Bites Nearby: Tallulah Wine Bar & Bistro

Tallulah Wine Bar & Bistro,155 S. Bates Street, Birmingham, (248) 731-7066

strikes a nice balance between food and wine in a simple setting that matches its concise menu of fresh, contemporary American fare and an eclectic wine list. 

White-covered tables are set around the room, painted pure white and a soft shade of sand. The bar is topped in white onyx and carries out the monochromatic tone theme; behind it, a large mirror gives the illusion of more space.  

The kitchen is open to view, adding to the vitality. Chefs can be glimpsed turning out such dishes as whole trout, roasted chicken and hanger steak — basics that take on pizazz with creative garnishes.  

Proprietor Mindy VanHellemont and Executive Chef Jake Abraham keep the list of dishes brief and to the point. Appetizers, salads, pastas and entrees add up to only 17 total dishes, but there are always nightly specials to vary the list. 

Sharable appetizers are emphasized. There's a selection of artisan cheeses as well as a tasting plate of Serrano ham, multicolored olives, almonds and pecorino cheese, as well as a plate of black grapes, toasted pistachios and more cheeses.   

Tallulah is still young as well; the bistro will celebrate its first anniversary on Feb. 24.

Recommended dishes: Tasting plate of Serrano ham, pecorino cheese, olives and almonds, Tallulah salad of baby greens, apples, pears, candied walnuts and goat cheese, whole trout with pancetta, watercress, grapefruit and fennel.

Prices: Appetizers $5-$12, salads $8-$10, pastas $15-$18, entrees $16-$24, desserts $5-$8

Credit cards: All major

Hours: 5-11 p.m. Monday-Saturday, brunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and dinner 4-9 p.m. Sunday