Angie M.
Yelp
SHAKE IT UP!
Park side on 5th is such a hidden gem in Birmingham. Previously, bought under a new owner, this bar is ahh mazing. The new owner Tim really makes it a point to come to each of his customers tables and chat with everyone. Not only showing outstanding customer service, but also chit chatting and getting to know everyone who comes waltzing inside.
This was our last stop on our bar hopping journey on New Year's Eve. Though it was my first time at this bar, it most certainly won't be my last.
Located in Avondale around the corner from Ferus. From the outside looking in it looks very dainty and feminine, but as soon as you walk through the doors, you are immediately transformed back in time. I felt as though I was entering the 1920s by just opening the door and walking inside.
Tim was eager to say hi and showed us around. You can tell he is very proud of his business and is happy to share it with everyone who comes inside. There is both indoor and out door seating. Inside, like previously stated is very boujie, but outside is much more relaxed and casual.
My first drink at parkside was their New Year's Eve special cocktail which was a vodka, st germain drink with cranberries. It was called the Tik Tok. How fitting for New years!
Outside there is a bone fire, an air stream which serves food and a second bar outside too. The second bar serves the bare minimum, but you can go back inside to get drinks. Both bars were open and running last night. The really cool thing about both bars is that you can keep the same tab and just add to it.
When we came outside they was a bunch of tables each table had a plaque on it with the table numbers. There a QR code which you are able to scan. This will give you easy access to your tab and you can pay it out online if you don't want to wait in line at the bar. You can even add to your tab from your table and they will pick it up at the inside bar. It is truly amazing what technology can do these days.
I do have to agree with one of the other yelp reviews of this business. The bathroom situation can be a bit of a doozie. But if you don't mind waiting in line you will be fine. There are two bath rooms both are family friendly and anyone can use them. When you do use the rest room, I highly suggest that you lock it as soon as you get in the door. I had a lady almost walk in on me. Thank god I still had all of my clothing pieces on at that time, but it could have been bad.
Overall, this spot is amazing. Loved the vibes, the people and of course the drinks. If you are ever in Avondale poking around or just needing to find a place to have a few cocktails with a friend or two, do not overlook Parkside! I can't wait to come back and bring all my friends ;)