Niki’s West has a long history in Birmingham, dating back to 1957—it’s still owned by the same Greek family that opened it. While the bones of a traditional meat and three are all there—a cafeteria line and trays, classic Southern sides, hearty proteins—Niki’s feels a bit more elevated than your typical meat and three, but in a very ‘80s Steak and Ale kind of way. Maybe it’s the black awning guiding diners into the restaurant out front, the chandelier-esque lighting inside, or the dress code before you enter (no tank tops, folks), but it’s clear that this grand dame hasn’t lost her touch with age.

Join the long cafeteria line at Niki’s West, an institution that has been dishing out classic meat-‘n’-three fare since 1957. You may have a hard time choosing just one meat and three vegetables from the seemingly endless hot bar, but favorites sides to consider include macaroni and cheese, fried okra, turnip greens, yams, and banana pudding. Folks have been patronizing Niki’s West religiously for years to get their fill of traditional entrees like country fried steak, lemon pepper catfish, and Greek chicken.

A true Birmingham classic, Niki’s West has been serving Southern staples for generations. This cafeteria-style restaurant near Finley Boulevard is known for its wide variety of meats, vegetables, and scratch-made desserts, all served up quickly, making it perfect for family dining without the long wait. Their fried chicken, meatloaf, and catfish are popular with regulars, and kids tend to love the mac and cheese, cornbread, and banana pudding.

Another wonderful buffet option in Birmingham is Niki’s West, the cafeteria line at Niki’s West is legendary. Mid-morning you can find folks in line, piling their plates high with some of the freshest and most colorful vegetables in Birmingham. And if the cafeteria line isn’t your style, they also have an a la carte menu where you’ll find even more fresh seafood, steaks, and a few traditional Greek dishes.

Why you should go: Niki’s West is the undeniable king of meat-and-three restaurants in Birmingham. It’s also a beloved institution here, open since 1957. Regulars flock to the place for a daily lunch fix, and plenty of folks who move away say Niki’s is a must when they return to the city for visits.

**Named by USA Today as one of the USA’s top ten restaurants, Niki’s offers a daily buffet of about 70 items including Southern fried chicken, catfish, seafood from the Gulf of Mexico and a range of desserts that make you fat just by looking at them. More Information: http://www.nikiswest.com

Whether you’re looking for a recommendation for where locals eat or delicious meat and threes, Niki’s West will be on both lists. Niki’s West is a must-try for anyone who wants a true taste of Birmingham, and with a history of over six decades, you know they’ve perfected their menu.

Located in an area full of heavy industry and down the street from the farmers' market, Niki's West delivers the best vegetables in Birmingham. You'll see everyone from lawyers to truck drivers at lunch. If you can eat $10 worth of food here, you may need a doctor

If you’re in the mood for classic Southern cooking, head to Niki’s West. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up delicious home-style meals since 1957. Try the fried chicken, smothered pork chops, or the famous meat-and-three plate.

233 Finley Ave W, Birmingham, AL 35204Phone: 123-456-7890 Visit Website. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Benjamin Yim (@benjamin.yim)