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NIGHTLIFE

Trim Tab Brewing Co. 2721 5th Ave S 828-545-4746 BIRMINGHAM

Trim Tab Brewing Co. found a home in the Lakeview district (in the warehouse where George Barber used to house his famed motorcycle collection), and now they re a big part of Birming- ham s thriving craft brew scene. Stop by and visit their taproom and tasting gallery, featuring a wide range of homemade brews and a showcase for local artists. These guys are a welcome member to the Birmingham beer family. I m a fan. Ben L.

Upside Down Plaza 2012 Magnolia Ave 205-930-0333 BIRMINGHAM

Every city has a good smoky and dirty dive, and the Upside Down Plaza is Birmingham s best. Hidden behind Hotel Highland at Five Points South, the Plaza s cheap draft beer, layers of graffiti, pool tables, dart boards, foosball, pinball, occasional punk band and really great jukebox make this subter- ranean bar a favorite of those who are in the know.

I go to the Plaza when I m home- sick it reminds me of a New York dive. It s dirty, smoky, and there s good punk rock on the juke box. Candice Z.

The Wine Loft 2200 1st Ave N 205-413-8609 BIRMINGHAM

This loft-style space with tall ceilings and modern couches is a welcoming watering hole for the after-work crowd. With wine tastings and drink specials throughout the week, The Wine Loft is a favorite downtown spot. And there is more to The Wine Loft than their expansive collec- tion of wine they also offer a full bar, tapas menu and free Wi-Fi. The atmosphere is cosmopolitan and the crowd is diverse. Whenever I have guests in town, The Wine Loft is typically on our agenda and they are always impressed. Cherie F.

WorkPlay 500 23rd St S 205-879-4773 BIRMINGHAM

Recently voted one of Paste Magazine s best music venues in the country, WorkPlay is one of Birmingham s premier spots to hear live music. In addition

to the high-end, three-story theatre, WorkPlay also hosts bands in its 5,200-square-foot soundstage. On nights that a band isn t playing in the theatre, catch screenings of films from Birmingham s Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival. Also available for private events. The design of the building is very inspiring and just pleasing to look at. I ve enjoyed every concert I ve attended there and have had some of my greatest musical moments within its walls. Ylia W.

Zydeco 2001 15th Ave S 205-933-1032 BIRMINGHAM

A college crowd favorite, Zydeco has a large wraparound deck perfect for hosting happy hour. This IN spot is also known for an array of live music, drawing in both local and national acts throughout the year. The large downstairs bar rarely has a cover and is outfitted with pool tables and a jukebox. Great place to hang out, good music, great diversity. Joshua A.