Cafe Via

This week, I went to eat at Cafe Via, one of Birmingham’s finest four star restaurants. It is a unique American bistro that looks like an elegant cafe you would find in Europe. At cafe Via you will fine an atmosphere that is intimate yet sophisticated as well as comfortable and relaxing. It is a rather large restaurant that consists of four dining areas, a bar, and a cozy court yard patio that also has tables. On the menu, you will find delicious meals that are “elegantly simple” such as , grilled salmon, roasted chicken and my personal favorite, the crab cakes. (There is also much more offered on the menu). Stated in the Detroit Free Press, that “smart bistro menu, elegant interior, & secluded patio are winning big crowds.” I went there with my very best friend Tim, and my sister Courtney. We couldn’t decide on what we wanted to have for dinner that night, and we stumbled upon Cafe Via as we were walking in downtown Birmingham. This seemed to be exactly what we were looking for. Once we walked in, we were quickly seated by a friendly hostess. Our waitress came and brought a variety of bread that was delicious. While Tim and Courtney were looking at the menu, they had some trouble deciding on what to get because they are both vegetarians. The waitress was a vegetarian herself and helped them pick out some good items they had to offer. Tim and Courtney ordered tomato bisque which looked amazing. I was completely torn between the tomato bisque or the crab cakes. Everything on the menu looked so good! I ended up ordering the crab cakes and I was not disappointed. Even though there wasn’t a lot on my plate, they were very filling and extremely tasteful. They came with a creamy sauce on top called corn salsa. My total came to about sixteen dollars. Not bad! Although I must say, the pastas tend to be on the more expensive side. I highly recommend Cafe Via to go to for dinner or even lunch with some friends or family. The hours are Monday through Saturday 11 AM to 11 PM and Sunday from 4 PM to 9 PM.  The bar hours are Monday through Saturday 11 AM to closing and Sunday 4 PM to closing. Reservations are accepted for lunch but are on a limited basis for dinner. According to Hour Magazine, "Cafe Via... has the feeling of a small European inn ...The food is simple and simply elegant." My experience here was great! the next time you find yourself strolling down the bustling streets of Birmingham, I strongly recommend you eat at Cafe Via. You will not be disappointed!