BESOS opens in Birmingham

After years of construction and anticipation, BESOS has officially opened at 239 N. Old Woodward Avenue in Birmingham. Helmed by celebrity chef Matthew Kenney, the restaurant offers a plant-based dining experience centered on bold flavors and artistic presentation. Kenney is the author of 12 cookbooks, founder of dozens of vegan restaurants across the U.S., and creator of Matthew Kenney Cuisine and Matthew Kenney Culinary, a plant-based culinary education company. The menu is described as “globally inspired comfort food with a very modern touch, featuring pizzas, rich pastas, vibrant share plates, and inventive signature dishes.” Highlights include the Heart of Palm Crab Cake with Brussel leaf slaw and Green Goddess aioli; Cauliflower “Steak” with pomegranate, pistachio, turmeric tahini, and black olives; and Heirloom Tomato Lasagna with pistachio pesto and macadamia ricotta. The beverage program includes handcrafted cocktails as well as curated non-alcoholic offerings. Named for the restaurant’s location, The Woodward Old Fashioned combines bourbon, maple syrup, fig jam, Angostura bitters, orange bitters, and smoked sea salt. BESOS’s stylish, intimate interior was designed by Ron & Roman. The playful space blends warm wood tones with hot pink accents, anchored by a long wood-paneled bar illuminated with amber underlighting that creates a cozy glow. Slim cylindrical pendant lights add a clean, minimalist touch, while bold black-and-white geometric flooring brings visual energy to the room. BESOS is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. 239 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham