7 exciting dishes to try at De Nada restaurant in Birmingham
Owner Armando Martinez suggests these dishes to newcomers at his "upscale casual" Mexican restaurant.
Ethan Parker 
If you have been looking for an upscale casual spot to satisfy your cravings, Birmingham’s Parkside District has a new destination for you. De Nada, owned by Armando Martinez, officially opened its doors on April 22 at 1300 Second Ave. South. With a mission to balance an elevated atmosphere with a fun, party-ready energy, the restaurant is already making a splash in Birmingham’s Parkside District.
A Taste of Tradition
The restaurant’s slogan, “Tacos, Margs & Mas,” perfectly captures the vibe, but the menu runs deep with authentic flavors and Tex-Mex favorites. We sat down with Martinez to get his top recommendations for first-timers looking to navigate the menu.
Must-Try Specialties
Pollo con Mole: This dish is deeply personal for Martinez. The chicken breast is served over rice and beans, smothered in a classic chocolate-based sauce featuring a 16-spice blend and a mild chili kick. The recipe, passed down from his grandmother Anna Hernandez, is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to heritage. The plate is garnished with radishes, a staple that adds both crunch and a visual pop, a detail refined by chef Sergio Mendoza.
Fish Entree: For those seeking something light, Martinez recommends the fish dish served with cilantro lime rice and black beans. It’s topped with avocado, pickled onions, queso fresco, and a tangy avocado lime ranch.
Chicken Tinga Soup: This isn't your average tortilla soup. The server pours a savory tomato-based broth over Monterey Jack cheese right at your table, creating a melty, flavorful experience that is as much an event as it is a meal.
The Cowboy Ribeye: For the hungry guest, this 12-ounce ribeye marinated in an orange blend is the ultimate Texan-style comfort dish, served with house-cut fries and a bacon-wrapped cream cheese jalapeno.
Desserts to Remember
No trip to De Nada is complete without dessert. The kitchen features a dedicated space just for crafting fresh churros and tortillas, which guests can view through a special window. The churros are dusted in cinnamon and sugar, with options for strawberry, cajeta (Mexican caramel), or chocolate filling.
If you prefer something creamy, the house-made flan is a perfectly executed custard. For cake lovers, the tres leches is a standout, ditching the excess whipped cream in favor of a deep soak of condensed, evaporated, and whole milk to ensure maximum flavor in every bite.
Visit De Nada
Located in the Urban Supply development near Regions Field, De Nada is open Sunday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Check out their website, or follow them on Instagram and TikTok for updates.
