The Church Key — Restaurant in Birmingham

If you’re searching for all the cool people, look to the bar that once had a steeple! The Church Key- once a church, now renovated into an awesome, on-trend, modern-day ‘Cheers’ type watering hole with great drinks and service. The ambience has an amazing vibe: it houses the original ‘Tooties Package Store’ sign that hovered over Green Springs for decades. There’s a spacious outside patio, several areas inside- hosting both sofas and tables and chairs- for fun, comfortable drinking and socializing. This place truly welcomes you in, invites you to stay a while, and enjoy the great service. I met the owner/bartender, Robert, who is funny, personable, and full of witty banter! Definitely make this a ‘Must Try’ on your 2024 list!!! ALSO- has its own private parking area. Two big thumbs up! I think this place is one of The Magic City’s best kept secrets… but...

The bartender is a geriatric but he’s okay I guess. I think he was here when they founded the city, so that’s pretty neat (maybe he built the old building they’re at??). He made fun of me when I asked for a water. Maybe they didn’t have that back then, idk.

Ambiance is unique. Theres always old people movies on the television. So between that, and the boomers hanging about I feel like Im visiting my senile grandpa whenever I stop in. All they’re missing is some backgammon and bingo!

Drinks were cheap and cold. My Cool Ranch Doritos were prepared to perfection 👌

Solid 11/10. Highly recommend.

PS- Someone said you can cash your Social Security checks here? Idk what that is but apparently thats a good thing so yeah,...

You have to be a member to enter. It's a one time charge of $5 and they will get rid of the membership requirements the next time the alcohol license has to be renewed. It's not a cocktail bar. It's a dive bar without games and gimmicks, but with more space, higher ceilings and cleaner walls, floors, and bathrooms than your regular dive. No draft beer and a rather limited selection of beer cans and bottles. The rye old fashion was ok, the margarita was bottom shelf, but the bar staff was patient, observant, and on the weathered side. Good place for a PBR with your crew or a nightcap on...