Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Birmingham, AL

North America

United States

# Overview
Gilchrist is a beloved restaurant located at 2805 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL. Known for its nostalgic diner vibe and homemade comfort food, it has become a staple in the Birmingham community. The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere where patrons can enjoy a variety of sandwiches, ice cream, and refreshing limeades. With its rich history and commitment to quality, Gilchrist has earned a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.

## History
Gilchrist has a storied past that reflects the evolution of dining in Birmingham. Originally established as a drugstore and soda fountain, it has transformed into a cherished eatery that serves homemade meals. Over the years, it has maintained its charm, becoming a gathering place for families and friends. The restaurant has witnessed significant milestones, including the introduction of its famous limeades and a diverse menu that caters to various tastes. Its cultural influence is evident in the way it brings people together, fostering a sense of community and nostalgia.

## Community
Gilchrist is deeply involved in the Birmingham community, often partnering with local organizations and schools. The restaurant hosts events that celebrate local culture and encourages sustainability through its sourcing practices. Voices from the community highlight the restaurant's role as a gathering place, where regulars are greeted by name and newcomers feel welcomed. Gilchrist is not just a restaurant; it is a community hub that connects people through food and shared experiences.

## Offerings
At Gilchrist, patrons can expect a menu filled with homemade delights. The offerings include:
- Sandwiches (BLTs, chicken salad, egg salad)
- Ice cream and milkshakes
- Refreshing limeades
- Hot dogs and chips
The restaurant also provides customization options for many dishes, allowing guests to tailor their meals to their preferences. Special events and packages are occasionally offered, enhancing the dining experience.

## Pros and Cons
Gilchrist has received numerous positive reviews, highlighting its strengths:
- **Quality Food**: Known for its homemade sandwiches and limeades.
- **Nostalgic Atmosphere**: A charming diner vibe that resonates with many.
- **Community Engagement**: Strong ties to the local community and regular patrons.
However, there are some weaknesses:
- **Limited Space**: The small size can lead to crowded conditions during peak hours.
- **Variable Wait Times**: Service can slow down when the restaurant is busy.
Overall, Gilchrist is celebrated for its food and atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot in Birmingham.

## Location & Nearby
Gilchrist is situated in the vibrant city of Birmingham, specifically in the Cahaba Heights neighborhood. This area is known for its mix of residential and commercial spaces, offering a variety of dining and shopping options. The restaurant's location makes it a convenient stop for those visiting nearby attractions, including the Birmingham Zoo and local parks. The cultural richness of Birmingham is reflected in the diverse community surrounding Gilchrist, making it an ideal place to experience local flavors.

## Visit Gilchrist Today
If you're looking for a delightful dining experience in Birmingham, Gilchrist is the perfect destination. With its homemade offerings, rich history, and strong community ties, it promises a meal that is both satisfying and nostalgic. Whether you're in the mood for a classic sandwich or a refreshing limeade, Gilchrist has something for everyone. Don't miss out on this Birmingham gem—plan your visit today!

da070671-9585-4d93-a35c-845d7a04d97e

Had not been i. Gilchrist's in many years and was pleasantly surprised how much better it was than i remembered. One of the only places in town that serves Aspic- not sure Savage's does anymore. Limeade sugar free for me too. Got a corned beef sandwich to go for my co- worker and it was huge and he loved it!

bea0e087-1e0a-42aa-9fa2-d1a5166bade2

My food arrived fast, I got in just before the lunch rush. I had the BLT with pimento cheese on Wheat toasted and it was really good. Nice tomatoes. Also had a float and they filled that glass up with ice cream. The place is small and casual which is part of the charm.

0c068127-7791-4497-9720-dfe5500f8fab

Whenever we are in the area, especially on zoo trip days, I always suggest stopping here for a sandwich! Specifically, the pimento BLT! The truck is to call as you are exiting the zoo and by the time you make it to your car and to Gilchrist, the food is ready for pickup! I recently tried the sandwich as a hot wrap, and I think. That's no my go to!! Parking can be a pain. Sometimes I've let my husband out and circled the block. But it's so worth it! Expect a wait if you come right at lunch time!

5238a88d-f8ef-4602-a215-a673e6032350

Everything they serve is house made. This isn't fast food. It's good food. I love everything. BLTs; chicken salad; egg salad; pimento cheese; tuna salad. Old-fashioned chocolate sodas (with the perfect ratio of chocolate syrup to soda water). A late friend and I went there at my urging. She was surprised that the food was as good as I claimed. From then on, she ensured we planned our trips around a stop here. She also brought a cooler and ice so she could get at least one large cup (20 oz?) of chicken salad (and sometimes two, if they had enough) to take home. Caution: Get there before schools let out. School kids typically pile in when they get out, so it's chaotic, crowded, and loud. Also, the wait for service is longer. (The spot is an authentic, former drugstore and "soda fountain." So, there's only so much room behind the counter for employees.) Last, but not least: If you're a connoisseur of sweet iced tea, you won't be disappointed. You may want to get a gallon to go. (Milo's, IMHO, doesn't compare.)

66c33c7d-933a-4392-8b9a-04c40e4aee35

I have lived in Birmingham, AL for over 30 years. I LOVE to eat as is clear by my many posts on Yelp. Eating is a passion for me and my family. You would think, after 30 years I would have tried every place in Birmingham, and you would be wrong. To set this up, I love fine dining, steakhouses, Oyster bars, Sandwich shops, and McDonalds. What I really love is great food, comfort food and a feeling of warmth. It does NOT have to have a white tablecloth, but it does have to strike a cord usually of a past memory. That is my setup. Gilchrist has been where it sits in Birmingham, AL for a very long time. When my daughter wanted to take me there, I fought her because we were downtown at the time. All I asked her for was a GREAT BREAKFAST sandwich. I get to the place, and I instantly feel in love. Everything was old, potato chips lined up on the side wall with lots of candy by the cash register. Two table of men sitting just talking all about my age (I am old) or older. The bathroom was through the kitchen. On the side counter was two huge stainless-steel bowls with the remnants of Egg salad and Tuna Salad. I knew I was IN THE RIGHT PLACE. I ordered a comfort food breakfast Sandwich. Toasted Whole Wheat Toast, Egg, Cheese, Bacon and Mayo. I love that kind of sandwich. I was NOT disappointed. Now I want to go back for lunch for egg salad, tuna Salad or chicken salad. How did I miss the cultural gem all these decades. Want fancy, go somewhere else. Want history and taste, come to Gilchrist. I found my new place. Eat well, drink well and enjoy life.

716e7c31-af3e-471b-8edf-ba2375d18755

I LOAF YOU! Ahh Gilchrist is a Birmingham staple. When you walk inside you are greeted with the casual diner vibe. Not only is this a diner, it is also an ice cream fountain. The employees who work here work hard at what they do. The minute you walk inside the shop you get a very homey feeling. I sat right up at the bar and was able to watch and see each interaction from employee to customer which I found so entertaining and fun. I did not catch the lady behind the bars name, but she see,ed to know all of the regulars on a first name basis. I had come to Gilchrist once before, but had not been back since. Not because I did not enjoy my experience, but because I don't typically get the chance to come to Mountain Brook all that often. Today, I was craving and I mean CRAVING a pimento cheese BLT. I know that there are plenty of spots to get a pimento BLT, however no one does it better than Gilchrist. Another thing that Gilchrist does really well with is their limeades. In fact, they are known for them. The last time I came to a Gilchrist I was with a friend of mine, and she helped to guide me in the right direction food and drink wise. But this time around as I was on my own I stuck with what I knew and liked. There is some about their limeades that hit different in the summer months as opposed to the winter ones. In the summer time drinking something cold and refreshing with the good ice, helps to cool you off after being out in the heat. However, in the winter time it just felt like a drink with the meal. I will continue to support this business. There isn't anything else around like it and it will continue to stay a staple in the Magic City.

ac2776d9-15f5-4a0a-aca3-a6f1fc7582be

If you are looking for a bit of nostalgia, while eating a delicious lunch then try Gilchrist. From egg salad to reuben sandwich's and delicious milkshakes you can't go wrong. Give 'em a try, you'll be glad you did.

a7f93140-0c9e-4022-a5f1-4291d8e3659f

I know this place is known for its sandwiches and limeade, but my son and I went in at almost 1 o'clock in the afternoon, thinking that the lunch crowd would be gone, but it was so packed out that there were no tables to be had. We left and went somewhere down the street to eat, but I promised my son we could go back and get him a root beer float after lunch. It was cleared out when we went back and the man that took our order was nice. I figured I would order something too, and I got a strawberry shake. I really should've gotten the limeade. I figured since they made the limeade with limes, they would actually make strawberry ice cream with strawberry ice cream. Nope. It was vanilla ice cream with colored strawberry flavor! Very disappointing & not good at all. I threw most of it away. For $6, I would really expect an actual strawberry shake. We might go back & try the food, but not sure after that.

1fd57ca7-28b9-4e9a-806a-ce106a139904

This is now the place for me whenever I want a sandwich , which is rare. I love the quality and simplicity of the food here. There are no bells & whistles... what you see is what you get. And it's worked for them for yeaaarssss! The staff knows all the regulars and know their orders too! That says a-lot about the culture at Gilchrist. Great atmosphere, great food & great service will definitely keep me coming back here! The pimento cheese BLT and the Reuben come highly recommended. Oh & please don't skip out on their limeades - it's perfect for these hot summer days!

800995fe-8f5f-42cf-86ce-b9005f7c5860

This charming little sandwich shop has it going on! My first visit was for a late lunch and it was standing room only. I was greeted warmly as soon as I came in the door. Everyone was super friendly and helpful. Their menu is not extensive but they do have a nice variety to choose from. It is displayed above the bar. On offer are sandwiches, hot dogs, limeades, soft drinks, ice cream and milkshakes. You order at the bar and pay in the back. There are five or six tables available as well as seats at the bar. I got the BLT, chips, a limeade and a chocolate chunk cookie. I most definitely will be back. The BLT was the best I've ever had, including my own. To say it was piled high with bacon would be an understatement. The tomatoes were perfectly ripe and cut evenly and the lettuce was crisp and fresh with a perfect mayo spread. Their limeade, which they're known for, was so refreshing. It was just the right amount of sweet and sour. The cookie was also delicious. It was soft, buttery, and had huge chocolate chunks. I really can not wait until I can try their other menu items. I definitely recommend Gilchrist. Great food, great customer service, and they're quick even when busy.

Discover Gilchrist in Birmingham, AL—an exceptional restaurant blending local flavors with a warm ambiance. Experience memorable dining today!

Gilchrist Restaurant in Birmingham AL | Local Dining Experience

Birmingham

Gilchrist

Alabama

Discover Gilchrist, a top restaurant in Birmingham, AL. Enjoy delicious local cuisine and a cozy atmosphere. Book your table today!

Gilchrist Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at Gilchrist

Habitat Feed & Social

Abhi

CHOP N FRESH