Alabama seafood restaurant on Bon Appétit’s list of best new restaurants in the country

Birmingham’s food scene just scored another major national shoutout. Bayonet Raw Bar has been named one of Bon Appétit’s 19 Best New Restaurants of 2026, putting the Magic City seafood spot alongside some of the country’s buzziest new dining destinations.

Led by James Beard semifinalist chef Rob McDaniel, Bayonet Raw Bar opened on 2nd Avenue North in 2025 and quickly made a splash with a menu dedicated entirely to fresh Gulf seafood.

The restaurant offers an extensive oyster selection by the half or whole dozen, along with creative takes on Gulf Coast favorites, lesser-known catches and plenty of unique cocktails.

Here’s what you need to know to visit for yourself:

• Where: 2015 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• When: Mon–Sat: 11AM–9PM | Happy Hour: Mon–Sat: 3PM–5PM
• Website | Facebook | Instagram
• Menus

Check out the full story + more information on Bayonet from our friends at Bham Now.