The Refinery: A Hidden Gem in Birmingham’s Culinary Scene

What a fantastic experience at The Refinery with server/bartender Kris! This is certainly a great establishment. I had the smash burger by recommendation from Kris and it did not disappoint! Accompanied with the burger were my truffle fries. The fries were good, but nothing to write home about. The burger was definitely the star of the attraction. I do burger reviews and this burger was a top contender in Alabama hands down. Give me a follow on Instagram or TikTok under Bama Burger Reviews!

The vibe, the service, and the attention to details are unmatched. The food is consistent and the cocktails are well balanced, fit for any occasion. I highly recommend the Miso Chicken Sandwich on a croissant- You won’t be disappointed!

Very intimate place with about 5-6 tables excluding the bar seating! Fully stocked bar with tvs and music! I’ve gone twice before making this review, and I have enjoyed the food! I prefer their appetizers! I think I’ve tried most of them from the corn dip, corn dogs, to their spinach dip! All were very tasty! The second visit I had the rice bowl which consisted of rice, very few vegetables and shrimp! It was good and would’ve preferred more vegetables… it was most rice! We also had the pork chop with Brussels. They were out of (mashed)potatoes so they served with rice. It was tasty. The pork chop was thick cut and we asked for Heinz 57 or something similar and they didn’t have it! The wings and pork chop could use more seasoning! Overall it’s a unique place to visit and I would return! Drinks were good as well!

Kris & Andy were awesome & kind to my husband and I. They were amazing bartenders & servers! The vibes were positive, fun, and the music was cheerful, energetic, & uplifting. A place for all kinds of people. We didnt match most of the people there, yet, we had the best time! Defined, Refined, Elegant, & yet down to earth at the same time. Everyone was cool and having a good time. Lots of laughing. The service is the best!! Such a fun place! It’s like your back beach bar, yet you’re not at the beach. You would swear you were in a different place. Even reminds me of a couple of New York bars. You forget where you are in downtown Birmingham. It’s wild. The food & drinks though— they are the shining star. You HAVE to have the ISLAND NECTAR SHOT. And the OHANA & HONEYCOMB, that has a little bee and honeycomb you can eat. They are the best drinks!!!! And you HAVE to have the SPINACH & ARTICHOKE DIP. The best one I’ve ever had. And I wasn’t too drunk when I ate it to not know the difference. Lol We also liked the TRUFFLE FRIES too. The only thing that could make this place better would be another bathroom somehow, & the actual beach to be in the background. Lol

Smash Burgers were the best ever! Nice and cozy local spot we found online and The Refinery delivered. The bartender was simply amazing! When we are back in Birmingham, we will visit again and again. Love this spot!

Wonderful atmosphere, wonderful people! The food was great! Definitely try one of their pride drinks! I loved this experience! I got the smash burger with Mac n cheese.

We had a wonderful night! Beautiful cocktails and the Chicken Piccata was fabulous. None of this compared to the amazing service we received from Andy and Andrea!

Great first experience at The Refinery. The service is excellent, drinks on point, and the food is superb. It’s a smaller place so I figure it might get full at certain hours of the day. Got a chance to visit for dinner and for a drink the next day and both visits were consistent. The owner is very down to earth and happy to serve as well. We definitely recommend for dates and social outings. Definitely coming back whenever we’re back in town.