ovenbird

Date Night Done Right's Guide to the BEST Date in Birmingham

Joseph and Alex Bowker of Date Night Done Right.

This week we are thrilled to introduce Joseph and Alex Bowker, the couple that is masterfully behind Date Night Done Right. Even though Joseph and Alex are from the same hometown, their paths didn’t cross until they met at The University of Alabama eight years ago. From the beginning, dating has been a significant cornerstone in their relationship and helped keep the ever-cherished spark alive.

We love coming up with new, fun, and exciting ways to spend time together.
— Joseph and Alex: Date Night Done Right

Most of us cut our teeth on the hope that we could find a lover that helps us ignite that giddy excitement time and time again - thanks Disney. We admire Date Night Done Right because they understand that the beauty of romance is in the intentionality. From cozy date nights at home to fun escapades around town, Date Night Done Right has a curated feed of date nights for all. Today, Alex and Joseph are taking us on their personal favorite kind of couples excursion, a progressive dinner around our favorite city. Join us as we take a romantic culinary tour around some of the most coveted spots in Birmingham!

 

DRINKS

The Bowkers suggest dawning off date night at Juniper for drinks. Our Bustle team also has a big crush on Juniper. (If you would like to see our full review, you can visit that blog post here.) The duo recommends the Buzz Word cocktail - truly one of the best gin drinks in Bham! Juniper also has a beautiful menu of mocktails for anyone who wants to go sans alcohol. Almost as essential as the bubbly, you can’t leave the restaurant without a quick photo sesh on the gold patterned swing in front of their gorgeous botanical wall.

The botanical wall at Juniper in Birmingham, AL.

Images by Mary Fehr and Juniper

APPETIZERS

Next, head to Ovenbird for appetizers. Their small plates are easily shareable and make for the perfect starter. Just as the Beef Fat Candle and Snapper Throat are Chris Hastings’ favorites on the menu, they are the Bowker’s favorites too! There is something for every culinary palate at Ovenbird. The small plate selection feels special every time.

The outside of Ovenbird in Birmingham, AL.

Photos by Ovenbird Birmingham.

ENTREES

Inside of Helen in Birmingham, AL.

Photos by Helen Birmingham

Then, enjoy the main course at Helen, one of Esquire’s “best new restaurants in the U.S.” Pick from a variety of beef, lamb, pork, poultry, and seafood options. The Bowker’s go-tos are always the Coulotte and Seafood A La Plancha. Helen is a refreshed take on classic dining that pays homage to the restaurant owner’s memories cooking over the hardwood coals and smoke of his grandmother’s indoor grill. A sentimental taste to savor.

DESSERTS

End this cinematic evening with dessert at Bottega. Anyone with a love for sweets has not had a complete meal until they’ve eaten the coconut-pecan cake. The interior and exterior at Bottega is what all our date night dreams are made of. The lighting and decor is an open invitation for romance. All you need is a little dose of sugar to spark some coquettish conversation.

The outside of Bottega in Birmingham, AL.

Photos by Bottega Birmingham

The founders of Date Night Done Right.

Visit Date Night Done Right on instagram to view their endless showcase of dating ideas. They also offer personalized date planning services tailored to each couple based on their needs and preferences. These services can be found on their website. The Bowkers love inspiring couples to never stop dating and live their best life together!