Z's Restaurant, Birmingham

Black-eyed peas. Banana pudding. Oxtails. The menu at Z's Restaurant is inspired by some of the South's most classic recipes, down to the house made peach cobbler. Chicken is served baked or fried, and like the other entrees, such as filets of fish or meatloaf, it pairs perfectly with sides of yams, collard greens or mac 'n' cheese, broccoli casserole and mashed potatoes.

Z's dishes are pork-free, for breakfast they serve up turkey bacon and sausage, salmon croquettes, rice, and grits. Sandwiches include an all-beef hot dog, turkey club, and chicken salad made fresh daily. Z's vanilla-bean pie has garnered much acclaim, and is a favorite of the large groups that pass through, with space to accommodate up to 50 for fine dining.