GENERAL
About This Spot
Stepping into GENERAL feels like uncovering a delightful secret nestled on Clairmont Avenue—a place where time seems to slow down just enough to savor both good company and thoughtful craft. The atmosphere is warmly inviting, balancing a cozy neighborhood café with the charm of a well-curated home goods shop. Vintage-inspired accents and small fresh flower arrangements on each table create a quietly nostalgic vibe, making it easy to feel at home whether you're pausing for a morning latte or lingering over a casual lunch.
The pace here is unhurried, reflective of a space designed for genuine moments rather than rushed encounters. Ordering at the counter introduces you to a friendly rhythm where each dish and drink arrives with care—whether it's the rich comfort of a caramel-laced latte or the satisfying heartiness of their seasonal soups and thoughtfully prepared kabobs. There’s a sense that every bite and sip is part of a subtle celebration, perfectly suited for both solitary reflection and small, joyful gatherings.
Beyond the café, GENERAL’s thoughtful selection of home goods invites you to explore as much as you savor. It’s a place where delicate pastry cases meet shelves of unique finds, encouraging discovery alongside the flavors you’ve come to enjoy. The interplay of food, thoughtful design, and curated items fosters an experience that lingers, like a warm conversation on a quiet afternoon.
Whether you find yourself settled in a sunlit corner or enjoying the inviting outdoor seating, GENERAL feels like a welcoming pause in the everyday—a spot where moments are savored, both simple and sweet.
What’s Available Here
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Outdoor seating
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On-site services
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Dine-in
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Delivery
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Great coffee
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Great tea selection
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Solo dining
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Good for working on laptop
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Wheelchair-accessible car park
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Wheelchair-accessible entrance
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Wheelchair-accessible seating
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Wheelchair-accessible toilet
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Coffee
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Comfort food
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Quick bite
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Small plates
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Breakfast
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Brunch
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Lunch
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Dessert
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Seating
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Toilet
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Casual
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Cosy
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Trendy
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Accepts reservations
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Credit cards
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Debit cards
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NFC mobile payments
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Good for kids
Location & Hours
| Monday | 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM | |
| Tuesday | 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM | |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM | |
| Thursday | 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM | |
| Friday | 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM | |
| Saturday | 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM | |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM |
Katharine ward 23 Dec 2025
I hosted my bridesmaid Luncheon at General Bham. Amazing food, amazing staff, amazing vibe. They went above and beyond to make the lunch special with little touches all throughout. I would definitely recommend for a casual lunch or any small celebration! Thank you for making the day special!
Wendy Darling 15 Dec 2025
I was staying at a house nearby and looking for a Saturday breakfast/lunch place. General was perfect. The interior is lovely, with Ting ceilings and cozy decor. You order at a counter and they bring it to your table. I sat outside and had a delicious “baker’s brunch” that included bacon, cheese, grits, fried egg, fried pimento cheese, and pickled collard greens. After I ate, I went in the second half of the business, which is a little shop, sewing napkins, and tea towels, and other cute homey things.
Claire Jackson 11 Dec 2025
I love this place so much! They have amazing gifts and food and fresh flowers on every table. I love seeing what’s new each time I go. And their garden salad with pickle dressing is the best!
Corrie Parks 05 Dec 2025
High-quality and unique pastries that are difficult to find around this part of the country. Festive and retro decor that makes you feel like a time-traveler.
Renee H 23 Oct 2025
I was looking for a place to grab some lunch but didn’t want a drive thru/fast food experience. This location was very close to my location and the reviews looked great! It’s such a unique place with it being both a restaurant as well as a shop. It’s got a very nostalgic feel to it with the decor and items for sale. I saw a couple students but when I visited I mostly saw upper class looking Caucasian ladies. Being a very laid back, down to earth and often times socially awkward, I admit that it felt a little hoity toity, while also being a very welcoming spot. It’s hard to explain, so you’ll have to check it out for yourself. Also worth noting for the plus size community: the chairs are not plus size friendly. (See zoomed in photo) The employees there were on top of their jobs and super helpful. They cleaned up the tables that emptied quickly, as the lunch crowd trickled in. The food was good. I loved the creative presentation of the sampler plate! The pimento cheese was very cold and hard to spread but I still it. The toast triangles were delicious! While they offer a lot of excellent coffee choices. I only got a 1/2 & 1/2 tea. Even the restroom was really neat with the retro decor. I’d definitely go back.
Joanna Schaus 19 Sep 2025
Loved General! Was such a quaint and cozy space. The almond croissant was amazing! Will be coming back here. Update: Went back again and had their fresh squeezed lemonade and OH MY IT WAS AMAZING! The staff is always so kind and helpful. :)
owen Utsey 18 Sep 2025
General is a standout spot in Birmingham, offering an elevated yet approachable dining experience with a focus on modern American cuisine. The restaurant’s atmosphere is warm and inviting, blending industrial-chic décor with comfortable seating and ambient lighting that makes it perfect for date nights, casual dinners, or special gatherings. The menu at General emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients prepared with creativity and precision. From expertly cooked steaks and seafood to inventive small plates, each dish is thoughtfully crafted and beautifully presented. Seasonal specials rotate frequently, ensuring there’s always something new to try. Cocktails are equally impressive, with a curated list of craft options, wine, and beer that complement the menu perfectly.
Blair Bauer 16 Sep 2025
I love Shoppe and the General store, so I was so excited to try the cafe side of things. The setting is the most perfect environment for studying/brunch/date/really anything! The interior design of the General store is so beautiful and unique. The hazelnut latte I got tasted perfect and I had the best time studying there. The cafe and store staff were so kind and wonderful. My only disappointment was in the food I ordered. I got the croque monsieur and it felt like I was eating greasy, hot ham and cheese on white bread. I was very underwhelmed and that is what has made me feel hesitant to return. The bakery items looked tasty, so maybe it was what I ordered. For this I have to take off 1 star, but I really hope to return and have a different experience. (And yes I had to take a video of the bathroom because it was GLAMOROUS)