BIRMINGHAM, May 11 — After nine years of being "Susan Lucci-ed” out of the James Beard award for outstanding restaurant in the US, Birmingham restaurant Highlands Bar and Grill is poised to become a household name among gourmands across America, after finally taking the crown this week.

It’s a cheeky but unflattering comparison chef Frank Stitt has heard for years since first being nominated in 2009.

But on Monday night, at the annual event known as the "Oscars” of the US food world, Stitt was finally able to take to the stage to accept the title of "national standard bearer of consistent quality and excellence in food, atmosphere, and service”.

The award also places Birmingham, Alabama on the US food map, alongside food capitals like New York, Chicago and San Francisco.

The menu at Highlands Bar and Grill changes daily, and features regional, seasonal, heritage ingredients from Alabama, prepared with classic French techniques. — AFP-Relaxnews