Sunday Fun Day

Note: Erin is much less blurry in real life.

A note to our fan base: We promise that the Anti-Lame Campaign has been doing a whole lot of anti-lame things. Unfortunately, when you're so busy being anti-lame, it becomes difficult to find the time to write about your anti-lame adventures. We do, however, promise to do better in the coming months to let you all know about upcoming area events and anti-lame ideas.

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After several weeks of after hours meetings, out of town trips, and very little down time, I deemed yesterday “Sunday Fun Day.” And what does such a day look like to this Anti-Lame blogger? Well, I’m glad you asked.

1. Worship with my community of faith (that has become a whole lot like family)

2. Brunch at Bottletree Café

3. Exploring the city

4. Perusing discounted books

5. Frozen yogurt

6. Matinee movie

Sunday began as any Sunday should, in my opinion, with worship.

A group of Anti-Lamers then traveled to the Avondale area of Birmingham for brunch at Bottletree Café. Bottletree is a fun, quirky restaurant and music venue with kind employees, delicious food, and an atmosphere unlike any other.

I had the BLTree, a sandwich on focaccia bread with avocado, egg, bacon, lettuce, and tomato. It came with a side of fruit and I ordered a cup of coffee. The next time I visit Bottletree I will have to ask what kind of coffee they brew, because it was fantastic. The sandwich was pretty tasty, as well.

The BLTree

The Sombrero

Other friends tried The Standard and the The Sombrero. With good friends, good food, and a unique ambiance, Sunday Brunch at Bottletree is something every Birmingham-er/ian must experience.

Next, we explored some areas of Birmingham that we don’t frequent often – Crestwood and East Lake. There are so many different Birmingham neighborhoods, each with distinct personalities, and it’s so much fun to get to know the interesting shops, parks, and restaurants in the different areas.

Enjoying the finer things in life

The weather yesterday was amazing, so no Fun Day would be complete without a nice stroll outdoors and some frozen yogurt. Thankfully, there are outdoor shopping centers to accommodate those whose walking wishes are less…aerobic in nature. Patton Creek has a Yogurt Mountain, so after some walking and bookstore perusing, we popped in for a sweet treat.

Most of my movie-watching these days is made possible by Red Box rentals or Dollar movies, but every now and then I like to treat my self to plush stadium seats and new releases. A ticket to a matinee cost $7.50, and since I snuck in my Dr. Pepper 10 soda, I wasn’t tempted to spend my life-savings on popcorn and a fountain drink.

All in all, this Sunday Fun Day was a smashing success. What are your favorite Sunday activities?

All in a Saturday

Hello blog-following friends!

If you're less into football than the average Alabamian, have no fear! Saturday in the Ham offers many fun opportunities that do not revolve around "Roll Tide" or "War Eagle" exclamations.

On this particular Saturday, a few Anti-Lamers hit the town and made some new friends in this lovely city of ours.

First, we hit up Pepper Place Market, located in the Lakeview District. We were hoping to come across the Limin Lady, a sweet lady who sells the best mustard ever. Unfortunately, she was not present at this week's market. We did, however, meet some very nice folks at Three Knot Shop who make amazing frames out of reclaimed barn wood. Their products are BEAUTIFUL and pretty reasonable, especially considering their quality. For those of you who are not familiar with barn wood, it is wood that has been exposed to the elements and weathered, giving it a grayish hue. The wood used at the Three Knot Shop is between 70 and 90 years old and is mostly from Wilcox County, Alabama. This is a new business, so be sure to support them!

While at Pepper Place, we grabbed some food from the always delicious Red Cat Coffee Shop. I highly recommend the Burmese Frappe (a blended coffee drink flavored with coconut and vanilla) and the Almond Croissant. Sooooooooo good!

Now, I'm not a huge football fan (please, don't throw stones!), but we decided to "watch the game" and grab lunch at the same time. Slice Pizza & Brew in Lakeview just opened this July, so we headed down the street to try out this new local establishment. It wasn't as busy as I'm sure some suburban sports bars were, but there were several people there enjoying the game(s) and some delicious pizza. We tried the Super Cheese Pizza (which two people could NOT finish) and a Yellowhammer Saison. The pizza was awesome and the beer wasn't too bad either. They'll soon be carrying beer from the Avondale Brewing Company, and I look forward to having their Spring Street Saison with my pizza on my next visit. All in all, Slice was great and we're planning on making it our game-day venue...and you should, too!

Next, what Saturday is complete without a bit of shopping! We stopped by two places today - Mia Moda Boutique and the Clotheshorse, both in Vestavia. Mia Moda has tons of funky, trendy, and unique clothing and jewelery. Their staff are really friendly and will give you honest opinions on whether something looks good (or not!). The Clotheshorse is an upscale consignment shop for clothing, shoes, and accessories. One thing we recommend is that you pay attention to the tag colors. Similar to DWS, the Clotheshorse rotates their merchandise by offering sales based on the tag color. New items have a certain-colored tag and are not on sale, but there are normally items marked 25%, 50% and 75% off.

We got some great deals on items for our fall wardrobe! All the items below cost us $59. (One of the cashiers said that she paid over $100 just for a pair of shoes very similar to the ones on the left.)

The Clotheshorse puts out new merchandise every day, so be sure to check them out!

The moral of today's story is...while we appreciate football Saturdays in Alabama, there's so much more out there. Although, we're sure some of you may disagree:)

Bethdog (and Webbie)

Summer Days (and Nights) - Part 1

Well friends, summer is in full swing in Birmingham.  We know that because….we have been to numerous weddings, been bitten by multiple mosquitoes, and have experienced mild heat strokes while walking to and from our vehicles.

While adults don’t get the luxury of summers off, we have found some ways to enjoy the summertime.

Last year, we created a fun tradition involving two of our favorite things: food and movies.  The Alabama Theatre offers several movie options each week during the summer.  Some are geared towards the kiddos, while others are perfect for dates and friends.

At only $7 a ticket, why would you watch a movie at a typical cinema?  These movies are classics (some cult classics, some award-winning), and always bring out a diverse crowd.  For the Ghostbusters movie, featured last year, there were many movie-goers who came decked out in costume, we discovered the Alabama Ghostbusters Community, and even saw an Ecto-1.

Refreshments are also very affordable.  Candy bars are $1, and popcorn is not much more.

Before each movie begins, you have the opportunity to listen to the Mighty Wurlitzer and participate in a sing-along.  Don’t be shy friends.  Really let it loose.  Why?  Because you’re at the dang Alabama Theatre.  A historical institution.  And because not singing is totally lame.

Before catching a flick, which normally begin at 7pm, we’ve found that enjoying a good Newk’s Q sandwich (see previous post) really helps set the mood.  Pick any other fun restaurant, and you’ve got a dinner and a movie experience perfect for a summer evening in Birmingham.

The Anti-Lame Campaign will be enjoying this Alabama landmark on July 16^th for a Hitchcock double feature, July 23^rd for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, and July 31^st for Roman Holiday.  We hope to see you there!

Your Summer Fun Police

Picks by Webbie

So, I am sure that all of you were blown away by Bethany’s articulate, informative post about her favorite foods found around the city. She did a great job describing some of the life-changing eats around town, but there are just a ton more to talk about. Plus, let’s not forget that it isn’t ALL about the food…well, for some people, maybe, but it’s also about the atmosphere and experience! Indulge me for a bit as I give you MY favorites list!

Best Italian: Duh, Joe’s Italian! This casual, affordable Italian  restaurant is totally authentic and absolutely delicious when you’re in the mood for some artery-clogging, real-deal Italian! Catch them on a busy night and add to the authenticity by listening to their in-house accordion player! Tip: the stuffed shells are to die for, and watch out if you order a piece of cake--it’s about 1/4 of a dang cake!

Best Outdoor dining: Tie for Chuy’s and Flip Burger Boutique. Both are right next door to each other at the top of The Summit, and offer outdoor seating with an incredible view of the city!

Best Service: Margarita Grill in Pelham. The service is top-notch, with the owner stopping by often to mingle with guests. Caution: Their service is borderline annoying if you’re an independent gal like me…but chivalry is definitely not dead at Margarita Grill!


Best Appetizer: Sweet Potato Fries at Village Tavern. Uhmm, YES!! Crunchy, not too thin, sprinkled with cinnamon/sugary goodness and dipped in their amazing honey mustard sauce. Perfection!

Best Adult Beverage: Sol Y Luna: This tapas place has some wonderful margaritas and house drinks! Don’t expect “typical Mexican”, but get ready for some interesting dishes and quality cocktails!

Best Sandwich: Hands-down the Newk’s Q from Newk’s (downtown location, preferably). Pair this grilled-chicken with bacon, swiss, and white-BBQ sauce sandwich with their sweet pickles and Tippah County Caviar (a black-eyed pea salsa-type side) and get ready for your world to be rocked.

With a close runner-up, the Club sandwich from Ragtime Cafe. PINEAPPLE on a club? Don't knock it 'til you've tried it!

Hungry Yet? Lay off me, I'm starving!!

Peace,

Erin

Bethany's Bests

I am in no way a “foodie,” but I do love to eat! And, when I eat I like to do it without going bankrupt, thus you will not see Ocean or Satterfield’s on this list. I’m sure they are great, but until Birmingham boys start asking me out and taking me to those fancy places, this gal on a nonprofit salary will enjoy the more budget-friendly restaurants in the area.

1. Burger – Bottletree

Bottletree Café is a quirky restaurant/music venue in Avondale off of 3^rd Avenue South. In addition to a great lunch menu featuring many vegan-friendly options, they also make a great burger. The burger is not standard fare, so you have to catch it as a daily special, but it is by far my favorite in town.

2. Milkshake – FLIP burger boutique and Chick-fil-A

Flip is a little too trendy for my taste, but it certainly offers a unique dining experience with both traditional and gourmet burgers, tasty dipping sauces, and amazing milkshakes. My friends and I differ in opinions on which shake is supreme, but I am sticking to my guns with my ruling that the Nutella and Burnt Marshmallow Milkshake is the best gourmet milkshake, not only at Flip Burger, but in Birmingham.

We can’t always be gourmet, though, and for those days when you’re craving a milkshake but can’t make it to FLIP, I offer to you the Chick-fil-A Cookies & Cream Milkshake. My health-nut sister has even been converted. It’s that good.

3. Cupcake – dreamcakes bakery and Urban Standard

Dreamcakes is my favorite “all-around” cupcake winner. Every flavor they offer is amazing. From the Mint Chocolate Chip (my personal favorite) to the Curious George (a banana cupcake with peanut butter frosting), every cupcake offering is exquisitely beautiful and really, really good. But, the Red Velvet Cupcake at Urban is probably my absolute favorite cupcake in the city. I’ve not always been a Red Velvet girl, mostly because of the cream cheese frosting, but Urban Standard has an almond cream cheese frosting. It is divine. And, most people are aware of the awesomeness that is the Urban Standard Red Velvet Cupcake, which means there have been days when I have gone to pick up a tasty treat only to find they are sold out. Those are not good days. So go early if you want your life to be changed. And it will be. For the better.

So, the official ruling is: best all around cupcake venue – dreamcakes; best cupcake – Red Velvet Cupcake from Urban Standard.

4. Croissant – The Red Cat

Some may wonder why “croissant” is even a category. To that I say, “you obviously have not been to the Red Cat.” Their Almond Croissant is possibly the best pastry I’ve ever eaten. It is fabulous. Words don’t do it justice, so to adequately understand, you should get in your car right now, drive to the Red Cat, and order one. I just might.

5. Coffee Beverage – The Red Cat and Urban Standard (and Starbucks)

I confess, it’s only fitting for Starbucks to be on my coffee list because I get my caffeine-fix from them far too often. I blame the convenience of the drive-thru window off of Hwy 31 on my way into work. And they make my favorite drink really well – a tall sugar-free vanilla soy latte. But, buying locally is better for the Birmingham economy, and honestly the coffee tastes much fresher at the Red Cat and Urban Standard. The Red Cat roasts their coffee beans in house and Urban Standard purchases their beans from local roaster Primavera Coffee. Urban also makes their own syrups, which are delicious.

The Red Cat is my favorite out of the two local places because they have a punch card that earns you a free coffee beverage with the purchase of five drinks. And their iced coffee changed my life last summer during one of many heat waves.

6. Taco – Camp Taco

Located in 5 Points in what used to be a Subway, Camp Taco puts a unique spin on their taco creations. My suggestion – order a side of queso and a taco with white barbeque sauce.

7. Vegan Fare – Bottletree Café

I mentioned earlier that Bottletree has the best burger, when offered, but their vegan offerings are equally delicious. My favorite is the Garden Grill – steamed vegetables with rice or quinoa (choose the quinoa if you have the option) with sweet chili garlic and soy sauces. When I first ordered it I thought it would be boring, but I was told by the fellow taking my order that it was his favorite dish on the entire menu. I soon found out that he was not hyping it up…it really is awesome!

8. Sauce – Chick-fil-A

Okay, I know this is a weird category, but I feel compelled and obligated to share with you the amazingness that is Chick-fil-A sauce. Maybe you’ve tried the honey mustard and Polynesian and thought…”this is awesome!” But seriously, you have not lived until you try the Chick-fil-A sauce.

Other Favorites at Restaurants Listed Above:

Bottletree – Sweet Potato Fries (a little soggy, but amazing seasoning) and Hummus (not only is the hummus delicious, but the accompanying pita bread is really good, too)

The Red Cat – Pimento Cheese Sandwich on toasted 3 Seed Bread from Big Sky

Urban Standard – Grilled Asparagus Salad

Most of these restaurants are located very near my workplace, so I’m sure I have missed out on several awesome eateries in the city. As this is a forum to make Birmingham better, let me know what great places I’ve left off and your favorite dishes at those establishments!

Your food-loving friend,

Bethany

P.S. Also, I have noticed that my favorite go-to adjectives are amazing and awesome. Sorry about that. Maybe someone can buy me a thesaurus for my birthday:)

Hiatus

Your friends at the Anti-Lame Campaign have not turned their back on the mission at hand, rather we've been taking a brief hiatus to take care of some very important things...i.e. weddings of friends and sisters.

We do have a couple of posts in the works that we think you (our ten loyal followers) will find very interesting: Summer Fun in the Ham and Bethany's Best - a list of Bethany's "favorites" in the city, from cupcakes and milkshakes to coffee beverages and burgers.

Please stay tuned and we promise - it will be worth the wait.  We hope.  Maybe.

Sincerely,

Your Anti-Lame Coalition for Fun

Let the Good Times Roll

Dearest friends and followers (all 10 of you!),

We've started compiling our list of places to go/things to do in Birmingham...help us add to it!

1. The Fish Market Restaurant
2. Salsa Dancing
3. Ocean
4. Miss Rosemarie's Tea Room
5. Community Football Game at Railroad Park
6. Brunch at Another Broken Egg
7. The Original Pancake House
8. Morgan Creek Winery
9. Innisfree Pub
10. Silver Coin
11. Sol Y Luna
12. Dessert at the Melting Pot
13. Brunch at Chez Lulu

We're all pretty pumped about refining this list and experiencing some good times in this city.  You may notice that this list mostly consists of places to eat.  To that we respond, "you are correct."

Sincerely,

Your Anti-Lame Advocates