Solid choice for lunch- fast and many menu options. I had the chipotle braised pork with BBQ sauce, with side of broccoli salad and hot cheddar pasta (mac & cheese). Instead of white bread (to make the pulled pork into a sandwich), I substituted with a small orange roll. I also got a chocolate chip cookie bar...best part of the meal. The reviews were right...broccoli salad is very good and totally saved the dish I ordered. Cheddar pasta was flavored well, but a bit mushy for my taste. The pulled pork was a disappointment...very stringy and bland, even after a small container of BBQ sauce was dumped on it...I wish there was more sauce to give it a bit more kick. Good thing I was starving...I did clean my plate. Their strawberry lemonade that was so highly touted in reviews was so tart...I had to cut it with water and Sprite so it would be drinkable. Staff is great...patient as I decided what to order, brought my food quickly (identified with the number sign that matched my order), and cleared away empty dishes.
(3)
Allison J.
Best place in Birmingham!!! Friendly and fast and of course delicious! The half baked cookie is a must! Nothing compares to it in all of Birmingham!
(5)
Lee C.
A friend and I decided to try out Urban Cookhouse on a Saturday night. The place has outside as well as inside seating. One goes up to a counter, orders, and pays. Then, one gets water or drinks oneself and finds a table. After a little while, the food is delivered to your table. Despite its popularity, we were able to order nearly immediately and our food came out within a reasonable amount of time. There are only a few vegetarian options, and I decided on the cheese quesadilla. The taste was excellent, and the ingredients seemed fresh. The amount of cheese was relatively light, but in just the right proportion to allow the other ingredients to produce a wonderful flavor. I ate it enthusiastically ... and was still hungry--that is my main complaint. My friend had a "berry good" wrap. It is a novel item, and she was very pleased. The berries apparently gave nice surprises to what could have been rather routine. In sum, this restaurant is good and has reasonable prices. The serving sizes are a little small. I recommend the Urban Cookhouse.
(3)
Ashley W.
Urban Cookhouse is easily one of my favorite restaurants at this moment. The Summit location is just as good in service and food quality, but isn't as scenic as the Homewood location. I love sitting outside, watching the cars and people pass by on 18th Street all while enjoying a truly delicious meal. I'm a big fan of the BALT (bacon, avocado, lettuce, tomato) sandwich with turkey. It seems so simple, but Urban Cookhouse makes it so much more than simple when it comes to flavor. Pair it with the broccoli salad side and a homemade strawberry lemonade and you've got a great, relatively healthy meal. The turkey crunch sandwich was delicious as well and I think the hot-sweet mustard really makes the dish. Always get a basket of the orange rolls, whether you're dining alone or with a group. If you've got room for dessert, the half baked cookie is sinfully tasty. Unlike the orange rolls, I wouldn't really recommend it if it's only you eating the cookie - it's huge and extremely sweet. Not a bad thing at all, but no one likes a tummy ache after such a great meal.
(5)
City M.
Great Broccoli Salad. Great Strawberry lemonade. The staff is pleasant too! I had a great conversation about the origin if the BBQ sauce and they offered to bring me some to take home. That's service. Food is great on top of that. I love it. Some many flavors, so complimentary.
(4)
Lindsay L.
This is my favorite grab-and-go spot in Birmingham. I've been probably a dozen times, and the only thing I've had is the Pepper Patch salad (always add the shrimp skewers!). I can't tear myself away from it to try anything else. It's always fresh, so well prepared, and delicious. The staff are always friendly, and the service is fast. Fast farm-to-table eating - the perfect combination.
(5)
Garron D.
Enjoyed dinner with my daughter at this location last night, for the first time. Visiting the area, and as usual, check yelp for good local recommendation. From the moment we walked in, the staff was attentive, and once we noted we were newbies, the gal who assisted us in ordering was a huge help. I ordered the Chipotle Braised Pork dinner, and my daughter ordered the Down Home dinner - turkey, and pineapple-ham. Both entrees were accompanied by terrific sides. The hot cheddar pasta was cheesy-sharp, yet light. All vegetable sides we ate were fresh and well seasoned. The biggest plus here is the balance - protein, starch, vegetable - both entrees were appropriately sized. We left having had plenty to eat, though the food was light and varied. Also, hard to beat this place for well-prepared cheap meals - dinner for two, $20. Great concept, great value, funky atmosphere - all, really well done.
(5)
Parks B.
I ate here a couple of months ago....the food was really good, fresh tasting and the portions were good! The guy walking around cleaning up the tables and seating people was a bit strange. I watched him as he awkwardly talked to every guest while they were eating. I think he was just trying to be nice though.
(4)
Andrea R.
I always try to eat a good meal before hopping on a plane because I never know when I'll be able to get some grub again. Urban Cookhouse certainly met expectations before I said ta-ta to Birmingham. There were lots of tasty sounding salads to choose from, but I settled on the pepper packed salad (sans the steak since I'm not much of a carnivore). It was pretty awesome (especially the spicy jalapeno dressing) and I ate every last bite. Even more awesome...the orange roll that came with it! My colleague and I couldn't stop at just one so I actually went back up to the counter and ordered another basket of them. And after that basket was done I kinda wished I had another. We were in a bit of a rush to make our flights, but thanks to their speedy service we were in and out within 45 minutes. And I was quite full until I made it back to Chicago that evening. Mission accomplished.
(4)
Zoe W.
My parents enjoyed two meals here during our three-day stay in Birmingham--delicious! All of us loved everything that was ordered (we passed our plates around because everything looked so good), including the veggie quesadilla (with an excellent salsa), the pepper patch salad with the addition of the lime-marinated steak and the jalapeño vinaigrette dressing, the urban cowboy sandwich (which is actually pretty similar to the pepper patch salad in ingredients), and some red bell pepper soup. The salad was filling enough to share and have leftovers, which is great for $10. My dad threw some of his side veggies into our soups--great choice. We three shared the half-baked cookie with vanilla ice cream on top, all served in the skillet it was baked in; it was decadent. Also, we arrived little more than half an hour before closing time on Christmas Eve and were offered a gallon of their housemade strawberry lemonade and two bottles of their jalapeño vinaigrette because they were going to throw them out. What a treat!
(5)
Jon C.
Best meal I've had for $11 (including the strawberry lemonade). Really impressive meal, all fresh and well proportioned.
(5)
Erik D.
I loved it! I was very surprised to see it was counter/Panera-style (order at the counter, and they bring it out to you). What I found incredibly nice was the workers on the floor whose only job was to clear tables and assist guests in any way they could. For food, it was really great! I got the Chipotle Pork Sliders with Broccoli Salad. The pork had a wonderful taste with sweet bread. I went here on the recommendation of a colleague who said to get the orange rolls...and he wasn't kidding...these things are like crack! A basket of them is 3, get them for the table, and I believe you can even get them ass one of your entree sides. Also try the brown sugar brownies for a dessert...super yummy! If you're looking for casual lunch or dinner, definitely go here. We went to the Homewood location which is around a bunch of shopping.
(5)
Kim D.
My first meal in the South. It got good yelp reviews so I ventured out here before hitting the road to Mississippi. I was pleasantly surprised to find this place. All the choices looked good and reading a tad bit on everything looks like they buy local and organic products. Bonus. I ended up ordering the pulled pork sliders and a side of cheesy pasta with a strawberry lemonade to wash it down. Everything tasted great. The pulled pork had a chipotle taste to it which made it different and I enjoyed it being served on biscuits to give it a different feel to your traditional slider. The cheesy pasta too was good. Overall I enjoyed my meal very much and would recommend people to go here.
(4)
Russ M.
I finally got by Urban Cookhouse today for lunch. The young man at the order station told me that the best selling sandwich is the "turkey crunch" smoked turkey w/provolone, tomatoes, marinated slaw, and hot-sweet mustard grilled on wheat bread. The marinated slaw had a bit of a vinegar bite to it, overall a good sandwich, just not what I'll have on my next visit.
(4)
Trevvor C.
Fresh, fun, and local. After eating the delicious Down Home via delivery at the office one night, I knew this was a place I was going to enjoy! Half-a-dozen visits later, the fare is just as tasty, and everyone whom I've taken along with me has agreed. The portions are moderate, "just right" even. They may seem a little on the small side when compared to a Cracker Barrel plate or the like, but once you begin eating each yummy part of your meal, it turns out to be a great amount. The Down Home (grilled ham and turkey, with the house mac'n'cheese, broccoli salad, and an orange roll) is a favorite I keep coming back to - the meats are flavorful, and their "hot cheddar pasta" is one of my favorite sides. The veggie quesadilla is good, if a bit messy, and I haven't been as keen on the medley of flavors it proffers. The chipotle braised pork is excellent, and the chicken salad and Berry Good wraps have also received high marks in my company. Definitely check out this little Homewood eatery if you're looking for some local fare with local flair.
(4)
Jeff S.
I really wish there was an Urban Cookhouse where I lived. It's simple, nothing fancy, but a great lunch at a good price using fresh local produce. I had a BLT with avocado and turkey with broccoli salad on the side. Also got a half baked cookie. I'd get the same thing again.
(5)
Dick C.
Fantastic. Had the Urban Cowboy sandwich for lunch. Steak was perfectly seasoned and cooked. Mac and cheese was awesome.
(5)
Melody H.
After reading the reviews I decided to give this place a try since it's less than a mile from my office. My experience with the food was not good. I got the chicken salad sandwich and the cheese pasta (basically mac n cheese), which was actually good, but the portion size was minuscule for the price. The sandwich had maybe a couple of spoons of chicken salad on it (which was essentially tasteless) and the tomatoes are not ripe. The orange rolls, however, are quite good. Based on this experience, I won't go back. I would rather drive a little further to Al's Deli on 10th Avenue South and get a huge tasty wrap for less.
(2)
Erin L.
Stopped in for lunch while shopping from out of town. I ordered the BLAT with a side of the broccoli salad. It was very fresh and delicious. Other member of the party ordered the turkey crunch and a salad. Also both delicious. A great, healthy and affordable lunch choice.
(5)
Justin W.
I had some very delicious sandwiches catered to work from here. Prices are a bit high, but the food is delicious. We had some veggie quesadillas, turkey avocado sandwiches, some other ham and turkey sandwiches, etc. We also had some tasty mac and cheese from here with delicious cookie bars for dessert. The orange rolls were ok, the broccoli salad was ok.
(5)
Bryan Z.
Good clean food with healthy options for quick casual. Seems to me that Yelpers are a bit over generous around here in general. 5* would be a bit much. Portions are on the small side but the quality is pretty good. Would've given 3.5 but the people are super friendly and the service was quick.
(4)
Brittani V.
I am in love with the Pepper Patch salad. I always add turkey. It's rare to find a restaurant where healthy options are so readily available and taste delicous. I freqent both the Homewood and Summit locations at least weekly and I've never had anything that wasn't delivered quickly and tasted amazing.
(5)
Kaye T.
Great food! Makes you come away feeling like you just had a meal that was actually good for you. No guilt eating. :)
(5)
Tiffany G.
A fabulous restaurant, great vegetarian choices, super good location. Would recommend you check it out. Healthy eats at a good price in a great place!!!
(5)
B. H.
I have been here a few times and always love the food. It is fresh and local, and full of flavor. The portion size is probably a bit more suitable for lunch, at least the sandwiches are, the salads are a good size. I love the chipotle braised pork sandwiches and Urban Cowboy sandwich, and always get the hot cheddar pasta (mac and cheese). The service is always quick and friendly. The Homewood location has a small outside area to eat also that is great.
(5)
Gigi D.
The lime steak was tender and flavorful, great with the salad. But I have a thing about lettuce, which is to say when it's iceberg, I'm disappointed. This came over iceberg. Some redeemers: The vinaigrette was light and fruity without being overwhelmingly sweet. The orange roll was exquisite. They make a mean chicken wrap, too.
(4)
Kyle P.
Great stuff. Had the Turkey Crunch and Pasta for lunch.
(5)
Becky E.
Great place to eat in downtown Homewood. I've tried several of their dishes, but the pulled pork on yeast rolls with a side of broccoli salad is my fave. I'm not a dessert person, but everyone says the half-baked choc chip cookie sundae is awesome. I prefer just a touch of sweetness, and the orange rolls always hit the spot for me when I'm having a bit of a sweet tooth. I'm thrilled that they've opened a location at the Summit, which is much more convenient for parking!
(5)
Jessica M.
My go to restaurant for girl's night out. Great local food in a creative way. I love the berry good salad with chicken salad. It's a little expensive for just a salad, but it's a great place to splurge with friends. It's also in downtown Homewood, which is one of my favorite places to be on a spring Saturday afternoon.
(3)
Ames B.
Healthy and good tasting food. The strawberry lemonade actually tastes like strawberries are in it. And, I took everyone's advice on here and got the half baked cookie-it was one of the best things I've ever tasted. There is also a brownie thing at the front counter that I tasted, it was also very good.
(5)
J G.
The owner is extremely rude. If you want to be insulted, this is your place. We asked him a simple question and he barked back that he didn't have room to serve us. A more congenial tone would go a lot further with retaining customers.
(1)
Stacey S.
Food is delicious, service is super friendly, and the atmosphere is relaxed. Great to fine alone or with the kids.
(4)
Julia B.
Super fresh, local produce! The salads here are exceptional and very reasonable. I particularly like the UC signature salad dressing- vinaigrette based and not too sweet. The Turkey Crunch sandwich is also very good and different; it's a fresher version of Zoe's Turkey Gruben. The iced tea (unsweet) always tastes "right". Only negative: The chicken salad here is sub-par. I don't recommend it.
(4)
Steve Y.
Urban Cookhouse is open as of lunchtime on June 11, 2010, at 2846 18th St. S., right where 29th Ave S. T-bones into 18th St. S. That spot is very close to Zoe's, Dave's Pizza, Momma Goldberg's, O'Henry's Coffee, etc. Urban Cookhouse also sponsors a seasonal farmer's market on the corner, and the restaurant has a display and cooler offering local farm foods. Self described, Urban Cookhouse "is a farm-to-table restaurant serving contemporary American food in a casual environment with excellent customer service. We are committed to using high quality ingredients and supporting our local community." Check the website for the menu and watch for diners at the outdoor cafe tables. Everything on the menu that I've sampled so far has been great. The items were reasonably healthy, too, which is not something I had expected. I plan to eat lunch there often. If you like the Out Takes and Franklin's Gourmet, you will need to try the Urban Cookhouse. Fresh farm goods definitely add something Homewood needed. The strawberry lemonade on the counter is fresh, organic, and fantastic. The pickles are actually pickled at the restaurant using fresh cukes. The breads are fresh, and "wood-fired" really does mean grilled over wood in ceramic grills. The broccoli salad is not full of mayo, and sensitive stomachs can probably handle anything on the menu.
(5)
Jimmy H.
4 stars on the food and service but gave them 3 because of the portion. I don't need and don't like super size but this is a little on the small side. I ordered the ham and pineapple sandwich and it was awesome. The combination of flavors and the yeast bread was just amazing. Will come back again to try the rest of the menu but bigger portion please!
(3)
Julie L.
Came here for a late lunch/early dinner, so it wasn't crowded, and my food was ready lightning fast. The pulled pork sliders are awesome - some of the juiciest pulled pork I have had, period. The pickles add a nice snap, and a side of broccoli salad hit the spot (not at all soggy either, which happens sometimes with salads like that). Super nice staff too!
(4)
Justin C.
Food seemed VERY bland!!!! Not impressed at all. I don't understand what all the rave is about.
(2)
John B.
When we first walked in I thought it was a fast food restaurant, but the menu is nothing like fast food. I had a lime steak sandwich with broccoli on the side. Excellent. C ordered with pulled pork. OMG, it was really good. The staff were very friendly. I wish we had one in our town!
(4)
Ayon J. R.
While the ingredients are not always high quality given the price point, the food is amazingly good.
(4)
Donna V.
I love the Pork Sliders and broccoli salad at Urban Cookhouse. The smoked flavor of the pork along with the sauce is a delicious combination on the yeast rolls. They have very fresh tea as well. I've been to both locations many times and everyone that works there seems happy and helpful. If you are looking for something sweet, the orange rolls are yummy!
(5)
Kristen S.
A little cramped but you hardly even notice. The food was delicious, filling and not too expensive (I had the Veggie Quesadilla). The people who work there are so friendly that I felt immediately at ease. Definitely worth the trip and the parking nightmare at lunchtime!
(5)
David M.
Fantastic place. So relieving to finally find a restaurant that is socially and environmentally conscious in Birmingham!! I've only had the opportunity to try it out once so far, but I was certainly pleased with the quality of the meal. I thoroughly enjoyed the BALT with it's luscious bacon and perfectly ripe (and not at all browned) avocado. My only gripe about this place is that they went through the effort to have compostable cups and wares, but the restaurant doesn't appear to promote compost disposal. I could only find a regular trash can, and a slot labeled "plastic cups". Seems to me that they are missing a perfect opportunity to get the community aware of alternatives to disposal in standard trash bins.
(5)
Steve N.
Service was very friendly and quick. The food cooked on the Big Green Egg was awesome, just wish there was more of it. Slightly pricey for what you get to eat.
(4)
Gary W.
Great food. Only complaint is not enough choices, but what they have is great!!!
(4)
Bonnie C.
This place was awesome!! I didn't even know until I just read the other reviews that it was organic foods. The price surely didn't reflect it, as it appeared very reasonably priced. The menu and selection were incredible. The food was very fresh! I even mentioned this place in my blog: ontheroadeatingout.blogs…
(5)
Koren A.
Delicious healthy food! Very quaint place. LOVE the atmosphere and of course the food!
(5)
John P.
Absolutely delicious food. I was a little apprehensive at first but when I was finished my plate was clean!!! the staff was amazing!! Food was even better
(5)
Rob L.
Found it on Yelp & it was a great casual spot with really good sandwiches & a friendly staff. The food was really good - a great find!
(5)
Jen W.
Best strawberry lemonade in the world! Very eco-conscious here. Reusable packaging and eco-friendly packaging. Love the berry salad. It tastes like a Greek salad but with berries added to it. Not that expensive - less than $10 for my whole meal including a drink. Get the strawberry lemonade!
(5)
Tom M.
For what it is...friendly, fast, fresh, mostly organic, creative...you gotta give it a try. Our teen boys were as satisfied as we "adults"...and organic wines, too!
(5)
Louisa E.
Great Philly Cheesesteak
(4)
Lauren K.
Love it! Had the Chipotle Braised Pork sandwich n veggies - yum! Location is in the middle of everything in downtown Homewood/18th St. If going for lunch, go on the early side of 11 as this place gets crazy busy and parking can be a challenge, but its worth it. Fun, cool place!
(4)
Mattias F.
To be a "faster" restaurant the food and the environment was really great. Had the local salad with grilled chicken. Everything was amazing. The only thing that brought the grade down is the fact that it's very small and hard to get a table during lunch. Good for business though! Way worth a visit!
(4)
Ken L.
Sandwiches was amazing! We had ordered the steak, ham and chicken sandwich. Each was very flavorful and juicy. Nothing was over cooked. The sides was a nice addition. I had the grilled mixed vegetables which was also cooked nicely. Portions was prefect. Enough to fill you without filling overstuffed. I would recommend this place and definitely come back.
(5)
Brian C.
Ever had fruit salad with of broccoli? Yeah, me either which to me reveals questionable kitchen practices at Urban Cookhouse. Staff is clearly using the same utensils to serve multiple pre-made items. It's more than an issue of aesthetics, it's cross-contamination. If one item is off, the harmful bacteria is spread across the kitchen and onto the plate of every diner. The chicken salad was good but needed a bit of salt and pepper. The bread was super fresh and great. Service was friendly and swift - like McDonalds swift... Like everything was precooked hours ago. Yeah, I know I'm busting on a darling of Homewood but I really prefer places that cook fresh to order - and have a serving spoon dedicated to each item in the kitchen. Yeah, I'm picky like that.
(2)
Alexa H.
We did a double-date with my parents at Urban Cookhouse in Homewood because we had a gift card. I've never liked the order-at-the-counter system, but their menu is carefully curated and mostly locally-sourced (if it isn't local, they tell you where its from, which I really like) so I can let that slide. The atmosphere is modern but the dining room feels very crowded. It's such a small space, though, I know they're doing their best. The food was absolutely fantastic and everyone who came to our table was so nice, plus we were greeted at the door and handed menus which demonstrates superior service for a counter order place. The owner herself saw to it that we were taken care of, which speaks volumes about how she runs her business. Definitely a restaurant I hope sticks around! Oh, and they serve a cookie in a skillet. It's to die for. We'll be back! *despite the counter service, they do sell alcohol! woohoo!
(5)
Jim M.
First time in the urban cookhouse, all i can say is come early as there is limited seating. I have to admit the food here is extremely good. I had the down home..... This place is smack your moma good!!!! The turkey was tender and tasty. The pineapple ham was good but not as good as the turkey. The mac and cheese!! Really good. I can see why this place has 4 1/2 stars out of 5 with 93 reviews!!!!
(5)
C B.
I really enjoy the food at the Urban Cookhouse. The food is fresh, made to order, healthy and delicious. I especially love the orange rolls and the house salad dressing. The shrimp skewers are yummy and include zucchini and squash (grilled of course) and is so enticing it's easy to get a picky eater to enjoy. What I really like is that after a meal here I am satisfied and do not have the bogged down feeling like you would have after eating a fast food meal from the fried foods and grease. All clean and wholesome meals here for the entire family to enjoy - without a long wait!
(4)
Rikesha F.
Consistently delicious food on every trip. My first experience was via their catering of a meeting I attended. We had the ham, turkey, cheddar pasta and broccoli salad. Not to forget those mouth-watering orange rolls. I dreamed about going to this place on my own for months afterwards. I finally made it tonight. I ordered The Down Home, but subbed the broccoli salad with rice pilaf instead. The food was just as yummy as I remembered it to be, with my favorite being the turkey and of course the cheddar pasta. I could eat a tub of that by itself. I think I'll go back tomorrow and try something else. It's just that good!
(4)
Rod M.
At a nearby hotel for a seminar and looking for a light lunch. The staff was very friendly, the service fast and the food excellent.
(5)
Lauren N.
Love the food here. Good variety and I love how they incorporate local fruits and beer into the menu. My only issue is it can be a tad pricey for the sandwiches and they aren't very big. Make sure you try the orange rolls at least once!
(4)
Katrina Y.
Fantastic food and experience. My family stopped for dinner for some respite from the abundance of burgers and BBQ we had been eating while visiting the area. We were not disappointed. Food was fresh and flavorful and all entrees came with a nice green salad. I had the chicken plate and my husband ordered the shrimp skewers. The lemon rolls are tasty as many other reviewers mentioned. But it was the service that put our experience over the top. When we told them we were visitors and this was our first time at the restaurant they insisted on making us a free dessert. We had the half baked cookie and ice cream and it was amazing. Well worth the trip!!
(5)
Dana L.
The food was fresh, reasonably priced and delicious. The employees were extremely friendly and attentive. This is certainly going to become a frequent go-to place.
(5)
Ray S.
Stopped in for lunch, the BALT was awesome and the best broccoli salad I have ever had. Very nice staff and atmosphere.
(5)
Cecille R.
We were staying in Homewood for the weekend and my friend suggested we have lunch here since it was right down the street from our hotel. I was pleased to here that this is the original location for the restaurant and that not only do they get their ingredients from local farmers but that they manage 2 of the local farmers markets. When you walk in, it's very much the Pei Wei style of ordering. You order , grab a number for your table and they bring your food out. They have sandwiches, wraps, "Greens" and "fork & knife" plates. I went with the Turkey crunch sandwich which consists of smoked turkey with provolone, tomatoes, some sort of marinated cabbage slaw, and hot sweet mustard. It was pressed like a grilled cheese to give it heat. I had my choice of one side. The options were interesting to me: rice pilaf, fresh fruit, broccoli salad, hot cheddar pasta, garden salad and roasted veggies. I decided to go with the veggies. Drinks are self serve and if you are interested in the strawberry lemonade, they'll give samples (surprisingly too sweet for me). My meal was good and pretty satisfying. I'm interested in what they marinate the slaw in . It had a strong taste when coupled with the mustard in my sandwich. I enjoyed the roasted veggies that came with them. The dining room has ample seating but you also have the option to sit outside if you like. There is also an employee that comes around collecting empty trays and baskets but you can brings yours to the trash area as well. Only thing I regret not ordering were the orange rolls. Sounded like something unique to the restaurant and a must for next time!
(4)
Domonique A.
My husband and I were visiting and decided to try them out based on all of the yelp reviews. Urban Cookhouse did not disappoint! I'd recommend the Wood Fire Shrimp Kabob and the EL Cubano. The Millie Ray's orange rolls are amazing! If you are in the area, check out Urban Cookhouse!! Shout out to David for amazing customer service and great Southern Hospitality.
(5)
Peter W.
Great place! Quality ingredients, and excellent prices. Perfect choice for a light, filling lunch.
(5)
Juhmad H.
I absolutely love this place. This is a go to when I'm unable to get home to cook. Good quality food that's prepared with quality ingredients.
(5)
Rich B.
Apparently the broccoli salad is the proverbial bomb. I didn't know this and ordered a normal salad with my BLAT. Everyone else in my group had the broccoli salad. D'oh. This is a solid little restaurant. Somewhat healthy. Local sourced apparently. Quick and easy. I enjoyed the bacon, lettuce, avocado, tomato.
(4)
Eric G.
I placed a To-Go order and received my meal within 5 minutes. I ordered the Down Under and wasn't sure if it was enough food. It was more than enough. Great place to eat and I'll be going there again during my stay here in Birmingham.
(5)
Nakia C.
Nice fast friendly service! The steak in the cowboy sandwich is to die for!! I can't wait to come back to try other foods on the menu!
(5)
Manal A.
Don't spend your money there. I have been ones in this restaurant, they didn't cook my chicken well and my friend found a worm in her salad...!!!
(1)
Kennette P.
Yum. This place was highly recommended from a colleague and it definitely hit the spot. The area reminded me of what we have in Kansas City called brookside. Quaint and cute boutique shops that gives Homewood, Al a hippie chic vintage feel. Along the shops are also different one of a kind eateries. At this joint, my mom had the grilled chicken sandwich and absolutely loved it. I had the shrimp kabobs on rice pilaf and it was delish! Both meals had sauces/marination with a powerful punch to your tastebuds! We also had the Orange rolls and the half baked cookies. Soooo good! Hometown bakery goods, yummy food, in a cute little town makes this experience wonderful! Atleast go in and get an orange roll!
(4)
Madeline S.
Urban Cookhouse is my go to for a week night dinner with little guilt attached. I love eating local and they are dangerously close. I bop around the menu and have never been let down. I cannot resist those rolls. They get me every time! I usually call ahead and it is always ready and just what I ordered. They are a great alternative to stopping for something fast you will regret within the hour.
(5)
Randy L.
Excellent across the board every time. Eat local and fresh! Love this place, we are weekly patrons.
(5)
Candy B.
Love this place! We were in Birmingham fir the weekend and wanted to have dinner in Five Points. Yelp led us to Urban Cookhouse, and a great dining experience! The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful, really nice. And our meal was outstanding! I had the BALT (bacon, avocado, lettuce and tomato sandwich) with broccoli salad as a side. Both were delicious. I was actually full after finishing half the sandwich but it was so good I couldn't leave the other half so I ate it too! My husband had the El Cubano and the broccoli salad. The sandwich featured ham, chipotle braised pork, pickles and provolone, and he loved it. For "dessert" we enjoyed the famous orange rolls. Our only regret was not ordering more to take home with us. Again, the staff was wonderful. And the meal scrumptious! We will definitely go back.
(5)
Vasu M.
I had to update my review after my experience today and also several friends having a similar experience with this location in the recent months. The food is still delicious and I love the chicken with roasted vegetables. My friends for the berry crunch wrap and BALT and both sandwiches looked great as well. Unfortunately the customer service has gotten a little worse. We felt like we couldn't enjoy our meal because the waiter made us feel uncomfortable. First we were asked why we pulled up an extra chair (our friend was ordering so we pulled it up for her). After I finished eating, he told me that I needed to finish my rice. After a few other awkward comments, at 9:06 PM (they close at 9), he told us we needed to leave because he was ready to mop. I hope that this was just a rare occurrence because I really enjoy this place and would hate for the customer service to bring it down.
(4)
Kern L.
Yes, as many have mentioned, you must get orange rolls with your meal. Wife and I both got the Urban Cowboy sandwich with broccoli salad as a side - loved both! Too bad we don't live in the area, because there are several other things on the menu that we'd love to try!
(5)
Bryan S.
Had dinner here while visiting Birmingham for a tour of Samford University with my daughter. Found this place on Yelp and liked what I read so we headed there after checking in to our hotel. The young lady who helped us at the counter was amazing. We told her it was our 1st visit and she was very helpful and accommodating to ensure our family all got what they were looking for. All of us really enjoyed everything we ordered. From a wrap to a salad to steak to the ham and chicken - it was all excellent. They use the Big Green Eggs to cook their meats and you can tell and taste the difference. Fresh, flavorful and reasonable portions. A great flavor to value ratio!! Wish they had one of these in our home town. A great local find with some awesome food and great service. Well done on a great concept executed very well.
(5)
Tony S.
I savored every last bite. The Urban Cowboy with Roasted Vegetables is the way to go for a first-timer. Not expensive and tastes like a home cooked meal.
(5)
Barbara B.
Locally sourced and prepared fresh, this little restaurant chain (3 in Bham) serves good food. Consistent visit to visit and restaurant to restaurant you know what you'll get. They cater and do that equally well. Good value for the money.
(5)
Walter P.
Great food and reasonable. Local grown food too! Was trying to decide between a couple of dishes and they let me sample both. Great service with a smile. :) will def be back.
(4)
Michael A.
Southern cooking with a flair! Not your typical blue plate special. Fresh ingredients make great food! Broccoli salad especially good. Turkey and ham both had outstanding flavor. Cheese pasta (think homemade mac and cheese!) tasted like it was just made. What's not to like here? Half-baked cookie is their specialty dessert, but I had to have some of the spiced pecans. Excellent! All the staff I encountered was helpful, polite and knowledgable. Would DEFINITELY come back the next time I'm in Huntsville (I think this is considered downtown Homewood).
(5)
Mandy B.
This was our first time eating here, the staff was very friendly and helpful! The food was really good! My boys loved the peanut butter fluff sandwich; my 5 year old said "this place is good!". My husband got the shrimp and I got the chicken plate. It was good but wasn't different. Next time we wanna try the BALT sandwich! Wish we has one of these in Tuscaloosa (away from Campus)!
(4)
Ken C.
we really enjoyed the food here. prices are so reasonable and the food is fresh. we will be back again. the service was fast and staff is very friendly. We had the chicken salad sandwich and the el Cubano. The orange rolls were awesome too. The only downside was the strawberry lemonade. That did not live up to the hype. It was quite watery. Still overall a great time.
(4)
Boris S.
This place never disappoints. Lunch dinner catering have done it all amazing prices and clean healthy choices.
(5)
William L.
Nestled up in the beautiful little jewel of Homewood's downtown, Urban Cookhouse is good for a light but satisfying meal. The side orders stand out, particularly the broccoli salad and roasted vegetables. Those two actually shared some ingredients (particularly the broccoli), so avoid pairing those two if you want real contrast among your side orders. But if baroque contrapuntalism on your plate is not your priority, these two go together well as hot and cold cousins. The chicken salad was tasty, though of a finer grained consistency than I generally prefer. It's served between slices of wheat bread that work well with the subtle salad spread. Everything on the sandwich tasted fresh. The cheddar pasta is notable but be warned that it's a small portion. That's probably a good thing, but if you are used to the huge macaroni-and-cheese mounds that have become popular, consider ordering two. Also be aware that while I considered it a small portion, the lady at the table next to mine left a third of hers behind. The stuff is good; I was at the point where I was idly wondering how I might get that partially-eaten bowl from her table to mine. Somehow, I didn't think "Uhm, waiter, they're gone and I don't think they're going to eat that" would go over too well. For travelers, this is a nice change from the bar-b-que I usually stop for on the long slog across Alabama from Meridian to Atlanta. The strawberry lemonade is worth a mention, tart and with a strong strawberry kick.
(4)
Joe D.
Yelpers love this place and I have to concur. I stopped here on my way to Gulf Shores. The Urban Cowboy which was a tasty steak sandwich with lime marinated steak, pepper jack cheese, peppers and onion on a nice hoagie bun. It was not greasy at all and had wonderful texture. We also tried the Down Home which had turkey and ham served with mac and cheese and broccoli salad. This was a platter with thick cut turkey and ham and was very tasty. The broccoli salad was very different than expected although good. One other guest had the children's chicken salad which was served on white bread. It was a full sandwich that an adult could eat! The best part of the meal was an order of Millie Ray's Orange rolls. Geez, I could have eaten about two orders and gone to sleep for a week. They were delicious almost too good. The staff was friendly and helpful. Overall, glad I went out of my way to stop in. Thanks to fellow Yelpers who guided me!
(4)
Wil B.
I've only had shrimp kabobs. Food is good but I would not come back @ noon if food was free. Too crowded & noisy.
(3)
Will L.
Urban Cookhouse is locally owned and has crazy good food that's not too bad for you. The prices aren't bad and the produce is locally grown. While I like to eat healthy, I also like to eat a lot. I've never left Urban Cookhouse hungry. Locations are jumping up all over Birmingham, so if there's not one close to you yet, just give it a few days.
(5)
Steven M.
Steak you can chew for hours. Nice salad dressing, rice but the cooked veggies had the taste of warmed up food. This is not a 4 star cafe. Just another fast food place that is moderately clean.
(2)
AJ T.
Have tried a few things from Urban Cookhouse and recommend the majority of them - seasonal strawberry lemonade is super delicious. It's a nice balance of sweet, tart, and is just generally very refreshing. - the pulled pork: this came highly recommended by the staff at urban cookhouse,but I just didn't prefer it. Mine was inexplicably served with a side of salsa. Don't get me wrong, the salsa's good, but it didn't pair well with the pulled pork. Also comes with 2 slices of white bread (no orange :( roll). As an FYI the "fork and knife" section of the menu come with a side of salad (I'm guessing this changes seasonally, but in my case a broccoli salad with grapes and a sweet dressing & Mac and cheese which is solid, but not out of this world good). -the downhome: ham & pineapple is smoky and just the right amount of salty-sweet. When the turkey is hot, it's really good, but when it starts to cool down, it gets a little dry. - orange roll: super soft and sweet. I really enjoy the fact that this comes with some meals, but you can buy 4 orange rolls for $3-$4 - chocolate chip cookie bar/blonde: extremely rich and buttery. Perfectly Cheney. I am a fan. Anyway, I just like this place. TL;DR: Nice atmosphere; fair prices; solid food.
(4)
Shilpa B.
Their strawberry lemonade (only available in the summer) is delicious. I've tried a couple of things here, and I liked everything except for the pulled pork. My favorite food here is the broccoli salad. It's SO good. If you're coming here for the first time, get the down home, strawberry lemonade, and some orange rolls!
(5)
Natasha S.
This is a great local joint. I love the Shrimp Kebob with Roasted Veggies & Salad. Healthy, delicious and filling. The price is just right. It's very crowded during lunch on weekdays, but worth the wait for a table.
(4)
Raye F.
Urban Cookhouse is a place in Birmingham that is talked up---a lot! It's pretty good, but not super-de-duper. I liked that it had lots of fresh offerings. I ordered that veggie quesadilla with promise- but wished it had a greater substance. My honey had the cuban to which he's had better(too greasy). The hot cheddar pasta(ie- mac and cheese) was really good. Standard fountain drinks. We dined on a beautiful afternoon; however, missed out on the opportunity to sit outside and had to settle for the cramped inside dining. rant and rave about happier eats....you choose
(3)
Brad H.
Hard to beat quick, healthy, tasty food at a convenient location in downtown Homewood. Prices are great for the quality and quantity of food. Tried the shrimp kabobs with roasted vegetables, also came with side salad. The food here screams freshness, try it.
(4)
Wendy D.
What a delicious find!! The rice is flavorful and the lime steak is great!! The Mac and cheese and broccoli salad is fabulous. The food is organic and healthy. Tasted really good....
(4)
Vic R.
Our meal was delicious, served 30 seconds after sat down, by friendly staff. The Urban Cowboy sandwich was great(served warm, amazingly tender and tasty lime-marinated steak), but the Turkey sandwich was even better. They serve all local produce, and have local beers.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : No Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Waiter Service : No Caters : Yes
Lucy W.
Solid choice for lunch- fast and many menu options. I had the chipotle braised pork with BBQ sauce, with side of broccoli salad and hot cheddar pasta (mac & cheese). Instead of white bread (to make the pulled pork into a sandwich), I substituted with a small orange roll. I also got a chocolate chip cookie bar...best part of the meal. The reviews were right...broccoli salad is very good and totally saved the dish I ordered. Cheddar pasta was flavored well, but a bit mushy for my taste. The pulled pork was a disappointment...very stringy and bland, even after a small container of BBQ sauce was dumped on it...I wish there was more sauce to give it a bit more kick. Good thing I was starving...I did clean my plate. Their strawberry lemonade that was so highly touted in reviews was so tart...I had to cut it with water and Sprite so it would be drinkable. Staff is great...patient as I decided what to order, brought my food quickly (identified with the number sign that matched my order), and cleared away empty dishes.
(3)Allison J.
Best place in Birmingham!!! Friendly and fast and of course delicious! The half baked cookie is a must! Nothing compares to it in all of Birmingham!
(5)Lee C.
A friend and I decided to try out Urban Cookhouse on a Saturday night. The place has outside as well as inside seating. One goes up to a counter, orders, and pays. Then, one gets water or drinks oneself and finds a table. After a little while, the food is delivered to your table. Despite its popularity, we were able to order nearly immediately and our food came out within a reasonable amount of time. There are only a few vegetarian options, and I decided on the cheese quesadilla. The taste was excellent, and the ingredients seemed fresh. The amount of cheese was relatively light, but in just the right proportion to allow the other ingredients to produce a wonderful flavor. I ate it enthusiastically ... and was still hungry--that is my main complaint. My friend had a "berry good" wrap. It is a novel item, and she was very pleased. The berries apparently gave nice surprises to what could have been rather routine. In sum, this restaurant is good and has reasonable prices. The serving sizes are a little small. I recommend the Urban Cookhouse.
(3)Ashley W.
Urban Cookhouse is easily one of my favorite restaurants at this moment. The Summit location is just as good in service and food quality, but isn't as scenic as the Homewood location. I love sitting outside, watching the cars and people pass by on 18th Street all while enjoying a truly delicious meal. I'm a big fan of the BALT (bacon, avocado, lettuce, tomato) sandwich with turkey. It seems so simple, but Urban Cookhouse makes it so much more than simple when it comes to flavor. Pair it with the broccoli salad side and a homemade strawberry lemonade and you've got a great, relatively healthy meal. The turkey crunch sandwich was delicious as well and I think the hot-sweet mustard really makes the dish. Always get a basket of the orange rolls, whether you're dining alone or with a group. If you've got room for dessert, the half baked cookie is sinfully tasty. Unlike the orange rolls, I wouldn't really recommend it if it's only you eating the cookie - it's huge and extremely sweet. Not a bad thing at all, but no one likes a tummy ache after such a great meal.
(5)City M.
Great Broccoli Salad. Great Strawberry lemonade. The staff is pleasant too! I had a great conversation about the origin if the BBQ sauce and they offered to bring me some to take home. That's service. Food is great on top of that. I love it. Some many flavors, so complimentary.
(4)Lindsay L.
This is my favorite grab-and-go spot in Birmingham. I've been probably a dozen times, and the only thing I've had is the Pepper Patch salad (always add the shrimp skewers!). I can't tear myself away from it to try anything else. It's always fresh, so well prepared, and delicious. The staff are always friendly, and the service is fast. Fast farm-to-table eating - the perfect combination.
(5)Garron D.
Enjoyed dinner with my daughter at this location last night, for the first time. Visiting the area, and as usual, check yelp for good local recommendation. From the moment we walked in, the staff was attentive, and once we noted we were newbies, the gal who assisted us in ordering was a huge help. I ordered the Chipotle Braised Pork dinner, and my daughter ordered the Down Home dinner - turkey, and pineapple-ham. Both entrees were accompanied by terrific sides. The hot cheddar pasta was cheesy-sharp, yet light. All vegetable sides we ate were fresh and well seasoned. The biggest plus here is the balance - protein, starch, vegetable - both entrees were appropriately sized. We left having had plenty to eat, though the food was light and varied. Also, hard to beat this place for well-prepared cheap meals - dinner for two, $20. Great concept, great value, funky atmosphere - all, really well done.
(5)Parks B.
I ate here a couple of months ago....the food was really good, fresh tasting and the portions were good! The guy walking around cleaning up the tables and seating people was a bit strange. I watched him as he awkwardly talked to every guest while they were eating. I think he was just trying to be nice though.
(4)Andrea R.
I always try to eat a good meal before hopping on a plane because I never know when I'll be able to get some grub again. Urban Cookhouse certainly met expectations before I said ta-ta to Birmingham. There were lots of tasty sounding salads to choose from, but I settled on the pepper packed salad (sans the steak since I'm not much of a carnivore). It was pretty awesome (especially the spicy jalapeno dressing) and I ate every last bite. Even more awesome...the orange roll that came with it! My colleague and I couldn't stop at just one so I actually went back up to the counter and ordered another basket of them. And after that basket was done I kinda wished I had another. We were in a bit of a rush to make our flights, but thanks to their speedy service we were in and out within 45 minutes. And I was quite full until I made it back to Chicago that evening. Mission accomplished.
(4)Zoe W.
My parents enjoyed two meals here during our three-day stay in Birmingham--delicious! All of us loved everything that was ordered (we passed our plates around because everything looked so good), including the veggie quesadilla (with an excellent salsa), the pepper patch salad with the addition of the lime-marinated steak and the jalapeño vinaigrette dressing, the urban cowboy sandwich (which is actually pretty similar to the pepper patch salad in ingredients), and some red bell pepper soup. The salad was filling enough to share and have leftovers, which is great for $10. My dad threw some of his side veggies into our soups--great choice. We three shared the half-baked cookie with vanilla ice cream on top, all served in the skillet it was baked in; it was decadent. Also, we arrived little more than half an hour before closing time on Christmas Eve and were offered a gallon of their housemade strawberry lemonade and two bottles of their jalapeño vinaigrette because they were going to throw them out. What a treat!
(5)Jon C.
Best meal I've had for $11 (including the strawberry lemonade). Really impressive meal, all fresh and well proportioned.
(5)Erik D.
I loved it! I was very surprised to see it was counter/Panera-style (order at the counter, and they bring it out to you). What I found incredibly nice was the workers on the floor whose only job was to clear tables and assist guests in any way they could. For food, it was really great! I got the Chipotle Pork Sliders with Broccoli Salad. The pork had a wonderful taste with sweet bread. I went here on the recommendation of a colleague who said to get the orange rolls...and he wasn't kidding...these things are like crack! A basket of them is 3, get them for the table, and I believe you can even get them ass one of your entree sides. Also try the brown sugar brownies for a dessert...super yummy! If you're looking for casual lunch or dinner, definitely go here. We went to the Homewood location which is around a bunch of shopping.
(5)Kim D.
My first meal in the South. It got good yelp reviews so I ventured out here before hitting the road to Mississippi. I was pleasantly surprised to find this place. All the choices looked good and reading a tad bit on everything looks like they buy local and organic products. Bonus. I ended up ordering the pulled pork sliders and a side of cheesy pasta with a strawberry lemonade to wash it down. Everything tasted great. The pulled pork had a chipotle taste to it which made it different and I enjoyed it being served on biscuits to give it a different feel to your traditional slider. The cheesy pasta too was good. Overall I enjoyed my meal very much and would recommend people to go here.
(4)Russ M.
I finally got by Urban Cookhouse today for lunch. The young man at the order station told me that the best selling sandwich is the "turkey crunch" smoked turkey w/provolone, tomatoes, marinated slaw, and hot-sweet mustard grilled on wheat bread. The marinated slaw had a bit of a vinegar bite to it, overall a good sandwich, just not what I'll have on my next visit.
(4)Trevvor C.
Fresh, fun, and local. After eating the delicious Down Home via delivery at the office one night, I knew this was a place I was going to enjoy! Half-a-dozen visits later, the fare is just as tasty, and everyone whom I've taken along with me has agreed. The portions are moderate, "just right" even. They may seem a little on the small side when compared to a Cracker Barrel plate or the like, but once you begin eating each yummy part of your meal, it turns out to be a great amount. The Down Home (grilled ham and turkey, with the house mac'n'cheese, broccoli salad, and an orange roll) is a favorite I keep coming back to - the meats are flavorful, and their "hot cheddar pasta" is one of my favorite sides. The veggie quesadilla is good, if a bit messy, and I haven't been as keen on the medley of flavors it proffers. The chipotle braised pork is excellent, and the chicken salad and Berry Good wraps have also received high marks in my company. Definitely check out this little Homewood eatery if you're looking for some local fare with local flair.
(4)Jeff S.
I really wish there was an Urban Cookhouse where I lived. It's simple, nothing fancy, but a great lunch at a good price using fresh local produce. I had a BLT with avocado and turkey with broccoli salad on the side. Also got a half baked cookie. I'd get the same thing again.
(5)Dick C.
Fantastic. Had the Urban Cowboy sandwich for lunch. Steak was perfectly seasoned and cooked. Mac and cheese was awesome.
(5)Melody H.
After reading the reviews I decided to give this place a try since it's less than a mile from my office. My experience with the food was not good. I got the chicken salad sandwich and the cheese pasta (basically mac n cheese), which was actually good, but the portion size was minuscule for the price. The sandwich had maybe a couple of spoons of chicken salad on it (which was essentially tasteless) and the tomatoes are not ripe. The orange rolls, however, are quite good. Based on this experience, I won't go back. I would rather drive a little further to Al's Deli on 10th Avenue South and get a huge tasty wrap for less.
(2)Erin L.
Stopped in for lunch while shopping from out of town. I ordered the BLAT with a side of the broccoli salad. It was very fresh and delicious. Other member of the party ordered the turkey crunch and a salad. Also both delicious. A great, healthy and affordable lunch choice.
(5)Justin W.
I had some very delicious sandwiches catered to work from here. Prices are a bit high, but the food is delicious. We had some veggie quesadillas, turkey avocado sandwiches, some other ham and turkey sandwiches, etc. We also had some tasty mac and cheese from here with delicious cookie bars for dessert. The orange rolls were ok, the broccoli salad was ok.
(5)Bryan Z.
Good clean food with healthy options for quick casual. Seems to me that Yelpers are a bit over generous around here in general. 5* would be a bit much. Portions are on the small side but the quality is pretty good. Would've given 3.5 but the people are super friendly and the service was quick.
(4)Brittani V.
I am in love with the Pepper Patch salad. I always add turkey. It's rare to find a restaurant where healthy options are so readily available and taste delicous. I freqent both the Homewood and Summit locations at least weekly and I've never had anything that wasn't delivered quickly and tasted amazing.
(5)Kaye T.
Great food! Makes you come away feeling like you just had a meal that was actually good for you. No guilt eating. :)
(5)Tiffany G.
A fabulous restaurant, great vegetarian choices, super good location. Would recommend you check it out. Healthy eats at a good price in a great place!!!
(5)B. H.
I have been here a few times and always love the food. It is fresh and local, and full of flavor. The portion size is probably a bit more suitable for lunch, at least the sandwiches are, the salads are a good size. I love the chipotle braised pork sandwiches and Urban Cowboy sandwich, and always get the hot cheddar pasta (mac and cheese). The service is always quick and friendly. The Homewood location has a small outside area to eat also that is great.
(5)Gigi D.
The lime steak was tender and flavorful, great with the salad. But I have a thing about lettuce, which is to say when it's iceberg, I'm disappointed. This came over iceberg. Some redeemers: The vinaigrette was light and fruity without being overwhelmingly sweet. The orange roll was exquisite. They make a mean chicken wrap, too.
(4)Kyle P.
Great stuff. Had the Turkey Crunch and Pasta for lunch.
(5)Becky E.
Great place to eat in downtown Homewood. I've tried several of their dishes, but the pulled pork on yeast rolls with a side of broccoli salad is my fave. I'm not a dessert person, but everyone says the half-baked choc chip cookie sundae is awesome. I prefer just a touch of sweetness, and the orange rolls always hit the spot for me when I'm having a bit of a sweet tooth. I'm thrilled that they've opened a location at the Summit, which is much more convenient for parking!
(5)Jessica M.
My go to restaurant for girl's night out. Great local food in a creative way. I love the berry good salad with chicken salad. It's a little expensive for just a salad, but it's a great place to splurge with friends. It's also in downtown Homewood, which is one of my favorite places to be on a spring Saturday afternoon.
(3)Ames B.
Healthy and good tasting food. The strawberry lemonade actually tastes like strawberries are in it. And, I took everyone's advice on here and got the half baked cookie-it was one of the best things I've ever tasted. There is also a brownie thing at the front counter that I tasted, it was also very good.
(5)J G.
The owner is extremely rude. If you want to be insulted, this is your place. We asked him a simple question and he barked back that he didn't have room to serve us. A more congenial tone would go a lot further with retaining customers.
(1)Stacey S.
Food is delicious, service is super friendly, and the atmosphere is relaxed. Great to fine alone or with the kids.
(4)Julia B.
Super fresh, local produce! The salads here are exceptional and very reasonable. I particularly like the UC signature salad dressing- vinaigrette based and not too sweet. The Turkey Crunch sandwich is also very good and different; it's a fresher version of Zoe's Turkey Gruben. The iced tea (unsweet) always tastes "right". Only negative: The chicken salad here is sub-par. I don't recommend it.
(4)Steve Y.
Urban Cookhouse is open as of lunchtime on June 11, 2010, at 2846 18th St. S., right where 29th Ave S. T-bones into 18th St. S. That spot is very close to Zoe's, Dave's Pizza, Momma Goldberg's, O'Henry's Coffee, etc. Urban Cookhouse also sponsors a seasonal farmer's market on the corner, and the restaurant has a display and cooler offering local farm foods. Self described, Urban Cookhouse "is a farm-to-table restaurant serving contemporary American food in a casual environment with excellent customer service. We are committed to using high quality ingredients and supporting our local community." Check the website for the menu and watch for diners at the outdoor cafe tables. Everything on the menu that I've sampled so far has been great. The items were reasonably healthy, too, which is not something I had expected. I plan to eat lunch there often. If you like the Out Takes and Franklin's Gourmet, you will need to try the Urban Cookhouse. Fresh farm goods definitely add something Homewood needed. The strawberry lemonade on the counter is fresh, organic, and fantastic. The pickles are actually pickled at the restaurant using fresh cukes. The breads are fresh, and "wood-fired" really does mean grilled over wood in ceramic grills. The broccoli salad is not full of mayo, and sensitive stomachs can probably handle anything on the menu.
(5)Jimmy H.
4 stars on the food and service but gave them 3 because of the portion. I don't need and don't like super size but this is a little on the small side. I ordered the ham and pineapple sandwich and it was awesome. The combination of flavors and the yeast bread was just amazing. Will come back again to try the rest of the menu but bigger portion please!
(3)Julie L.
Came here for a late lunch/early dinner, so it wasn't crowded, and my food was ready lightning fast. The pulled pork sliders are awesome - some of the juiciest pulled pork I have had, period. The pickles add a nice snap, and a side of broccoli salad hit the spot (not at all soggy either, which happens sometimes with salads like that). Super nice staff too!
(4)Justin C.
Food seemed VERY bland!!!! Not impressed at all. I don't understand what all the rave is about.
(2)John B.
When we first walked in I thought it was a fast food restaurant, but the menu is nothing like fast food. I had a lime steak sandwich with broccoli on the side. Excellent. C ordered with pulled pork. OMG, it was really good. The staff were very friendly. I wish we had one in our town!
(4)Ayon J. R.
While the ingredients are not always high quality given the price point, the food is amazingly good.
(4)Donna V.
I love the Pork Sliders and broccoli salad at Urban Cookhouse. The smoked flavor of the pork along with the sauce is a delicious combination on the yeast rolls. They have very fresh tea as well. I've been to both locations many times and everyone that works there seems happy and helpful. If you are looking for something sweet, the orange rolls are yummy!
(5)Kristen S.
A little cramped but you hardly even notice. The food was delicious, filling and not too expensive (I had the Veggie Quesadilla). The people who work there are so friendly that I felt immediately at ease. Definitely worth the trip and the parking nightmare at lunchtime!
(5)David M.
Fantastic place. So relieving to finally find a restaurant that is socially and environmentally conscious in Birmingham!! I've only had the opportunity to try it out once so far, but I was certainly pleased with the quality of the meal. I thoroughly enjoyed the BALT with it's luscious bacon and perfectly ripe (and not at all browned) avocado. My only gripe about this place is that they went through the effort to have compostable cups and wares, but the restaurant doesn't appear to promote compost disposal. I could only find a regular trash can, and a slot labeled "plastic cups". Seems to me that they are missing a perfect opportunity to get the community aware of alternatives to disposal in standard trash bins.
(5)Steve N.
Service was very friendly and quick. The food cooked on the Big Green Egg was awesome, just wish there was more of it. Slightly pricey for what you get to eat.
(4)Gary W.
Great food. Only complaint is not enough choices, but what they have is great!!!
(4)Bonnie C.
This place was awesome!! I didn't even know until I just read the other reviews that it was organic foods. The price surely didn't reflect it, as it appeared very reasonably priced. The menu and selection were incredible. The food was very fresh! I even mentioned this place in my blog: ontheroadeatingout.blogs…
(5)Koren A.
Delicious healthy food! Very quaint place. LOVE the atmosphere and of course the food!
(5)John P.
Absolutely delicious food. I was a little apprehensive at first but when I was finished my plate was clean!!! the staff was amazing!! Food was even better
(5)Rob L.
Found it on Yelp & it was a great casual spot with really good sandwiches & a friendly staff. The food was really good - a great find!
(5)Jen W.
Best strawberry lemonade in the world! Very eco-conscious here. Reusable packaging and eco-friendly packaging. Love the berry salad. It tastes like a Greek salad but with berries added to it. Not that expensive - less than $10 for my whole meal including a drink. Get the strawberry lemonade!
(5)Tom M.
For what it is...friendly, fast, fresh, mostly organic, creative...you gotta give it a try. Our teen boys were as satisfied as we "adults"...and organic wines, too!
(5)Louisa E.
Great Philly Cheesesteak
(4)Lauren K.
Love it! Had the Chipotle Braised Pork sandwich n veggies - yum! Location is in the middle of everything in downtown Homewood/18th St. If going for lunch, go on the early side of 11 as this place gets crazy busy and parking can be a challenge, but its worth it. Fun, cool place!
(4)Mattias F.
To be a "faster" restaurant the food and the environment was really great. Had the local salad with grilled chicken. Everything was amazing. The only thing that brought the grade down is the fact that it's very small and hard to get a table during lunch. Good for business though! Way worth a visit!
(4)Ken L.
Sandwiches was amazing! We had ordered the steak, ham and chicken sandwich. Each was very flavorful and juicy. Nothing was over cooked. The sides was a nice addition. I had the grilled mixed vegetables which was also cooked nicely. Portions was prefect. Enough to fill you without filling overstuffed. I would recommend this place and definitely come back.
(5)Brian C.
Ever had fruit salad with of broccoli? Yeah, me either which to me reveals questionable kitchen practices at Urban Cookhouse. Staff is clearly using the same utensils to serve multiple pre-made items. It's more than an issue of aesthetics, it's cross-contamination. If one item is off, the harmful bacteria is spread across the kitchen and onto the plate of every diner. The chicken salad was good but needed a bit of salt and pepper. The bread was super fresh and great. Service was friendly and swift - like McDonalds swift... Like everything was precooked hours ago. Yeah, I know I'm busting on a darling of Homewood but I really prefer places that cook fresh to order - and have a serving spoon dedicated to each item in the kitchen. Yeah, I'm picky like that.
(2)Alexa H.
We did a double-date with my parents at Urban Cookhouse in Homewood because we had a gift card. I've never liked the order-at-the-counter system, but their menu is carefully curated and mostly locally-sourced (if it isn't local, they tell you where its from, which I really like) so I can let that slide. The atmosphere is modern but the dining room feels very crowded. It's such a small space, though, I know they're doing their best. The food was absolutely fantastic and everyone who came to our table was so nice, plus we were greeted at the door and handed menus which demonstrates superior service for a counter order place. The owner herself saw to it that we were taken care of, which speaks volumes about how she runs her business. Definitely a restaurant I hope sticks around! Oh, and they serve a cookie in a skillet. It's to die for. We'll be back! *despite the counter service, they do sell alcohol! woohoo!
(5)Jim M.
First time in the urban cookhouse, all i can say is come early as there is limited seating. I have to admit the food here is extremely good. I had the down home..... This place is smack your moma good!!!! The turkey was tender and tasty. The pineapple ham was good but not as good as the turkey. The mac and cheese!! Really good. I can see why this place has 4 1/2 stars out of 5 with 93 reviews!!!!
(5)C B.
I really enjoy the food at the Urban Cookhouse. The food is fresh, made to order, healthy and delicious. I especially love the orange rolls and the house salad dressing. The shrimp skewers are yummy and include zucchini and squash (grilled of course) and is so enticing it's easy to get a picky eater to enjoy. What I really like is that after a meal here I am satisfied and do not have the bogged down feeling like you would have after eating a fast food meal from the fried foods and grease. All clean and wholesome meals here for the entire family to enjoy - without a long wait!
(4)Rikesha F.
Consistently delicious food on every trip. My first experience was via their catering of a meeting I attended. We had the ham, turkey, cheddar pasta and broccoli salad. Not to forget those mouth-watering orange rolls. I dreamed about going to this place on my own for months afterwards. I finally made it tonight. I ordered The Down Home, but subbed the broccoli salad with rice pilaf instead. The food was just as yummy as I remembered it to be, with my favorite being the turkey and of course the cheddar pasta. I could eat a tub of that by itself. I think I'll go back tomorrow and try something else. It's just that good!
(4)Rod M.
At a nearby hotel for a seminar and looking for a light lunch. The staff was very friendly, the service fast and the food excellent.
(5)Lauren N.
Love the food here. Good variety and I love how they incorporate local fruits and beer into the menu. My only issue is it can be a tad pricey for the sandwiches and they aren't very big. Make sure you try the orange rolls at least once!
(4)Katrina Y.
Fantastic food and experience. My family stopped for dinner for some respite from the abundance of burgers and BBQ we had been eating while visiting the area. We were not disappointed. Food was fresh and flavorful and all entrees came with a nice green salad. I had the chicken plate and my husband ordered the shrimp skewers. The lemon rolls are tasty as many other reviewers mentioned. But it was the service that put our experience over the top. When we told them we were visitors and this was our first time at the restaurant they insisted on making us a free dessert. We had the half baked cookie and ice cream and it was amazing. Well worth the trip!!
(5)Dana L.
The food was fresh, reasonably priced and delicious. The employees were extremely friendly and attentive. This is certainly going to become a frequent go-to place.
(5)Ray S.
Stopped in for lunch, the BALT was awesome and the best broccoli salad I have ever had. Very nice staff and atmosphere.
(5)Cecille R.
We were staying in Homewood for the weekend and my friend suggested we have lunch here since it was right down the street from our hotel. I was pleased to here that this is the original location for the restaurant and that not only do they get their ingredients from local farmers but that they manage 2 of the local farmers markets. When you walk in, it's very much the Pei Wei style of ordering. You order , grab a number for your table and they bring your food out. They have sandwiches, wraps, "Greens" and "fork & knife" plates. I went with the Turkey crunch sandwich which consists of smoked turkey with provolone, tomatoes, some sort of marinated cabbage slaw, and hot sweet mustard. It was pressed like a grilled cheese to give it heat. I had my choice of one side. The options were interesting to me: rice pilaf, fresh fruit, broccoli salad, hot cheddar pasta, garden salad and roasted veggies. I decided to go with the veggies. Drinks are self serve and if you are interested in the strawberry lemonade, they'll give samples (surprisingly too sweet for me). My meal was good and pretty satisfying. I'm interested in what they marinate the slaw in . It had a strong taste when coupled with the mustard in my sandwich. I enjoyed the roasted veggies that came with them. The dining room has ample seating but you also have the option to sit outside if you like. There is also an employee that comes around collecting empty trays and baskets but you can brings yours to the trash area as well. Only thing I regret not ordering were the orange rolls. Sounded like something unique to the restaurant and a must for next time!
(4)Domonique A.
My husband and I were visiting and decided to try them out based on all of the yelp reviews. Urban Cookhouse did not disappoint! I'd recommend the Wood Fire Shrimp Kabob and the EL Cubano. The Millie Ray's orange rolls are amazing! If you are in the area, check out Urban Cookhouse!! Shout out to David for amazing customer service and great Southern Hospitality.
(5)Peter W.
Great place! Quality ingredients, and excellent prices. Perfect choice for a light, filling lunch.
(5)Juhmad H.
I absolutely love this place. This is a go to when I'm unable to get home to cook. Good quality food that's prepared with quality ingredients.
(5)Rich B.
Apparently the broccoli salad is the proverbial bomb. I didn't know this and ordered a normal salad with my BLAT. Everyone else in my group had the broccoli salad. D'oh. This is a solid little restaurant. Somewhat healthy. Local sourced apparently. Quick and easy. I enjoyed the bacon, lettuce, avocado, tomato.
(4)Eric G.
I placed a To-Go order and received my meal within 5 minutes. I ordered the Down Under and wasn't sure if it was enough food. It was more than enough. Great place to eat and I'll be going there again during my stay here in Birmingham.
(5)Nakia C.
Nice fast friendly service! The steak in the cowboy sandwich is to die for!! I can't wait to come back to try other foods on the menu!
(5)Manal A.
Don't spend your money there. I have been ones in this restaurant, they didn't cook my chicken well and my friend found a worm in her salad...!!!
(1)Kennette P.
Yum. This place was highly recommended from a colleague and it definitely hit the spot. The area reminded me of what we have in Kansas City called brookside. Quaint and cute boutique shops that gives Homewood, Al a hippie chic vintage feel. Along the shops are also different one of a kind eateries. At this joint, my mom had the grilled chicken sandwich and absolutely loved it. I had the shrimp kabobs on rice pilaf and it was delish! Both meals had sauces/marination with a powerful punch to your tastebuds! We also had the Orange rolls and the half baked cookies. Soooo good! Hometown bakery goods, yummy food, in a cute little town makes this experience wonderful! Atleast go in and get an orange roll!
(4)Madeline S.
Urban Cookhouse is my go to for a week night dinner with little guilt attached. I love eating local and they are dangerously close. I bop around the menu and have never been let down. I cannot resist those rolls. They get me every time! I usually call ahead and it is always ready and just what I ordered. They are a great alternative to stopping for something fast you will regret within the hour.
(5)Randy L.
Excellent across the board every time. Eat local and fresh! Love this place, we are weekly patrons.
(5)Candy B.
Love this place! We were in Birmingham fir the weekend and wanted to have dinner in Five Points. Yelp led us to Urban Cookhouse, and a great dining experience! The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful, really nice. And our meal was outstanding! I had the BALT (bacon, avocado, lettuce and tomato sandwich) with broccoli salad as a side. Both were delicious. I was actually full after finishing half the sandwich but it was so good I couldn't leave the other half so I ate it too! My husband had the El Cubano and the broccoli salad. The sandwich featured ham, chipotle braised pork, pickles and provolone, and he loved it. For "dessert" we enjoyed the famous orange rolls. Our only regret was not ordering more to take home with us. Again, the staff was wonderful. And the meal scrumptious! We will definitely go back.
(5)Vasu M.
I had to update my review after my experience today and also several friends having a similar experience with this location in the recent months. The food is still delicious and I love the chicken with roasted vegetables. My friends for the berry crunch wrap and BALT and both sandwiches looked great as well. Unfortunately the customer service has gotten a little worse. We felt like we couldn't enjoy our meal because the waiter made us feel uncomfortable. First we were asked why we pulled up an extra chair (our friend was ordering so we pulled it up for her). After I finished eating, he told me that I needed to finish my rice. After a few other awkward comments, at 9:06 PM (they close at 9), he told us we needed to leave because he was ready to mop. I hope that this was just a rare occurrence because I really enjoy this place and would hate for the customer service to bring it down.
(4)Kern L.
Yes, as many have mentioned, you must get orange rolls with your meal. Wife and I both got the Urban Cowboy sandwich with broccoli salad as a side - loved both! Too bad we don't live in the area, because there are several other things on the menu that we'd love to try!
(5)Bryan S.
Had dinner here while visiting Birmingham for a tour of Samford University with my daughter. Found this place on Yelp and liked what I read so we headed there after checking in to our hotel. The young lady who helped us at the counter was amazing. We told her it was our 1st visit and she was very helpful and accommodating to ensure our family all got what they were looking for. All of us really enjoyed everything we ordered. From a wrap to a salad to steak to the ham and chicken - it was all excellent. They use the Big Green Eggs to cook their meats and you can tell and taste the difference. Fresh, flavorful and reasonable portions. A great flavor to value ratio!! Wish they had one of these in our home town. A great local find with some awesome food and great service. Well done on a great concept executed very well.
(5)Tony S.
I savored every last bite. The Urban Cowboy with Roasted Vegetables is the way to go for a first-timer. Not expensive and tastes like a home cooked meal.
(5)Barbara B.
Locally sourced and prepared fresh, this little restaurant chain (3 in Bham) serves good food. Consistent visit to visit and restaurant to restaurant you know what you'll get. They cater and do that equally well. Good value for the money.
(5)Walter P.
Great food and reasonable. Local grown food too! Was trying to decide between a couple of dishes and they let me sample both. Great service with a smile. :) will def be back.
(4)Michael A.
Southern cooking with a flair! Not your typical blue plate special. Fresh ingredients make great food! Broccoli salad especially good. Turkey and ham both had outstanding flavor. Cheese pasta (think homemade mac and cheese!) tasted like it was just made. What's not to like here? Half-baked cookie is their specialty dessert, but I had to have some of the spiced pecans. Excellent! All the staff I encountered was helpful, polite and knowledgable. Would DEFINITELY come back the next time I'm in Huntsville (I think this is considered downtown Homewood).
(5)Mandy B.
This was our first time eating here, the staff was very friendly and helpful! The food was really good! My boys loved the peanut butter fluff sandwich; my 5 year old said "this place is good!". My husband got the shrimp and I got the chicken plate. It was good but wasn't different. Next time we wanna try the BALT sandwich! Wish we has one of these in Tuscaloosa (away from Campus)!
(4)Ken C.
we really enjoyed the food here. prices are so reasonable and the food is fresh. we will be back again. the service was fast and staff is very friendly. We had the chicken salad sandwich and the el Cubano. The orange rolls were awesome too. The only downside was the strawberry lemonade. That did not live up to the hype. It was quite watery. Still overall a great time.
(4)Boris S.
This place never disappoints. Lunch dinner catering have done it all amazing prices and clean healthy choices.
(5)William L.
Nestled up in the beautiful little jewel of Homewood's downtown, Urban Cookhouse is good for a light but satisfying meal. The side orders stand out, particularly the broccoli salad and roasted vegetables. Those two actually shared some ingredients (particularly the broccoli), so avoid pairing those two if you want real contrast among your side orders. But if baroque contrapuntalism on your plate is not your priority, these two go together well as hot and cold cousins. The chicken salad was tasty, though of a finer grained consistency than I generally prefer. It's served between slices of wheat bread that work well with the subtle salad spread. Everything on the sandwich tasted fresh. The cheddar pasta is notable but be warned that it's a small portion. That's probably a good thing, but if you are used to the huge macaroni-and-cheese mounds that have become popular, consider ordering two. Also be aware that while I considered it a small portion, the lady at the table next to mine left a third of hers behind. The stuff is good; I was at the point where I was idly wondering how I might get that partially-eaten bowl from her table to mine. Somehow, I didn't think "Uhm, waiter, they're gone and I don't think they're going to eat that" would go over too well. For travelers, this is a nice change from the bar-b-que I usually stop for on the long slog across Alabama from Meridian to Atlanta. The strawberry lemonade is worth a mention, tart and with a strong strawberry kick.
(4)Joe D.
Yelpers love this place and I have to concur. I stopped here on my way to Gulf Shores. The Urban Cowboy which was a tasty steak sandwich with lime marinated steak, pepper jack cheese, peppers and onion on a nice hoagie bun. It was not greasy at all and had wonderful texture. We also tried the Down Home which had turkey and ham served with mac and cheese and broccoli salad. This was a platter with thick cut turkey and ham and was very tasty. The broccoli salad was very different than expected although good. One other guest had the children's chicken salad which was served on white bread. It was a full sandwich that an adult could eat! The best part of the meal was an order of Millie Ray's Orange rolls. Geez, I could have eaten about two orders and gone to sleep for a week. They were delicious almost too good. The staff was friendly and helpful. Overall, glad I went out of my way to stop in. Thanks to fellow Yelpers who guided me!
(4)Wil B.
I've only had shrimp kabobs. Food is good but I would not come back @ noon if food was free. Too crowded & noisy.
(3)Will L.
Urban Cookhouse is locally owned and has crazy good food that's not too bad for you. The prices aren't bad and the produce is locally grown. While I like to eat healthy, I also like to eat a lot. I've never left Urban Cookhouse hungry. Locations are jumping up all over Birmingham, so if there's not one close to you yet, just give it a few days.
(5)Steven M.
Steak you can chew for hours. Nice salad dressing, rice but the cooked veggies had the taste of warmed up food. This is not a 4 star cafe. Just another fast food place that is moderately clean.
(2)AJ T.
Have tried a few things from Urban Cookhouse and recommend the majority of them - seasonal strawberry lemonade is super delicious. It's a nice balance of sweet, tart, and is just generally very refreshing. - the pulled pork: this came highly recommended by the staff at urban cookhouse,but I just didn't prefer it. Mine was inexplicably served with a side of salsa. Don't get me wrong, the salsa's good, but it didn't pair well with the pulled pork. Also comes with 2 slices of white bread (no orange :( roll). As an FYI the "fork and knife" section of the menu come with a side of salad (I'm guessing this changes seasonally, but in my case a broccoli salad with grapes and a sweet dressing & Mac and cheese which is solid, but not out of this world good). -the downhome: ham & pineapple is smoky and just the right amount of salty-sweet. When the turkey is hot, it's really good, but when it starts to cool down, it gets a little dry. - orange roll: super soft and sweet. I really enjoy the fact that this comes with some meals, but you can buy 4 orange rolls for $3-$4 - chocolate chip cookie bar/blonde: extremely rich and buttery. Perfectly Cheney. I am a fan. Anyway, I just like this place. TL;DR: Nice atmosphere; fair prices; solid food.
(4)Shilpa B.
Their strawberry lemonade (only available in the summer) is delicious. I've tried a couple of things here, and I liked everything except for the pulled pork. My favorite food here is the broccoli salad. It's SO good. If you're coming here for the first time, get the down home, strawberry lemonade, and some orange rolls!
(5)Natasha S.
This is a great local joint. I love the Shrimp Kebob with Roasted Veggies & Salad. Healthy, delicious and filling. The price is just right. It's very crowded during lunch on weekdays, but worth the wait for a table.
(4)Raye F.
Urban Cookhouse is a place in Birmingham that is talked up---a lot! It's pretty good, but not super-de-duper. I liked that it had lots of fresh offerings. I ordered that veggie quesadilla with promise- but wished it had a greater substance. My honey had the cuban to which he's had better(too greasy). The hot cheddar pasta(ie- mac and cheese) was really good. Standard fountain drinks. We dined on a beautiful afternoon; however, missed out on the opportunity to sit outside and had to settle for the cramped inside dining. rant and rave about happier eats....you choose
(3)Brad H.
Hard to beat quick, healthy, tasty food at a convenient location in downtown Homewood. Prices are great for the quality and quantity of food. Tried the shrimp kabobs with roasted vegetables, also came with side salad. The food here screams freshness, try it.
(4)Wendy D.
What a delicious find!! The rice is flavorful and the lime steak is great!! The Mac and cheese and broccoli salad is fabulous. The food is organic and healthy. Tasted really good....
(4)Vic R.
Our meal was delicious, served 30 seconds after sat down, by friendly staff. The Urban Cowboy sandwich was great(served warm, amazingly tender and tasty lime-marinated steak), but the Turkey sandwich was even better. They serve all local produce, and have local beers.
(4)