The latest all-American eatery in the Northern Quarter, Alabama’s specialises in hearty US-style brunch and lunch dishes (it’s closed in the evening). The attractive decor feels understated, and coupled with the friendly service makes for an appealing venue to spend the morning with a coffee and the papers – if you can get a table. Breakfast is a serious business: a 4oz pink sirloin comes with eggs, bacon, buttermilk pancakes and home fries, and there are tempting selections of omelettes and sandwiches. We enjoyed two free-range eggs cooked over-easy and served with flat sausage, crisp streaky bacon and home fries in a deliciously salty gravy. An indulgent stack of fluffy buttermilk pancakes came with wild berries, berry compote and rich Chantilly cream. Homemade breads accompany breakfast at no extra cost; the French toast is especially good. In all, a fine place to celebrate the most important meal of the day.