El Royale Cafe

So, we went on cold day, but the "greenhouse"-style construction of the building does NOT lend itself well to a comfortable experience in cool weather. Everyone in the restaurant had their coats on as it didn't seem to be heated at all. I was very uncomfortable the whole time. NOW.. let's move on. We didn't have a reservation at about noon and the remaining open tables were allocated to reservations-but, we were seated at the bar and the two bartenders were very friendly and helpful. The warm salsa was good, but was spicy. The salsa verde was delicious as well as the chips. My wife's margarita "had a funny taste", but maybe it was the agave nectar. There were lots of drink choices to choose from. We had the El Royale dip- kind of a chili and yellow queso combo, topped with sour cream.

This was very pleasant dining experience. Everything from the atmosphere to the decor to service and on the the food was very pleasing. Before entering you are offer free valet service, big plus. Once you do enter the beautiful garden like setting is a delight to take in. The staff was very friendly and seated us immediately. I took advantage of making a reservation, which I highly recommend if you visit during the busier hours. The entire restaurant's decor was very pleasing to the eye and it made your dining experience feel more special. The food was excellent and the drinks we good. I will definitely be back to experience more of the menu and to enjoy the atmosphere.

I’m giving five stars because the restaurant truly deserves it, even though I personally had the worst date experience here and couldn’t enjoy the vibe the way I wanted to. I definitely need to come back because the ambiance alone deserves another chance. When you first walk in, it’s beautiful the greenery, the lighting, the red booths (I love a bold red moment), the décor… everything is so well done. The place feels elevated but warm. And the staff? They do not play about cleanliness. The moment someone gets up from a table or the bar, someone is right there cleaning immediately. From the bar you can even see part of the kitchen, which I love. Reservations are a MUST we waited about an hour and a half for a table, so definitely call ahead unless you don’t mind sitting at the bar. Thankful

El Royale was the perfect place for date night! The atmosphere is moody, absolutely gorgeous, fabulous and the lighting is romantic. I had the chicken tinga enchiladas and they were divine! We ordered the dip trio for an appetizer and all of the dips were delicious, but the salsa that came with the chips was the best salsa I've ever had. Ever. I highly recommend ordering the Flaming Royale cocktail and the Diamond Daquiri. Both were amazing! Our server, Chris L. was excellent. I've found my new favorite restaurant in Birmingham, for sure!

We wanted to lick the plates! Had the combo fajitas! Super-cali-fragilic-expialidocious!!! The chips and salsa are UNIQUE and DELICIOUS! The service we received was THE BEST we've experienced in a LONG time ANYWHERE in Bham. If you go, ask for Fletcher and take ALL of his menu recommendations! You'll be glad you did! Thank you, Fletcher, for your wonderful attention to detail and for the great history lesson on the restaurant.