing array of local and national craft beers mean that
this is not just your ordinary pitcher-and-pepperoni dinner. This is an
experience.
FINALISTS | Mafiaoza’s, 2 Dexter Avenue, Birmingham, (205) 414-7878, mafiaozas.com | California Pizza Kitchen, two locations, cpk.com
Best Place for a Frozen Treat
ZEN YOGURT AND SMOOTHIES
1801 5th Avenue South, Birmingham | (205) 701-1161 | zen-yogurt.com
Zen
Yogurt stormed onto the frozen yogurt scene and quickly built a
passionate following. Their sweet/tangy treats, bursting with healthy
goodness, are the reason why.
FINALISTS | Steel City Pops, 2821 Central Avenue, Suite 109, Homewood, (205) 969-8770, steelcitypops.com | Red Mango Frozen Yogurt and Smoothies, redmangousa.com
Best Romantic Dinner
OCEAN
1218 20th Street South, Birmingham | (205) 933-0999 | oceanbirmingham.com
Maybe
it's the groovy, cool-blue interior. Or maybe it's the great service.
Or perhaps it's the amazing seafood. Heck, maybe it really is the
oysters. No matter what the reason is, it works for couples at Ocean.
FINALISTS | Café Dupont, 113 20th Street North, Birmingham, (205) 322-1282, cafedupont.net | Highlands Bar and Grill, 2011 11th Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 939-1400, highlandsbarandgrill.com
Best Service
HIGHLANDS BAR AND GRILL
2011 11th Avenue South, Birmingham | (205) 939-1400 | highlandsbarandgrill.com
It's
like a ballet, really. The coordination between hostess, servers,
kitchen staff and chef is so beautifully choreographed at Highlands that
you take it for granted. And that's just the way they want it. Your
every need is met before you realize you even have a need-all so you can
focus on the food.
FINALISTS | The TakeOut Birmingham, (205) 823-7424, thetakeoutbham.com | Vino, 1930 Cahaba Road, Birmingham (205) 870-8404, vinobirmingham.com
Best Steak
OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE
The editors were surprised but the people have spoken: the steaks at Outback win the category.
FINALISTS | Ruth’s Chris Steak House, 2300 Woodcrest Place, Homewood, (205) 879-9995, ruthschris.com | MetroPrime Steakhouse, 1035 20th Street South, Birmingham, (205) 623-5288, metroprimesteak.com
Best Sushi
SURIN RESTAURANTS
Even with four locations around the city, Surin's sushi menu has stayed delicious and popular.
FINALISTS | O Sushi, 5519 Grove Boulevard, Hoover, (205) 733-3736 | Sekisui, 700 Montgomery Hwy, Suite 178, (205) 978-7775, sekisuiusa.com
Best Thai
SURIN RESTAURANTS
In
addition to their extensive sushi menu, Surin also specializes in its
native Thai cuisine. After 17 years in Birmingham, the restaurant has
built a large and dedicated following.
FINALISTS
| Taste of Thailand, 3321 Lorna Road, #3, Birmingham, (205) 978-6863 |
Taipei 101, 471 Green Springs Highway, Homewood, (205) 912-7037, taipei101bham.com
Best Vegetarian Food
THE BOTTLETREE CAFÈ
3719 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham | (205) 533-6288 | thebottletree.com
Although
they closed for lunch several months ago, this popular music venue and
vegetarian restaurant is back open, and folks are thrilled. For a
healthy meal that won't weigh you down during the day, check out
Bottletreeís fresh and fantastic midday fare.
FINALISTS | Zoe’s Kitchen, Mutiple locations, zoeskitchen.com | Golden Temple, two locations, goldentemplehealthfoods.com
People, Places & Things
Best Beach Getaway
ORANGE BEACH
A
paradise vacation without the cost of an airline ticket is one of the
many reasons Orange Beach should be your next road trip destination.
With entertainment like golf courses, amusement parks, and of course the
white sand and blue water, this small town has something for everyone.
FINALISTS | Destin area, emeraldcoastfl.com | Gulf Shores, gulfshores.com
Most Colorful Politician
LARRY LANGFORD
Despite (or because of?) imprisonment, the former mayor takes this in a landslide.
FINALISTS | Mary Buckelew | William Bell
Best Columnist
JOHN ARCHIBALD
A
columnist's job isn't an easy one. They have to make sure their readers
are constantly engaged with new material. It's clear that this
Birmingham News writer knows how to keep the public interested because
he's continued his winning streak from last year.
FINALISTS | Micah House-Cargo, B-Metro | Michael Huebner, The Birmingham News
Best Day-Trip Destination
ATLANTA
When
you feel the need to something a bit bigger than Birmingham, take the
short drive to ATL. With easy access to new museums, concert halls,
sporting arenas, historical centers, the Georgia Aquarium, the World of
Coca-Cola, CNN Studio and Underground Atlanta's shops and restaurants,
you can get a big-cty cultural experience without jet lag.
FINALISTS | Chattanooga, chattanoogafun.com | Pensacola, visitpensacola.com
Best Hotel
ALOFT HOTEL
1903 29th Avenue South, Homewood | (205) 874-8055 | aloftbirminghamsohosquare.com
With
the ability to step outside the front entrance and walk to any of the
shops in Homewood and SOHO square, Aloft Hotel is the perfect spot for
visitors. With a pool, entertainment for kids and plenty of delicious
eatery options, this hotel will please even the pickiest of travelers.
FINALISTS | The Historic Tutwiler Hotel, 2021 Park Place, (205) 322-2100, thetutwilerhotel.com | Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa, 4000 Grand Ave., Hoover, (205) 916-7677, rossbridgeresort.com
Best Lake Getaway
SMITH LAKE
We
all know that the best way to cool down is a trip to the lake. Smith
Lake offers cabins, fishing piers, boating and the cleanest lake water
in the state.
FINALISTS | Lake Martin | Lake Guntersville
Best Library
HOOVER PUBLIC LIBRARY
200 Municipal Drive, Hoover | (205) 444-7800 | hooverlibrary.org
Libraries
are no longer places just for books. While Hoover Public Library offers
thousands of printed tomes, there are also video games, movies, classes
for adults and children as well as other special events.
FINALISTS | Birmingham Public Library-Central Branch, 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, (205) 226-2604, bham.lib.al.us | Homewood Public Library, 1721 Oxmoor Road, Homewood, (205) 332-6600, homewoodpubliclibrary.org
Best Local Blog
BIRMINGHAM MOMMY
Information
abounds on this local blog. With tips on what to do, how to live, what
to buy, prizes to win and more, no local mom need ever worry again. And
it's all done with a heavy dose of humor and empathy.
FINALISTS | Jen West Quest, thejenwestquest.com | Same Chic Different Day, samechicdifferentday.com
Best Local who has Appeared on Reality Television
MARTIE DUNCAN
Martie
Duncan has been cooking and entertaining in Birmingham for some time.
However, just this year she made it onto "Food Network Star" where she
appeared in the finals. Even though she may not have won, she still
shines brightly in Birmingham's culinary constellation.
FINALISTS | Taylor Hicks | Tribble Reese
Best Park
RAILROAD PARK
Between 14th and 18th Streets and First Avenue South | railroadpark.org
This
19-acre greenspace has shown up in multiple categories. It has been a
crowd favorite since it opened in September 2010, and seems to be just
the right amount of outdoors in the midst of our urban cityscape.
FINALISTS | Moss Rock Preserve, Preserve Parkway, Hoover, hooveral.org | Homewood Central Park, 1632 Oxmoor Road, Homewood, homewoodparks.com
Best Place to People Watch
RIVERCHASE GALLERIA
3000 Riverchase Galleria, Hoover, (205) 985-3020 | riverchasegalleria.com
The
food court at Riverchase Galleria is prime seating for people watching.
With hundreds of tables and plenty of restaurant choices, shoppers can
enjoy the view for hours.
FINALISTS | Railroad Park, Between 14th and 18th Streets and First Avenue South, railroadpark.org | Five Points
Best Place to Take a Date
CAFÈ DUPONT
113 20th Street N., (205)-322-1282 | cafedupont.net
Drinks
and dinner in this historic building feels like a step back to the
romantic Roaring '20s. The French/Southern menu changes constantly, so
it's worth making this a regular date spot.
FINALISTS | Highlands Bar and Grill, 2011 11th Ave. S., Five Points South, (205) 939-1400, highlandsbarandgrill.com | Comedy Club Stardome, 1818 Data Drive, Hoover, (205) 444-0008, stardome.com
Best Radio Personality
SCOTT REGISTER
Reg's
Coffeehouse was Scott Register's brainchild 15 years ago, and he's
still reaching the Birmingham community, as well as a large syndicated
audience, almost daily. Birmingham Mountain Radio hosts him on Sundays
from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and weekdays from 6 to 10 a.m. on The Morning
Blend.
Best Sports Commentator
SHELDON HAYGOOD
Sheldon
Haygood of Fox 6 News is the city's favorite weekend sports anchor. He
is on the move during the week covering sporting events in the
Birmingham area as well as the Southeast. You can find him on Twitter @SheldonFox6.
FINALISTS | Paul Finebaum, WJOX-FM 94.5 | Rick Karle, FOX 6 News
Best TV Personality
BRENDA LADUN
ABC
33/40 viewers know and love Brenda Ladun. The past two years she's won
Best News Anchor, and continues her winning streak this year. Ladun
delivers the city's news during the stations 6 and 10 p.m. broadcasts
and Sunday's "Matters of Faith" reports, but she's also won the
community over with her annual Brenda Ladun Conquer Cancer Run.
FINALISTS | James Spann, ABC 33/40 | Mickey Ferguson, FOX 6 News.
Best Tweeter
JAMES SPANN
Birmingham's
meteorologist has over 50,000 followers on Twitter, and who can blame
them? With his detailed, clear accounts of weather, Twitter's 140
characters is the perfect medium to get the weather report out quickly
and effectively.
FINALISTS | Jeff Green, @ICONPerformance | Rick Muscles, @RickMuscles
Best View of the City
VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM
1701 Valley View Drive | (205) 933-1409 | visitvulcan.com.
Standing
tall on top of Red Mountain is Birmingham's favorite metal god of the
forge. Feel free to go up and visit him and share in the iron giant's
panoramic overlook of the city. It's just an elevator ride or a few
stairs up for Birmingham's most spectacular view.
FINALISTS | The Club, 1 Robert S. Smith Drive, Birmingham, (205) 323-5821, theclubinc.org | Red Mountain Overlook, 1500 22nd Street South
Shopping & Services
Best Antique Store
URBAN SUBURBAN ANTIQUES
5514 Crestwood Boulevard, Birmingham | (205) 592-0777 | urbansuburbanantiques.com
You'll get more than good stuff at this popular shop in the Crestwood Shopping Center. You'll get design inspiration.
FINALISTS | Hanna’s Antiques, 2424 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 323-6036, hannaantiques.com | What’s on Second?, 2706 2nd Avenue North, Birmingham, (205) 322-2688
Best Auto Mechanic
DUFFY’S GARAGE
2706 2nd Avenue North, Birmingham | (205) 322-2688 | duffysgarage.com
Tired
of the dealership? See the folks at Duffy's Garage. From repairs on
European Imports to handling small fender benders on all models, they
are truly a service alternative.
FINALISTS | Kelly Shebs of Technique Automotive, 258 Yeager Parkway, Pelham, (205) 685-0711, techniqueautomotive.com | B.Y.O.P Automotive, two locations, byopbirmingham.com
Best Bookstore
LITTLE PROFESSOR
2717 18th Street South, Homewood | (205) 870-7461 | littleprofessorhomewood.com
This reader's paradise is tucked right in the heart of Homewood and is full of everything from best sellers to used bargains.
FINALISTS | Barnes and Noble, Multiple locations, barnesandnoble.com | Alabama Booksmith, 2626 19th Place South, Homewood, (205) 870-4242, alabamabooksmith.com
Best Boutique
MIA MODA
1425 Montgomery Highway, Vestavia Hills | (205) 824-9441
A less-than-two-mile move down Highway 31 meant a huge increase in business for this chic boutique.
FINALISTS | Soca Clothing, 2820 18th Street South, Homewood, (205) 879-6788, socaclothing.com | Shaia’s, 2818 18th Street South, Homewood, (205) 871-1312, shaias.com
Best Caterer
KATHY G. & CO.
11 West Park Circle, Birmingham | (205) 942-4210 | kathyg.com
Kathy
Mezrano has become something of a local catering legend. After
countless events big and small, Kathy G has earned the following that
secured her win.
FINALISTS | Iz Café, 2514 Rocky Ridge Road, Vestavia Hills, (205) 979-7570, everythingiz.com | Happy Catering, 225 Oxmoor Circle, Suite 802, Homewood, (205) 251-8925, happycatering.net
Best Consignment Store
ZOE CONSIGNMENT AND VINTAGE
3900 Clairmont Avenue South, Birmingham | (205) 595-9049 | zoeshop.com
This Forest Park landmark is a mecca for those looking for an original piece for their wardrobe.
FINALISTS | Renaissance Consignment Boutique, 6801 Cahaba Valley Road, Birmingham, (205) 980-4471, renaissanceconsignment.com | Collage Designer Consignment, Multiple locations, shopcollage.com
Best Drycleaners
VOGUE CLEANERS
2816 Cahaba Road, Mountain Brook | (205) 870-4412
These people are really nice. And they do a great job making your clothes look really nice, too.
FINALISTS | Deluxe Cleaners, Multiple locations, deluxecleanersbirmingham.com | Hunter’s Cleaners, 915 Oxmoor Road, Homewood, (205) 871-6131
Best Farmer's Market
THE PEPPER PLACE MARKET
2829 2nd Avenue South, Birmingham | (205) 802-2100 | pepperplacemarket.com
Pepper
Place has probably done more to promote locally grown food and the
chefs who cook with it than any other organization in town.
FINALISTS | Alabama Farmers Market, alabamafarmersmarket.org | Freshfully, 200 41st Street South, Avondale, freshfully.com
Best Florist
NORTON’S FLORIST
Birmingham's
largest florist can do everything from the smallest bouquet to the
largest wedding or corporate installation. Locally owned and full of
flower happiness.
FINALISTS | Flowerbuds Inc., 3114 Cahaba Heights Village, Birmingham, (205) 970-3223, flowerbudsinc.com | Dorothy McDaniel’s Flower Market, 2560 18th Street South, Homewood, (205) 871-0092, dorothymcdaniel.com
Best Garden Shop
LEAF & PETAL
Beautiful, unique gifts, gorgeous plants and more are inside all three locations of this great garden shop.
FINALISTS | Collier’s Nursery, 2904 Old Rocky Ridge Road, Birmingham, (205) 822-3133, colliersnursery.com | Andy’s Creekside Nursery, 3351 Morgan Drive, Vestavia Hills, (205) 824-0233, andysgardencenter.com
Best Grocery Store
PUBLIX
Still
a relative newcomer in a city known for its local grocery chains,
Publix has built a committed customer base that couldn't imagine
shopping anywhere else. People love the great service, clean stores and
great-tasting store brands.
FINALISTS | V. Richards, 3916 Clairmont Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 591-7000, vrichards.net | Freshfully, 200 41st Street South, Avondale, freshfully.com
Best Hardware Store
BLUFF PARK HARDWARE
597 Shades Crest Road, Birmingham | (205) 823-1953
In
a time of constant change, it's nice to know that some things haven't
changed much at all. Step into Bluff Park Hardware and be comforted by
tradition and DIY knowledge.
FINALISTS
| Little Hardware, 2703 Culver Road, Mountain Brook, (205) 871-4616 |
Rocky Ridge Hardware, 3354 Morgan Drive, Birmingham, (205) 979-5444, rockyridgehardware.com
Best Home Contractor
TWIN CONSTRUCTION
2907 Central Avenue, Suite 105, Homewood | (205) 802-3920 | twincompanies.com
Even
in a downturn when no one seems to be building much of anything, Twin
is going strong. Customers love the company's high-quality work and
their honest business practices.
FINALISTS | Michael Eubanks, 5821 7th Ave South, Birmingham | The Townley Corporation, 3312 Sandhurst Road, Birmingham
Best Home Décor
Z GALLERIE
610 Colonial Brookwood Village, Birmingham | (205) 879-1722, | zgallerie.com
Affordable, stylish and more than a little glam, Z Gallerie's distinctive furnishings and accessories are a hit with readers.
FINALISTS | AtHome Furnishings, 2921 18th Street, Birmingham, (205) 879-3510, athome-furnishings.com | I.O. Metro Furniture, Art & Accessories, 4431 Creekside Avenue, Birmingham, (205) 444-0641, iometro.com
Best Jeweler
BROMBERG & CO., INC.
Tradition
counts for something, and Bromberg's has it in spades. For 176 years,
Bromberg's has been right here in town serving their neighbors with
sophistication and experience.
FINALISTS | Levy’s Fine Jewelry, 2116 2nd Avenue North, Birmingham, (205) 251-3381, levysfinejewelry.com | Steed’s Jewelers Inc., 1425 Montgomery Highway, Vestavia Hills, (205) 822-9173, steedsjewelers.com
Best Kitchen Supplies Store
WILLIAMS-SONOMA
Summit Boulevard, Birmingham, | (205) 970-4101 | williams-sonoma.com
Williams-Sonoma
was known to locals only via catalog until it opened its storefront at
the Summit. Now it is the go-to location for everything kitchen and
wedding registry.
FINALISTS | The Cook Store, 2841 Cahaba Road, Mountain Brook, (205) 879-5277, thecookstoremtnbrook.com | Birmingham Bake and Cook Co., 5291 Valleydale Road # 125, Birmingham, (205) 980-3661, bakeandcookco.com
Best Landscaping Company
DEEP ROOTS LANDSCAPING
4965 Horst Hill Road, Irondale | (205) 215-1021 | deeproots.biz
This Irondale company is focused on quality, whether it be in design, installation or maintenance.
FINALISTS | NatureScape, Inc., 159 Greenwich Drive, Pelham, (205) 664-7774, naturescape.com | Falkner Gardens Inc., 2337 20th Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 871-5999, falknergardens.com
Best Makeup Artist
LINDSAY GARRETT AT RICHARD JOSEPH SALONSPA
It's
a tricky thing, makeup. Some folks do too much, some do too little. No
matter the occasion, Lindsay Garrett does it just right.
FINALISTS | Annette Hyche at Studio A, 2337 20th Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 871-5999, studioaob.com | Flannery Miles-Hooks, facebook.com/flannery.hooks
Best Moving Company
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
3114 Belwood Drive, Birmingham | (205) 267-4761 | twomenbirmingham.com
Moving day is no fun for anyone, but the folks at Two Men and a Truck (there are more than two now) help ease the stress.
FINALISTS | New Latitudes, 288 Snow Drive, Birmingham, (205) 988-9000, newlatitudemovers.com | McCorquodale Transfer, 381 Summit Boulevard, Birmingham, (205) 870-7474, mtmoves.com
Best Neighborhood Toy Store
HOMEWOOD TOY & HOBBY
2830 18th Street South, Birmingham | (205) 879-3986 | homewoodtoy-hobby.com
Maybe
it's the fun circus-tent-awning out front, or the play tables for the
toddlers, or the great selection of toys and gifts. Whatever it is, it's
worked for Homewood Toy & Hobby for decades.
FINALISTS
| Smith’s Variety Store, 2715 Culver Road, Mountain Brook, (205)
871-0841 | A Tiny Kingdom, 2834 Culver Road, Mountain Brook, (205)
802-8469, atinykingdom.com
Best Salon
RICHARD JOSEPH SALONSPA
For more than two decades, this Aveda salon has helped countless locals find their Zen moment.
FINALISTS | Sanctuary, 1931 29th Avenue South, Homewood, (205) 879-4757, sanctuarywebsite.com | Studio A, 2337 20th Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 871-5999, studioaob.com
Best Spa
RICHARD JOSEPH SALONSPA
Get pampered at the English Village or Inverness location-either way, you'll leave refreshed and relaxed.
FINALISTS | Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort and Spa, 4000 Grand Avenue, Birmingham, (205) 916-7677, sparossbridge.com | Smart Skin Med Spa, 32 Church Street, Birmingham, (205) 871-8707, smartskinmedspa.com
Best Veterinarian
DR. MIKE KILGORE AT HOMEWOOD ANIMAL HOSPITAL
501 Scott Street, Homewood | (205) 943-0008
It
takes a special person to be a vet, and Dr. Mike is one of those
people. His vote tally is proof of how much his patients love him.
FINALISTS | Standifer Animal Clinic, 2810 19th Place SouthHomewood, (205) 871-8186, standiferanimalclinic.com | Galleria Animal Clinic, 2953 John Hawkins Parkway, Hoover, (205) 987-7297
Sports & Leisure
Best Bike Shop
BOB'S BIKES
1944 28th Avenue South, Homewood | (205) 879-2258, bobs-bikes.com
Bob's
Bikes is a licensed dealer in Specialized, Giant and other brands.
Visit their online ride calendar to see when groups depart from the
store for rides through the region.
FINALISTS | Cahaba Cycles, multiple locations, cahabacycles.com for details | Bike Link, 2766 John Hawkins Parkway, Hoover, (205) 991-3335, bikelinkbham.com
Best Bike Trail
OAK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK BIKE TRAILS
(205) 620-2520 | alapark.com/oakmountain
Watch
out if you happen to be running or walking on the infamous Red Trail at
Oak Mountain. Chances are there is a biker headed toward you, and
fast!
FINALISTS | Red Mountain Park Trails, 277 Lyon Lane, Birmingham, (205) 202-6043, redmountainpark.org | Homewood Shades Creek Greenway Trail, homewoodchamber.org
Best Bowling Alley
VESTAVIA BOWL
1429 Montgomery Highway, Vestavia Hills | (205) 979-4420 | vestaviabowl.com
Bowling
has retained its retro charm, and when the weather is too hot (or cold)
and the kids are restless, it's always a good call. Still good for date
nights, too.
FINALISTS | Brunswick Riverview Lanes, 2908 Riverview Road, Birmingham, (205) 991-3900, bowlbrunswick.com | Lightning Strikes Bowling, 3600 Roosevelt Boulevard, Trussville, (205) 655-4500, lightningstrikesbowling.com
Best Fitness Program
ENGAGED IN FITNESS WITH MATT CRANE
3156 Sunview Drive, Birmingham, 35243 | (205) 381-3100 | lifefitnessbham.com
Matt
Crane was a banker who left a career in finance to open his fitness
training business in Cahaba Heights, and he's never looked back. The
"Engaged in Fitness" workout is designed for couples to tone up for
their wedding day.
FINALISTS | Firm Body Boot Camp with Roman McDonald, firmbodybootcamps.com | SuperBodies Personal Training with Jeffrey Smith
Best Free Family Outing
RAILROAD PARK
1600 1st Avenue South, Birmingham | (205) 521-9933 | railroadpark.org
Some
folks still consider the remarkable Railroad Park an experiment in
urban planning. Thousands of area families, who flock to the park every
day of the week, do not. This park is not just for UAB students and
downtown workers. It has been fully and lovingly embraced by parents and
kids from every part of town.
FINALISTS | Friday Night Flicks in Homewood, (205) 332-6700, homewoodparks.com | Birmingham Botanical Gardens, 2612 Lane Park Road, Birmingham, (205) 414-3950, bbgardens.org
Best Golf Experience
ROBERT TRENT JONES GOLF TRAIL AT OXMOOR VALLEY
100 SunBelt Parkway, Birmingham | (205) 942-1177, rtjgolf.com/oxmoorvalley
This
remarkable golf course has found itself neighbors with two stunning
projects: Ross Bridge and Red Mountain Park. All the more reason to play
a round at this fantastic course.
FINALISTS | Highland Park Golf Course, 3300 Highland Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 322-1902, highlandparkgolf.com | Shoal Creek Golf and Country Club, 100 New Williamsburg Drive, Shoal Creek, (205) 991-9000, shoalcreekclub.com
Best Rock Climbing Spot, indoor or outdoor
MOSS ROCK PRESERVE BOULDER FIELDS
617 Preserve Parkway, Hoover | hooveral.org
250
acres within the Greater Birmingham area is a big draw for climbing
enthusiasts. Extensive trails also satisfy hikers and other outdoor
enthusiasts.
FINALISTS | First Avenue Rocks, 2417 First Avenue South, Birmingham, (205) 320-2277, firstaverocks.com | Oak Mountain State Park, (205) 620-2520, alapark.com/oakmountain
Best Sporting Event
INDY GRAND PRIX OF ALABAMA AT BARBER MOTORSPORTS PARK
6030 Barber Motorsports Parkway, Birmingham | (205) 699-7275 | barbermotorsports.com
For
the three years the IndyCars raced around the dramatic twists and turns
of the Barber Motorsports Park, the crowds showed up to watch. And what
an experience. Here's hoping for more great races at Barber.
FINALISTS | NCAA College Cup, ncaa.com | Birmingham Barons Baseball, 100 Ben Chapman Drive, Birmingham, (205) 988-3200, barons.com
Best Spot for A Picnic
RAILROAD PARK
1600 1st Avenue South, Birmingham | (205) 521-9933 | railroadpark.org
Pack
a basket at home or better, yet, order lunch from Georgeís Boxcar CafÈ
under the big pavilion. Then sit back and watch the world go by.
FINALISTS | Oak Mountain State Park, (205) 620-2520, alapark.com/oakmoutain | Vulcan Park and Museum, 1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham, (205) 933-1409, visitvulcan.com
Best Gym
FITNESS 4 U 24/7
2539 John Hawkins Parkway, Suite 113, Hoover | (205) 403-3305 | fitness4u247.com
Truly
a flexible workout space, members have access to the facility any time,
day or night, all week long, with no long-term contracts. Visit during
their staffed hours to learn more about the concept.
FINALISTS | Iron Tribe Fitness, 5029 Highway 280, Suite 102, Birmingham, (205) 873-2135, irontribefitness.com | Shaping U, 96 Hinds Street, Pelham, (205) 586-0662, shapingu.com
Best Personal Trainer
MATT CRANE WITH L.I.F.E. FITNESS
3156 Sunview Drive, Birmingham, 35243 | (205) 381-3100 | lifefitnessbham.com
Matt
Crane's personal and professional work ethic has inspired many devotees
to vote him into the winner's spot. L.I.F.E. stands for Living in
Fitness Everyday.
FINALISTS
| Jeffrey Smith with SuperBodies Personal Training | William Blake with
Fitness 4 U 24/7, 2539 John Hawkins Parkway, Suite 113, Hoover, (205)
403-3305, fitness4u247.com
Best Place to Buy Outdoor Gear
MOUNTAIN HIGH OUTFITTERS
Now
with four locations in Birmingham and more outside of the area,
Mountain High's approach to selling outdoor gear and clothing has
clearly proven to be successful.
FINALISTS | Alabama Outdoors, 3054 Independence Drive, Homewood, (205) 870-1919, alabamaoutdoors.com | Mark’s Outdoor Sports, 1400 Montgomery Highway, Vestavia Hills, (205) 822-2010, marksoutdoors.com
Best Swimming Pool
RENAISSANCE BIRMINGHAM ROSS BRIDGE GOLF RESORT AND SPA
4000 Grand Ave., Hoover, (205) 916-7677 | rossbridgeresort.com
Choose
from the serene indoor pool or the expansive outdoor pool (with
waterfall and children's play area). Both are adjacent to the spa so you
can break up your sunning and swimming with a facial or mani-pedi.
FINALISTS | Homewood Central Pool, (205) 332-6700, homewoodparks.com | Levite Jewish Community Center Pool, 3960 Montclair Road, Birmingham, (205) 879-0411, bhamjcc.org
Best Walking Trail
RED MOUNTAIN PARK
277 Lyon Lane, Birmingham | (205) 202-6043 | redmountainpark.org
If
you haven't been yet, you have to go. Just down Lakeshore, toward
Bessemer, is an amazing new network of trails and Birmingham mining
history, all rolled up into one gorgeous landscape.
FINALISTS | Vulcan Trail, vulcantrailassociation.ws | Homewood Shades Creek Greenway Trail, homewoodchamber.org
Best Yoga Instructor
APRIL JONES WITH SILVER LININGS
1805 11th Avenue South | (205) 401-5010 | thehealingartscenter.blogspot.com
April is a yoga instructor, massage therapist and birthing coach and has lots of fans.
FINALISTS
| Brent Scrivner with Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South Birmingham,
(205) 637-4228 | Kate Jenkins with Bikram Yoga Birmingham, 300 Olde
Towne Road, Vestavia Hills, (205) 824-2626, bikrambirmingham.com
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