Welcome to OvenBird
OvenBird, located in Birmingham, AL, masterfully blends Southern and South American influences in its open-fire cooking creations. The rustic decor and warm ambiance invite diners into a cozy, intimate setting, perfect for sharing flavorful small plates. Signature dishes like the Beef Fat Candle with Sofrito, delicate Ceviche, and creamy Burrata with Tomato & Prosciutto stand out as culinary highlights, ensuring a memorable dining experience. With attentive and knowledgeable service, Chef Chris Hastings's oven-driven menu offers remarkable value without sacrificing quality. OvenBird is a destination for adventurous foodies and those seeking an exceptional culinary journey.
OvenBird: Reviews & Ratings
The place was beautiful and our server, Chris was the nicest person I’ve seen this week. The food was good and Chris gave us two desserts. It was our mom’s birthday so We appreciate Chris,his good service, and the food and would definitely recommend to everyone. - Olivia and Alex :)
Every single dish we had was fantastic. Love being able to share the small plates. The tallow candle WOW. Would eat here again for sure. Everything about it was great.
Ambiance & Setting: 5/5 Service: 5/5 Menu & Offerings: 5/5 Food: 5/5 Pricing: 5/5 Ovenbird is a masterclass in open-fire cooking, blending Southern and South American influences into a dining experience that feels homey yet elevated. Ambiance: The rustic, open-fire concept gives a warm, intimate feel, making it the perfect spot for a cozy dinner. The flickering flames and earthy decor create a welcoming atmosphere, especially in cooler weather. Service: Flawless. The staff delivers fine-dining-level service without the pretension—attentive, knowledgeable, and passionate about the menu. Food Highlights: • Beef Fat Candle with Sofrito – A must-try. This signature appetizer is rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. • Ceviche – Light, fresh, and expertly prepared, with just the right touch of citrus and spice. • Burrata with Tomato & Prosciutto – Creamy, delicate, and beautifully paired with fresh, high-quality ingredients. • Fideos – Perfectly seasoned, with a rich, creamy texture and fresh seafood. • Risotto – Outstanding—impeccable texture, depth of flavor, and overall balance. Pricing: Remarkably fair for the quality. This is fine dining without the fine-dining price tag, making it one of the best value experiences in town. Verdict: A must-visit for anyone who appreciates thoughtfully executed, fire-kissed cuisine.
OvenBird is a unique experience that I have not had in the Birmingham area. Your experience starts the moment you step onto the property. The decor is so unique and inviting, I love the open floor plan, and the food is very flavorful and unique. I didn't leave with a super heavy feeling but was also satisfied. It's a 'dinning experience' so be prepared to spend some time there. The tapas menu also allows for foodie discussions at the table. Also, ask questions about the dishes! Some are chef inspired.
This fantastic restaurant comes from Birmingham Chef Chris Hastings. The atmosphere is casual and comfortable. A large wood fired oven greets you as you enter. The plates are for the most part "Tapas" style. We enjoyed a variety of dishes and were very pleased with everything! Not only will I gladly return, I will recommend it to visiting friends and family so as to highlight some Magic City quality cuisine.
Wow! This has to be some of the best food I have ever had. We had five different dishes and two desserts. Everything was wonderful flavorful and perfectly cooked. They have tables right near the grill. I recommend sitting there. I’ll definitely go back.
Five Stars Aren't Enough! We visited OvenBird for the first time last Saturday. It was phenomenal. Monica, our server (also new to OvenBird) was fun, knowledgeable, and made perfect recommendations. She can order my dinner any day! The wine list was limited, no, curated is a better term for their carefully matched wines at a wide variety of price points. And then there was the food. Go hungry. Do not miss the beef tallow candle with sofrito. Trust me. Just order it. Don't skip the paella or mushrooms either. There is something for everyone on that menu. Everything we had was perfect. Thank you for a great evening! Hope to see you again soon.
I never write reviews, but I was so blown away I decided it was necessary. We moved to seattle five years ago and came back to Birmingham for a wedding. This spot has been on my list to try since before we moved. We didn’t have a reservation, but they had two bar seats that were perfect. Jada was amazing. She guided us through the menu and everything we had was astounding. This place is an absolute gem. Birmingham is so lucky to have a fabulous special occasion spot with this price point and options. The beef fat candle, snapper throat and hanger steak were all show stoppers. This place— the food, the service, the people— were all the best parts of my hometown and my husband and I had a truly unforgettable time.
Location
-
2810 3rd Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States Hotline: +1 205-957-6686
Welcome to OvenBird, an enchanting culinary gem nestled in the heart of Birmingham, Alabama, at 2810 3rd Ave S. This unique restaurant, crafted by renowned Chef Chris Hastings, invites diners into a world where South American flavors meet Southern hospitality in a rustic yet refined setting.
As soon as you step inside, the atmosphere captivates you. The inviting decor, coupled with the warm glow of an impressive wood-fired oven, creates a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience. The open floor plan enhances the communal vibe, making it an ideal spot for casual gatherings or intimate dinners.
At OvenBird, the menu boasts an array of small plates that draw you into a culinary adventure. Each dish stands out, beginning with the iconic Beef Fat Candle with Sofrito. This delightfully rich appetizer embraces the art of flavor balance—a must-try for any first-time visitor. If you’re seeking something lighter, the Ceviche showcases expertly prepared seafood with a zesty citrus twist, making it a refreshing choice.
For those who appreciate indulgence, the Burrata with Tomato & Prosciutto represents a perfect marriage of creamy and savory flavors. The quality of ingredients is evident in every bite, leaving your taste buds yearning for more. Another standout dish is the Fideos, with its luxurious texture and a harmonious blend of fresh seafood. And let’s not forget the Risotto—a creamy masterpiece that balances depth of flavor with impeccable texture, making it an extraordinary dish in its own right.
The culinary experience at OvenBird is further enhanced by attentive and knowledgeable service. Guests often rave about the staff's passion for the menu, ensuring that each dining experience feels special and personalized. As one customer aptly noted, you’re not just enjoying a meal; you’re engaging in a thoughtful conversation about food.
OvenBird offers fine dining without the fine-dining price tag—another reason why it has quickly become a local favorite. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, as one happy diner did, or simply indulging in a much-deserved night out, this restaurant ensures satisfaction that doesn’t weigh heavily on your wallet.
If you’re a lover of thoughtfully crafted, fire-kissed cuisine, make your way to OvenBird. With its unique fusion of flavors and warm atmosphere, it stands out as a must-visit destination in Birmingham, promising an experience that lingers long after the last bite.