Loved this place! We got there an hour before close because we were passing through. The staff is phenomenal and the food is fantastic. Our server, David, was so sweet and helpful. They were incredibly accommodating. Highly recommend. read more

everything was fantastic as usual. service was great!! shout out to Eva as my waitress and Katie for the cute sign!

In December 2025, we were staying in a nearby suburb visiting relatives for Christmas. We opted for a day before Christmas brunch at Culinary Dropout. A family member selected Culinary Dropout due to numerous high reviews. I made a quick online reservation due to my great fear there would be a long wait. Upon arrival, the restaurant had no visible wait but they were busy though not full. We were seated promptly at a nice clean and comfortable booth with not shared long bench seating, as is my preference. The menu was not too long but offered a nice selection of cooked to order selections. The server was very courteous and thorough. For appetizers, we ordered the Whipped Feta & Tahini Dip and also the Soft Pretzels & Provolone Fondue. Both had excellent flavors. I was especially taken by the latter as the soft pretzels worked so well with the gentle, warm and creamy fondue. As we were all quite hungry, we also shared a variety charcuterie platter. The selection of cheeses, meats, honey and olives were delicious. The astute server took it upon herself to add on for us some crusty bread which really added to our enjoyment. For entrees, our family had Butternut Squash and Kale Salad with Chicken, Crispy Chicken Katsu Sandwich, Prime Rib Dip Sandwich and I enjoyed the Turkey Pastrami Sandwich. All were very much enjoyed with premium ingredients and meat cuts. Aesthetically, the view from the restaurant is quite nice as it is up higher along the ridge line. The general shopping area of The Summit is completely and totally safe being just off Highway 280 and further from questionable downtown Birmingham. The restroom was spotless as was the entire restaurant. There is also a bar with high seats in the middle of the restaurant. I am betting the happy hour drinks here are quite good. I recommend this restaurant without hesitation. read more

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Only took me two years but I finally had a chance to sample! As much as I hated Macaroni Grill leaving, I was excited to hear that Culinary Dropout was going to be in Birmingham. Sharing a parking lot with PF Changs at the Summit, CD has ample parking and right at the corner of 280 and 459 so finding the place would not be a problem. It's actually in a great location at the Summit where you can have a nice meal, then head over to the AMC practically next door for a movie or go shopping at the shops at the Summit. Backed by James Beard-nominated restaurateur Sam Fox, CD now has 13 locations nationwide with this one opening back in March of 2024. Thus, the restaurant looks great with high vaulted ceilings, brick patterned walls and a clean contemporary look with booths and tables scattered throughout. There's a nice large bar that serves beer, wine and cocktails. Above the bar are large screen tvs and to the side is a small carved out area with a small stage for live entertainment. They can entertain group dining and with the tvs, bar and a stage, a nice gathering can be had for all. Outdoor covered seating is also available making a cool weather brunch outside a nice option. Their menu is diverse but comprehensive and include everything sandwiches and soups to pastas and burgers. Some of the stand-outs on their menu include Detroit Pizza, Fried Chicken, Rainbow Trout, Roasted Salmon, Beer Battered Fish & Chips, Korean Style Ribeye, Meatloaf and 36 Hour Slow Roasted Pork Ribs marinated in jalapeno BBQ sauce. One of my favorites was the Soft Pretzels & Provolone Fondue starter that I had heard so much about. The bowl of round pretzel balls coated with just the right amount of salt arrived soon after our drinks. A small little cast iron bowl filled with provolone cheese rested on a base with a tea light underneath to keep the cheese warm. Tearing open a pretzel ball, dipping in the cheese... Yom Yom Yom Yom! Our table ordered Fish & Chips, Prime Rib Dip sandwich and Fried Chicken. I tried some of Jeff's beer battered fish. Fried to a beautiful golden brown, the crispy batter hid a tender, flaky cod (I believe) that was delicious. Tammy got the prime rib dip sandwich. It arrived with a small cup of au jus, fries and a slice of pickle. Tammy enjoyed her sandwich but wished there was a little more fontina cheese and horseradish creme fraiche. I sampled the fried chicken plate. Be ready to get messy with your hands because it normally consists of a leg, thigh and half of a breast. The nicely fried seasoned breaded exterior had just the right crunch revealing steaming juicy chicken underneath. Yom Yom Yom Yom. My buttermilk biscuit had a nice golden coat with a soft fluffy center. The coleslaw was also delicious. But my mash potatoes with gravy was dry. If we had received our meal 10 mins earlier, it would've been perfect. I suspect that our four top was left under the warming lamp a little too long before it was served. Prices have a wide range from 12 to 42. CD's ability to make a reservation online is a big plus. We were able to make a reservation the day of on a busy holiday weekend. It also happened to be storming during our visit and the lights even flickered for a second resetting their Direct TV and FIFA Soccer feeds, but we were fortunate that the restaurant and kitchen didn't have to close due to a power failure. It can get loud especially if they have live entertainment. The high ceiling helps with the high decibels, but CD may not be your spot for a quiet romantic dinner unless you're in one of their private rooms. Our server Eva was very attentive and never let our drinks get too low. Even the floor manager Taylor stopped by our table to welcome us. CD is a great place for a good time. They host live music, local bands, games, private dining and group celebrations. I look forward to returning and trying the Salmon next time. Welcome to Birmingham, Culinary Dropout! read more

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We stopped by for a bite after work and were early enough to take advantage of their happy hour specials. We got several "small" plates, most of which were not small. The staff checked on us frequently. We got an order of the pork belly nachos - so much food, but good. A wise choice for a meal or for an appetizer for the table. With our other food, we came close but were unable to finish it! We also got a small charcuterie tray sampler - grilled bread, meat & cheese, nuts, and some grilled asparagus - very tasty. We had ordered the truffle pizza - truly one of the best pizzas I've ever had - but were so full, we ended up getting it to go and ate it the next day. I look forward to coming back soon. read more

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Was in the area because of hubs job. Nice place. We made a reservation and still had to wait to be seated, lime 15-20 minutes. Once seated, our waitstaff came to take our drink orders. It appears that different restaurants have a different take on a Paloma. I enjoy the one from a restaurant here in MO. This one was pretty much, straight grapefruit juice and alcohol with bitter wine added. I asked for a shot of grenadine to help with the bitterness. Nkt much help but, I drank it. Hubs haf some kind of beer, the kids had lemonade. For meals, I had fish and chips, hubs had the ribs, the teen had pizza, and the toddler had chicken stripe. I have to stop ordering fish and chips from places. I barely ate any (fish seemed not fully cooked). The toddler wasnt feeling well and went to sleep. The teen said his pizza was ok,but he didn't eat it all which is unusual for him. Hubs said the same about his ribs. Once we got back to the hotel, the fish and chips made an appearance, up and out. I really think the fish was undercooked. Maybe it was an off day. When in the area again, I probably won't be back. read more

Came here for a late lunch with a friend and was glad their was no wait. She got the burger and I got the pepperoni and sausage pizza. I will say the pizza was not hot. The flavor was fine but the temperature was more on the cold side. My guess was that it was sitting for a while before being served. Our waiter was great and constantly checked in on us which is always a plus. read more

Culinary Dropout - The Pub Burger* - New American Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

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Great ambiance and service. Really enjoyed my salmon salad and my husband enjoyed his pasta. The wagyu pigs in a blanket were so so. The Brussel sprouts were great. The non alcoholic watermelon spritzer was refreshing. Definitely will come back! read more

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5 stars for the food, atmosphere, and service. We made reservations for Saturday night and got to sit immediately. The restaurant was huge with lot of indoor and outdoor seating. The ambiance definitely gives date night or girls dinner. Our server Ricky, was very helpful and attentive. He truly seemed like he enjoyed his job. Their attire threw me off but it definitely gives trendy. We shared two appetizers. The park belly nachos and the wagyu pigs in a blanket. The nachos could really be their own appetizer. We shared the steak frites and the Korean ribeye cap. I think next time I come I'll try the fried chicken. Both were cooked perfectly and very tender. The only thing I wasn't a fan of was the Brussel sprouts. I'm a brussel sprout fan but I felt like they were just a little bitter for my liking and not as crispy as expected. read more

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Top notch establishment. The food exceeded my expectations and the staff were friendly and attentive. I really enjoyed the vibe this place puts off - it's a low key, chill, relaxing atmosphere. They're good for groups or just you. read more

I went for a quick late night bite the other night, and honestly the food is nothing to write home about. Our way pigs in a blanket were tasty but inconsistently cooked. We got buffalo wings and the sauce tasted more like marinara but I didn't necessarily dislike that. The shrimp crispy rice was just ok, but again not bad. My mocktail is why I'm giving them such a high review. I ordered the VIDA VERDITA which contained jalapeño, mint, pineapple, cilantro, bubbly water. I must recreate this drink at home. They also make their ginger ale in house and it is amazing. The bartenders are cute and friendly. I like that everyone gets to wear their own clothes! It's a very cute date night spot. read more

Culinary Dropout - Hot Wings, Wagyu Pigs in a Blanket, Smashed Potatoes and Gravy - New American Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

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Listen up.. come for the amazing drinks. Start with a campfire vibes. Then stay for the food. The deviled eggs are a must. Menu is stocked full of amazing things to eat. I'm partial to the steak frites. Staff is amazing. If you are coming to Birmingham make this your first stop read more

Culinary Dropout - Deviled eggs and Campfire vibes - New American Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

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We went to happy hour this time around so there wasn't a wait and not noisy at all. Our waitress was friendly and quick, but then came the shift change. She introduced our waiter Shaun and he was friendly but we had to flag him down a few times for refills and to order food. Not a fan of the waiters/waitresses dressed in everyday street attire like the customer... Made it difficult to distinguish the server from the customer. The drinks were good... I had the El Bee Si which was light and refreshing. We had several appetizers and really enjoyed the pretzels with fondue and the whipped feta. When the music started, we moved to another table as the musician was standing right over us. The table we moved to was in another waiter's area and he seemed kind of put off that we sat there, but we could at least hold a convo among friends. read more

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Omg this place was wonderful! The food was amazing like 10/10. Our server Josh was amazing! He had great energy and knew all the best foods on the menu. Right away when you walk in the ambiance is beautiful and clean. The manager Nate was very nice and made sure to check how our experience was going. This place is 10s all across the board. I am definitely adding this place to my list of favorites! read more

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Had reservations, 5:15, and were seated 15 minutes early on Mother's Day weekend. Wow, when you walk in it was super friendly and the atmosphere, the open air atmosphere, was absolutely amazing. Love seeing the kitchen in action also. Overall dinner was very good. Each dish was very unique, but done very well. Don't leave without monkey bread with vanilla bean ice cream. I almost couldn't drive home. They will see us again soon! read more

I LOVE LOVE LOVE eating at Culinary Dropout. The food, drinks and staff are top tier. Everyone is genuinely friendly. I was greeted and quickly sat at the bar. I went for happy hour. I ordered the brisket nachos and a red sangria. Both were amazing. While enjoying my drink, two ladies next to sparked up a conversation. Stayed for awhile and chatted with the bar tender as well. He was sweet. This location, I will be back to. Thanks for the welcoming energy. read more

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The service was cool, the music and art were definitely a vibe! The food was fresh and they always double check to make sure you are liking everything read more

Culinary Dropout - Mongolian Short Rib* - New American Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

Bar tender was pretty inexperienced and probably didn't need to be alone just yet. Food was absolutely amazing. The Wagyu Pigs in a Blanket were awesome. Live music started while were there which was very enjoyable! Great food at a solid price point! read more

Culinary Dropout - Wagyu Pigs in a Blanket - New American Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

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Excellent service and seating feels spacious. My favorite was the crispy chicken katsu, which was flavorful and delicious. The bread, the crispy chicken, and the hoisin sauce were great. The Mongolian short rib was also pretty good, but after having the katsu it wasn't as special. The grasshopper ice cream was good but very rich and huge so definitely split. It's mint chocolate, but the mint is very subtle read more

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The staff is great here. Everyone is so friendly. The ambiance is nice, clean, and spacious. There isn't a lot on the menu that I eat, but what I did eat was good. You should give this place a try. read more

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I loved it. From booking the reservation to paying our bill. Everything was great. Drinks and apps along with service. The atmosphere hit the mark. read more

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Sat at the bar and had an unforgettable experience -- thank you, Nate, Christian, and TJ! The service, food, and atmosphere is absolutely impeccable. Easily one of the best dining experiences I've had! read more

Culinary Dropout - Make sure to have the Caramelized Banana Bar! - New American Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

Service from a young lady was great. We asked for suggestions and she was very honest answering our questions. She told us about new menu items that's why we got a watermelon margarita. We sat in a booth which was quite nice. Prime rib dip and burger were both excellent. read more

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First off the , let's talk about this staff. Sydney , Riley, and Nate were some of the nicest and welcoming staff I've ever encountered at a restaurant! Like for real! Thank you all for being so hospitable. This is a beautiful establishment with some very delicious and filling food. My favorites were the Brussels sprouts and pigs in blanket. The sauce with the pigs just took me to another level. Probably the best sprouts I've ever eaten! read more

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Stopped in for lunch today with my mom and sister, and we had a great experience. We sat on the patio, which was really nice -- perfect weather and a relaxed vibe. My mom and sister both ordered the fried chicken with buttermilk biscuit, smashed potatoes, and gravy -- total comfort food and absolutely delicious. The chicken was crispy and juicy, and the biscuit was warm and fluffy. I went with the roasted salmon, which came with sweet corn, toasted couscous, and a flavorful heirloom tomato & caper relish. It was fresh, light, and super well-balanced -- exactly what I was in the mood for. Service was friendly and attentive without being overbearing. Definitely a spot I'd come back to, especially for a casual lunch with family. read more

Culinary Dropout - Roasted Salmon* - New American Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

Since my son hadn't been here before I decided to take him to lunch here on a Sunday afternoon. I had been here several times and I usually make a reservation since it seems to be a busy spot. I wasn't aware that we were going to be on brunch time and the menu did not include some of their delicious pastas. I decided to try something different and got the Detroit style cheese pizza, and added goat cheese to it. My son got the pork belly nachos and devoured it. We did share the Mississippi pie, which I had before that was delicious. I love the decor in here. It is so trendy. They have a bar area that is really nice that I would like to come sit out at some point. I didn't drink today. I just got a coat but they do have some cool alcoholic drinks. I will be back sooner than later Carleigh with our server and she was very attentive and personable. read more

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Service was awesome! I loved the amount of outdoor seating! Great for individual or large parties! Noise level moderate! Customer service excellent from the greeting you get when you walk in,, being seated and then the servers! First time here! I wanted to try everything! I had the crispy Brussels and they were delicious and not too spicy! The turkey pastrami sandwich was me trusting the recommendation of my server, Jeffrey who was awesome! Did not disappoint! All ingredients worked together perfectly! I will be returning! read more

Culinary Dropout - Cocktail menu - New American Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

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Love this restaurant! The staff are so welcoming, and the vibe is fun. Instantly puts me in a better mood. The chopped chicken salad is the best salad I've ever had. The pork ribs fall off the bone. The live music on the weekends is the cherry on top. Highly recommend! read more

This place gets 3 star only because the food wasn't that amazing. This was my 3rd time. The atmosphere and decor were great. Service was great. I felt like my food was warmed up in a microwave and prepared days before. Drink menu was lengthy. They have charcuterie boards for appetizers which is nice. I feel like this place is better for drinks and appetizers. Not really a great entree selection. read more

My friends and I stopped by on Wednesday for happy hour. The restaurant was not very busy and we were seated at a booth adjacent to the bar. I was surprised to learn that the happy hour menu is only offered at the bar. But, our waitress said they would allow us to order from the happy hour menu. We started with The Sampler. It's a chef's selection of a meat and cheese charcuterie board. It was a nice presentation, but I thought was a little overpriced at $30. This was not part of happy hour menu. We did order drinks and a couple of items to share from the happy hour menu. The drinks were okay, but not memorable. We ordered the Korean ribs. They were served with coleslaw and had a nice flavor. Unfortunately only three small ribs are included in an order. We also ordered the Pork Nachos, and this was a much better item to share. The nachos were pretty good, and I would recommend them. Wait staff was very nice. read more

Culinary Dropout - Perfect Margarita - New American Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

Stopped in for a quick drink on an unusually warm day in the South. Service was pretty good and the margarita was great! read more

Culinary Dropout - Cali & Tay Skinny Margarita - New American Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

The Perfect Post-Church Spot (Even Without Reservations!) Came here on a Sunday right after church -- so yes, it was packed. The kind of bustling, lively crowd that tells you immediately: this place must be good. And it absolutely was. First of all, we had no reservations and still got seated in about 15 minutes, which honestly impressed me considering how busy they were. The host was incredibly kind and efficient -- a great first impression. The atmosphere is beautiful. The bar alone is stunning and gives off that upscale-but-welcoming energy. It feels lively without being chaotic. We were greeted quickly and our sweet teas came out almost immediately -- and let me just say: get the sweet tea. It has a hint of passionfruit and it is so good. Light, refreshing, and just sweet enough without being overpowering. Because it was such a busy Sunday, service timing wasn't perfectly paced -- our appetizers took a little while, and then our entrées came out shortly after (maybe five minutes later). But honestly? Our server was incredibly sweet, the entire staff was hustling, and everything was handled with kindness. You could tell they were working hard. And the food made up for any small timing gaps. We ordered: * Caesar Salad - A lighter, more citrus-forward dressing rather than a heavy anchovy profile. If you like a fresher twist on a classic Caesar, you'll love this. * Pork Belly Nachos - SO flavorful. The pork belly was rich and tender, and the queso? Absolutely delicious. * Fish and Chips - Crispy, satisfying, and well-executed. * Prime Rib Dip - Highly recommend. Tender meat, great flavor, and just overall comforting and done right. One thing that really stood out: we had to leave a bit quickly, and the staff was incredibly accommodating. They brought to-go containers promptly and even gave us fresh drinks to take with us. That level of thoughtfulness goes a long way. Overall, this is a lively, beautiful spot with delicious food and genuinely kind staff. Yes, Sundays are busy -- but they handle it with grace. We'll definitely be back (maybe next time with reservations ). read more

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I'm not sure how anyone rated this less than five stars. Starting with walking in, I was impressed by the unique look of the business and the light fixtures, in particular. I was greeted by the hostess and multiple others prior to going to my table. Although a little slow, it was dinner time so that is normal. My waitress was very attentive and gave recommendations of where to start. The feta and tzatziki dip was my favorite--with the bread, it was such a standout. Other bar foods available, too--the marinated olives were nice to snack on. The butternut squash and kale salad was incredible--I added shrimp. Already signed up for their loyalty although I did come from out of state. Came here for the story behind the restaurant chain, stayed to try as many food options as I could because it was so good. Definitely a favorite now! read more

Culinary Dropout - Whipped Feta & Tahini Dip and Marinated Olivesolives - New American Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

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Mother's Day brunch! So glad we came here! We had 10:30 reservation and were seated right away Not thrilled our table was back in a corner outside the bathrooms and server station though especially when there were other open tables. That was a downer. Otherwise, Love the atmosphere and we had fantastic service. Food was a little unique and tasty. The veggie Bloody Mary was not very "veggie". Will dine here again, but I will leave if I am seated at the same table, and will skip the Bloody Mary. read more

Culinary Dropout - New American Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

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Place was very empty when we arrived, still took a long time to get seated, seems like the host was confused about something? Started off with the chips and dip, very good, and the pretzels and cheese, the cheese was very good, the pretzels were meh, seemed store bought. I ordered the pork belly nachos, they were alright, chips were super thin and flimsy, got floppy very quickly, but my wife said her salad was very good. Cocktails were alright, overboard on the sugar and sweetness, and serviced in a big glass filled to the top with ice so very watered down. Server was excellent, always checked in on us, quick to bring things, she was the perfect waitress. read more

Let me just start by saying the team at Culinary Drop Out in Birmingham know the meaning of hospitality, service and teamwork! On Sunday mid evening I phoned the restaurant to see if there was anyway to handle a very large group - 25 people. Lauren calmly and politely, with what was a smile over the phone, said typically "we need 24 - 48 hours to prepare, but if you don't mind holding on, let me talk to my manager and see what we can do." Of course I said not a problem at all. After a few minutes I was told if you wouldn't mind coming at 7:15 vs 6:30, we will make your reservation work. We have a side room we can set you up in." I thought that was the best news of the night ..... When we arrived, a bit early, we were told that they were still setting up and feel free to head to the bar. Which we did! But here is where the team rocked it! Our group of 25 people turned into 41. Yes, let me say that again - 41! Josh and Jinji, our servers for the evening, came in and began by ensuring that everyone who wanted a cocktail had one. I don't remember the bar tenders name (please insert here) but he knocked out drinks and everyone began to laugh, relax and talk about the cool vibe of the restaurant. There was laughter and comradely all around us. Our group asked Josh and Jinji for recommendations and they were on point based on the feedback I heard around the table. Next up - questions and recommendations for dinner. I was one of those individuals and Josh recommended that between the meals I was eying, I would enjoy the ribs. Man he was right! Thank you. Chef Chase knocked it out. Orders went in and meals came out and presented with true culinary delight!! Presented to the eye, fragrance to pull you into your meal and taste to keep you engaged and keep eating! To Emily who supported the entire team and I saw their faces respond to a how do we make this happen?! They did it. I am humbled by the teamwork of this team. The ambiance of the very cool and casual vibe, and the taste of the meals. The best complements came late in the evening when our individual who was the host said it was the best experience. Cool vibe. Great food and the experience he hoped for in bringing people together as family from across the US! In short. I can't thank each of you each enough for ensuring this was such a successful event (at the last minute). PS. Dear General Manager - please recognize this team and do something special. From one executive to another, you have a very special team in your presence!! read more

Culinary Dropout - New American Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

From the moment we stepped into Culinary Dropout, we were enveloped in a warm, inviting atmosphere. The soft lighting and rustic decor created a cozy ambiance perfect for a celebration. Though the atmosphere was a bit noisy, we had a BIG group. Highly recommend for a casual, delicious meal." Let me back up. We were attending an event in Birmingham and need reservations for 25 at the last minute. After calling the manger, Krissie D., she said bring it! And we did. Our numbers were off, and things started to become a little scary. The crowd almost doubled; we have a total of 41 people arrive. As more people arrived the staff rocked it. The Host, Lauren never lost her cool. She directed people to the appropriate area and bar with ease. The servers, Josh and Jinji never even broke a sweat. They were as smooth as Cool Hand Luke. I did not see one drink or order missed or mistaken! When the orders came out you automatically knew the Chef Chase was in a zone. All the meals came out together, multiple trips however no one hand to wait more than 2 minutes for the entire group to be served. My last shout goes out to Emily, the shift lead. Thanks for making this happen and having such a great team! The drinks were smooth, and I highly recommend the Old Fashion. The food, as expected was spectacular. I did the Steak Frites, which was a delightful burst of flavors, it was cooked to perfection - tender and juicy. A definite must-try!" The menu is creative, and I appreciated the focus on different cuisines giving everyone in our group something to choose. The way this team came together with a two-hour window and served a group of 41, they need 10 stars here. Thanks all!! read more

Culinary Dropout - New American Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

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We had a great time at Culinary Dropout! They did a great job of accommodating my larger party. We all had delicious meals and drinks. This is a great place to come for a special event or for a nice family outing. I would definitely recommend this place because of the great variety of options on their menu. I will definitely be back to try more! read more

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Party of five gathered together and dropped in for the first time. We were seated and Jessica was excellent at explaining the menu for the day. We were swiftly given our drinks and order was taken. Speaking of drinks, we modified them otherwise it's just "well" alcohol, nothing memorable. The food was great! We tried a few things and everything was tasty. The atmosphere was comfortable as the jazz musician carried out his set on stage. There is room for bar, indoor and outdoor seating but indoor was preferred as this was a warm day in summer. I didn't feel like sweating my eyeliner off. Luckily the air conditioning was on full blast which was perfect. I'll definitely return and this place will go into my favorite restaurant rotation. read more

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Food was amazing and I enjoy this restaurant. They have numerous options for all taste buds. read more

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