Birmingham’s Armour House Set to Open November 8, 2024
BIRMINGHAM, AL – A new culinary destination is on the horizon for downtown Birmingham as Armour House, an upscale steak and seafood restaurant, is set to open for dinner service on November 8, 2024. Located in the historic Armour & Co. building, which has stood for over a century at 2309 First Ave. North, the restaurant promises to bring a unique dining experience to local residents and visitors alike.
A Fresh Take on Dining
Led by Executive Chef Jeffrey Compton, who comes with a wealth of experience from his years at Auburn’s renowned Acre restaurant and from being the opening chef at The Battery in Homewood, Armour House aims to offer an elevated brasserie dining experience. Chef Compton expressed his excitement, stating, “We’re thrilled to bring elevated brasserie dining and a new culinary experience to the Birmingham community.”
Since joining the project in April 2023, Compton has been instrumental in shaping the concept for Armour House along with his partners, Rollins Montgomery and Chris Reebals. Montgomery is the CEO of Montgomery Entities, while Reebals is the president of Christopher Architecture & Interiors. Compton noted, “It’s been a long time coming, getting this restaurant going, but we’re biting at the bit.”
Historic Setting with Modern Flair
The building, originally constructed in 1911, previously served as a pork-processing facility for Armour & Company. Its transformation into a stylish dining venue preserves significant historical elements, featuring original tiled brick flooring and floor-to-ceiling windows. Guests can also admire live dry-aging cabinets where meats and seafood will be showcased.
Armour House will accommodate up to 116 guests in its main dining room, chef’s counter, and a front patio. The restaurant’s décor aims to blend the history of the space with contemporary touches, and as Compton put it, “We’re not going to do white tablecloths because we want to show off the tables.”
A Menu Full of Delights
The anticipated menu includes various options, like Black Angus beef tenderloin served with pomme puree and charred broccolini, alongside a tempting bluefin tuna crudo featuring huckleberry and champagne granita. Compton emphasized that the menu will highlight both seafood and steak, stating, “We’re going to do a little bit of everything.”
For sourcing ingredients, Compton plans to work closely with local suppliers such as Evans Meats and Inland Foods from Birmingham, alongside produce from Ireland Farms in Alpine and Magic City Mushrooms in Birmingham. This commitment to local sourcing showcases the restaurant’s dedication to community engagement.
Extensive Beverage Options
The restaurant’s beverage program, under the guidance of General Manager Caleb Reeves, aims to offer a curated selection of cocktails, beers, and wines. Signature drinks will include the Armour House Martini and the Morris Avenue Mojito, setting the stage for a well-rounded dining experience.
More Than Just a Restaurant
In addition to the main dining area, Armour House will feature a separate cocktail bar and a speakeasy-style lounge named Pogo. Scheduled to open on November 22, Pogo will offer a distinct ambiance for patrons looking for a more informal setting.
Hours and Reservations
Armour House will be open Tuesdays through Thursdays from 4:30 to 9 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from 4:30 to 10 p.m. Reservations will be available soon, with further updates and information accessible via the restaurant’s website.
With an experienced team backing the concept and a deep connection to local culinary practices, Birmingham’s Armour House is set to be a vibrant addition to the city’s dining scene. As the opening date approaches, the community is buzzing with anticipation for this elevated dining experience.
