Memorial Day weekend was just beautiful and to celebrate we met some friends at Forest in Birmingham. Previously known as the Forest Grill, Mom and I had been there several times until a not so great experience some years ago. When the restaurant relaunched with a makeover and new owner last November, the reviews were amazing, so we knew we had to give it a second chance.
Spoiler alert: we are so glad we did.
Short Rib Cannelloni
The interior of the restaurant is just as beautiful as the day was outside. It is so fresh, modern, and clean looking. Our waitress Katrina, whom Mom and I had previously met at Townhouse, was super nice and knowledgeable about the menu.
I started the evening with a caipirinha, which I’d never had but would order again. It was bright, refreshing, and balanced, not too tart or strong.
Then we ordered the cauliflower ravioli for a shared appetizer. It was good but not my favorite part of the evening. The rest of the table loved it, however. Our friends tried the asparagus soup and house salad, while Mom got the carrot soup. Simply prepared, it is just carrots, ginger, lemongrass, and vegetable stock. I tasted it and then couldn’t stop. Rest assured Mom got a couple tastes 😉
Filet Mignon
Then the entrees came. They were all plated beautifully. Our guests ordered the chicken and salmon. Dad had the short rib cannelloni, Mom had the filet mignon, and I ordered duck breast for the first time. I always wanted to try duck and am so glad I did. The crispy skin was exquisite, as was the almond milk foam it was served with.
All the entrees were hits and the home fries we ordered to share were irresistible. Super thick cut, they were insanely crispy on the outside but moist and tender inside.
Duck Breast
Dessert rounded out the meal. While the rest of the table enjoyed baked Alaska with chocolate cake and vanilla semifreddo, Mom and I shared the olive oil cake. It was delightful with candied oranges and a streusel that I couldn’t get enough of.
I highly recommend Forest to anyone in the area. It was a delightful meal from start to finish, and I already can’t wait to go back.
Olive Oil Cake
What a great night for you and your friends! The food looks tremendous and I am so glad it was delicious. It was a beautiful weekend here too and we enjoyed it.