Really cool bar. Took us a minute to figure it out. No food just a bar. You go through the back to Hot Box which is the food. I had a Sex on the Beach. It was pretty good. The guy at the bar who had probably been sitting there since before they opened, advised us on how it worked & how to get to the food. He was really hype and excited to share info, as were others who seemed to be regulars. It's animal friendly of course so be prepared for that. It's cool & we decided this would be a place to stop for drinks after work sometimes. The prices were a lttle expensive for draft beer so my husband said. I think he paid around 12 or 13$$.... Anyhoo we'll be back.
(3)
Jacob W.
More of a beer and whiskey spot, no specialty cocktails or food. Regardless, the bartender whipped me up an amazing Long Island Iced Tea. Gorgeous interior and laid back environment, not too crowded on Friday night either.
(3)
Lori T.
Outside is great. Atmosphere Top notch. Been going here for 3~4 years...always a winner. Downside 1 stall bathroom for a lot of folks.
(4)
Katie A.
Love this place! Super cool & now they have a food truck in back. My friend had an engagement party there and it was awesome! Great staff and awesome back courtyard area! I highly recommend going here, especially for after work cocktails!
(4)
Kevin R.
This place is quickly becoming one of my favorite bars in Birmingham. The atmosphere is very relaxed drinks are reasonably priced although they should have Avondale beer being right down the street from them.
(5)
E D.
The decor is better than the service & (female) bartender. I won't mention "E's" full name, but getting a cocktail from her was like pulling teeth. Basically, the service is pretty good for locals, but if you are an "outsider", try another place.
(1)
Jason B.
Great atmosphere and patio area. Great variety of beers and liqour. I love the decor and vibe.
(5)
Donna A.
Parkside is one of my favorites for a chilled out atmosphere. It is hipster in decoration with really fun Chinese lanterns adorning the ceilings. It has a great outdoor are, a "smoke box" and complete with a permanent food truck. My only complaint is that their drink selection isn't my favorite. But to their defense I am very picky. This is definitely perfect for your standard drink (spirit+mixer) or a beer. They generally have a couple of the local brews on tap. There is an awesome cat that takes residence in a stool during the evenings so be sure not to steal it's spot! Overall I come here for atmosphere and a chilled place to hang out with friends.
(4)
Ashley G.
This is my go to spot for a great local dive type establishment! Absolutely love the fire pit out back during the Fall and Winter months. The bartenders are friendly and the food out back at the Hotbox is amazing! I like the non-snooty vibe this place has a lot :) The only draw back is the single bathroom!!
(4)
Will B.
This is a really cool bar and one of the first to pop up in Avondale. I have been on several occasions for several different reasons. The atmosphere has changed every time. I have been in there early and late. Been when its crowded and when its not so much. I have been for a concert and for a chill night. It is one of the coolest atmospheres in Birmingham. When the open air back (yard?) is filled, the place has a buzz about it. The inside is usually always hopping. The bartenders are quick and responsive. The prices are pretty decent too. The one downfall is the bathroom situation. One men' and one women's SINGLE bathroom. It can prove to have some pretty long lines on busy nights. But if you don't mind waiting for the bathroom, a great bar to check out.
(4)
Rodney H.
This make me really sad because I love their patio! Unfortunately, to get to the patio and order food from Hotbox (separate review that would be 4 stars alone) you have to walk thru the bar area and while I'm sure they have some solid bar tenders, the service we received on 3 different occasions will prevent me or anyone I'm with spending a dime there. If I were the manager, supervisor or owner, I would want to know more about this. I get it, people have bad days and get stressed especially in a higher paced environment behind the bar but it's sad that one person can create such a negative experience. Parkside isn't going anywhere and hope others don't have the same experience as we did, 3 times with the same person. Again, kick ass patio folks and stellar location!
(1)
Jeremy E.
Parkside has one of the coolest atmospheres in town, from the eclectically decorated interior to the awesome patio that wraps around the side and back. A lot of renovations were done in the patio area last year, and it looks amazing. I love all of the concrete statues and plantings in the patio, which is a very relaxing place to hang out with friends. A small outbuilding contains another bar with a more limited selection. They have a pretty decent selection of beer, with a few on tap. I wish they would offer more "craft" or specialty cocktails, although there are plenty of places to find those now. For a good, basic drink, moderately priced, this is a great choice. The Hotbox food truck in the old Airstream camper out back has some awesome food to enjoy as well!!
(4)
Jody O.
This place has changed alot over the years....now Parkside is more trendy....friendly staff.....great bar.The backyard is awesome
(4)
Shannon T.
Awesome bar with a fantastic patio in Avondale. Have always gotten a cold beer here and enjoyed people watching. Love the books and crannies. Lighting is everything! Have not tried the food out back but looks great! Fun neighborhood spot.
(4)
Tim F.
Great bar. Quick service. A fantastic plus is that hotbox (an airstream restaurant) is out back. Trivia is on Tuesday nights. This is probably the main time that I frequent this bar. The announcer/host is funny, it's really laid back, and the space is pretty intimate. Also- Brandon Katz (one of the managers) is awesome. You HAVE TO meet him if you come by. The porch is super comfy and a cool place to hang with friends as well. You can't go wrong at Parkside if you want quirky local trivia on some nights and a quiet bar scene on others.
(4)
Will L.
Parkside quickly climbed the ranks of "top o' the list" bars in Birmingham. The downstairs, inside bar isn't huge, but it's spacious enough to get around. Don't worry, you won't be in there long. The patio is too perfect to avoid. When you get outside, you can go right or left, because the seating area wraps around both sides of the building. There are enough tables and benches to handle the rear ends of you, all of your friends, and all of their friends acquaintances. There is a "barn" like structure that contains even more seating and a separate bar. This is where I find the only downside of Parkside. Unfortunately, the outside bar is only partially stocked. The leaves me going back inside for most of my drinks, but it's really not that big of a deal. It's generally not open to the public, but they've got a great upstairs if you need a private space for a get together. Just try to not like the patio, go ahead.
(4)
Massimo F.
Fun, lot of space, big-patio, live-music, good drinks, and alternative look! One of my favorites nighttime spots in B'ham!
(5)
Heather B.
Get thee to the back bar. You feel like you are in on the secret when you're in that little corner of the joint. Always fun to congregate on the patio in good weather. If you ever hang out in this area, you are guaranteed to run into someone you know. If you haven't been before, it's about time you made your way here. Bring some friends.
(4)
Matthew K.
The patio and decor is definitely the best feature about this bar. Its big and would be perfect for watching a band play live and enjoy a few beers with friends. The drink selection looked substantial. I ordered a fat tire here. Can't say anything about service as it was a slow night. Not sure how they do when it's busy but they were friendly enough. A good alternative to Avondale brewery if you want to order a cheaper beer like Pbr.
(4)
Andrew M.
We all know that some nights call for a drink but not necessarily an all-out throw down. On nights like this, Parkside is the place to go. In Birmingham's up-and-coming Avondale area, Parkside is the perfect alternative for the bar-goer that wants a break from the base-thumping, slam packed Lakeview scene. The outdoor patio at Parkside is spacious but charming, perfect for this time of year. The inside is nice and they actually serve your cocktail in a glass (made of glass!). On the occasion that they have a band, it is always a great selection to add to the pre-existing vibe of the venue. Go check this place out, but be warned, it may become your local watering hole.
(4)
Jacquelynne S.
1. Super chill bar with really interesting artwork and eclectic decorations that can keep you entertained for hours. I specifically like the old school swimming pool rule sign outside near the back entrance. 2. Cheap strong drinks with yummy drink specials. 3. Empire of the Sun, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Arctic Monkeys, Santigold...ok, ok. I'm digging the vibe. 4. Really diverse group of people (Alabama wise). I saw hipsters, some frat people, older people, etc. 5. Nice outdoor patio section with a firepit. All in all, one of the better bars I've been to in Birmingham. I recommend this place if you are just planning to relax and hangout. It was DEFINITELY a different crowd than the mess of a crowd I saw at Baccus the previous night.
(4)
Brad H.
An old house turned bar makes for a cool venue with a spacious backyard. Would have given 2 stars if the review was entirely based on my most recent visit, but a more favorable experience my first visit bumped it to 3 stars. My complaint was with a rude bartender--I noticed a Happy Hour sign advertisting HH until 7 pm, and it was literally 7:00 on the dot so I asked the bartender if I could still get in on HH deals. He immediately, without hesitation said "Nope". Even if he would have handled it differently and still not let me in on HH, I would have been OK with it. A simple "No, sorry you just missed it" or something more than his rude "Nope" attitude.
(3)
sandie s.
This place is alright. I was in Birmingham on a road trip and wanted a place to hang for an hour or so after dinner. My friend suggested 2 places and this is where I ended up. I liked the ambience-colorful paper lanterns, vintage tables and chairs. I ordered a diet Coke, and sat myself at the bar to chill. The crowd was a little frat boy heavy, but it was the screaming softball girls who came in later that kind of made me have to leave. No matter, I was planning to go quickly once I saw the band setting up. I have nothing against live music, I just wasn't in the mood that night. All in all, I had a good experience at Parkside. Had I been there with friends, I think I could've really dug it. Plus, as I got up to leave and tried to pay for my diet Coke, I was told it was on the house. That earned them the 4th star.
(4)
Jocelyn L.
Wow, this place was terrible. The bartender was a jerk, not friendly and for some reason we didn't feel "welcome", if you can read between the lines. I would think that given the fact that the place was dead inside and there were only (3) people, we would have gotten better service. But I would definitely suggest to the owners/management, to work on their customer service. Money comes in one color only and that's GREEN and the way we were treated yesterday reminds me something out of the 50's. Get a grip Parkside, this is your business we are talking about, good business=customers=money, remember that in the future.
(1)
Whit M.
Order a Boulevard Wheat from the bar, make sure you get a lemon with your glass and ask the bar staff to point you to the "Rock Star Bar". It's out back. You're welcome.
(4)
Alden C.
Parkside is that bar you always wished you could call your local. With the great prices, well made cocktails, cold beer (they even serve the great local stuff from Avondale Brewery down the road) and eclectic decor, it's the place to be. When it's cold outside, they utilize an awesome firepit in part of their massive outdoor space. Speaking of being outside- that's the BEST part about Parkside- it has an incredible, private, even somewhat calming back patio with foliage, twinkle lights, ample tables and chairs with umbrellas, and ambience to spare. There's even a little house with a pool table, darts, and a bit of mystery back there. And, it seems to draw in a range of people- from young professionals to funky hipster musicians to the college kids who made their way down to Avondale. The bathroom is huge and always clean- a must for a place I'm going to frequent. So, if you want to grab a drink with friends or show out-of-towners a cool local spot, Parkside is your best bet.
(5)
Amber Y.
I really dig Parkside. The bartenders are super friendly, the drinks are priced well and the atmosphere is incredible. Belly up to the bar and chill inside, or find a spot outside to hang with friends. Unlike other places where the outside seating is limited and tables are basically on top of each other, Parkside gives you numerous options. Outside you'll find picnic tables, benches, patio tables, water fountains, gazebos and even a separate building at the back of the property where you can throw darts or play ping pong. Aaaaand, it's all spread out enough to where you have a bit of privacy in your chosen area! Parkside feels like a backyard party at a friend's house (and I'm not just saying that because my friend used to live in the loft on the second floor - haha). It's all about the people and the atmosphere at Parkside - and both will have you coming back again and again.
(5)
Jonathan P.
After the renovations, this place is beautiful! I love the brick, and the fire pit, and the back bar area. With the addition of Hotbox, it's a one stop shop for a great night with friends or a date even. Fantastic drink selection and friendly staff.
(4)
Jacob S.
Situated across from Avondale park, in an unassuming building, you'll come across this bar called Parkside. It's a neat little bar, has lots of character. The inside portion of the bar isn't that big, but go out back and you see where the action is at--a huge outdoor seating area. Its got this garden kind of vibe to it. Pea gravel, tables, chairs and random junk scattered around like old wooden doors leaning against the fence. There's also a small building in the very back which houses another bar, so if you plan on sitting outside, get your drinks from that bar instead of going inside every time. The whole outdoor arrangement really makes Parkside a unique, cool place. I say, go there.
(4)
Curry T.
Love this place. It is beautiful inside and out. They have good beer. I like all the employees because they are friendly, quick, and one of them made a creep stop hitting on me before I even realized what was happening. The music is great, and if you don't like the music at the main bar, go to the back bar and see if you like that music better. There is a cat, and I love cats so, that sort of cinched everything.
(5)
Leslie T.
Coolest looking bar in Birmingham. The outer area keeps getting better and better. The bartenders are the best and everyone seems pretty relaxed while they are hanging out there. LOVE THIS PLACE!
(5)
Jacklyn H.
Great bar with beautiful outdoor courtyard! Live music some nights and trivia on Tuesdays.
(5)
Joe L.
I like this place! Good drinks and a friendly staff. Cool area outside to sit if you want.
(4)
Mike F.
This is probably my favorite bar in the city. The liquor/beer selection is good and no where close to that of the J Clyde, but I prefer the atmosphere and tunes in this place. There is a good mix of different people; goons, preps, sluts, engineers, weirdos, business types, the ill, hipsters, and those appearing older than stated age. I like the place because it is one for all. Tons of room in the front and out back so you never feel crowded and like you are part of a bundle of kindling. I say give it a spin.
(5)
Dax B.
Limited beer selection? Seriously? Parkside is no J Clyde or On Tap as far as draft selection, but they constantly rotate around 4-5 tap selections and have a lot more bottled selections - they tend to have at least 10+ craft options available at a time plus the standard macros.
(5)
David M.
Quite possibly my favorite place to hang out in Birmingham, Parkside is certainly where it's at. Great ambiance, good prices, friendly bartenders, and a mixed crowd of locals. The backyard is fabulous all times during the year, but make sure you bring some bug spray during the summer months (the bar has a supply if you forget).
(5)
Amber D.
Fine bar but I will never come here again bc of the bathrooms! One stall. There were seriously 30 people and 10 were in line for the bathrooms! One stall for women and one stall for men! I know it seems like not a big deal but just wait till you are there drinking and have to wait in a fifteen minute line!
(1)
Trevvor C.
My first impression was a good one at Parkside. It's an unassuming little spot in Avondale with plenty of indoor seating around and nearby the bar, but the best part is outside--next to and behind the building. There's a large garden/patio area with picnic tables, garden tables, a gazebo or two, and plenty of seating for a variety of groups. The barkeeps were amiable and the selection offered interesting options and familar names alike.
(5)
Drew W.
Great atmosphere. Beautiful backyard. Pretty decent beer selection. Interesting and diverse crowd.
(5)
CeeCee C.
A great mix of people... from lawyers in suits to artists in tattoos... it makes for a most interesting atmosphere. Eclectic is a good description of the people AND the building. Cool, cool building, awesome patio and great bartenders... if you're looking for a layed-back place to hang... this is it.
(5)
Chris R.
Cool place to get a drink. Love of old building, outdoor seating, and eclectic/funky atmosphere. I wasn't super impressed with my Old Fashion cocktail. Also, I thought the drinks were priced a bit in the high side for this dive-type bar.
(3)
gian carlo g.
Came on a Thursday, new in town. Good Music, Good Beer. Has plenty of space inside and outside. Tables in backyard. ill definetely come back to this place.
(5)
Stephen V.
Laid back, relaxed, cool bartenders, cool music, good location.... A nice place to hang out with friends or warm up before hitting downtown.
(5)
Breanne K.
Parkside is a casual environment and the bartenders are pretty chill. The interior space is nice and there is an awesome backyard with a small game house in the back with pool and darts. Really great hangout, any day of the week.
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Parking : Street Bike Parking : No Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Ambience : Hipster Noise Level : Average Music : Live Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Fri, Sat, Sun Coat Check : No Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Has TV : Yes
A A.
Really cool bar. Took us a minute to figure it out. No food just a bar. You go through the back to Hot Box which is the food. I had a Sex on the Beach. It was pretty good. The guy at the bar who had probably been sitting there since before they opened, advised us on how it worked & how to get to the food. He was really hype and excited to share info, as were others who seemed to be regulars. It's animal friendly of course so be prepared for that. It's cool & we decided this would be a place to stop for drinks after work sometimes. The prices were a lttle expensive for draft beer so my husband said. I think he paid around 12 or 13$$.... Anyhoo we'll be back.
(3)Jacob W.
More of a beer and whiskey spot, no specialty cocktails or food. Regardless, the bartender whipped me up an amazing Long Island Iced Tea. Gorgeous interior and laid back environment, not too crowded on Friday night either.
(3)Lori T.
Outside is great. Atmosphere Top notch. Been going here for 3~4 years...always a winner. Downside 1 stall bathroom for a lot of folks.
(4)Katie A.
Love this place! Super cool & now they have a food truck in back. My friend had an engagement party there and it was awesome! Great staff and awesome back courtyard area! I highly recommend going here, especially for after work cocktails!
(4)Kevin R.
This place is quickly becoming one of my favorite bars in Birmingham. The atmosphere is very relaxed drinks are reasonably priced although they should have Avondale beer being right down the street from them.
(5)E D.
The decor is better than the service & (female) bartender. I won't mention "E's" full name, but getting a cocktail from her was like pulling teeth. Basically, the service is pretty good for locals, but if you are an "outsider", try another place.
(1)Jason B.
Great atmosphere and patio area. Great variety of beers and liqour. I love the decor and vibe.
(5)Donna A.
Parkside is one of my favorites for a chilled out atmosphere. It is hipster in decoration with really fun Chinese lanterns adorning the ceilings. It has a great outdoor are, a "smoke box" and complete with a permanent food truck. My only complaint is that their drink selection isn't my favorite. But to their defense I am very picky. This is definitely perfect for your standard drink (spirit+mixer) or a beer. They generally have a couple of the local brews on tap. There is an awesome cat that takes residence in a stool during the evenings so be sure not to steal it's spot! Overall I come here for atmosphere and a chilled place to hang out with friends.
(4)Ashley G.
This is my go to spot for a great local dive type establishment! Absolutely love the fire pit out back during the Fall and Winter months. The bartenders are friendly and the food out back at the Hotbox is amazing! I like the non-snooty vibe this place has a lot :) The only draw back is the single bathroom!!
(4)Will B.
This is a really cool bar and one of the first to pop up in Avondale. I have been on several occasions for several different reasons. The atmosphere has changed every time. I have been in there early and late. Been when its crowded and when its not so much. I have been for a concert and for a chill night. It is one of the coolest atmospheres in Birmingham. When the open air back (yard?) is filled, the place has a buzz about it. The inside is usually always hopping. The bartenders are quick and responsive. The prices are pretty decent too. The one downfall is the bathroom situation. One men' and one women's SINGLE bathroom. It can prove to have some pretty long lines on busy nights. But if you don't mind waiting for the bathroom, a great bar to check out.
(4)Rodney H.
This make me really sad because I love their patio! Unfortunately, to get to the patio and order food from Hotbox (separate review that would be 4 stars alone) you have to walk thru the bar area and while I'm sure they have some solid bar tenders, the service we received on 3 different occasions will prevent me or anyone I'm with spending a dime there. If I were the manager, supervisor or owner, I would want to know more about this. I get it, people have bad days and get stressed especially in a higher paced environment behind the bar but it's sad that one person can create such a negative experience. Parkside isn't going anywhere and hope others don't have the same experience as we did, 3 times with the same person. Again, kick ass patio folks and stellar location!
(1)Jeremy E.
Parkside has one of the coolest atmospheres in town, from the eclectically decorated interior to the awesome patio that wraps around the side and back. A lot of renovations were done in the patio area last year, and it looks amazing. I love all of the concrete statues and plantings in the patio, which is a very relaxing place to hang out with friends. A small outbuilding contains another bar with a more limited selection. They have a pretty decent selection of beer, with a few on tap. I wish they would offer more "craft" or specialty cocktails, although there are plenty of places to find those now. For a good, basic drink, moderately priced, this is a great choice. The Hotbox food truck in the old Airstream camper out back has some awesome food to enjoy as well!!
(4)Jody O.
This place has changed alot over the years....now Parkside is more trendy....friendly staff.....great bar.The backyard is awesome
(4)Shannon T.
Awesome bar with a fantastic patio in Avondale. Have always gotten a cold beer here and enjoyed people watching. Love the books and crannies. Lighting is everything! Have not tried the food out back but looks great! Fun neighborhood spot.
(4)Tim F.
Great bar. Quick service. A fantastic plus is that hotbox (an airstream restaurant) is out back. Trivia is on Tuesday nights. This is probably the main time that I frequent this bar. The announcer/host is funny, it's really laid back, and the space is pretty intimate. Also- Brandon Katz (one of the managers) is awesome. You HAVE TO meet him if you come by. The porch is super comfy and a cool place to hang with friends as well. You can't go wrong at Parkside if you want quirky local trivia on some nights and a quiet bar scene on others.
(4)Will L.
Parkside quickly climbed the ranks of "top o' the list" bars in Birmingham. The downstairs, inside bar isn't huge, but it's spacious enough to get around. Don't worry, you won't be in there long. The patio is too perfect to avoid. When you get outside, you can go right or left, because the seating area wraps around both sides of the building. There are enough tables and benches to handle the rear ends of you, all of your friends, and all of their friends acquaintances. There is a "barn" like structure that contains even more seating and a separate bar. This is where I find the only downside of Parkside. Unfortunately, the outside bar is only partially stocked. The leaves me going back inside for most of my drinks, but it's really not that big of a deal. It's generally not open to the public, but they've got a great upstairs if you need a private space for a get together. Just try to not like the patio, go ahead.
(4)Massimo F.
Fun, lot of space, big-patio, live-music, good drinks, and alternative look! One of my favorites nighttime spots in B'ham!
(5)Heather B.
Get thee to the back bar. You feel like you are in on the secret when you're in that little corner of the joint. Always fun to congregate on the patio in good weather. If you ever hang out in this area, you are guaranteed to run into someone you know. If you haven't been before, it's about time you made your way here. Bring some friends.
(4)Matthew K.
The patio and decor is definitely the best feature about this bar. Its big and would be perfect for watching a band play live and enjoy a few beers with friends. The drink selection looked substantial. I ordered a fat tire here. Can't say anything about service as it was a slow night. Not sure how they do when it's busy but they were friendly enough. A good alternative to Avondale brewery if you want to order a cheaper beer like Pbr.
(4)Andrew M.
We all know that some nights call for a drink but not necessarily an all-out throw down. On nights like this, Parkside is the place to go. In Birmingham's up-and-coming Avondale area, Parkside is the perfect alternative for the bar-goer that wants a break from the base-thumping, slam packed Lakeview scene. The outdoor patio at Parkside is spacious but charming, perfect for this time of year. The inside is nice and they actually serve your cocktail in a glass (made of glass!). On the occasion that they have a band, it is always a great selection to add to the pre-existing vibe of the venue. Go check this place out, but be warned, it may become your local watering hole.
(4)Jacquelynne S.
1. Super chill bar with really interesting artwork and eclectic decorations that can keep you entertained for hours. I specifically like the old school swimming pool rule sign outside near the back entrance. 2. Cheap strong drinks with yummy drink specials. 3. Empire of the Sun, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Arctic Monkeys, Santigold...ok, ok. I'm digging the vibe. 4. Really diverse group of people (Alabama wise). I saw hipsters, some frat people, older people, etc. 5. Nice outdoor patio section with a firepit. All in all, one of the better bars I've been to in Birmingham. I recommend this place if you are just planning to relax and hangout. It was DEFINITELY a different crowd than the mess of a crowd I saw at Baccus the previous night.
(4)Brad H.
An old house turned bar makes for a cool venue with a spacious backyard. Would have given 2 stars if the review was entirely based on my most recent visit, but a more favorable experience my first visit bumped it to 3 stars. My complaint was with a rude bartender--I noticed a Happy Hour sign advertisting HH until 7 pm, and it was literally 7:00 on the dot so I asked the bartender if I could still get in on HH deals. He immediately, without hesitation said "Nope". Even if he would have handled it differently and still not let me in on HH, I would have been OK with it. A simple "No, sorry you just missed it" or something more than his rude "Nope" attitude.
(3)sandie s.
This place is alright. I was in Birmingham on a road trip and wanted a place to hang for an hour or so after dinner. My friend suggested 2 places and this is where I ended up. I liked the ambience-colorful paper lanterns, vintage tables and chairs. I ordered a diet Coke, and sat myself at the bar to chill. The crowd was a little frat boy heavy, but it was the screaming softball girls who came in later that kind of made me have to leave. No matter, I was planning to go quickly once I saw the band setting up. I have nothing against live music, I just wasn't in the mood that night. All in all, I had a good experience at Parkside. Had I been there with friends, I think I could've really dug it. Plus, as I got up to leave and tried to pay for my diet Coke, I was told it was on the house. That earned them the 4th star.
(4)Jocelyn L.
Wow, this place was terrible. The bartender was a jerk, not friendly and for some reason we didn't feel "welcome", if you can read between the lines. I would think that given the fact that the place was dead inside and there were only (3) people, we would have gotten better service. But I would definitely suggest to the owners/management, to work on their customer service. Money comes in one color only and that's GREEN and the way we were treated yesterday reminds me something out of the 50's. Get a grip Parkside, this is your business we are talking about, good business=customers=money, remember that in the future.
(1)Whit M.
Order a Boulevard Wheat from the bar, make sure you get a lemon with your glass and ask the bar staff to point you to the "Rock Star Bar". It's out back. You're welcome.
(4)Alden C.
Parkside is that bar you always wished you could call your local. With the great prices, well made cocktails, cold beer (they even serve the great local stuff from Avondale Brewery down the road) and eclectic decor, it's the place to be. When it's cold outside, they utilize an awesome firepit in part of their massive outdoor space. Speaking of being outside- that's the BEST part about Parkside- it has an incredible, private, even somewhat calming back patio with foliage, twinkle lights, ample tables and chairs with umbrellas, and ambience to spare. There's even a little house with a pool table, darts, and a bit of mystery back there. And, it seems to draw in a range of people- from young professionals to funky hipster musicians to the college kids who made their way down to Avondale. The bathroom is huge and always clean- a must for a place I'm going to frequent. So, if you want to grab a drink with friends or show out-of-towners a cool local spot, Parkside is your best bet.
(5)Amber Y.
I really dig Parkside. The bartenders are super friendly, the drinks are priced well and the atmosphere is incredible. Belly up to the bar and chill inside, or find a spot outside to hang with friends. Unlike other places where the outside seating is limited and tables are basically on top of each other, Parkside gives you numerous options. Outside you'll find picnic tables, benches, patio tables, water fountains, gazebos and even a separate building at the back of the property where you can throw darts or play ping pong. Aaaaand, it's all spread out enough to where you have a bit of privacy in your chosen area! Parkside feels like a backyard party at a friend's house (and I'm not just saying that because my friend used to live in the loft on the second floor - haha). It's all about the people and the atmosphere at Parkside - and both will have you coming back again and again.
(5)Jonathan P.
After the renovations, this place is beautiful! I love the brick, and the fire pit, and the back bar area. With the addition of Hotbox, it's a one stop shop for a great night with friends or a date even. Fantastic drink selection and friendly staff.
(4)Jacob S.
Situated across from Avondale park, in an unassuming building, you'll come across this bar called Parkside. It's a neat little bar, has lots of character. The inside portion of the bar isn't that big, but go out back and you see where the action is at--a huge outdoor seating area. Its got this garden kind of vibe to it. Pea gravel, tables, chairs and random junk scattered around like old wooden doors leaning against the fence. There's also a small building in the very back which houses another bar, so if you plan on sitting outside, get your drinks from that bar instead of going inside every time. The whole outdoor arrangement really makes Parkside a unique, cool place. I say, go there.
(4)Curry T.
Love this place. It is beautiful inside and out. They have good beer. I like all the employees because they are friendly, quick, and one of them made a creep stop hitting on me before I even realized what was happening. The music is great, and if you don't like the music at the main bar, go to the back bar and see if you like that music better. There is a cat, and I love cats so, that sort of cinched everything.
(5)Leslie T.
Coolest looking bar in Birmingham. The outer area keeps getting better and better. The bartenders are the best and everyone seems pretty relaxed while they are hanging out there. LOVE THIS PLACE!
(5)Jacklyn H.
Great bar with beautiful outdoor courtyard! Live music some nights and trivia on Tuesdays.
(5)Joe L.
I like this place! Good drinks and a friendly staff. Cool area outside to sit if you want.
(4)Mike F.
This is probably my favorite bar in the city. The liquor/beer selection is good and no where close to that of the J Clyde, but I prefer the atmosphere and tunes in this place. There is a good mix of different people; goons, preps, sluts, engineers, weirdos, business types, the ill, hipsters, and those appearing older than stated age. I like the place because it is one for all. Tons of room in the front and out back so you never feel crowded and like you are part of a bundle of kindling. I say give it a spin.
(5)Dax B.
Limited beer selection? Seriously? Parkside is no J Clyde or On Tap as far as draft selection, but they constantly rotate around 4-5 tap selections and have a lot more bottled selections - they tend to have at least 10+ craft options available at a time plus the standard macros.
(5)David M.
Quite possibly my favorite place to hang out in Birmingham, Parkside is certainly where it's at. Great ambiance, good prices, friendly bartenders, and a mixed crowd of locals. The backyard is fabulous all times during the year, but make sure you bring some bug spray during the summer months (the bar has a supply if you forget).
(5)Amber D.
Fine bar but I will never come here again bc of the bathrooms! One stall. There were seriously 30 people and 10 were in line for the bathrooms! One stall for women and one stall for men! I know it seems like not a big deal but just wait till you are there drinking and have to wait in a fifteen minute line!
(1)Trevvor C.
My first impression was a good one at Parkside. It's an unassuming little spot in Avondale with plenty of indoor seating around and nearby the bar, but the best part is outside--next to and behind the building. There's a large garden/patio area with picnic tables, garden tables, a gazebo or two, and plenty of seating for a variety of groups. The barkeeps were amiable and the selection offered interesting options and familar names alike.
(5)Drew W.
Great atmosphere. Beautiful backyard. Pretty decent beer selection. Interesting and diverse crowd.
(5)CeeCee C.
A great mix of people... from lawyers in suits to artists in tattoos... it makes for a most interesting atmosphere. Eclectic is a good description of the people AND the building. Cool, cool building, awesome patio and great bartenders... if you're looking for a layed-back place to hang... this is it.
(5)Chris R.
Cool place to get a drink. Love of old building, outdoor seating, and eclectic/funky atmosphere. I wasn't super impressed with my Old Fashion cocktail. Also, I thought the drinks were priced a bit in the high side for this dive-type bar.
(3)gian carlo g.
Came on a Thursday, new in town. Good Music, Good Beer. Has plenty of space inside and outside. Tables in backyard. ill definetely come back to this place.
(5)Stephen V.
Laid back, relaxed, cool bartenders, cool music, good location.... A nice place to hang out with friends or warm up before hitting downtown.
(5)Breanne K.
Parkside is a casual environment and the bartenders are pretty chill. The interior space is nice and there is an awesome backyard with a small game house in the back with pool and darts. Really great hangout, any day of the week.
(5)