Once a raucous hotbed for moonshine production during Prohibition, Cahaba Heights (once known as “New Merkle”) has upgraded its reputation to one of the city’s most popular destinations. Tucked into Vestavia Hills, this bustling neighborhood is now a go-to spot for shopping, dining, and plenty of local flavor. Here’s where to eat, shop, and play next time you’re in the area!
WHERE TO EAT
- Alabama Biscuit Company: Offering heaps of both savory and sweet options, Alabama Biscuit Company has something on the menu for everyone.
- Ashley Mac’s: Comfort food that tastes just like mama made it (and maybe even a little bit better) is what Ashley Mac’s specializes in. Now with five locations open in Birmingham, the Cahaba Heights store offers a go-to for local families looking for good, home-style food on the go.
- Bendy’s Cookies & Cream: With a winning combination of delicious cookies and ice cream, Bendy’s has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Starting with a dream and a food truck, Bendy’s moved into its first brick-and-mortar location in early 2019, and it’s still serving up sweet treats to the Cahaba Heights community.
- Cala Coffee: What started as a micro-roaster and coffee cart by two California transplants became an official brick-and-mortar coffee shop in 2023. From roasted drip coffees and cold brews to creamy lattes, matcha drinks, and occasional live music or patio parties, Cala is the spot for everything from solo remote work to casual catch-ups with friends.
- Cookie Fix: This beloved local spot opened its second location in Cahaba Heights after notable success in Homewood. It features a rotating seasonal menu of cookies baked fresh daily. There’s also take-home dough to enjoy when the craving hits.
- Crestline Bagel: This wildly popular bagel haunt in Mountain Brook led to a second Crestline Bagel location in the heart of Cahaba Heights. And trust us, the bagels are worth waiting in the weekend lines. The most popular bagel is the everything bagel — ‘ET’ for short — but the sweet onion is a close second.
- Doodle’s Homemade Sorbets and Ices: Named for its founder, Paul Champion, who loves to doodle, Doodle’s has become a mainstay for residents looking for a cold treat. Specializing in sorbets and Italian ices, Doodle’s offers a large selection of flavors to satisfy the whole family. Shake things up and order two flavors, like watermelon and lemon, and then give them a swirl. Mr. Doodle would approve!
- El ZunZún: If you want to spice up your night out on the town, head to El ZunZún for traditional Latin cuisine. This laid-back restaurant boasts a friendly neighborhood vibe and serves up authentic dishes full of flavor and variety.
- FoodBar: FoodBar is a cozy restaurant located inside The Heights Village Shopping Center. The menu nods to Executive Chef George McMillian’s farm and food-centric upbringing, rooted deep in Alabama soil. Every dish is packed with flavor and authenticity, from blistered shishitos to crispy fried catfish.
- Marky’s Kitchen: From the family behind the beloved Zoë’s Kitchen, Marky’s Kitchen is a newer spot with familiar flavors and a few tasty twists. Named after founder John Cassimus’s father, the eatery serves up classics alongside crave-worthy newcomers like the Smash Special — two smashed burgers stacked with grilled onions, cheese, pickles, and signature sauce.
- Martin’s BBQ Joint: This open-air space is a no-frills, family-friendly restaurant that offers Tennessee-style smoked meats over coal and hickory wood. You can also snag incredible sides made from family recipes, and don’t skip the yummy desserts!
- Miss Astrid’s Tavern: One of Cahaba Heights’s newest eateries, located in the old Fig Tree location, Miss Astrid’s Tavern brings a refined touch to classic Southern cooking. The eatery offers hearty meat-and-three lunches, delicious dinner plates, and a brunch lineup worth lingering over. Whatever you do, don’t skip the collard greens.
- Miss Myra’s Pit Bar-B-Q: Myra Grissom Harper rarely sees an unfamiliar face walk through the doors of her restaurant, which has been a Cahaba Heights staple since it opened in 1985. Miss Myra’s menu is uncomplicated — just like a good barbecue pit’s menu should be.
- Mudtown: This restaurant has Cahaba Heights’s earliest settlers — the Creek Indians — to thank for its distinctive name. Characterized by its swampy, muddy conditions due to heavy rains, the Creeks first dubbed this patch of land “Mudtown.” The moniker proved to be a good marketing ploy for what would become Mudtown Eat & Drink, a casual restaurant known for its inviting atmosphere and flavorful food.
- Peterbrooke Chocolatier: Peterbrooke Chocolatier is a haven for handcrafted European-style confections, making it an ideal spot in the neighborhood to indulge your sweet tooth and satisfy your chocolate craving.
- Satterfield’s: Old World flavors marry with modern sensibilities at Satterfield’s. Located in the heart of Cahaba Heights, this elegant space opened its doors in 2005 and has attracted locals looking for a fine-dining experience ever since.
- The Olive Branch: This family-owned restaurant is bursting with charm, and it’s rarely empty. You can thank Rana Shunnarah and her family for the restaurant’s authentic Mediterranean menu, featuring classics like gyros, stuffed grape leaves, and authentic hummus.
- The Pita Stop Express: The Pita Stop Express brings authentic Mediterranean flavors right into the heart of the neighborhood. Since opening in 2010, this family-owned gem has been a go-to for classics like hummus, baba ghanouj, gyros, and kabobs.
- Troup’s Pizza: If you’re in the mood for pizza, look no further than Troup’s. Chef Terrill Brazelton is a pizza master with the accolades to prove it, including being named one of the Best Chefs in Birmingham (right behind Frank Stitt and Chris Hastings!) in 2017.
- Waldo’s Chicken & Beer: Waldo’s offers fried and roasted chicken in sandwiches, baskets, or on the bone, each with scratch-made sides like mac and cheese, white beans, and coleslaw. The space is bright and welcoming, with a full bar, TV-worthy hangout areas, and even a dog‑friendly patio ideal for everything from casual family dinners to post‑work happy hours.
WHERE TO SHOP
- B. Happy: B. Happy offers unique, beautiful gifts, houseware, jewelry, and more. Owned by Beth Dorsett and Krista Dickinson, B. Happy came to life over tacos and margaritas at Taco Mama. You’ll find one-of-a-kind gift sets, candles, books, accessories, and so much more.
- Bandwagon: Bandwagon makes it easy to stock up on all of your gameday gear, regardless of the team you cheer for. In addition to local high schools, it also carries Samford University gear.
- Clover + Bee: Clothing, gifts, and home goods abound at Clover + Bee. Started by three sisters who are also moms, Clover + Bee was created to offer expecting, new, and seasoned moms a place to shop for clothing that fits and flatters their ever-changing bodies. You can browse gifts, accessories, shoes, clothing, and unique decor.
- Flip-flops & What Nots: This locally loved spot offers the latest shoes, clothing, and jewelry. From comfortable tops to statement jewelry and (of course) flip-flops galore, it makes it easy to add a little fun and flair to your everyday look.
- Flowerbuds: Located in The Heights shopping center, Flowerbuds is a full-service flower shop offering much more than wedding and event flowers. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift, home decor item, or fresh floral arrangement, Flowerbuds should be on your go-to list.
- Gigi’s: Shopping for teenagers can be challenging. But thanks to GiGi’s, you can find fashion-forward clothing for every occasion. Known for its variety and sought-after brands, Gigi’s is a one-stop shop for teens and tweens wanting to look — and feel — their best. Peruse the selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories. Then check out its neighboring sister store, The Lili Pad, which offers fashionable finds for younger kids.
- Little Soles: Little Soles is a longstanding, locally owned children’s shoe store, but the boutique also offers a variety of women’s shoes.
- Manhattan South: Named after Manhattan Beach, CA, this chic boutique is carefree yet carefully curated to offer a mix of stylish elegance and hip, laid-back looks. With new merchandise arriving daily, Manhattan South stays on the cutting edge. Stop by with a group of girlfriends and stock up on the latest fashion. You’ll be the best-dressed at your next dinner party or night out.
- Murphree’s Market & Garden Center: Thanks to Murphree’s Market & Garden Center, fresh fruits and vegetables are never in short supply in Cahaba Heights. In addition to the huge variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, the shop carries 20-plus varieties of jams, jellies, and preserves, plus gardening necessities like planters, potting mix, and plants.
- New York Butcher Shoppe: New York Butcher Shoppe offers a curated collection of wines and specialty grocery items, all made to perfectly complement its wide range of premium cuts of fresh meat.
- Postmark Paris Antiques: A newer addition to the Cahaba Heights shopping scene, Postmark Paris Antiques is the go-to for antique and vintage finds sourced straight from France.
- Ryan Reeve: Ryan Reeve offers a thoughtfully curated selection of women’s fashion. Founded by Beth Keplinger in 2018, the boutique features a range of apparel, shoes, and accessories that effortlessly elevate your wardrobe, whether you’re searching for everyday staples or that perfect statement piece.
- Second Hand Rose: Head to Second Hand Rose, Cahaba Heights’s go-to spot for the best consignment finds. As Birmingham’s longest-running consignment shop, Second Hand Rose is the place to find a great deal on a great piece of clothing. Stocked with some of the latest trends and popular designers, you should allow ample time to sift through the impressive selection of clothing and accessories.
- Serendipity Boutique: Serendipity Boutique has everything you need for this year’s upcoming celebrations and season changes. The on-trend selection of women’s clothing offers something for everyone, from breezy sundresses and skirts to tops, jeans, and accessories.
- Sexton’s Seafood: For over 30 years, Sexton’s Seafood has been serving the freshest seafood straight from the Gulf. Sexton’s is the spot in town to find all your coastal favorites to take home and prepare.
- The Blue Willow: Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or something special for yourself, The Blue Willow has it. Known for its wide selection of tasteful home decor, monogrammed items, baby and graduate gifts, and other adorable finds, this sweet boutique won’t let you leave empty-handed. From cookbooks to candles and totes, it’s a one-stop shop.
- The Smocking Bird: Crafters will want to flock to The Smocking Bird, a premier sewing destination for more than two decades. In addition to a plethora of fabrics, laces, and sewing supplies, the store also offers sewing classes and even sewing machine repair.
WHERE TO PLAY
- Cahaba Cycles: Whether you’re in the market for a new bike, need a quick tune-up, or just want to browse the latest accessories, Cahaba Cycles is a must-stop for cycling enthusiasts and casual riders alike. With expert staff, top-of-the-line gear, and a commitment to community, this local favorite has been helping folks find their perfect ride for decades.
- Mason Music: Mason Music is a neighborhood gem offering a wide selection of music lessons, from acoustic guitar and piano to percussion and voice. With talented instructors and a welcoming, creative environment, it’s the perfect place for beginners and seasoned musicians to hone their craft.
WHERE TO PAMPER
- The Retreat Day Spa: This sanctuary, founded in 2019, merges convenience and calm. The organic spa offers a serene escape from the everyday hustle and offers services such as massage therapy, facials, manis, and pedis.
- Cahaba Dermatology: Cahaba Dermatology is a neighborhood destination for comprehensive, expert skincare, with everything from medical and surgical dermatology to rejuvenating spa services.
WHERE TO SWEAT
- The Heights Fitness: The Heights Fitness offers top-tier training with small-group lessons, certified coaches, and community camaraderie to help participants build confidence and healthy habits.
- BODYBAR Pilates: Whether you’re brand-new to Pilates or a seasoned pro, BODYBAR Pilates’s signature BODYBAR Method — mixing classic reformer flow with modern movement — delivers dynamic class options, all designed to strengthen, tone, and energize.
- Basecamp Fitness: Basecamp Fitness delivers a fresh take on functional, strength-driven workouts designed to challenge and inspire. With a focus on dynamic group classes such as kettlebells, interval training, and bodyweight circuits, you’ll find workouts that build real-world strength and confidence.
- CORE Pilates: CORE Pilates caters to every fitness level with a mix of Pilates classes and private training options. Its new state-of-the-art studio features top equipment alongside coaches who help members build strength, flexibility, and confidence.
COMING SOON
- Big Bad Breakfast: Big Bad Breakfast, taking over the former Biscuit Love location, brings a hearty dose of Southern deliciousness to Cahaba Heights. The much-loved breakfast and brunch chain, founded by James Beard Award-winner John Currence, offers a menu filled with comfort food breakfast classics, like Tabasco-brown sugar bacon, Southern fried chicken, and grits. Opening date TBA!
Happy exploring!
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