Clifton "Clif" Holt seeks a new balance as his Forest Park restaurant, Little Savannah, turns 15.
Much has changed since Holt and his then-wife, Maureen, opened Little Savannah as a fine-dining restaurant in September 2003 in a tiny space on Clairmont Avenue. The restaurant's namesake, his oldest daughter, now is a mother of three living in Louisiana. After a brief departure to teach cooking classes at the Grand Bohemian Mountain Brook Hotel, Clif Holt has returned as sole proprietor.
For some it’s caviar, lobster, truffles, foie gras, filet mignon or oysters. For others, they seek out the perfect hot dog, taco, slice of pizza or burger. Then there are those with an undying sweet tooth. But bacon is topped on oysters, burgers and donuts alike. This meat of the gods comes delightfully crispy thin or devilishly melt-in-your-mouth thick. Whether in strips, slabs or bits and whether smoked, fried, candied or infused, bacon is beloved, there’s no doubt.
This go-to farm-to-table dinner spot only opens their doors for Sunday brunch once a month. Hurry up and snag your spot on the list. Might we recommend the sugar snaps?
This sexy, redbrick number distinguishes itself by making sure each patron is treated like long-lost kin and privy to some of the most creative cookery in town. Indeed, Chef-owner Clif Holt emphasizes local ingredients (some of which he picks himself), a process he lovingly calls, "Knowing where your food comes from." In addition to the amazing New Southern fare, Little Savannah also spoils patrons at the bar, thanks to the 120+ bottle wine selection, specialty cocktails, and several fashionable microbrews.
A native of Cullman, Alabama, Chef Clif Holt served in the U.S. Navy then pursued a career in engineering and design, before following his passion for food. Self-taught and inspired by his grandmother, Chef Clif had the opportunity to work with numerous notable chefs where he honed his culinary skills. Thereafter, in 2003, Little Savannah Restaurant and Bar was born.
BirminghamRestaurants.com
Zagat also specifically praised Birmingham’s rise in the culinary scene to chefs like Frank Stitt (Highlands Bar and Grill, Chez Fonfon, Bottega Restaurant, Bottega Café), Chris Hastings (Hot and Hot Fish Club, Ovenbird) and Clifton Holt (Little Savannah). Highlands Bar and Grill, Ocean, and Chez Fonfon also get mentioned as places to eat at in town.
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AL.com
Just up the road from the lively Lakeview district, Forest Park is the perfect retreat from the bustling busyness of downtown life. The little stretch of businesses on Clairmont Avenue, some of which are housed in brightly-colored historic craftsman houses, provide the perfect atmosphere for a casual weekend outing or weeknight stroll. As an added bonus, once a month, the neighborhood celebrates Third Fridays, where restaurants and galleries offer specials and extended hours for visitors who want to wine, dine, and shop in this tight-knit community.
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