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DINING

26 1210 20th St S 205-918-0726 BIRMINGHAM

26 presents cuisine and atmosphere equally pleasing to the senses. A twinkling bar, a waterfall wall and garage doors that can be raised to create open-air dining are some of the elements that make up the chic and comfortable scene. They also have the coolest bathrooms in town! Add a menu featuring a mix of Asian and upscale seafood and you ve got some of the coolest sights, sounds and tastes in Birmingham. Head to 26 on Wednesdays for compli- mentary wine tastings, and get bottles for half price. The metropolitan atmosphere at 26 makes it the perfect venue for a night out, especially since the food is consistently a palette pleaser. Ginger Ann C.

Al's Deli & Grill 1629 10th Ave S 205-939-4278 BIRMINGHAM

If you stay out past sunset in the Magic City, Al s is a must-try. This 24-hour grill is a local staple for folks who like to party up an appetite, but their vast assort- ment of American and Mediter- ranean dishes is good eating no matter what time of day it is. A barbeque baker from Al s is the perfect way to end any night on the town. Megan B.

Asian Rim Sushi Company 3419 Colonnade Pkwy, Suite 100 205-490-1444 BIRMINGHAM

You ll find more than just delicious, inventive sushi at this atmospheric location. From certified Angus steaks to fresh seafood, it s an other-worldly

culinary experience. When you re ready to cap off your meal with a round of drinks, head to The Wave Cocktail Lounge. Also fea- turing a scenic outdoor patio and a value-priced weekday menu. I didn t believe them when they said they served the Best Calamari Ever. But I was wrong. I was very wrong. Brad P.

Avo & Dram 2721 Cahaba Rd 205-871-8212 (Avo) 205-871-8055 (Dram) MOUNTAIN BROOK

This two-story building houses two of Birmingham s finest drinking and dining establish- ments. Upstairs at Avo, you can enjoy Cal-abama cuisine, gourmet fare that combines Alabama s best local products with California seafood, meat and produce. Downstairs, Dram serves up specialty drinks such as bacon-infused whiskey and

WHEN THE STARS FELL ON ALABAMA, THEY LANDED RIGHT HERE. From five-star restaurants to meat-and-threes, Birmingham is full of delicious dining destinations. Dig into this section and find out what the locals are having.

DINING