Birmingham’s Own Design Dynamo: Meet Suzanne Humphries Evans!
Oh, Birmingham! A city bustling with life, food, and culture, and at the heart of it all, the fabulous design talent of Suzanne Humphries Evans. As the co-owner and designer behind some of the city’s hottest dining spots, like Automatic Seafood & Oysters and Current Charcoal Grill, she is transforming how we eat out—and feel in the process!
A Designer with Serious Flair
Suzanne brings an irresistible charm to her restaurants that goes beyond just fantastic food—it’s about creating a cozy and inviting ambiance. When you step into either Automatic Seafood & Oysters or Current Charcoal Grill, you will immediately notice the thought and care put into every corner of the space. But how did Roger get here? Let’s rewind a bit!
Originally hailing from Alabama, Suzanne’s journey began far and wide, taking her through Washington, D.C., Copenhagen, and even New York, where she worked on Ralph Lauren’s design team. Now, she is back in Birmingham, shaping the local culinary scene. “I wanted to create a menu and space that reflects who we are and the freshest food that we can offer,” she said.
A Culinary Experience Like No Other
When you dine at Automatic, you’re likely to experience a retro vibe that perfectly matches its menu. Think fresh fish that highlights the best seafood available, all while enjoying a lively atmosphere. On the other hand, Current Charcoal Grill leans more toward a modern aesthetic, showcasing dishes that are often hard to replicate at home. Each plate is crafted to be a delightful experience that enhances your taste buds and warms your heart.
Memories Made Here
Suzanne believes that dining out is about more than just eating; it’s about the memories made along the way. “I hope our guests feel comfortable, at home, and happy,” she shared. She understands that for many, dining out takes planning and can be quite an investment. That’s why every element of the design is crafted to ignify the special moments spent together with loved ones.
Finding Balance Between Work and Family
With a busy restaurant empire and two little ones at home—an energetic three-year-old and a curious eleven-month-old—finding balance is key for Suzanne and her husband, chef Adam Evans. Whether they’re soaking in the sun at the beach or sipping coffee at Continental Bakery, they treasure family time immensely. “We love being by the ocean; it’s where we find our tranquility,” she said.
Books, Favorite Places, and Tips for Life
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, Suzanne enjoys diving into a good book, with titles like The Tale of Peter Rabbit nestled on her nightstand. She also cherishes Saturday mornings with her kids at the Botanical Gardens, proving just how important connectedness and family are to her life.
Suzanne has some wise words to live by: “Enjoy the process!” Whether in design, dining, or everyday life, she encourages everyone to savor every moment, even when facing the challenges that arise—like potty training (a process she’s currently navigating with a giggle!).
The Chapter Ahead
Birmingham is lucky to have Suzanne as part of its vibrant landscape. With her artistic vision and deep appreciation for meaningful experiences, who knows what she’ll bring to our dining tables next? Keep your eyes peeled for more surprises at Automatic Seafood & Oysters and Current Charcoal Grill, because with Suzanne at the helm, the best is yet to come!
So, the next time you decide to dine out in Birmingham, remember that it’s not just about the meal; it’s about enjoying the magic of the moment, crafted lovingly by the creative hands of Suzanne Humphries Evans.
