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Birmingham

Chris Z's is a beloved spot known for its delicious and affordable food, with highlights including the Big Nasty breakfast dish, Chris Z dog hotdog, and friendly staff. Reviewers praise the homemade breakfasts, generous portions, and diner atmosphere. The place is recommended for its quick service, great prices, and welcoming feel that makes customers want to return.

Discover the Flavor and Charm of Chris Z's in Birmingham AL 

Nestled in the vibrant Lakeview District of Birmingham, Alabama, Chris Z's is a cherished culinary gem renowned for delivering hearty, homemade breakfasts and lunches that satisfy both the appetite and the soul. Located at 2808 University Boulevard, this welcoming establishment boasts a loyal following thanks to its generous portions, wallet-friendly prices, and a menu that celebrates classic Southern comfort food with a distinctive twist.

 offers beloved Southern staples with standout dishes that have earned high praise from locals and visitors alike. The signature Big Nasty—a generous serving of crispy hash browns topped with your choice of meat and two eggs—is a must-try for anyone craving a filling start to their day. For those seeking a lighter option, the Little Nasty offers the same great taste in a smaller portion. Breakfast enthusiasts rave about the made-to-order omelets, while hot dog aficionados can’t get enough of the famous Chris Z dog: a large, butterflied, and grilled wiener smothered in special sauce and all the classic trimmings—a true Birmingham hot dog experience.

Patrons of Chris Z's consistently praise the restaurant for its warm, homey atmosphere where friendly faces greet you like family. The quick service and reasonable prices add to the charm, making it an ideal spot for daily breakfast or lunch. From satisfying breakfast biscuits to classic burgers and sandwiches, the straightforward menu pleases a broad crowd. Many appreciate the use of vegetable oil for frying, accommodating allergen concerns and adding to the appeal.

Full breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee, and dessert menu

What are the operating hours of Chris Z's?

 Chris Z's operates Monday through Friday from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, and is closed on weekends.

 Yes, Chris Z's offers parking facilities for its customers.

 Yes, Chris Z's provides catering services for events, including options like breakfast biscuits, hot dog lunches, and deli sandwiches.

: The vibrant local community holds Chris Z's in high regard, praising its consistently delicious and affordable menu options, welcoming atmosphere, and friendly staff that make every visit feel like coming home. This positive sentiment reflects a spot where great food and genuine hospitality come together to create memorable dining experiences.

North America

United States

Nestled in the vibrant Lakeview District of Birmingham, Alabama, Chris Z's offers a unique culinary experience that combines hearty American classics with a welcoming, neighborhood vibe. This restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its generous portions, affordable prices, and a menu that caters to breakfast, lunch, and dinner cravings. Whether you're craving a classic hot dog or a filling breakfast, Chris Z's promises a satisfying and authentic taste of Birmingham.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN3b0xmRktnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJoxC6DbYbiYgRiPN5hI40Ge4/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN3b0xmRktnEAE

A favorite breakfast and lunch place. Affordable, tasty food and good portions. The Big Nasty which is hash browns with a choice of meat and  two eggs on top is highly recommended. A meal that will last you all day. If that's too much, they also offer a Little Nasty which is half size.  Omelets are also recommended. Must try lunch sometime.

Tried the Chris Z dog, for breakfast yet.  Highly recommended if you're a hot dog person at all.  A large weiner is butterflied and grilled to brown perfection then placed on a bun and smothered in their special sauce and all the other trimmings.  A super example of the Birmingham hot dog.

Recently raised rating from 3 to 4 stars.  Consistently good.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN3dXZTUzJ3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJoxC6DbYbiYgRiPN5hI40Ge4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN3dXZTUzJ3RRAB

Great food! Great People! Feels like home everytime I walk in.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNBcllPVktBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJoxC6DbYbiYgRiPN5hI40Ge4/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNBcllPVktBEAE

Great homemade breakfast, prepared the spot, quickly. Very reasonably priced, will come for lunch one day

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNhZ3JHMGJBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJoxC6DbYbiYgRiPN5hI40Ge4/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNhZ3JHMGJBEAE

I had the big nasty and it was great. Today was my first time trying this place.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURNellqSDdBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJoxC6DbYbiYgRiPN5hI40Ge4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURNellqSDdBRRAB

Good food at a good price. Greasy hole in the wall places, like this, will always be a favourite of mine. Straightforward, unpretentious, menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, hotdogs, and a few breakfast staples in sufficient portions at fair prices. Definitely worth a visit.

For those with allergen concerns: as of my visit here (7/January/2020), they fry using vegetable oil.
(Best to call and confirm before your own visit, just to be sure)

Chris Z's Catering: Tasty Breakfast & Lunch in Lakeview Birmingham

Chris Z's was a cherished breakfast and lunch spot in Birmingham, Alabama, known for its hearty meals and friendly atmosphere. It was particularly famous for dishes like the Big Nasty and Chris Z Dog.

History of Chris Z's in Birmingham Alabama 

Nestled in the vibrant Lakeview District of Birmingham, Alabama, Chris Z's quickly became a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike after opening its doors in 2013. Known for its hearty breakfast and lunch options, this establishment carved out a niche with its welcoming atmosphere and generous portions that delighted food enthusiasts across the city.

By 2017, Chris Z's signature dish, the famous Big Nasty — a filling combination of hash browns, a choice of meat, and two eggs on top — had become a local sensation. This dish, along with the fan-favorite Chris Z Dog, a perfectly grilled hot dog topped with a special sauce and classic trimmings, embodied the comfort food spirit that customers craved. These offerings helped solidify Chris Z's reputation as a go-to spot for satisfying, down-to-earth meals.

Expansion into catering and community presence

In 2020, Chris Z's widened its footprint by expanding catering services to support local events across Birmingham. This move brought their beloved flavors to a broader audience and further connected the brand with the community. Despite being a casual spot, the restaurant maintained a reputation for consistently good food, affordable pricing, and a friendly atmosphere that felt like home to many patrons.

In 2024, Chris Z's sadly closed its doors permanently, leaving behind fond memories and a strong imprint on Birmingham's culinary scene. Its legacy lies in the hearty, flavorful meals it served up day after day, and the sense of community it fostered through its welcoming vibe and genuine hospitality. Though no longer operating, Chris Z's remains a cherished part of Birmingham's food history that continues to inspire lovers of classic Southern comfort cuisine.

 Chris Z's opened its doors in Birmingham, Alabama.

 The Big Nasty dish gained popularity among locals.

 Chris Z's expanded its catering services for local events.

 Chris Z's closed its operations permanently.

A selection of hearty breakfast and lunch options, including signature dishes like the Big Nasty and Chris Z Dog.

Big Nasty

Little Nasty

Omelet Z

Chris Z Dog

Z Cheeseburger

Grilled Chicken Philly

Breakfast Platter

Egg and Cheese Biscuit

Cheese Grits

Hash Browns

Brownie

Homemade Cheesecake Pie

Chris Z's Menu

Located in the lively Lakeview District of Birmingham, Chris Z's prides itself on serving hearty breakfast and lunch options that satisfy both appetite and soul. Known for its generous portions and authentic flavors, this local favorite offers a menu crafted to delight lovers of classic comfort food.

Begin your meal with satisfying Southern-inspired starters that set the tone for a comforting dining experience. The Breakfast Platter features eggs cooked just right, your choice of meat, and a side of hash browns or grits paired with toast or a fluffy biscuit. For a simpler bite, try their Egg and Cheese Biscuit, a warm biscuit filled with fluffy eggs and melted cheese. Cheese Grits offer a creamy, savory side, while crispy Hash Browns provide a classic, golden accompaniment.

Chris Z's mains are the heart of the menu and showcase signature dishes that have earned their loyal following. The legendary Big Nasty stacks crispy hash browns with your choice of meat and tops it all with two eggs, creating a meal that fuels you for the whole day. If you prefer a lighter portion, the Little Nasty offers the same delicious ingredients in half the size. Omelet Z is a classic three-ingredient omelet with eggs, meat, and cheese, expertly prepared to order.

For sandwich enthusiasts, the Chris Z Dog is a standout: a butterflied and grilled hot dog smothered in a special house sauce and topped with all the traditional trimmings, embodying the spirit of Birmingham's beloved hot dog culture. The Z Cheeseburger features a juicy beef patty nestled in a soft bun with fresh lettuce, tomato, onion, and melted cheese. Meanwhile, the Grilled Chicken Philly combines tender grilled chicken with bell peppers, onions, and cheese, all served on a hoagie roll for a satisfying handheld meal.

End your dining experience on a sweet note with homemade desserts that showcase classic flavors. The rich Brownie blends chocolate, flour, sugar, and eggs into a fudgy treat perfect for chocolate lovers. The Homemade Cheesecake Pie features a creamy cream cheese filling with a graham cracker crust, delivering a luscious finish to your meal.

Discover Chris Z's in Birmingham, AL, a unique catering-only restaurant offering delicious food in the vibrant Lakeview District.

Birmingham Catering: Chris Z's in Lakeview District

Jefferson County

Chris Z's (Catering Only)

Provides catering for events with options like breakfast biscuits, hot dog lunches, and deli sandwiches.

Catering Services

Experience Authentic Breakfast and Lunch in Birmingham's Lakeview District at Chris Z's Catering Only 

Nestled in the vibrant Lakeview District of Birmingham, Alabama, Chris Z's (Catering Only) is a beloved local establishment famous for its hearty, homemade breakfast and lunch offerings. Although it operates primarily as a catering service, Chris Z's has earned a dedicated following thanks to its generous portions, flavorful dishes, and the warm, welcoming vibes that make every meal feel like a home-cooked feast.

One of the standout favorites is the iconic "Big Nasty," a bold breakfast plate featuring perfectly cooked hash browns topped with two eggs and your choice of meat—this dish promises to satisfy hunger all day long. For those with a lighter appetite, the "Little Nasty" offers the same delicious components in a half-sized portion. Omelets are also highly recommended for breakfast lovers craving something fresh and flavorful.

 is a must-try for hot dog enthusiasts. This large, butterflied weiner is grilled to a perfect brown, nestled in a bun, and smothered with a unique special sauce and all the traditional trimmings that pay homage to Birmingham’s local flavors.

Catering Services Tailored for Your Events

Beyond serving up delicious meals, Chris Z's specializes in catering for a variety of events. Whether you’re planning a corporate breakfast, a casual lunch gathering, or a celebratory party, their catering menu includes breakfast biscuits, hot dog lunches, and deli sandwiches crafted with the same care and flavor that have made them a neighborhood favorite.

 – Perfect for foodies looking for hearty, budget-friendly meals.

 – Convenient options for enjoying Chris Z's favorites at home or at your next event.

 – Welcoming atmosphere suitable for children and all ages.

 – Enjoy your meal in the fresh air when visiting.

While Chris Z's is famously known for its breakfast and lunch, it also serves dinner and dessert, ensuring that there is always something to satisfy your cravings any time of day. The menu is straightforward and unpretentious, focusing on classic American comfort foods like burgers, sandwiches, and hot dogs. Payment options include debit cards, and the venue accepts delivery orders, making it easy to enjoy their delicious offerings from wherever you are.

 If you're a hot dog fan, don’t miss the chance to try the Chris Z dog, a flavorful staple that perfectly represents Birmingham’s local taste.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through Birmingham, Chris Z's offers an authentic Southern dining experience that combines generous portions, classic comfort food, and a community spirit that makes every visit feel like coming home.

Alabama

Discover the hearty breakfast, lunch, and catering services at Chris Z's in Birmingham's Lakeview District. Enjoy delicious meals and friendly atmosphere.

Explore Chris Z's Birmingham AL - Famous Diner & Catering

Savor the famous Big Nasty and Chris Z Dog at Birmingham's beloved diner. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, and catering in Lakeview District.

Chris Z's Birmingham AL - Top Hot Dogs & Breakfast Spot

Learn about the history of Chris Z's in Birmingham, known for hearty meals, friendly staff, and community spirit. A local breakfast and lunch staple.

Chris Z's Catering: Tasty Breakfast & Lunch in Lakeview Birmingham

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