This place is well known by locals and tourists alike as a specialty cocktail venue. Much like you have read, or will read below, Collins has a special way of taking your order. Consider what tastes best suit your buds (Taste buds that is) and tell the bartender. Within moments, you will be given a customized cocktail that you will likely absolutely love. Know that this specialized service will cost you between $10 - $20 per drink, but if you have the moolah to spend on splendor, then do it! read more

I don't tend to review every place I go to, but I felt I needed to highlight the tremendous experience I had Friday night (10/10/15) at The Collins Bar. I am from Philadelphia and was visiting Birmingham with my fiancee. We love a good cocktail and have been to many amazing places in Philly. Knowing that, my standards are very high when it comes to a good drink, and Collins totally blew both of us away. We sat at the bar and had a great conversation with the bartender (tall chap, dark hair, no beard, I should have asked his name as he was great) on the types of drinks we like. I tend to go for Bourbon drinks (namely Old Fashioneds and Manhattans), and taking that knowledge he cooked up a wonderful take on both drinks that was like nothing I had had before. You can tell their ingredients are top notch and the creativity and speed upon which he executed our cocktails was impressive. However, the next drink I had was even better and one of the best cocktails I've had full stop. I like smokey drinks as well and I've been getting into Mezcal lately. He took what I loved with the first drink, and re-built it using Mezcal and some lovely citrus elements. It was amazing! I loved how there is no drink menu and they simply cook up something to match your tastes. A gem of a cocktail bar, on par with anything I've had in Philly or NYC, and a tremendous representation of the renaissance Birmingham is in the midst of. I can't wait to visit again! read more

We walked in and sat at the bar thinking we'd get our drinks and then sit at a table. There were only a handful of other customers, and there was one bartender and another guy taking orders. We realized that it takes a few minutes to make a craft cocktail; however, as we were waiting, the place started filling up. Twenty minutes later, we still had not been acknowledged whatsoever-- no "how are you", no "we'll be with you in a moment"... they didn't even look at us... and both guys started taking drink orders from people walking in after us. We were very disappointed; I have honestly never walked out of a bar because of such inattentive service. We ended up at The Roof and it was much better! :) read more

I just love this place! My husband and I were lucky enough to find a seat in a small corner that was quieter than most spots. They make a delicious French 75 and had some delicious little bar snacks! We had a cheese plate and some chili cheese tots. The cheese plate was awesome and we really enjoyed it! The tots were about on par with Sonic, which are delicious, but nothing to write home about. We will definitely be back to try some more of their snacks! read more

I really enjoyed the atmosphere of this bar. It was pretty laid back. I was served pretty quickly and the drinks were good.

I got absolutely smashed here one time. Talking 25 miller Lites. Couldn't even walk to the bathroom so I pissed on the bar acting like I was ordering a drink. The waiter saw me and kicked me out but it was before I could close my tab so they never charged me! read more

The Collins Bar is a cool concept, but, honestly, there are better bars in Birmingham. The "Trust Your Bartender" idea is really unique, and should work great, but I've never actually had a drink I liked from there. It's often overcrowded, as well, making it difficult to sit and enjoy drinks with friends. The major bright spot for me are the pop-ups they've hosted. Both that I've been to (a vegan dinner and Opera Shots Birmingham) were very enjoyable and different from a lot of the typical Birmingham nightlife. read more

Fun place to bring friends and hang out. Always play words with Friends when we go here. Probably not the best place to go alone but great for groups. Is a bit loud and confined though. read more

I'd give this bar 6 stars if I could! This is one of the most unique bars I've ever visited! The furniture and decor is retro with tons of things from the 70s. When you approach the more you realize there is no cocktail menu, but there is a long and inclusive list of liquor to make any drink you like. You simply tell the bartender exactly what you want, your drink style, or tell them to make something sweet; tangy; spicy; etc and they'll make it!! No kidding!! Its entertaining to watch them make it as they are more mixologists and seemingly enjoy what they do. There are comfortable Brady Bunch-like couches, chairs and tables throughout the bar or you may decide to seat yourself outside al fresco:) You're IN the city. Why not enjoy the huge storefront window, people watch or sip a cocktail in the shadows of the historic City Federal! Great drinks, unique environment and decor, and cool drink ideas! read more

This bar is unique to Birmingham and offers a type of charm that can't be found anywhere else. I always take out of town visitors here, and it's a favorite for my friend groups in town as well. I love being able to try so many different types of drinks. The servers ask what you normally like and then ask flavor questions (like, do you prefer citrus or sweet) to determine what cocktail to make you. They can also make any classic cocktail. Most of the bartenders are very well-trained mixologists. The beer list is pretty good, and they have a great Rose (served at Highland's), but their other wines are Barefoot. I suggest coming here for the mixed drinks, anyway. I've had food a few times, and it's pretty good. This place is excellent on week nights, but be warned that the bar gets pretty crowded on Fridays and Saturdays. I think it's worth it, but if you don't like crowds try it during the week instead. read more

The Collins Bar - I'm pregnant, so I was brought this delicious mocktail! I love when a bar doesn't mind being accommodating! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

This is one of the best bars I've been too... not necessarily due to ambience, but more because the bartenders are outstanding and the price is right! Would recommend sitting at the bar, though, as the service at tables is not as good. read more

This place is really nice. The bartender I had was phenomenal. I wish I knew his name. Nice Ambiance. Last night was my first time checking it out. The seating could have been better. Maybe some more intimate spaces for couples other than that I'm looking forward to trying it again. read more

I was so excited to come here but as soon as we got there, the door man was insanely rude. The inside felt dirty. I will not be coming back.

I had been to this bar a few years ago and had a good time, but didn't love it. We went to the Barons game on Sunday night and walked to Paramount which was closed. Saw this place was open and decided to give it a go. I just ordered a PBR ($3 for a tall boy) and no food as the kitchen was closed. We played jenga and tic stack toe and we're waiting on cards against humanity when someone informed us that they had 4 sets - you just have to ask them for them. Had a wonderful time just hanging out and playing games. I definitely will be back soon! read more

Our Collins experience was fantastic! I love a lot of Birmingham bars, but this one is truly one of a kind. I'd be so proud to bring visitors to Birmingham here. The decor and the vibe are creative and welcoming and the drinks are hand-crafted to order - no boring cocktail menu with sugary well drinks here! Every detail of The Collins is unique and Feizal has really transformed the place, top to bottom. I'll be back and will be recommending this place to anyone rolling through Birmingham. read more

Fun atmosphere, busy but not so loud you can't hear your friends, and excellent service. When your bartender asks what flavors you like, the more specific you are the better your drink will be. The selection is huge, and chances are if you want it, they have it. This place is one of the cooler bars in Birmingham. Holes in the wall are a dime a dozen, but this place is a rarity in Birmingham. Good drinks, nice crowd, and a place you want to stay and hang out in. read more

Awesome bar with great bartenders who won't steer you in the wrong direction even if you accidentally ask them to, which I did once. (Long story that still ended in a good drink thanks to a bartender's intervention.) It always seems somewhat busy, but never uncomfortably packed, loud or etc. The drinks are always great, reasonably priced and there are some interesting small plates to try, too. Give it a try, you won't be disappointed. read more

Completely new concept for Birmingham and the people seem to really enjoy it. I have been several times and have enjoyed it every time. The drinks are great, food is tasty, and crowd is eclectic. Young, old, and everything in between, they are all at the Collins Bar. Strongly suggest you give it a try, especially if you want to try hand-crafted cocktails, or you're just plain tired of drinking light beer, though beer is on the bar menu. read more

Best bar in Birmingham... and it isn't even close.

Came in after a long wedding day of a friends. Was a great recommendation to anyone wanting a surprise drink. I gave the tips "coconut rum" and "citrus" and let the mixologists do the rest. DEFINITELY would come back. read more

Cocktails were personalized and service was excellent. The atmosphere was very cool and they played great music.

The best bar in Birmingham. Great, fast and friendly service. Awesome, creative drinks. Angel, Mike, and Jared cater to your every taste with precision and perfection. Professional and personable staff. A must visit in the Birmingham area. read more

Love the concept. Give your general likes and dislikes to the bartender and they craft something unique. But when the server can't remember what's in two of the four drinks it doesn't leave a good impression. Detailed ingredient explanation for two. "I can't remember, we're really busy" isn't a good excuse particularly when they are not very crowded. read more

Have been in several times now...this place is exactly what Bham needed! The bartenders are true masters of the craft cocktail without being cocktail snobs (plenty of PBRs seen being served too). And the food shouldn't be ignored either. Not run of the mill bar food, but not overpriced serve yourself gastropub either. It is delish - all my friends plates have been licked clean every time we eat there...we can't pick a favorite. Congrats, Collins Bar for getting it right! read more

Stopped in for a drink last night. Was full but not crowded. Great service from bartender. Good beer selection. The crowd seemed pretty interesting. Will go back another time. read more

Loved this place! The decor was very trendy filled with paper like air planes strung up from the ceiling. The best part was that you can play a variety of games throughout the night. Also the cocktail drinks were special made on the spot! read more

Really enjoyed this place. The doorman and owner were incredibly nice. Eclectic group of people. Younger and older crowd. I would gladly return and give them my hard earned dollars. Don't know about their food. Didn't try it read more

Located next to El Barrio's restaurant. My favorite local bar. Best bartenders in town. Good wait staff. They have a few small dish appetizers but we normally just have drinks. Bartenders will mix any drink to order. Also have numerous games which can be used for entertainment. Place can be busy so plan accordingly. Would advise going early if more than four people in your group. read more

Neat concept. Most of the games we were told about were no longer there because they had been carried off. Good drink menu! Crowded and loud so grab a table in the back but be OK with no service back there. read more

If you can get in the door, it's worth the hassle. I visit regularly and have a completely different drink every time I order. They take a drink and spin it well beyond what you would expect. The booths are comfortable. The board games and cards are great for larger groups. The vibe is unique--modern and a bit funky--thanks to whimsical decor and classic finishings. It's always worthy of a visit. read more

The Collins Bar was one of the first places I went, when I moved to the Birmingham area. My first experience was on a Friday night I paid for parking I walked in a was initially disappointed, I heard all week "You should check out Collins", "I know a place you would like Collins downtown", so when I walked in my expectations were extreme. It is a cozy place which I thought would be a bad thing. I found a seat at the end of the bar. The bartender asked what I would like, I requested an old fashion with a twist. Then it started the bartender asked what kind of whiskey guy are you? I was shocked, taken back I paused and said I actually prefer bourbon, a few samples later and more conversation the place started to fill up. I ended playing a game similar to taboo with 5 people I did not know previously. Two were also new to the area, we laughed, we joked and we drank. IT WAS AMAZING! more than I expected. Everytime since I have enjoyed myself. The drink prices can range from $7 to $20+ they have some vintage and aged bottles truly top shelf stuff. I would advise going before the crowd hits so that you and one of the bartenders can talk. They have some many board and card games just ask someone to play. The food is simple and reasonably priced. read more

The Collins Bar - An old fashioned with a twist. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

Not too shabby considering it's mentioned in every travel blog about Birmingham. Not sure if it's THAT great but it deserves a visit. Bartenders are VERY into infused liquors and aim to please with expertly crafted cocktails Taylor made for every palette. Gets kinda busy around the late evenings but not enough to disparage adventurous sorts. read more

Collins Bar is awesome! Feizal is the best bartender, he always knows exactly what I want when I don't even know it. The staff is very attentive and knowledgable about their products. One of my favorite bars ever! read more

A 5-Star in Birmingham? The cocktail program alone is worth 4 stars and the overall decor and ambiance easily earn another star.. We have visited at different times and the patrons change as the day progresses. If you come right after work, don't be surprised to see a few suits. The bartender will be happy to have a brief discussion to determine your flavor profile and offer you a handcrafted cocktail. That being said, it may not be the best strategy on a busy weekend night. Be patient and you will be rewarded. We have tried cocktails based on gin, bourbon and tequila - all delicious. This is what Birmingham has needed for a long time. Previously, one could only get this type of cocktail experience in a few restaurants around the area. Highly recommended for cocktail the enthusiast. And The Collins is NOT in Irondale, it is in downtown Birmingham. read more

Fun bar. Fine food, great drinks. I plan on having my next office party here!

Hands down my favorite bar in Birmingham on a quiet Sunday night. The bartenders there are well informed, passionate, masters of the craft. With decent conversational skills and an adventurous palette, a person can come here and experience any flavor profile imaginable in the form of a well constructed cocktail. The music is always excellent. Like listening to my own ITunes. That, combined with the crowd and the atmosphere make for a great night in a great place with great people. 5 stars all around, I'll be back soon. read more

Love the quirky ambience of this downtown spot! The bartenders know how to craft creative and delicious libations.

Unique cocktail bar. We stopped by to have a drink after dinner. The cool part is you tell the bartender what liquor and taste you like and they make a drink for you so it's a surprise when you get it. I had two and really enjoyed the 2nd one after I spoke directly with the bartender. Nice vibe. Would go back read more

Manager very misunderstanding and rude to husband and I with my service animal. Told us he isn't crazy with him being inside and made an excuse about if glass may break on the floor. Come on. Wasn't interested in seeing doctors letter or ID card he wears.. just rude. Made us feel very unwelcome which sucks because we love this bar. Went to atomic and then park side where we are welcome. Made another aloof comment about how he guesses he doesn't want the same "scene" as other places in Birmingham. He needs to get with it or move to another city. Everyone else in the bar complemented us on how well behaved our service dog is. What an arrogant person to not try to understand someone else's circumstances. My dog was better behaved and nicer than him. All other bartenders were understanding and sweet. Our sweet service dog is welcome every other place in Birmingham except for Collins and that is a shame. Learn some respect for other people and animals. read more

Asked for something with gin and dry and it was fantastic. The bar tenders know what they're doing and it is a great atmosphere inside.