Picture this. You walk into your favorite local coffee place. It’s got high ceilings, brick walls and tons of seating. There are tons of amazing food options and the coffee is incredible. You are in Urban Standard.
A downtown treasure for Birmingham, AL, Urban Standard easily ranks in the list of my 5 favorite places to eat when visiting this town. With a menu that is considerate for all diets and lifestyles, it’s easy to find something you’d like. Plus, the open atmosphere blends the best of coffeehouse and lofts vibes into one.
Because they offer a menu that features a variety of sandwiches, soups and salads, I find that I don’t have to order the same option every time. I’ve been a fan of their hummus plate for a few years but this past weekend I tried something new: hippie gumbo.
Now, I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not much for okra. We didn’t eat a lot of fried foods in my house as a kid and the few times I had it cooked plain I found it a bit slimy. But in this dish it shined.
Cooked just to softness, the okra added a nice touch to the plant based gumbo. From the tofu to the spices, I found myself enjoying the smallest details in the dish. It is the perfect rainy day meal but is filled with tons of plant based goodness.
In addition to the gumbo, they are several sandwich options that are either plant-based or that can be adapted. There is a veggie reuben that is made with beet pastrami, or you could try their cold urban noodle bowl. And of course, they offer their take on the veggie burger just urban style.
If you’re looking to drop in for breakfast, there is a tofu scramble and offer granola with non-dairy milk options. As well as, they offer a handful of vegan baked goods but they may vary based on availability.
Personally, I’m a fan of their coffee. If you’re looking for an afternoon pick me up or your morning jolt, you can’t go wrong with a latte or a cup of tea from Urban Standard. Or if you’re looking for something different, they offer a local kombucha: Harvest Roots.
Overall, I’d highly recommend adding Urban Standard to your list of places to try if you’re in Birmingham, AL. I’m a huge fan of supporting local places and my love for Urban has only grown over the years.
Have you been to Urban Standard? Or do you have another favorite place in Birmingham I need to try? Leave me a note below and let me know.
And if you’re heading to the beach any time soon, be sure to check out my plant based at the beach guides for Seaside and Rosemary.
Until next time
Xoxo,
Savannah
