After Brunch: City Hall Diner

I feel I must apologize to my loyal blog readers. I have started a new job producing the show Daytime Alabama and I have been so busy I have not had the time to write about food, let alone visit great restaurants around Birmingham.  And I won’t lie; recent economic woes had me shaking in my restaurant going shoes.  But no more! I’m putting my foot down and picking up a knife and fork again! So here’s my latest venture: City Hall Diner.

Now this is a place I’ve been before and loved. On this particular Saturday, my finance Eric and I decided on a whim to grab some brunch at the Vestavia Hills diner, and I’m so glad we did.

We sat ourselves, as is the custom at this casual place, and were promptly and cheerfully greeted by our server. We ordered two coffees ($1.95) which were steaming hot and robust. The cream was thick and rich, no need for sugar. We scanned the menu for our meals and instantly something different jumped out at both of us.  For Eric, it was the Andouille Sausage Omelet with Cheddar and Salsa ($7). For me it was the Biscuits and Sausage Gravy—the Redneck Bennie version ($6). That means it comes with fried eggs on top! I also ordered a side of their crispy bacon for us to share.  Both meals were fresh, cooked to order and quite delicious.

You can also order classic dishes like Steak and Eggs ($9.50), omelets of all denominations, breakfast sandwiches, pancakes and French toast.  But our favorite is actually one of the least expensive meals on the menu.  It’s a simple bowl of Meuslix: granola with yogurt and fresh fruit ($5.50). It’s so creamy, crunchy and refreshing; you won’t be disappointed by its simplicity.

And that’s what City Hall Diner is all about; fresh, simple, yet perfectly prepared ingredients.  It’s a place where you could come in your Sunday best or a T-Shirt and jeans. It’s my regular brunch spot and I hope it will be yours. And nothing, not even the big, bad economy will keep me from enjoying the best that Birmingham has to offer.  So come with me, pick up your knife and fork again and get eating!