Best of 2026

COMPLIMENTARY

a bou t t o w n . io

Our Annual Reader’s Poll

Summer 2026

Restaurant Review

The Musturd Club p.24

How I Lost 25 lbs in 10 months p.16

2026

The Best SNL Alumni Movies p.74

600 Olde English Lane Suite 104 & 124

fro m o n e vi l l a g e to an o the r :

We have found our new home, now let us help you find yours! raypoynor.com | 205.879.3036

Voted “Best Place to Buy a Unique Gift” Voted “Best Jewelry Store in Mountain Brook”

JohnBromberg@JBandCoJewelry.com For Appointment: 205.478.0455 JBandCoJewelry.com

Escape. Relax. Renew.

Escape Day Spa • theplacetoescape.com • (205) 414-6062 • 100 Broadway St. Homewood

REGIONS MORTGAGE

A place to relax.

The relationship to get you there.

Whether you’re looking for a place on Lake Martin, Smith Lake or any of the other beautiful lakes Alabama has to offer, a Regions loan officer can get you there. Exclusive rate discounts* give Regions clients a meaningful edge from the start. Our experience keeps every detail moving in the right direction. And from first conversation to closing, every step feels more seamless. Because getting to your second home should feel effortless.

Connect with a Regions loan officer today.

Regions.com/loanofficer

©2026 Regions Bank. NMLS 174490. Regions and the Regions logo are registered trademarks of Regions Bank. The LifeGreen color is a trademark of RegionsBank. *To qualify for the relationship rate discount, borrowers must maintain a qualifying combined balance in eligible Regions personal deposit accounts and/or eligible investment accounts and enroll in autopay. Balances are verified prior to loan closing to determine the applicable discount tier. Not all deposit or investment products may qualify. Please contact your Regions Mortgage Loan Officer to learn about eligible account types and details regarding how balances are calculated.

Kirk Drennan Law is strong so you don’t have to be.

FAMILY LAW GROUP Divorce - Custody - Pre/Post Nuptial Agreements - Paternity - Appeals

CRIMINAL LAW GROUP White Collar Crimes - Death Penalty Offenses - Felonies Misdemeanors

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THE MOUNTAIN BROOK CENTER

DRROUSSO.COM

Issue 151 VOLUME 21

NO.

WE TWO-FIDDY BABY!

To see all the party pics, visit abouttown.io

INSIDE 18 Dukes Clothiers - Move to Lane Parke 20 Hats & Hearts - Heidi’s Kids 24 Restaurant Review - The Mustard Club 26 Guild Gala - 37th Annual 28 Fernhill Garden Soiree- Hosted by Fernhill Realty 30 Derby Party - Supporting The Bell Center 32 Youth of the Year - Supporting the Boys and Girls Club 34 Season Reveal - Red Mountain Theatre 36 Focused & Fabulous - The Dunbar Foundation 40 Crawfest - Benefiting CCA 44 Come Play - Supporting AIDB 46 Fostering Compassion - Grace House Ministries 48 Room at the Table - Annual Art Auction 52 Gaieties - Motown Dance Party 54 Dermatology & Skin Care Center - Annual Open House 56 Journey to Tuscany - Hosted by CASA 58 Lift Your Spirits - Freedom to Heal 60 Our Annual Reader’s Poll - Best of 2026 74 Best Movies by SNL Alumni - By Sidewalk 76 Wine, Women and Shoes - Supporting Baptist Health Foundation

COVER Abbie Stockard photo: Marie Ghossein ABOUT

8 TOWN

EXPERTISE WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH

Rebecca Edwards, CRNP, Elizabeth Chase, MD, Katie Tuck, CRNP, Julie Harper, MD, Hannah George, CRNP

Each team member brings specialized knowledge, a commitment to ongoing education, and a passion for patient care. From diagnosis and treatment to personalized cosmetic services, we work together to deliver exceptional results in a welcoming environment.

Dermatology & Skin Care Center of Birmingham 2470 ROCKY RIDGE ROAD BIRMINGHAM, AL 35243 | (205)978-3336

THANKS BIRMINGHAM! FOR VOTING US AS A BEST RESIDENTIAL BUILDER

B&B CONSTRUCTION

AT T E N T I O N T O D E T A I L A S U N I Q U E A S T H E R E N O VAT I O N I T S E L F.

A boutique business where meeting and exceeding the client’s expectations are paramount.

Where It All Comes Together™ Discover a new way to shop for your project.

Ferguson Home has the bath, kitchen and lighting products you need to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re refreshing the look of a single room or building a new home, our experts are here to help every step of the way, from product selection through delivery.

Start your project or find your local showroom at fergusonhome.com.

BIRMINGHAM | TUSCALOOSA ©2026 Ferguson Enterprises, LLC 0326 8915703

SOME BAD ASS THINGS ABOUT AMERICA.

How Much Do You Know About America?

T KNOW

THAT YOU MAY NO

We only paid 2 cents per acre when we bought Alaska from Russia in 1867. It now has an annual GDP of roughly $75 billion a year. The best investment ever?

We made it interesting, and made it not so simple. Answers below

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

“Nothing can stop the man with the right mental attitude from achieving his goal; nothing on earth can help the man with the wrong mental attitude.”- THOMAS JEFFERSON

1) Which President was credited with the following saying? “You can move to France but you’ll never be French. You can move to Japan and never be Japanese. But no matter who you are or where you’re from, when you come here you’re an American”. a) b) c) d)

John Kennedy Ronald Reagan Bill Clinton George Washington

2) How many different versions of the American flag have flown since 1776? a) b) c) d)

5 11 16 27

6) In how many states are there more cattle than people? a) b) c) d)

3 5 7 9

7) Thomas Jefferson and John Adams had a contentious relationship during our early years. Who else was Jefferson’s biggest political rival who together would lay the ground work for our two party system? a) b) c) d)

Aaron Burr Alexander Hamilton James Madison Thomas Paine

8) What’s the tallest monument in America?

3) What’s the oldest city in America? a) b) c) d)

Plymouth, MA St Augustine, FL Santa Fe, NM Jamestown, VA

a) b) c) d)

The Gateway Arch Washington Monument San Jacinto Monument Statue of Liberty

4) The man who assassinated Lincoln, John Wilkes Booth, did this for a profession?

9) Perhaps the greatest inventor in world history, Thomas Edison accumulated 2,332 patents. Which one of the following inventions wasn’t his?

a) b) c) d)

a) b) c) d)

Actor Teacher Lawyer Farmer

5) What big holiday was actually illegal in Boston from 1659 to 1681? a) b) c) d)

Halloween Christmas Thanksgiving New Year’s Day

1) b. 2) d. 3) b. 4) a. 5) b. 6) d. 7) b. 8) a. 9) d. 10) a.

The Record Player (phonograph) Electric Light Motion Pictures The Jet Engine

10) Which President famously kept an alligator in the White House bathroom, and used it to scare unsuspecting guests? a) b) c) d)

John Quincy Adams James Madison Theodore Roosevelt Andrew Jackson

ABOUT

12 T O W N

Japan’s current constitution was written by General Douglas MacArthur after WW2. Japan is one of the most free, most prosperous nations on the earth. I’d say it worked out pretty well for them.

In no other country in history has there been more rags to riches stories than the USA. Since its inception America’s free market system has given the greatest opportunity for upward mobility the world has ever seen. And it’s not even close.

Our 10th President, John Tyler b.1790 (elected in 1840) has a still-living grandson, Harrison Tyler, who’s 94. He had a son late in life, who had a son late in life.

The weekend was invented by Henry Ford. The man who invented the first assembly line car gave his workers a 5 day/40hr work week, revolutionizing labor, which had a standard 6 day/48hr work week.

The two poorest parts of our country - the Mississippi Delta and Southern Appalachia, gave the entire world the foundation of modern music, and almost everything we listen to today, by inventing Rock-N-Roll, Jazz, Country, Gospel and the Blues.

All Five Climate Zones: The U.S. is the only country in the world that naturally contains all five major Earth climate zones: tropical, dry, temperate, continental, and polar.

French wine owes its existence to America. In the 19th century, a deadly aphid wiped out French vineyards. The crisis was solved by grafting disease-resistant American vine rootstocks onto French plants, saving the French wine industry.

We are honored to be voted Best Plastic Surgery Practice of 2026.

Thank you to our patients, friends, and community for your trust, support, and confidence in Cohn Plastic Surgery. We are grateful for the opportunity to care for you and look forward to continuing to serve Birmingham with excellence!

COHN PLASTIC SURGERY cohnplasticsurgery.com (205) 590-9900 3127 Blue Lake Drive Vestavia Hills, AL 35243

PROMOTION

THE LUXURY HOME UPDATES THAT DELIVER THE BEST RETURN

by Christen Bond at Ray & Poynor In luxury real estate, buyers aren’t simply purchasing square footage—they’re investing in a lifestyle. While major renovations can certainly impress, some of the highest-return improvements before listing are often the simplest and most strategic.

First impressions remain everything. Fresh exterior paint, updated lighting, manicured landscaping, and a welcoming front entry create immediate curb appeal. Buyers often form an opinion before they ever step inside, making the exterior one of the most valuable places to invest.

Inside, paint may offer the single best return on investment. Fresh, neutral colors create a clean canvas that allows buyers to envision their own furnishings and style. Likewise, refinishing hardwood floors or replacing worn carpeting can instantly elevate the feel of an entire home.

Kitchen and bath updates continue to yield strong returns, but a full renovation is not always necessary. Replacing dated hardware,

updating faucets and light fixtures, installing fresh countertops, and ensuring cabinetry is impeccably maintained can provide a luxurious look without the expense of a complete remodel.

Get our weekly Pic of the Week to your inbox.

Lighting is another often-overlooked opportunity.

Elegant fixtures, layered lighting, and bright, well-lit rooms photograph beautifully and create warmth during showings. Today’s buyers also appreciate smart home features, including thermostats, security systems, and automated lighting.

Just Scan Here.

Perhaps the most important investment, however, is presentation. Professional staging and photography consistently help luxury homes stand apart in a competitive market.

Well-edited spaces feel larger, brighter, and more sophisticated, allowing buyers to emotionally connect with the home.

Before listing, homeowners should focus on deferred maintenance as well. Small repairs,

fresh caulking, functioning systems, and spotless cleanliness signal that a property has been carefully cared for.

The goal isn’t perfection—it’s confidence.

When buyers walk through a home that feels current, well-maintained, and thoughtfully presented, they are often willing to pay a premium. In luxury real estate, thoughtful preparation frequently delivers one of the highest returns of all.

ABOUT

14 T O W N

We are the experts in

Customer Satisfaction is no doubt the best group of workers, “This contractors I have ever dealt with in the 32

years we have lived in this house. They always kept me informed of what was happening. Job very well done. I will definitely recommend them and will gladly hire them again.

”

Hardscapes

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Landscape Installation Hardscape Installation (Kitchens, Fireplace, Fire Pits, Retaining Walls, Driveways, Patios, Walk Ways, and much more!)

Custom Landscape Features (Pergolas, Fencing, Staircases, Ornamental Iron, Synthetic Turf, and Putting Greens) Outdoor Low-Voltage Lighting Design and Installation • Custom Pools and Pool Decks • Ponds and Water Features • Drainage • Irrigation Service and Maintenance

nelsonteaminc.com

205-702-4426

Mind & Body

HOW I LOST 25 LBS IN 10 MONTHS YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE MISERABLE TO GET RESULTS

3 THINGS

MEN DON’T DO

THAT WOMEN WISH THEY DID.

B Y: M A G G I E B E A S L E Y

In roughly 10 months, I lost 25 pounds. I didn’t do it through restriction, deprivation, or perfection- I did it through consistency. I used to believe getting in shape meant giving up everything I loved: dessert, carbs, and dinners out with friends. But lasting results don’t come from making yourself miserable; they come from building habits you can actually sustain day to day.

1. Verbalize Appreciation.

Taking time to compliment and express gratitude make women feel valued.

> THE SHIFT

The habits that changed everything were not complicated: • Strength training regularly • Walking every day • Practicing portion awareness without restriction • Cooking more meals at home • Prioritizing whole foods • Fueling my body instead of under-eating

2. Affirmation with Affection.

Offering hugs, an unexpected kiss, hand holding give a sense of emotional support and reassurance.

3. Anticipate Needs.

Doing chores like emptying the dish washer and taking out the trash without being asked give an understanding of respect and mutual responsibility.

> STRENGTH AS A FOUNDATION

Strength training became the anchor of my routine. At first, I approached it with a single goal: physical change. But over time, the benefits extended far beyond appearance. I felt stronger, more capable, and more connected to what my body could do rather than how it looked.

3 THINGS

> WALKING AND SIMPLICITY

WOMEN DON’T DO

Walking became my most reliable habit. Most days, I aimed for 8,000 to 10,000 steps- not as a rule, but as a rhythm. Something steady and unforced. It helped clear my mind, improve my mood, and reduce stress levels.

THAT MEN WISH THEY DID.

> NOURISHMENT OVER RESTRICTION

1. Communicate Directly.

I stopped trying to shrink my intake and started focusing on how to support my body. I prioritized protein, ate mostly whole foods, and practiced portion awareness without eliminating foods I enjoyed. I also learned something important along the way: consistently underfueling doesn’t support the energy, recovery, or consistency needed for long-term progress. Not eating enough made it harder for me to reach my goals. And yes- I still ate dessert. Nothing was off limits. Everything had a place.

Men generally process information literally, and prefer straightforward communication.

2. Initiate Affection.

Men respond to compliments and men crave being physically desired.

> NO COMPARISON!

3. Engage in Shared Hobbies.

Comparison is the thief of joy. I learned to actually enjoy each step of the process instead of constantly measuring it against someone else’s. The only real competition I have is the person I was yesterday. It’s easy to compare your chapter one to someone else’s chapter twenty, but that mindset only pulls you out of your own progress.

All couples have separate interests, which is good. But an interest in some of their partner’s activities makes for a stronger, deeper connection.

ABOUT

16 T O W N

Hannah Adox, Tank Sinatra, Ann Sanders

DUKES CLOTHIER GRAND OPENING The grand opening for Dukes Clothier at their new location, 251 Rele Street in Lane Parke, took place on May 20th. Guests enjoyed an afternoon of shopping, music, drinks, giveaways, and a live camel! To see the rest of the pictures click the code.

Charlotte Sizemore, Lindsey Lutz

Wendy Pierce, Deanna Pizitz

Lauren Perry, Kaia Graves, Maggie McDaniel, Holly Gunn ABOUT

18 T O W N

Natalee Smith, Nicole Roby, Rebekah Gregory

Gabby Walls, Layton Ball, Lauren Cagle, Leigh Ann Allen, Mae Mae Anderson

Melissa Adcox, Jessica Kribbs

Aubrey Robert, Bre Watson

Hannah Adcox, Maretta Ashford

Emmy Ferris, Gabby Walls ABOUT

19 T O W N

Devin Esfeller, Dylan Burns

n Marimberga, Megan Carter

Heidi Marimberga, Daniella Ayala, Addiso

HATS & HEARTS Held at Dawgwood Farms in Irondale at the end of May, this annual fundraiser supports Heidi’s Kids’ school-based Resource Rooms, Blessing Sack food program, emergency assistance efforts, and outreach initiatives serving disadvantaged children in Title I schools. To see the rest of the pictures click the code.

Skylar Suggitt, Griffin Guy

Heidi Marimberga, Kimberly Myles-Stewart

Jon Mikl and Shanna Miller

Tracy Cooper, Danielle Reeves

Megan, Austin and Adrienne Carter, Chuck Pinyan ABOUT

20 T O W N

Sidney Clapp, Tiffany Polmatier

PROMOTION

Your Skin is Keeping Score WHAT A SUMMER SKIN CHECK AT GUNN DERMATOLOGY CAN TELL YOU. BY

D R . H O L LY G U N N

There’s a certain kind of summer memory that feels golden in every sense of the word; long afternoons at the lake, afternoons stretched out poolside, the smell of coconut and something that, looking back, was definitely baby oil. For many of us who grew up in the 1960s, ‘70s, and ‘80s, a deep tan wasn’t just a side effect of summer. It was the goal. Foil reflectors, tanning beds, and a complete lack of SPF were simply part of the seasonal ritual.

We didn’t know then what we know now.

And even today, plenty of people will tell you without hesitation that they don’t bother with sunscreen early in the season — they want that first burn so it can “turn into a tan.” It’s practically a summer tradition.

What most people don’t realize is that the burn is the damage. By the time your skin starts to color, the harm is already done.

Decades later, that sun-soaked history is written into our skin and Dr. Holly Gunn of Gunn Dermatology wants you to know that it’s not too late to do something about it.

What Happens During a Skin Check?

A skin check with Dr. Gunn, Dr. Libecco, Dr. Albert or Gunn’s Physician Assistant Ellen is a thorough, head-to-toe examination designed to catch anything that looks unusual. During your appointment, the provider will examine moles, spots, and lesions across your entire body, noting any changes in size, shape, color, or texture that could signal concern. If something needs further attention, she can address it quickly — often right then and there.

The Long Game Your Skin Has Been Playing Sun damage isn’t always visible right away. That’s what makes it so sneaky. Ultraviolet rays penetrate deep into the skin’s layers, damaging DNA in ways that can take years, even decades, to surface. What shows up as a freckle at 30 may become something that warrants a closer look at 55. Sunspots, rough patches, changes in texture, unusual moles, these are the stories your skin has been quietly collecting since childhood.

For many patients, the first real reckoning with sun damage comes not from pain or discomfort, but from a routine skin check that reveals just how much history is hiding in plain sight.

What We See Every Day At Gunn Dermatology it’s common to have patients come in that grew up during a time when tanning was a way of life. They spent summers by the pool, at the lake, or on the beach with little concern about sun protection because they simply didn’t know then what we know now. The good news is that it’s never too late to start taking care of your skin. A yearly skin check helps to identify sun damage, detect skin cancer early, and create a personalized plan to help keep your skin healthy for years to come.

Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States, and the majority of cases are directly linked to UV exposure.

The encouraging truth, however, is that when caught early, most skin cancers are highly treatable. That’s what makes the annual skin check such a powerful tool — it’s not about fear, it’s about knowledge and getting ahead of problems before they become serious ones.

ABOUT

Beyond cancer screening, a skin check is also an opportunity to talk about the cumulative effects of sun damage: the fine lines, uneven pigmentation, and textural changes that accumulate over years of unprotected exposure. Dr. Gunn and her team can work with you to develop a personalized skincare plan — one that protects what you have and helps address what time and sunshine have left behind.

The Long Game Your Skin Has Been Playing Sun damage isn’t always visible right away. That’s what makes it so sneaky. Ultraviolet rays penetrate deep into the skin’s layers, damaging DNA in ways that can take years, even decades, to surface. What shows up as a freckle at 30 may become something that warrants a closer look at 55. Sunspots, rough patches, changes in texture, unusual moles, these are the stories your skin has been quietly collecting since childhood.

For many patients, the first real reckoning with sun damage comes not from pain or discomfort, but from a routine skin check that reveals just how much history is hiding in plain sight.

It’s Never Too Late to Start Whether you’re 25 or 75, whether your sun protection habits have been spotless or nonexistent, a skin check is one of the most proactive things you can do for your long-term health this summer.

To schedule your annual skin check, contact the office and take the first step toward knowing exactly where your skin stands.

22 T O W N

SEEING FOR GENERATIONS

HOMEWOOD 2814 18th St South Homewood, AL 35209 Ph: 205.703.8596

jjeyesoptical.com

FAIRHOPE 7 S. Church St Ste A Fairhope, AL 36532 Ph: 251.929.0015

FOOD

Restaurant Review

The Mustard Club is the creation of the same people who owned Ollie Irene’s, formerly at Mountain Brook Village before moving to Crestline, and ultimately shuttering during covid. They opened the second half of March, and they’re admittedly trying to get their sea legs under them.

The had a note on their menu saying that are looking to grow with more hours available. They’re currently not serving dinner. It’s a day cafe specializing in lunch, drinks, and coffee. As for now, it’s only MonFri 11am - 2:30pm, which can limit the crowd to fairly regional and mainly non-drinking.

The Mustard Club 2829 2nd Ave S Ste 10 - Pepper Place info@mustardclubbhm.com

The Food & Drink

It’s a small menu that rotates. We went twice and the menu only had a few of the same dishes. We counted 3-4 sandwiches, 3-4 salads and a few ‘small bites’. One item that was on the menu both times were the Pub Fries ($10) and the Feta & Flatbread ($14). Both were fabulous.

The pub fries were cooked in duck fat and served with mayonnaise.

They looked and ate like a puffed pastry. The Feta & Flatbread was whipped French feta, spiced honey, dates, pistachios, capers, lemon oil, parsley, Aleppo + crispy flat bread. Like so many of their dishes it seems to seamlessly balance the complexities of the ingredients.

When Blueroot in Pepper Place closed last fall, they posted a note that said, “Lettuce turn over a new leaf! Blueroot is closed and we are transforming into a new, neighborhood cafe. The Mustard Club is coming soon, a sandwich shop and more.” That description may be accurate but a bit misleading. It is most definitely “more”.

ABOUT

24 T O W N

FOOD

Restaurant Review

We also had an off-the-menu item- their seasonal Tomato Salad ($15).

Local tomatoes tossed with oil and vinegar. Next we had the House Porchetta Sandwich ($20). An herb-stuffed side of pork; rolled, roasted, and sliced; slathered with salsa verde & stacked with shaved fennel. So many of their sandwiches would seem to be too heavy for lunch, were remarkably light enough to easily go back to work.

And that’s with a lunch cocktail and a glass of wine. Next we had the Chicken Paillard Salad ($20). An incredibly complex dish that seemed to integrate Asian, Middle-Eastern and French flavors. It was a thinly sliced seared chicken breast with herbed bulgar, fresh ginger, cardamom, golden raisins, pepitas, lime juice watermelon radish and tahini sauce. We also tried the Chicken Sandwich ($20) served with pistachio basil pesto, olives and creamy feta. And the Duck Confit Melt with crispy potatoes, pepper relish, provolone and house mustard on it. The latter two sandwiches were good, but couldn’t compete with the Porchetta and Paillard Salad. All sandwiches were served with chips.

The Atmosphere

The dining area is L-shaped with an open feel and lots of natural light. There’s an outdoor patio with about 5 tables that we couldn’t enjoy, since it was raining both days. And there’s clearly a connection to motorcycles, since one is hanging on the wall, and it’s featured prominently on their website. But we never asked about it.

The Parking

Parking is no problem. It’s in Pepper Place, so if you can’t find a spot in the front parking lot, or the other parking lot by Ovenbird, there’s plenty of street parking The Bottom Line

This was the best new restaurant we’ve been to in a while. It’s current hours are certainly limited, and can be difficult to work around especially if you’re not in the area, but the food is well worth it. It’s limited menu is plenty, and wonderfully complex.

We counted 7 wines, 3 beers and 6 spritzes. The beverage menu focuses on Spritzes and coffee, which works great for lunch. We had the Campari with cava, soda and orange ($14), a glass of White Sangiovese, Capanna Sangiobi ’24 ($16), a double shot of espresso ($4) and a Latte ($7). No complaints here.

ABOUT

25 T O W N

Awful Meh Pretty Good Can’t Wait Amazing!

To Go Back

Rebel OG’s Group

GUILD GALA Emma Clare and Faith Johnson

Sarah and Justin Hefner

The Service Guild of Birmingham hosted the 37th Annual Guild Gala at The Club, benefiting The Bell Center for Early Intervention. The black-tie event, presented

by The Player Group at Morgan Stanley, drew nearly 700 guests in support of children at risk for developmental delays. The evening began with cocktails, followed by dinner and an inspiring program in the ballroom.

Afterward, guests continued the celebration with an afterparty in the State Rooms. To see the rest of the pictures click the code.

Debbee Hancock, Meredith Robinson Ryanne Player

Christie Farmer, Debbee Hancock Katelan Willis

Mary Coston Bell Jeannie Millsap, Laura Mary Alice Kline, AdamColquett, Kline

Gabrielle Bailey, Morgan Durant

Caroline Allums, Morgan Carden

ABOUT

26 T O W N

Laurel Holloway, AC Priest

Will and Lauren Connolly

Revealing Beauty, Not Creating It

Reveal Beauty

At Reveal Beauty, We Reveal The Inner Beauty In You, We Don’t “Create” It.

Upper Blepharoplasty, Lower Blepharoplasty, Brow Lift Deep Plane Face/Neck Lift, Lip Lift, Facial Fat Grafting Abdominoplasty

see more on our instagram page

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Whitney Satterwhite, Annie Hughes, Frances Anderson, Catherine Messer

Ellie Latta, Abbie Malone

FERNHILL GARDEN SOIREE Fernhill Realty celebrated the opening of their new brokerage in Cooper Page,

Birmingham, by hosting an event to mark this exciting chapter. They

Alex Page

invited clients, friends, family, and fellow local brokerages to join them—it was really important to them that the event served as a celebration of the community that has supported them along the way. To see the rest of the pictures click the code.

Caitlin Pederson, Sami Lamb, Caroline Roach

Whitney Jernigan, Lauren Shaw, Frances Anderson, Lauren Wicks LuEllen Redding, Rachel Carver

Danette Fisher, Chad Fisher

Morgan Karst, Mary Tynes Flake, Caroline Christie ABOUT

28 T O W N

Maggie Grace Vaccaro, Drew Vaccaro

Jackie Thames,

Sarah Griffin, Cli

nt Thames, Marsh

all Griffin

Madison Turner, Lauren Shaw, Caroline Roach, Sami Lamb, Matt

Gooley, Frances Anderson, Rachel Nichols, SK Hackbarth

Phil and Christina Hontzas

William Tucker, Madison Williams

Franny Jones, Rachel Donnelly

Chris and Brit Baker ABOUT

29 T O W N

Meredith and Yates Jackson, Madison Speigner

Ryan and Ashley Robinett, Zach and Courtney Burger

THE INAUGURAL BELL CENTER DERBY PARTY The Inaugural Bell Center Derby Party took place at B&A Warehouse. ton

Brittany Wagner, Tiffany Thorn

Guests joined The Bell Center’s Junior Board for an afternoon packed

Josh and Amanda Beshears, Lauren and Spencer Wise

with drinks, good vibes, and Derby-day excitement as they celebrated The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports with: a silent auction, signature cocktails, a bourbon tasting with Clyde Mays, drinks and derby-inspired bites, a showstopping hat contest, and more. To see the rest of the pictures click the code.

Abby Hewitt, Zach Hewitt

Brittany Dionne

Ella Jane Morton, Tatum Lang, Sinclair Linkis

Rachel Gandy, Chelsey Clark

ABOUT

30 T O W N

Hayley DeShazo, Mary Margaret Struthers, Emily Hoffman

Helping You Plan For Your Future.

P E E P L E S F A M I LY L A W

2956 RHOD E S C I R C L E S O U T H - B I R MIN GH A M, A L 35205 - 205- 403- 5577 - P EEP LES LAW. COM N o re p re se n ta ti on i s made t hat t he qualit y o f leg al ser vices t o b e p e r for m e d i s gre a t e r t ha n t he q ua l i t y of l e ga l s e r v i c e s p e r for m e d b y ot he r l a w y e rs .

YOUTH OF THE YEAR CELEBRATION Youth of the Year is Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Alabama’s premier youth leadership program, honoring extraordinary young people and their achievements in leadership, service, academic excellence, and dedication to living a healthy lifestyle.

To see the rest of the pictures click the code.

Clark, Alicia and Caroline Hale,

Campbell Fulton

Lindsey and Josh Pierce

Lucy Poole, Brooke Ratliff

de

Christy and Jon Qua

Dennis and Jennifer Willingham, Jade Kennedy Cassie Crowell

Hunter Chapman, Kelly Campbell, Susan Mateer

Elvin Skipper, Zyion Williams, Todd and Toni Payne ABOUT

32 T O W N

DAYCARE =

healthier habits Dogtopia daycare helps your pup stay fit, social, and stress-free — while you enjoy peace of mind knowing they’re getting expert care.

Discover what makes us special at your FREE Meet & Greet!

Dogtopia of Homewood

1722 27th Ct S • Homewood, AL 35209 205-598-7535 • dogtopia.com/homewood

Dogtopia of Birmingham - Parkside 1200 2nd Ave S • Birmingham, AL 35233 205-607-8455 • dogtopia.com/parkside

daycare · boarding · spa

voted by y

ou!

BEST DOG DAYCARE 2025 + 2026

Our certified Canine Coaches obsess over safety and keeping playrooms clean.

Fun, fitness, and brain games with furry friends for a long, happy life together.

Live webcams and DASH activity monitoring keep you close to your pup.

*See store for details. Offer valid exclusively at this location.

Kam Patton, Kim Bourn, Alesia Jones

RED MOUNTAIN THEATRE SEASON REVEAL PARTY Red Mountain Theatre announced the upcoming 26-27 Season during a cocktail party for the members of their Dress Circle Society. Guests mingled with actors from recent RMT shows, enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and custom cocktails, and guessed the upcoming musicals from clues around the Grand Lobby.

Amy Johnson, Kristen Campbell

To see the rest of the pictures click the code.

Carolyn Waguespack, Richard Waguespack Jake Boyd, Kristen Campbell

Karen Dykes, Anna Catherine Roberson, Rayna Hawthorne

Cassidy Short, Anne Kelly

Clint Isom, Elisha Burden, Roy Lightner ABOUT

34 T O W N

Chelsea Short, Robin Ward, Sharla Foy

Keith Pennington, Katy Ottensneyer, Steve Callaway

Ginger Mayfield and Kelley Norwood

Scott and Hannah Fell, Brittany and Patrick Eades

FOCUSED AND FABULOUS Focused and Fabulous 2026 is Maranathan Academy’s annual event for fashion-savvy, civic-minded patrons of education to gather and raise scholarships. Focused and Fabulous makes it possible for critically at-risk youth and adult students to gain or continue enrollment, receive an education, and break free from cyclical dependency on government assistance. To see the rest of the pictures click the code.

Allisyn Fox, Calee Yoe

Joseph Brown, Gregory Jones

Lauren Rhyne, Mary Stuart Hurst

Yaicha Brown, Ashley Killion , Katey Blair

Jessica Lane, Laurie Douglas ABOUT

36 T O W N

Garland Reich, Jana Mobley

Thank you, Birmingham!

VOTED one of the

Plaintiff Law Firms Birmingham

Let us tell your comeback story after an injury!

This team is here for you. Pictured left to right: Partner Bobby Bell, Partner John Spade, Allwin E. Horn, IV, Partner Michael Eldridge, Partner Carter Clay, Walt Cobb, Managing Partner Josh Wright, Craig Shirley, Cristina Rustad-Meja, and Blake Cordova

Millions recovered each year for our clients.

844.LAW.TALK • 205.324.3600

personal injury • product liability • wrongful death • workers’ compensation

Let us tell your comeback story after an injury.

FOCUSED AND FABULOUS CONT.

Kim Kimberlin, Morgan Cook, Scarlett Simmons, Lucy Hawkins

AJ Smith-Jones, Iyishia Jones

Jessica Lane, Megan Herzlinger, Abby Braswell

Mallie and Stewart Dansby

Margaret Bond, Caroline Dreher

Margaret Mitchell, Kate Lloyd

ABOUT

38 T O W N

Maggie OConnor, Catheryn Brady, Garland Darden

Thank you for voting us the Best Orthodontic Practice

7 Years in a row!

Start your smile journey today! Schedule a free consultation by calling or visiting bhamsmiles.com

(205) 564-6776

B R YA N T B A N K . C O M

Clarity before closing.

Buying a home can be overwhelming. With a mortgage professional sitting down with you, walking you through every detail and helping you understand the entire process, you can buy with confidence. It might not be what you expect from a bank, but it’s certainly what you can expect from us.

Banking Beyond Expectation.

LISA ZEIG VP, Mortgage Loan Officer Lisa.Zeig@bryantmortgage.com 205-968-3342 | NMLS 2089044

CRESTLINE VILLAGE | CAHABA VILLAGE | COLUMBIANA | GREYSTONE | HOMEWOOD | HOOVER | TRUSSVILLE NMLS 582857

Megan Sumrall, Eugenie Allen, Marguerite Sprain

Jester Family Sarah Ross Weatherly, Sophie Membrino

CRAWFEST The 44th annual CCA Crawfest was hosted by the Jernigan Foundation, took place on in May at The Birmingham Zoo. The Crawfest is supporting the Coastal Conservation Association and is their biggest fundraiser of the year. To see the rest of the pictures click the code.

Harrison Hill

Nathan Nix, Emma King

Hollon and Kathy Skinner

Kayla Currie, Allison Luker ABOUT

40 T O W N

THANK YOU

FROM THE OTEY’S CREW!

SPIRITS FOOD MUSIC OTEYSTAVERN.COM

OTEY’S FEST 17TH ANNUAL

THE SHINDIG OF 2026

JULY 25 Featuring...

T.U.B. @ 6PM PANIC STRICKEN @ 8 PM T.U.B. (inside) @ 10 PM Get tickets at Oteysfest.com RAIN OR SHINE EVENT RAIN OR SHINE EVENT

Cheryl Wellingham, Jennifer Pharo

CRAWFEST CONT.

Mims and Michael Craggs

Sissy and Greg Snow

Graham Morrow, Lainey Knowlton

Natalie Ferguson, Lucy Tsai

Sally Williams, Helen Smith, Christina Powell

Fritze Family

ABOUT

42 T O W N

John Young, MD Orthopedic Surgery

Comprehensive Orthopedic Care To Help You Keep Up With Life.

Dr. Young’s interest in sports medicine comes from his background as a former athlete.

Training Dr. Young received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville and his medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, graduating in the top 10 percent of his class. He completed an orthopedic surgery residency at the University of Mississippi in Jackson and a fellowship in sports medicine at the American Sports Medicine Institute in Birmingham.

Dr. Young is a very professional and caring doctor. The surgery that he has performed on me was flawless, with a short and complete recovery. - Joseph O I went to see Dr. Young in the spring due to a torn rotator cuff injury. He did the surgery and after healing, my shoulder has never felt better. He and his staff are absolutely the best. - Margaret L Dr. Young is an amazing doctor that I have been seeing since 1996 and now my family uses him. - R Smith

About Dr. Young Dr. Young is certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. His professional memberships include the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Medical Association, Alabama Orthopaedic Society and AOA Honored (top 10% of his medical class). He has participated in numerous clinical trials researching the effects of pharmaceuticals during orthopedic surgery procedures.

Sports Medicine & Orthopedics Baptist Health Sports Medicine and Orthopedics - Vestavia 200 Montgomery Highway - Suite 125 - Vestavia, AL 35216

Call (205) 822-HELP to make an appointment, or visit precisionsportsortho.com to learn more about Dr. Young.

AIDB’S COME PLAY AT THE CLUB GALA

The AIDB “Come Play at the Club” Gala, held at The Club in Birmingham, raised over $220,000 to support programs for the Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind.

The successful fundraiser featured performances

by AIDB students with The Eric Essix Trio and Alie B. Gorie-Cook, was attended by approximately 200 guests. To see the rest of the pictures click the code.

Spencer Lindermood,

Charlie, Cheryl and And

rew Collat

Judge Debra Weston Pickens, Melodi Anderson, Paris Pickens

Lacy, Debbie, and Dennis Gilliam, Justin Mayfield, Mary Ann Phillips

Morgan and Bob Poole

Alan and Melanie Kirk

Elana Jones, Debbie Gilliam

?????

ABOUT

44 T O W N

Jennifer Cornett, Jeannie Rice

Anne-Laura, Alie B. Gorrie-Cook

Thanks for Voting Us #1 Pizza in Bham!

Thank you for voting us Best Physical Therapy in Birmingham!

CRESTLINE www.therapysouth.com | (205) 871-0777

FOSTERING COMPASSION Grace House Ministries provides stable, Christian homes to Alabama girls in foster care with the commitment to developing mature, godly women.

Fostering Compassion is Grace House’s largest annual fundraising event. Community leaders, businesses, and churches gather to reflect on God’s compassion and support Birmingham’s only all-girls foster care ministry. To see the rest of the pictures click the code.

Jordyn Keesing, Hannah Rutle

dge, Maggie Roberts, Ashley Jacks

on

Valerie Price, Andrea Whitfield

Maggie Smith, Meg Hightower

Brian and Kathleen Boudreaux and Kaci and Wyman Hamilton

Lauren Sisler, Mimi Cawood

iley

ll, Kristen Ba

Reena Powe

Mary Beth Cannon, Lisa Burton, Katie Cannon

Lindsey Hughes, Christa Ketchum, Kelly Lewis, Kali McNutt

Reena Powell, Kathryn Gay, Britt Pucket, Lana Shoultz

ABOUT

46 T O W N

BIG BAD BREAKFAST

NOW SERVING BIRMINGHAM

FROM FIVE

CRAVEWORTHY LOCATIONS!

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I turn dreams into reality.

Contact me today to start your home buying journey.

BBB-PELHAM

BBB-VESTAVIA

Hillary Weiss BBB-CAHABA HEIGHTS

BBB-HOMEWOOD

VOTED

T BEST BREAKFAS NCHES! AND ONE OF THE BEST BRU

ARC Realty Mountain Brook Office

Thank You Voters!

WWW.BIGBADBREAKFAST.COM

REALTOR® 205.876.3052 hweiss@arcrealtyco.com

2718 Cahaba Road Mountain Brook, AL 35223

BBB-GREYSTONE

Amber Jordan, Jennifer Kelly

Haley Houston, Ali Mims (Miss Hoover), Paul David Houston

ROOM AT THE TABLE Matt Wilson, Jaimie Wilson

Ady’s BiG Army Annual Art Auction is a signature fundraising event celebrating creativity, community, and inclusion in Birmingham, Alabama. Hosted by Ady’s BiG Army, a Christ-centered vocational community dedicated to providing meaningful work, dignity, and belonging for adults with disabilities, the annual art auction showcases original artwork created by the organization’s citizens alongside pieces

Chrissy Schubert, Jaime Montgomery

donated by local and regional artists. To see the rest of the pictures click the code.

Rachel-Kate McGee, Kaylor Otwell

Nathan Reinhard, Erin Prewitt Jacqueline McLeod, Cindy Crook, Diana Long Mary Alice Kline, Adam Kline

Julie Juleigh, Kim Barranco, Ashley Ferguson, Amy Lawon

ABOUT

48 T O W N

Matias Raponi, Lily Werchanowskyj

ROOM AT THE TABLE CONT.

Bama Hager, Georgia Pearson

Kimberly Reynolds, Beth Moody

Angela Moore, Kala Walker

Olivia Pope, Megan Hoskin, Laura Tate

Kristy Bender, Dora Atchison, Haley King, Brannon King

Addie Early, Claire Grogan

Austyn Gamble, Garrett Gamble ABOUT

50 T O W N

Bruce Haukohl, Sharon Haukohl, Veronica McGee

吀䠀䔀

刀唀匀匀伀䴀 䜀刀伀唀倀

刀伀䈀䔀刀吀 ☀ 䈀䔀吀䠀 刀唀匀匀伀䴀 ㈀ 㔀ⴀ㠀㘀㈀ⴀ㘀㈀㘀㈀

䬀䔀䰀䰀䔀刀 圀䤀䰀䰀䤀䄀䴀匀 刀䔀䄀䰀吀夀 䔀䄀䌀䠀 伀䘀䘀䤀䌀䔀 䤀匀 䤀一䐀䔀倀䔀一䐀䔀一吀䰀夀 伀圀一䔀䐀 䄀一䐀 伀倀䔀刀䄀吀䔀䐀

2025

2024

2023

GAIETIES MOTOWN DANCE PARTY Guests stepped back in time for Groove with the Gaieties!, a lively Motown Dance Party inspired by the unforgettable style and music of the 1960s and 1970s. To see the rest of the pictures click the code.

Cindy Barr, Matt Lusko, Janet Lusko, Janie Evans, Kitty White

Jerry and Sarah Hodge, Peggy and Lawayne Thrasher

Ann and Barrett Hicks

Bill and Marcie Rodrigues

Lochrane Coleman Smith, Judy Feagin, Helen Pardue

Amy and John Bromberg

Mabry and Michele Smith

ABOUT

52 T O W N

Linda and Jim Powell, Matt Whatley, Harriett McFadden

New Years’ Savings

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V ISIT Y OU R LOC AL SH OW R O O M :

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177

Harper, Elizabeth Chase Katie Tuck, Rebecca Edwards, Julie

Tyler Stephens, Madelyn Scott, Michelle Reis

DERMATOLOGY & SKIN CARE CENTER ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE Dermatology & Skin Care Center Annual Open House took place on April 9th, featuring exclusive offers, live entertainment, hors d’oeuvres, and representatives from different cosmetic companies in attendance to speak with patients. To see the rest of the pictures click the code.

Joan Riosa, Kathy Carpenter

John Sweeney, Cathy

DeBatdeleben

Sherri Bradford, Tarah Mitchel

Jessica Vines, Laura Doyle Moon

Amanda Johnson, KatieNathan White Reinhard, Erin Prewitt Mary Alice Kline, Adam Kline

Shelbie Landry, Dr Harper, Katie Moon

Mary Cate and Cathy DeBardeleben, Abigail Jackson

Cole and Abigail Jackson ABOUT

54 T O W N

Leading the Way For over 155 years, Bradley has been growing to serve our clients better. As an Am Law 100 firm with more than 750 attorneys and 13 offices strategically located across our footprint, we provide business clients at home and around the world with a full suite of legal services in dozens of industries and practice areas. Our clients rely on us for innovative solutions, dependable responsiveness, and a deep commitment to success.

Bradley is pleased to be recognized in the Best of 2026

Please visit our website www.bradley.com

No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers. ATTORNEY ADVERTISING. Contact: David Roth, Esq., 205.521.8428, droth@bradley.com, Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP, 1819 Fifth Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203. ©2026

Mama says, "GRACIAS!" Thank you for voting us in the Best of 2026! dine in - take out - catering for catering visit tacomamaonline.com

Allison Dogan, Kelly Burke, DeValerie and Jeffrey Williams Audrey Dahlen, Madeline Rock

A JOURNEY TO TUSCANY TASTING EVENT CASA of Jefferson County invited guests to join them at Finch Fine Wines for an exclusive tasting experience dedicated to supporting their vital work. To see the rest of the pictures click the code.

Richard and Lisa Stone

Ashley Hale, Dana Holcomb

Kamil and Mindi Falkowski

Jonathan Pinnick, Honora Gathings, Marisa and Eric Donovan

Cindy Dillard, Reece Moore

ABOUT

56 T O W N

James and Laura Witcher

JULIE HARRIS Your Neighbor, Your REALTOR®

Congratulations to my buyers and sellers!

Over the Mountain Pediatrics Thanks You for Voting Us Best Pediatric Practice We consider it a privilege to provide

FOR SALE

991 FERN STREET

SOLD

4619 PINE MOUNTAIN ROAD

SOLD

4216 VESTVIEW CIRCLE

UNDER CONTRACT 219 CARLTON LANE

SOLD

4211 GAINES MILL CIRLE

SOLD

3664 ROCKHILL ROAD

healthcare to your child, newborns through young adulthood.

SOLD

3517 BELLE MEADE WAY

childrensal.org/over-the-mountain-pediatrics 3 3 0 0 C A H A B A R O A D, S U I T E 1 0 2 BIRMINGHAM, AL 35223 2 0 5 - 8 7 0 -7 2 9 2

SOLD

4141 OLD LEEDS LANE

SOLD

4619 PINE MOUNTAIN ROAD

SOLD

1212 DUNSTON AVE

Kat McDavid, Kelly Wright

LIFT YOUR SPIRITS: FREEDOM TO HEAL Community Grief Support‘s Lift Your Spirits event took place on Thursday, May 14th, at The Birmingham Zoo. This year’s attendees enjoyed an evening of USA-themed festivities, including a fine wine pull, a silent auction with fine art and spa treatments, and an exciting live auction with items ranging from gift cards to the best restaurants in the greater Birmingham area and other dazzling items. To see the rest of the pictures click the code.

Caroline Gillis, Wells Marks

Amber Pope, Janice Rogers

Jill Jones, Jessica Viera

jamin

Nancy and Stuart Ben

Camille Cole, Gina West

ABOUT

58 T O W N

Thank You,Birmingham!

Voting Us The Best Pediatric Dentistry

FREE

WORKOUT

THANK YOU FOR VOTING! ‘BEST YOGA STUDIO‘

205-502-7511

BY DOMESTIQUE COFFEE

Great morning vibes start here.

4510 Overton Rd Ste 110 | 205.994.8906

labellabirmingham.com @labellabirmingham

Hydrafacial Microneedling Chemical Peels Injectables Spray Tans Infrared Sauna Cut + Color Services Skincare Boutique

Espresso

Cold Brew Burritos Pastries

1724 27th Ct S HOMEWOOD, AL

WE ASKED. 2026

Where’s the Best Place for Pizza?

WHO HAS THE BEST BURGER IN BHAM?

Where’s the Best Place to Bring Your Dog?

BEST LOCAL BEER?

BEST MARGARITA IN TOWN?

L L O P S ’ R E D A E R L A ANNU ABOUT

60 T O W N

YOU ANSW2026

Best Brunch?

BEST BBQ?

What’s the Best Outdoor Excursion Around Town?

Who Do You Think Has the Best Patio?

ERED. What’s the Best Place to Watch Sports?

WHERE’S THE BEST PLACE TO GET ASIAN FOOD?

ANNUAL READER’S POLL

2026

BES T S U S H I

Bamboo

31.32%

Great place to eat on a Friday evening! First time trying something other than sushi and it did not disappoint. This bowl was MASSIVE! Had to get a go box. -SARAH L.

B ES T BBQ

Saw’s

35.57%

Davenport’s

B ES T PIZZA

21.15%

The barbecue was tender and hickory smoked

Davenport’s Pizza Palace gave me such a fun,

just right. The potato was fantastic. -RICKY H.

memorable dining experience. I ate inside, and the

Full Moon Jim n Nick’s Martin’s BBQ Dreamland

whole place had this lively, nostalgic energy thanks

12.58% 11.26% 10.21% 6.65%

Jack Brown’s

-CHANNING T.

Slice Pizza Grace Slim’s Uncle G’s

25.73%

16.14% 12.84% 10.99% 8.45%

BES T AS IAN FO O D

33.57%

Burger Joint for lunch and I had the Dr. Gonzo burger with cheese fries. The burger itself definitely lives up to the hype. ­-RACHEL J.

memory in our date night book. We will definitely be back. The interior design was beautiful. High

and consistently good every single time.

ceiling, spacious with purposeful lighting and

­- CHRISTINA B.

decor. -FAYE Y.

17.71% 13.06% 11.94% 8.01%

Big Spoon Creamery

30.09%

The portions are worth the price. The food was delicious. -ADRIENNE A.

Crestline Bagel Demetri’s Another Broken Egg First Watch

Who Voted?

We had 4,221 people who voted online. They told us a little about themselves.

Here’s what they said.

Gianmarco’s Helen Automatic Seafood Le Fresca

22.89% 13.17% 6.41% 6.01%

B ES T B R EA KFA ST PL AC E

18.08% 12.79% 8.58% 8.36%

27.39%

The experience at Bottega has created a core

absolute favorite dish, they’re perfectly cooked

BES T DES S ERT PLACE

Big Bad Breakfast

BES T FINE DINI N G

Bottega

The succulent catfish is hands down my

Red Pearl Abhi Saigon Noodle House Taj India

My friends and I went to Jack Brown’s Beer &

Chez FonFon Back Forty Otey’s Saw’s

17.02% 14.46% 12.23% 8.76%

to the arcade noise humming in the background..

Surin

B ES T BURG E R

Surin Jinsei Abhi Ono Poké

21.56%

17.25% 15.43% 10.94% 7.83%

BES T S EAFO O D

Automatic Seafood

41.30%

Outstanding seafood and a delightful dining

One of Birmingham’s only true creameries,

experience are sure to be found at Automatic

where they’re making all the ice cream in house.

Seafood! This is a more upscale outing, and it

I am a self proclaimed Ice Cream Snob, but Big

made for a cozy and elegant birthday dinner/

Spoon checks all my boxes. -CAMILLE F.

date night. -EMILY C.

Cookie Fix Mountain Brook Creamery Edgar’s Olexa’s

Fish Market Chuck’s Fish Hot & Hot Magnolia Point

76% Female 24% Male Married: 68% Single: 34% Age 18-20: 1% Age 21-29: 17% Age 30-39: 28% Age 40-49: 23% Age 50-59: 18% Age 60+: 13%

14.33% 14.04% 13.60% 12.57%

Employed Full Time: 78% Employed Part Time: 11% Not Employed, Not Looking: 6% Retired: 5% Own Home: 82% Value of Home $250k - $400k: 28% $400k - $600k: 24% $600k - $800k: 17% $800k +: 31%

11.70% 9.63% 8.35% 7.63%

WHERE DO THEY LIVE? 35213: 10% 35209: 9% 35243: 8% 35242: 7% 35205: 6% 35223: 6% 35216: 5% 35226: 5% 35244: 4% (>99% in Bham Area)

BE ST ASI AN FOOD: Surin

BE ST LO CAL BE E R : Cahaba Blonde

BE ST BR E AK FAST: Big Bad Breakfast

BES T S E A F O O D : Automatic

B E ST PIZZA :Davenports

B ES T C O FFE E SHOP

O’Henry’s

22.72%

Helen

BES T S TEAK

22.21%

BES T NEW RES TAU R A N T

Bayonet

25.93%

This is a great location with a beautiful park

We got the Warm Angel Biscuits because it

There aren’t too many places in the world

across the street. They have a few tables

seemed popular and well liked, the Carolina

that can be called “genuinely impressive”, but

outside and a few inside where you can sit and

Gold Middlins, and Bear Creek Farm Flat Iron

Bayonet simply cannot be placed into any other

enjoy your coffee or pastry. -LINDA R.

Steak. They were all SO good. -LETITIA J.

category. -ALEX P.

Little Betty Steak Bar Perry’s Fleming’s Armour House

El Royale Lapeer Steak & Seafood High Dive Epice

Cala Church Street Red Cat Domestique

15.66% 13.82% 11.47% 9.41%

ABOUT

63 T O W N

17.20% 14.51% 13.16% 11.52%

23.42% 14.35% 10.63% 9.16%

ANNUAL READER’S POLL

2026

B ES T M A RG ARI TA

El Barrio

29.73%

Our bartender was great. She made some great margaritas and chatted us up. It’s not trendymore casual and laid back, wear what you like. I can’t wait to visit again. -REEMA G.

Taco Mama Adios Mayawell Mexico Lindo

26.90% 17.29% 9.45% 8.48%

BE ST PLACE TO B U Y WINE

Piggly Wiggly Golden Age Red or White Hop City Classic Wine Co.

46.63% 12.86% 9.62% 9.27% 7.26%

Piggly Wiggly is a good grocery in general, but what truly sets them apart, in my opinion, is the wine & beer. They really have the best selection with a variety of types and prices and most of

BES T B RU NCH PLACE

The Essential

27.77%

I got the Steak & Eggs. They were great. I I was surprised that no toast was provided for this item. My wife got the Banana Bread French Toast. She also loved it. -GARY T.

Big Bad Breakfast ZaZa Another Broken Egg Ruby Sunshine

20.23% 13.31% 11.62% 10.77%

the time have an expert on hand to help you.

-STEPHANIE L

Otey’s

B ES T BAR

13.81%

B ES T LU NCH PLACE

The staff is super friendly, the prices are

Bottega

perfectly priced and the ambiance is smooth.

Great place to meet with friends or simply

every penny. Truly one of the best meals I’ve

listen to a band on the weekend -JASON B.

House of Found Objects Juniper Key Circle Commons Collin’s Bar

18.10%

Bottega lives up to all the hype and is worth had in a very long time and in a beautiful

11.99% 10.42% 8.52% 6.62%

setting. -KRISTIN D.

BEST PATIO/ OUTDOOR SEATING

The Garage

Brick & Tin Niki’s West Johnny’s Diplomat Deli

16.47% 15.06% 11.57% 11.42%

26.77%

If you get the chance, go check out this historical gem tucked away in Birmingham.

Voted one of the top bars to travel to in multiple magazines. The owner basically built a bar around his workshop. -DYLAN M.

Back Forty Bottega Ovenbird Vino

19.06% 15.41% 8.34% 7.78%

B ES T P LAC E T O BUY BE E R

Piggly Wiggly Hop City Trader Joe’s Diplomat Deli The Vineyard

47.34% 27.20% 12.09% 7.33% 3.57%

I love this location. The store is always absolutely clean. The parking lot is kind of small, but the customer service makes up for that. They always have good sales going on. -BRITT B.

YOUR FAVO RITE CO CK TAIL

Margarita Old Fashioned Orange Thing Martini Moscow Mule

Our Readers’ Poll was conducted through Survey Monkey and was open for voting from March 16 until April 15.

The survey was promoted via social media, email and on abouttown.io. Voters were only allowed one vote per device.

All quoted reviews are from Yelp and Google Reviews.

30.11% 15.50% 14.20% 12.50% 7.55%

B ES T PLACE TO WAT CH S PO RTS

Otey’s

29.33%

Great little hole in the wall! Fun ambience, good burgers, wings, sandwiches and salads and real onion rings, just like I like them. -STEPHANIE F.

Paramount Buffalo Wild Wings Baumhower’s CharBar

19.35% 14.32% 10.32% 7.76%

BE ST D E NTAL PR ACT ICE :Stone Creek

B E S T D E S S E RT PLACE : Big Spoon Creamery

BE ST SPA : The Woodhouse BE ST BU R GER: Jack Brown’s

CAT E RER: Taco Mama

B E S T P L AC E T O S E E A C O N C E RT: Coca Cola Amphitheater

B ES T P U B L IC GOL F C OURSE

Highlands Park

29.94%

Such a fun golf course!! They have great food and drinks! The people are nice and the course always looks great! -GABRIELLA W.

Ross Bridge Oak Mountain Oxmoor Valley Bent Brook

29.39% 6.03% 5.92% 5.59%

BE ST VENU E FO R WEDDING/ REH EARSAL

Barn at Shady Lane Pursell Farms Florentine Donnelly House Fennec

28.41% 16.12% 9.13% 5.75% 5.64%

Michael and Linda are truly the sweetest people to work with, and they made my wedding day incredibly special. One of the biggest reasons I chose their venue—beyond the venue itself—was their kindness and excitement from the very first time we met. -JADYN T

B ES T P L AC E F OR HOME FU R NIS H I N G S

At Home Homewood

30.00%

At Home Furnishings is easily one of those

B ES T WEEK END GETAWAY (WITH IN A 6 H O U R DR I V E )

Gulf Shores Area 30A Local Lake New Orleans Savannah, GA/Charleston, SC

20.75% 20.12% 9.97% 9.88% 9.26%

BE ST VENU E FO R EVENT

stores I can just explore for hours and hours on

The Club

end and not get bored. It’s not just a custom

The food was good. The bartenders understood

25.87%

made furniture store; their home decor selec-

the task at hand with an all knowing wink indi-

tion is just as competitive.. -LUCY T.

cating they’ll do it. As to the ambiance, as is well

Home Goods 12.91% Birmingham Wholesale Furniture 12.78% Urban Suburban 6.58% Stock and Trade 5.70%

known, you can’t beat the view. -ERIC F.

Avondale Fennec B&A Warehouse Iron City

ABOUT

14.99% 10.67% 6.97% 6.97%

65 T O W N

BES T PLACE TO BU Y A U NIQ U E GIFT

JB&Co Jewelry Alabama Goods Smith’s Variety Snoozy’s General / Shoppe

24.40% 19.35% 18.06% 15.92% 5.42%

ANNUAL READER’S POLL

2026

B ES T INTER I OR D E SI G N E R

Jan Ware Lisa Flake Kristen McGee Interiors Shea Bryars Iris & Co.

8.26% 5.90% 5.60% 4.72% 4.28%

B ES T P L AC E F OR HOME AC C EN T S

Mayer Lighting Fixtures and Finishes Ferguson Plumbing Supply Southern Bath & Kitchen Circa Lighting

18.43% 8.19% 7.40% 6.61% 6.46%

WOMENS C L OTH I N G: Dukes

BES T CH IRO PRACTIC PRACTICE

Back on Track Greystone The Joint Pillar Motivity

8.83% 8.83% 8.67% 5.17% 2.83%

BES T AU TO DEALE R

Serra Auto Group Edwards Chevrolet Birmingham Broker Stivers Ford Benton Nissan

11.36% 8.93% 8.12% 5.36% 4.38%

B ES T N EW R ESTAUR A N T: Bayonet

BE ST P L AC E F OR M E N ’ S A P PA R E L : Mountain High Outfitters

BES T ANIM AL H O SP I TA L

B ES T FERTIL I T Y C L I N I C

Alabama Fertility Specialists

Homewood Animal Hospital Avondale Animal Hospital Bhm Animal Hospital + Resort Riverview Animal Clinic Oxmoor Animal Clinic

16.31%

I had the best care at Alabama Fertility. I am so thankful for Dr. Allemand and his team. After two years of infertility and a round of IVF we are finally pregnant and I owe it all to them. The staff

12.73% 8.58% 8.44% 7.44% 5.15%

is so kind, understanding and make you feel so comfortable. The communication is quick and effective in the portal. I would definitely recommend this team to anyone going through fertility issues. -MARY P.

UAB Birmingham Obstetrics Deidre Gunn, MD Cynthia K Sites, MD

9.56% 4.45% 2.64% 1.65%

BE ST H O M E MAINTENANCE ( HVAC/ PLU M B ING/ ELECTRIC) CO M PANY

Guin Service, LLC OnTime Service Standard Heating, Cooling & Plumbing APS Eagle Service Company

ABOUT

66 T O W N

11.69% 9.15% 8.25% 3.22% 3.05%

B ES T DO GGIE DAY CA R E

Dogtopia The Pawms Pet Resort Birmingham Animal Hospital Dog Days of Birmingham We Talk Dog

14.27% 10.27% 6.42% 6.42% 5.99%

ANNUAL READER’S POLL

2026

B ES T HAI R SA L ON

The Collective

17.28%

B ES T S PA

The Woodhouse

29.55%

BES T PRIVATE ELEMEN A RY S CH O O L

I had the best experience at The Collective.

My experience at Woodhouse Day Spa was

Hilltop Montessori

The consult was thorough, they were friendly

nothing short of spectacular. From the moment

The quality of education offered is truly exception-

and listened. They paired me with an amazing

I arrived, I was greeted by the sweetest recep-

al. The faculty is great and help each student in a

stylist. -J B.

tionist, who gave me a tour and got me settled

way that gives each child the tools needed to be

in for my services. -JESSICA S

successful in life.. -PARENT

Hairfolk Salon U Oak Street Hair Group Forecast

11.77% 6.91% 6.91% 6.80%

Ross Bridge Escape Spa The Retreat Total on 1st

19.10% 10.58% 9.81% 6.84%

Advent Episcopal School Highlands School Westminister Our Lady of Sorrows

C OL ORBE I ST ST/ ST BUR Y LGIEST: R: Beth Doyle Jack Brown’s

BBE E ST S T PUB PLAC LICE TO GOLF BU YCOU WIRSE: N E: Piggly Highlands Wiggly Park

15.55%

14.10% 12.58% 9.81% 8.84%

WEDDING VENUE: Barn at Shady Lane

B ES T C O L O R I ST /ST YL I ST

Eric Goss (Hairfolk) Beth Doyle (The Collective) Whitney Warner (WW Hair) Mark Hyde (Forecast) Scott Barfoot (Hairfolk) Courtney Jones (James Pierce)

12.10% 11.90% 8.22% 5.06% 3.41% 3.41%

BES T PLACE FO R AN OU TDO O R EXCU RS IO N

Oak Mountain

B ES T P L AC E T O TAKE YOUR D OG

Red Mountain Park Oak Mountain Railroad Park Back 40 Avondale

20.21% 19.79% 15.21% 13.83% 9.36%

37.76%

BES T PLACE TO S EE L I V E M U S IC

Coca-Cola Amphitheater

28.47%

Very nice facilities for camping. We brought our

This was an amazing amphitheatre! Sound was

kids’ BMX bikes and they had a blast at the

loud and show was amazing. Seats were way

BMX track! Everything is a drive so I would

more comfortable than others I’ve attended.

definitely bring a bike or electric scooter,

Only downside was only one set of bathrooms.

electric bike, mountain bike, etc. -BRITTANY B.

On the other side of the amphitheatre. They

Jemison Trail Red Mountain Park Moss Rock Ruffner Park

are accommodating for handicapped people.

ABOUT

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16.18% 14.79% 12.09% 7.09%

-APRIL C.

Avondale Alabama Theatre BJCC Iron City

18.54% 16.54% 14.11% 13.42%

ANNUAL READER’S POLL

2026

B ES T LO CAL SPI RI T

Redmont Vodka

31.78%

Gus Mayer

Very smooth. Definitely high quality!

-DOTTY W.

Dread River Straight Bourbon Cahaba Spirits Vodka

BE ST WO MEN’ S CLO TH ING BO U TIQ U E

13.50% 12.05%

17.24%

store two or three times and still find something

life. The curation of brands and styles quite

new to look at. The clothes are fun. -KAT T.

literally cannot be beat. -LAUREN C.

Mobley & Sons Bill Reid Shaia’s Pants Store

B ES T P ED I AT RI C I A N

B ES T P LA INTI F F L AW F I RM

Alexander Shunnarah Hollis Wright Morgan & Morgan Wettermark Keith

16.37% 8.73% 7.09% 6.14%

B ES T BPL AC BR E TUN O ECAT UN CEssential H: EST H: LThe Porch

Over the Mountain Pediatrics 17.00% Mayfair Medical Group 9.98% Dr. Stacey S. Gilbert, MD 5.15% Stansell B Keith MD 4.68% Dr. Judith T. Habeeb, MD 4.52%

15.36% 13.02% 8.68% 8.18%

18.85%

I love MHO! You can wander around the whole

I LOVE Gus Mayer - I’ve shopped here all my

SOCA Dukes Fabrik B Prince

B ES T PLAC E FOR LUN CH : Bottega

B ES T M EN’ S CLO TH I N G

Mountain High Outfitters

BE ST HA P P Y HOUR : Soho Social BE ST P L AC E T O BUY BE E R : Hop City

BE S T RETIREM ENT H O ME

Somerby Brookdale Longleaf The Brook Town Village

9.23% 8.89% 5.75% 4.36% 4.18%

BE S T FAMILY LAW FIRM

Peeples Law Firm Burns, Brashier, & Johnson Rose Law Firm Kirk Drennen Law

ABOUT

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14.65% 14.01% 9.55% 9.30%

12.54% 7.77% 7.60% 7.42%

BES T PEDIATRIC DEN T I S T

Dr. Clark Thomas 11.40% Lovell Pediatric Dentistry 7.38% Mountain Brook Smiles 6.10% Oak Mountain Pediatric Dentistry 5.14% Summit Smiles 5.14%

BES T DEFENS E LAW F I R M

Bradley Maynard Nexsen Burr Forman Lightfoot Graham, Neal, Seal & Bell

11.75% 10.43% 7.45% 6.13% 5.63%

ANNUAL READER’S POLL

2026

B ES T TAK E O U T

Taco Mama

B ES T LO CA L BE E R

Cahaba American Blonde

24.17%

B ES T LO CAL B REWERY

Back Forty

23.63%

I ordered the “Gotta Catch ‘Em All” taco, and

Great service, good brews, and awesome food!

let me tell you, it delivered. The first bite was an

The catfish sandwich is literally a step-above!

explosion of flavors -TY P.

The staff is super helpful and nice. Really liked

Surin Taziki’s Red Pearl Blue Pacific

22.26% 20.65% 12.12% 8.60%

this place. -MATT V.

Cahaba Brewing Avondale Good People Trim Tab

21.84% 17.46% 15.67% 9.67%

27.37%

Bartenders are always kind with a recommendation on their newest creations and if you can nab a spot on one of the couches. -MATTHEW M.

Good People IPA Muchacho Trim Tab Paradise Now Avondale Sour Pash

19.76% 17.35% 13.91% 11.13%

BE S T INS U RANCE AGENT

Ashley Lambert Truitt Insurance OM Hughes Stan Faulkner Robert Langson Hunter Bentley Chad Hartsfield

4.94% 4.26% 4.09% 3.24% 2.90% 2.56% 2.04%

BES T LO CAL ATTRACT I O N

Culinary Scene/Restaurants Bham Zoo Civil Rights Museum Bham Museum of Art Downtown

BE ST L OCA L BR E W E RY: Back Fourty

B ES T P LASTI C SU RGERY: Cohn Plastic Surgery

27.79% 23.82% 8.77% 8.31% 8.31%

BE ST P HY SI CA L T HERAP Y: TherapySouth

BES T RES IDENTIAL B U ILDER

Slate Barganier Twin Construction B&B Construction Francis Bryant Hancock Construction

B ES T HA PPY HOUR

SoHo Social

27.50%

Stopped in after pickleball and it was the perfect spot right down the road.

Our server, was friendly and attentive, keeping our drinks full and making sure we had everything we needed. The food was great — I loved the steak tacos! -BROOKLYN F.

Otey’s Bricktop Freddy’s Wine House of Found Objects

16.35% 12.29% 11.53% 10.78%

8.48% 8.32% 4.24% 3.92% 3.92%

B ES T CATERING

B ES T EYE CARE

TriaVision

Taco Mama 18.94%

Dr Swanner is awesome. His staff was amazing also. I am a nurse and we are picky!!! He met all of my expectations and more. You don’t usually get an excellent doctor who is also listens and is caring. He explains everything in depth. -NANCY M.

Callahan Alabama Vision Center MyEyeDr. JJ Eyes ABOUT

69 T O W N

13.76% 8.94% 5.53% 4.11%

30.51%

Great gluten free experience. Very knowledgeable staff and what I suspect to be a manager even came out of the kitchen to verify allergies and to explain certain kitchen practices. -B C.

Tre Luna Kathy G & Co. Full Moon Taziki’s

17.60% 12.01% 11.60% 10.28%

ANNUAL READER’S POLL

2026

B ES T P LA S TI C SURG E RY P R ACTI C E

Cohn Plastic Surgery

19.71%

BE ST FITNES S S TU DIO / GYM

Ignite Cycle

20.83%

BES T FITNES S INS TR U CT O R

Kelly Campbell

14.80%

I love Ignite so much! It’s so inclusive to all sizes

Love her class! She always has such great enery.

I’m one day post op breast lift with implants

and all people! All of the instructors are amazing

And intense! -HILLARY B

and I feel amazing! From the moment I met Dr.

and helpful! Most recently I’ve been going in the

Cohn and his staff for my consultation, I felt so

mornings -SKYE M.

comfortable. -VICTORIA M.

YMCA Lifetime Pure Barre Orange Theory

Amy Stanaland Tabby Brock Scott Fell Paige McClees

Rousso Adams Facial Plastic Surgery15.30% Raggio MD Facial Plastic Surgery 13.07% Hedden and Gunn 9.28% Schaffer Plastic Surgery 8.24%

10.69% 9.49% 5.56% 3.60%

4.85% 4.60% 3.48% 3.48%

BE ST TAK E -OUT: Taco Mama

BEST STEA K :Helen

B E S T S US HI : Bamboo on 2nd

BE ST PLACE F O R O U TDOOR EXC URSI ON : Oak Mountain Park

ANNUAL READER’S POLL

2026

B ES T O RT HOPE D I C P R ACT I C E

Andrews Sports Medicine

26.68%

BES T DERM ATO LO GY PRACTICE

Renew Dermatology

17.32%

BES T O RTH O DO NTI C PRACTICE

Birmingham Orthodontics

13.73%

Recently had shoulder surgery and I can’t say

Dr. Bares is incredible! I’ve seen her for skin

I’ll admit I’m a little particular when it comes

enough good things about the experience. I did

concerns as well as filler and her attention to

to my teeth, but Birmingham Orthodontist has

not have any idea as to what to expect. From the

detail is impeccable. She and Courtney are the

been a great experience from start to finish. Dr.

first visit and on the day of surgery and until the

best derm duo in the game! They are both so

Feinberg is always kind, patient, and genuinely

last visit, everyone at Andrews Sports Medicine

sweet and make you feel relaxed. Best derm

helpful whenever I’ve needed anything. I’ve

made the process easy. -JARROD S.

office in Birmingham. -BEVERLY C.

had my braces off for eight years now, and I

Total Skin & Beauty 13.93% Village Dermatology 13.05% Gunn Dermatology 8.33% Dermatology & Laser of Alabama 7.02% Dermatology & Skin Care 6.25% Cahaba Dermatology 5.92%

still couldn’t be happier with the results. Highly

St. Vincent’s Orthopedic Southlake Ortho OrthoSports Association Baptist Health Sports Medicine

9.31% 6.25% 4.79% 3.32%

recommend. -VICTORIA C.

David Hufham Sarver Yanosky PT Orthodontics

10.56% 9.20% 7.54% 7.39%

B ES T M O RTG AG E C OMPA N Y

Synovus Regions Fairway Independent Mortgage Guild Mortgage Prosperity Mortgage MortgageRight

10.79% 9.40% 7.52% 4.79% 4.10% 1.88%

B ES T GARDEN S H O P

Leaf & Petal Andy’s Creekside Nursery Collier’s Nursery Oak Street Garden Shop Shoppe

37.39% 13.43% 8.75% 8.11% 7.73%

B ES T D ENTAL PRACT I C E

Stone Creek Dental Care

12.43%

Great experience with Dr. Dickie. Her bedside manner is excellent and she fixed a filling defect

B ES T REAL ES TATE AG E N T

The Russoms Stephanie Robinson Boehm Nolen Julie Harris Hillary Weiss Fred Smith Group Cristen Bond Emily Getty Betsy Reamer Scott Ford Angela Stevens

8.99% 8.95% 6.95% 3.79% 3.60% 3.05% 2.60% 2.42% 2.12% 2.08% 2.00%

(done elsewhere) that was giving me some trouble. The procedure time was so short without effecting quality. The dental hygienist was very thorough as well. -TAYLER M.

Magic City Dentists Koch Aesthetic Dentistry Kevin Alexander Vestavia Smiles Kasey Davis Dental

8.09% 7.08% 6.21% 4.19% 2.46%

BE S T LANDS CAPE S ERVICE

Millhouse Howell Nelson Team Faulkner Gardens Wayne’s Father Nature

ABOUT

9.15% 7.87% 7.38% 6.42% 4.49%

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Regions ServisFirst PNC AmFirst Bryant Bank Synovus FirstBank

BES T BANK

28.63% 8.38% 8.24% 6.98% 5.73% 4.75% 2.51%

ANNUAL READER’S POLL

2026

BE ST PLACE FO R O U TDO O R FU RNITU RE

Southeastern Salvage Summer Classics Home Depot Absco Homestead House

B ES T HO T E L

Grand Bohemian Ross Bridge Elyton Valley Redmont

39.43% 14.77% 10.16% 8.67% 4.07%

B ES T WELLNES S CE N T E R

41.56% 20.08% 14.29% 10.79% 6.09%

Southern Ketamine

14.83%

I had a great experience at Southern Ketamine and Wellness. The staff is incredibly kind, caring, and informative, and they made me feel comfortable and supported throughout the entire process. JANNA D.

Well Restore Hydralive Prime IV

14.17% 9.32% 4.99% 4.20%

BES T YO GA S TU DIO

Hotworx

14.80%

Nice atmosphere, clean facility with all new structures. The idea of hot yoga Pilates or hot workouts in a sauna in general is new and unique and downright innovative to me. -CASEE M.

B ES T M ED I SPA

Smart Skin

12.88%

I have been going to Smart Skin for several

Birmingham Yoga Yoga Circle Yoga Lab U4IC

8.35% 7.87% 6.46% 4.57%

BES T PLACE FO R PH YS I CA L TH ERAPY

TherapySouth EW Motion Therapy ATI Birmingham Physical Therapy MoveWell

12.57% 9.88% 8.92% 6.31% 3.43%

years and I have the monthly service package. I have gotten many different treatments, including RFT, Derma Plane, Hydrofacial. -KRISTEN G.

Total on 1st 11.86% Infinity Med-I-Spa 10.54% Prescription Aesthetic & Wellness 6.00% AZIA 4.69%

BE ST M EDICAL CO NCIERGE S ERVICE

homeRN Cahaba Concierge Medicine Concierge Med Solutions Concierge Medical Associates Highbridge Medical

B E S T WELLN ESS CEN TER Southern Ketamine & Wellness

ABOUT

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14.78% 6.96% 3.48% 2.78% 1.57%

BES T PLACE TO BU Y A R U G

Issis & Sons English Village Lane Nilipour Eighteenth Street Paige Albright Orientals

16.31% 15.15% 9.24% 8.08% 7.94%

ANNUAL READER’S POLL

2026

B ES T P LAC E F OR A G IR L S ’ N I G HT Freddy’s

BES T PES T & M O S Q U ITO CO NTRO L

20.81%

We have been to Freddy’s frequently for dinner or drinks. We always have a great experience. -TRACY T

Vino Neon Moon Mayawell Char Bar

14.35% 14.12% 13.38% 11.95%

Wayne’s Cook’s Birmingham Mosquito Control Terminix Greenway

BES T AN N UAL C H AR I TY EV EN T: Chili Cook-Off

B ES T H O TEL Grand Bohemian

BEST P EDI ATRI CI AN: Over the Mountain Pediatrics

16.18% 15.67% 7.84% 3.07% 2.73%

BES T ANNUAL CH ARITY EVENT Chili Cook-Off Crawfest Service Guild Gala Wine Women and Shoes Amanda Pair Legacy Gala Mardi Gras on the Mountain

21.80% 6.21% 5.89% 3.82% 3.50% 3.34%

BEST HAIR SAL ON: The Collective

10 Best SNL Alumni Movies presented by SIDEWALK

Sidewalk Film Festival’s List of the Best Saturday Night Live Alumni Movies

O

ver the last fifty years, Saturday Night Live has churned out some of the nation’s greatest comedic talents. Along with entertaining us on our television screens, several of them have gone on to hugely successful careers in film - whether they be SNL spin-offs or not. It’s hard to narrow down, but here are my Top Ten Movies by SNL Cast Members - comedies only!

10. POPSTAR: NEVER STOP NEVER STOPPING (2016) Akiva Schaffer and Jorma Taccone

It seems that the concept of the Saturday Night Live movie vehicle is more a relic of the 80s, 90s, and 2000s than it is today. My parents got to grow up with films like Beverly Hills Cop and Coneheads in real time, but my generation had something a little different - The Lonely Island. Cast member Andy Samberg and his team formed the comedy trio, introducing a new concept of “Digital Shorts” to the getting-antiquated show and ushering in a breath of fresh air for a new generation. It’s only natural that they capitalize on that for a full feature, right?

9. ANCHORMAN (2004) Adam McKay

Will Ferrell knocks it out of the park as Ron Burgundy, the hair obsessed, mustache sporting, egotist, who’s “kind of a big deal”. Parodying the 1970s news business with some of the greatest characters - and cameos - of all time, Anchorman is Ferrell and director McKay (before he got so serious) at their very best.

8. MEAN GIRLS (2004) Mark Waters

Some artists have the talent to truly capture a moment in culture and that’s what Tina Fey did with Mean Girls. Fey’s screenplay about the new girl in school trying to fit in with the popular clique continues to ring true for each generation while remaining one of the most memorable and quotable films of the 2000s. It even spun off its own Broadway musical - with its own film adaptation! - but Mark Waters’ original remains a bonafide classic.

7. THE BLUES BROTHERS (1980) John Landis

This may have been the first SNL-adjacent film that I was ever aware of - and like most of my generation, my introduction came from Drake & Josh. I didn’t end up watching The Blues Brothers in full until a few years later but it quickly became a favorite. A great comedy for comedy fans, a great musical for the most ardent musical hater, and the impeccable chemistry of Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi.

6. COMING TO AMERICA (1986) John Landis

More than anything, this film exemplifies what made Eddie Murphy great. If I’m ever in a funk, all I have to do is pull up the barber shop scenes on YouTube and I’m back to feeling like myself. The fish out of water concept is ripe for laughs while Murphy and Arsenio Hall battle to steal the show from each other in every single shared scene.

5. GROUNDHOG DAY (1993) Harold Ramis

Bill Murray, like a handful of successful SNL players, became so huge that we often forget about his time on the show. But without his SNL tenure, we wouldn’t have collaborations like Ghostbusters (honorable mention) and this one, which might have the perfect comedic script.

4. WAYNE’S WORLD (1992) Penelope Spheeris

I was too young to understand most of the references when I first saw this, but that didn’t sway it from being on repeat.

In what is maybe the best example of the show’s trend of adapting a recurring sketch into a feature-length film, Wayne’s World dealt with rock n’ roll, corporate pressure, and most importantly, partying on.

ABOUT

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3. BIG DADDY (1999) Dennis Dugan

You might remember it as the typical Sandman feature: toilet humor, obnoxious yelling, Rob Schneider playing a person of color, etc…and you’re not wrong.

While including these elements, Big Daddy is very much a product of its time, feeling more akin to a 1990s family comedy.

2. THE AUSTIN POWERS TRILOGY (‘97-’02) Jay Roach

In a post-Shrek world, we forget how much of a hold Mike Myers had on our culture.

Wayne’s World was already huge, spawning a sequel, popularizing catch-phrases, and putting Myers on the map. Now it was time for his James Bond spoof, an ultra-sexualized British mod hailing from the free love era of the 1960s - and not to mention his evil, bald archnemesis- Dr. Evil.

1. CADDYSHACK (1980) Harold Ramis

To me, Caddyshack is up there with Airplane!, Blazing Saddles, and Monty Python & the Holy Grail as the gold standard for what a movie comedy should be. Firing on all cylinders not just with SNL alums Chevy Chase and Bill Murray, but with heavyweight Rodney Dangerfield and TV’s Ted Knight, the film would have been a hit with just one of them. But somehow the stars aligned and one of the most consistently hilarious, outrageous, and fresh comedies of all time was born.

Maybe the formula is an elusive gopher and a Kenny Loggins soundtrack?

CURATE YOUR CLOSET

WITH THE BEST!

BIRMINGHAM • TUSCALOOSA • ATHENS • FAIRHOPE

NOW IN LANE PARKE AT 251 RELE ST - DUKESCLOTHIER.COM - @DUKESCLOTHIER

h, Katherine Pate, Anne Kellerma

Maria Saldarriaga, Kristin Stoug

WINE WOMEN & SHOES With the support from Chair, Avani Patel

Brooke Kline, Noelle Geeslin

of Avani Rupa Fine Jewelers, and many sponsors, over 350 women from the around the Birmingham area enjoyed a night of wine tasting, shopping, silent and live auction and more.

To see the rest of the pictures click the code.

Christina Brown, Ashley Seligson, Holly Gunn, Melissa Bogardus

Brittany Reaves,

Camryn Lidikay, Laine Cagle

Melissa Mann, Karla Williamson, Jennifer Shaw ABOUT

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Stacy Watts, Tabitha Barton

Rachel Nesbitt, Nicole Touliatos

Emily Russell, Layla Hamilton

Anisha Joshi Avani Patel, Sanjah Singh, Toni Leeth Amy Wheeler, Kate Gillespie, Holly Dean

Holly Gunn

Nicole Touliatos, Caroline Fields, Rachel Nesbitt, Brittany Bridges

Kelly Burke, Crystal Mullen- Johnson, Tameka Dixon

Amelia Voltz, Tammy Lucas, Julie Kim, Jenna Kapral, Lori Landis, Hannah Lucas ABOUT

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GOOD TASTE

PROMOTION

By: Scott Atkinson, Wine Manager at PIGGLY WIGGLY IN CRESTLINE

World Class Wines for a World Cup Year This is the summer of the 2026 World Cup. Even those who have zero interest in soccer have enjoyed the spirit and passion of the world coming to our shores.

There have been amazing stories of the Scots in Boston, the Algerians in Kansas, the Koreans in Mexico, and the Dutch… well the Dutch have been everywhere. It has been wonderful to see the world’s game in our country on the occasion of our 250th birthday.

The World Cup was first contested in Uruguay back in 1930. This year marks the 23rd World Cup, and there have only been eight nations crowned World Cup Champs.

For our purposes, we will acknowledge the victories of Brazil, England, Italy, and Uruguay. Three of those countries are not especially well-known for a long and storied winemaking tradition. So apologies to Brazil, England, and Uruguay for omitting them in this wine focused piece. Now, Italy is an absolute cornerstone in both soccer and wine, but they did not make it to the 2026 World Cup, so we will leave them out. Our apologies to the Azzurri, maybe in 2030.

Four other nations have hoisted the Jules Rimet trophy – Argentina, France, Germany, and Spain. Below you will find a wine from each one of those countries that we feel is worthy of world renown. We will also offer a fifth, an American wine, because, well, because it is our birthday after all.

SPAIN: Familia Torres Clos Ancestral

ARGENTINA: Cuvelier los Andes

Summer grilling has a cornerstone. That cornerstone is a burger. Lots of red wines are delicious but might be a bit too heavy for our Alabama summers. This classic Spanish red blend (45% Moneu, 35% Tempranillo, and 20% Garnach Tinta) has the “oomph” you want from a red while still maintaining lift and elegance. You can even put a little chill on it. Just make sure you get that 80/20 ground beef.

This would go perfectly with some burgers from your favorite Piggly Wiggly butcher.

Argentina hangs its hat on Malbec. And with good reason. Nobody else in the world can make a Malbec with energy and dimension like the Argentines. This offering from Mendoza is an exceptional rendition of Argentina’s hallmark grape. You take the best Argentina has to offer, then have it run by the esteemed family that controls the legendary Bordeaux house Château Léoville Poyferré… of course it is spectacular.

This would go perfectly with a grilled strip or ribeye from your favorite Piggly Wiggly butcher.

FRANCE: Etienne Simonis Pinot Blanc,

GERMANY: Dönnhoff Riesling, Dry

Vieilles Vignes

Riesling is not always sweet. We will type this out again, Riesling is not always sweet. DON’T FEAR THE RIESLING! This one even has “Dry” in the name! Dry Rieslings are incredible for Alabama summers because they are so versatile with so many foods, they are refreshing, and the minerality helps make the heat and humidity slightly more tolerable.

This would go perfectly with some shrimp or fish tacos from your favorite Piggly Wiggly butcher.

France is, arguably, the most diverse country when comes to wine. Red, White, Bubbles, Rosé, etc. They kinda do it all. So it was not easy to pick a killer French wine. We selected this Alsatian wonder because of how, well how jaw-droppingly delicious it is. Bright, mouthwatering fruit, good body, no oak, no butter. Just an incredible, versatile, crowd-pleasing wine.

This would go perfectly with some white BBQ grilled chicken from your favorite Piggly Wiggly butcher.

USA: Ridge Three Valleys

You may not know this, but… there is some snobbery in the wine world. Shocking, I know. But it is there. One example is that Europeans don’t hold American wine in high regard. But even the most pretentious European wine snob will concede that Ridge is an inarguable world-class winery. And the Ridge Three Valleys is a stunning value.

This would go perfectly with some generously sauced ribs from your favorite Piggly Wiggly butcher.

ABOUT

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Reclaim Your Strength Some battles leave marks that time alone can't heal. Whether it's chronic pain that steals your energy, depression that dims your light, or simply feeling worn down by life's demands, you deserve care that honors your courage.

At Southern Ketamine & Wellness, we understand that true healing requires both medical expertise and genuine compassion.

Founded by a pain management specialist who served at the VA, we bring big-system knowledge to personalized, patient-centered care.

Your journey begins with understanding. We offer comprehensive evaluations and individualized treatment plans that may include ketamine infusion therapy, SPRAVATO® nasal spray, medically-supervised weight management, and IV vitamin and hydration therapy — all designed to help you feel stronger from within.

When you're ready to reclaim your strength, we're here to guide you through.

Proud to offer free ketamine treatment for veterans through our VA partnership.

Learn More Birmingham: 205-490-7090 Auburn: 334-357-4772 SouthernKetamine.com

LAST LOOK

See if you can spot the 8 differences in these two pictures from Wine, Women and Shoes.

PUBLISHER Hunt Gillespie DIGITAL ASSISTANT Anna Kathryn Fitch CONTRIBUTING DESIGN Clint Cabiness CONTRIBUTING WRITER Kate Finch Anna Grace Hopkins MARKETING Shannan Beasley Jennifer Lyles Dowdle Brittani Osbourn PHOTOGRAPHERS Marie Ghossein Steve Higginbotham Jade Holloway Scott McLeod ADVERTISING For advertising information, please contact Hunt Gillespie at 205.821.4106 EVENTS To request your event to be featured, please send an e-mail at least one month prior to: info@abouttown.io WEB To see all the features & party pictures, visit: abouttown.io For a list of distribution points visit abouttown.io For detailed info on our readership contact hunt@abouttown.io

8. Two lines on right in background wall.

4. MIssing flower on dress in middle.

7. Longer sleeve on woman in black.

3. Woman in black has missing part of necklace.

6. Bigger back strap on far right woman.

2. Missing glasses on woman on left.

5. More hair on shoulder on woman in middle.

1. Double lights on the left.

8

Can You Spot The Eight Differences?

About Town is published by Gillespie, Inc. P.O. Box 130328 Birmingham, AL 35213 Copyright © 2026 Gillespie, Inc.

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