Birmingham’s Local Businesses Face Closures in 2024

News Summary

In 2024, Birmingham experienced the closure of eleven local businesses, shaking the vibrant city known for its culture and economy. Heritage establishments like Five and Ghost Train Brewing Company have closed, leaving a bittersweet void in the community. As locals reflect on these losses, new ventures such as Odette are set to emerge, holding the promise of revitalization amidst the unsettling changes.

Birmingham’s Business Landscape Faces Changes with Local Closures in 2024

Birmingham, a city that basks in its vibrant culture and bustling economy, has found itself reflecting on a *transformative year* in 2024 as it faced the closure of several beloved local establishments. In total, eleven businesses closed their doors, leaving many residents feeling a mix of sadness and uncertainty.

Farewell to Fan-Favorites

First on the list is Five, a popular restaurant and bar located in Lakeview. This cherished spot known for its mouthwatering brunches, which even earned the title of *“Best Brunch in Alabama,”* closed its doors in January after a remarkable twelve-year run. Since its closure, the property has remained vacant, leaving many wondering what might come next for the space.

Moving into March, Birmingham bid adieu to Harvest Roots Kombucha, the city’s first-ever kombucha taproom. Owned by the dynamic duo of Pete Halupka and Lindsay Whitaker, this trendy spot offered an array of fermented products, including delicious krauts and spicy kimchi, for four years. Unfortunately, it closed down, leaving behind a fizzing memory of its bubbly beverages.

Brewing Trouble

Birmingham’s local brewery scene was hit hard when Ghost Train Brewing Company, known for its unique craft beers like the *Kaleidoscope Kettle Sour* and the *Gulf Coast IPA*, announced its permanent shutdown in September after filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Founded in 2014, this beloved brewery had become a staple for beer enthusiasts and community gatherings.

Then, in June, a fire caused Moe’s Original BBQ in Lakeview to close its doors temporarily. Though they hoped to reopen, months have passed, and there has been no sign of activity since the blaze. Fans of their smoky goodness are anxiously awaiting updates.

Long-Standing Tradition Comes to an End

Meanwhile, Richard Tubb Interiors, an interior design store in Pepper Place, announced its closure after over 50 years in business. The beloved shop is set to make way for a new woman-owned store called Odette, slated to open in 2025. While the change is bittersweet, many are excited about what Odette will bring to the design community.

In mid-October, the Hi-Wire Brewing taproom in Lakeview shut down after just two years in Alabama. Though it began with great promise in 2022, it seems they were unable to capture the hearts and taste buds of local craft beer fans.

Legendary Venues Close their Doors

The legendary Zydeco, known for its rich music and bar scene in Birmingham’s Five Points South, closed its doors after a fantastic 35-year run. The venue is looking to relocate in 2025, raising the hopes of many who cherished its live performances.

Summer wasn’t kind to the culinary scene either, with Cantina Tortilla Grill in West Homewood closing its doors once again after reopening in July 2023 following a four-year hiatus. Disappointment loomed over locals who were excited about its revival.

The Birmingham Candy Co. had also fallen on hard times, closing its location at the Pizitz Food Hall and announcing plans to end operations at its Crestline spot by May 31, 2024, after a nine-year sweet run.

Farewell to New Favorites

As if that wasn’t enough, Greenhouse shuttered both its Homewood and UAB District locations after five years of offering refreshing dishes and drinks. And finally, Hillside Music & Que, previously known as Pig & Palm, faced closure in November due to challenging economic conditions.

A Challenging Year Ahead

As Birmingham navigates through these closures, the community is left to reflect on the rich tapestry of local businesses that have shaped its culture. While some establishments will rise from the ashes with new ventures and revivals, others will merely serve as reminders of a time when they brought joy and a sense of togetherness to the city. Let’s hope that in the spirit of community and resilience, Birmingham can revitalize its business landscape with new and exciting offerings in the months and years to come.