The Ultimate Guide To Cassanova Restaurant & Bar: From NFL Linebacker To Birmingham's Hottest New Venue

Cassanova Bar & Lounge, a name synonymous with high-end cocktails and a captivating atmosphere in downtown Birmingham, has officially closed its doors at the original location, marking the end of its first chapter. However, as of this December 2025 update, the story is far from over: the establishment is undergoing a major evolution and relocation, transforming into the highly anticipated Cassanova Restaurant & Bar in the vibrant Lakeview District of Birmingham, Alabama.

This transition is more than just a change of address; it signifies an expansion of the vision held by owner and former NFL player Cassanova McKinzy. The move from the original spot on First Avenue North to a bigger, bolder concept promises to elevate its offering from a premier cocktail lounge to a full-service dining and nightlife destination, firmly cementing its place in the city's "Magic City" culinary and entertainment landscape.

The Owner's Journey: Cassanova McKinzy's Biography and Entrepreneurial Shift

The driving force behind the Cassanova brand is its namesake, Cassanova McKinzy, a local hero who transitioned from the football field to the competitive world of hospitality. His journey provides a compelling narrative of grit, ambition, and a dedication to his hometown of Birmingham.

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• Full Name: Cassanova McKinzy
• Born: November 17, 1992
• Birthplace: Birmingham, Alabama
• College Career: Attended Auburn University, where he was a standout linebacker for the Auburn Tigers. He was a key defensive player, known for his explosive speed and hard-hitting tackles.
• Professional Football Career (NFL/CFL):
  • Signed as an undrafted free agent by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2016.
  • Played for the Calgary Stampeders in the Canadian Football League (CFL).
  • Position: Linebacker (LB).
• Entrepreneurial Debut: Following his professional sports career, McKinzy returned to his roots to invest in his community. He opened the original Cassanova Bar & Lounge on First Avenue North in 2021.
• Business Philosophy: His ventures focus on creating upscale, visually stunning venues that provide a unique and memorable experience for Birmingham's patrons.

McKinzy's background as a professional athlete instills a specific level of discipline and work ethic into his business operations, which is often cited by patrons and local media. This commitment to excellence is the foundation upon which the new Lakeview establishment is being built.

The Evolution: From Cocktail Lounge to Full-Service Destination

The original Cassanova Bar & Lounge, located at 2312 1st Ave N, was a powerhouse of Birmingham nightlife for three years. It quickly gained a reputation not just for its drinks, but for its stunning interior design and exclusive atmosphere.

What the Original Venue Was Known For

The initial concept was a high-end, visually appealing cocktail lounge—the kind of place "Instagram dreams are made of." It was specifically designed to be a captivating destination for a sophisticated crowd looking for a vibrant, yet intimate, spot in downtown Birmingham. The focus was heavily on mixology and a chic ambiance, often requiring a dress code for entry, which helped cultivate its upscale brand.

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The bar served as a crucial entity in the revitalization of the First Avenue North area, attracting new energy and investment to the downtown core. However, the decision to close the original location in 2024 was made to facilitate a massive expansion of the brand's offerings.

The New Vision: Cassanova Restaurant & Bar

The relocation and rebranding to Cassanova Restaurant & Bar signals a major shift toward a more comprehensive hospitality experience. The new entity aims to blend the original lounge's celebrated atmosphere with a full-scale culinary program, moving beyond small plates and cocktails to offer a complete dining experience.

The new Lakeview location will allow the brand to tap into one of Birmingham's most dynamic and popular entertainment districts. Lakeview is known for its dense collection of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, making it the perfect home for a concept that balances upscale dining with a vibrant late-night scene.

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The New Hot Spot: Cassanova Restaurant & Bar in Lakeview

The announcement of the new location in May 2025 immediately created buzz across the city, promising one of the most exciting new openings of the year. The move to a larger, more prominent space allows McKinzy to fully realize his vision for a hybrid restaurant and entertainment venue.

Key Details of the New Lakeview Location

For those eager to experience the next evolution of the Cassanova brand, the key details are now public. The new location is positioned to become a central hub in the Lakeview nightlife scene, offering both dinner and drinks in a stylish setting.

• New Entity Name: Cassanova Restaurant & Bar
• New District: Lakeview District, Birmingham
• New Address: 3900 Clairmont Ave, Birmingham, AL 35222
• Concept: A full-service restaurant and bar, expected to feature an upscale "New American" style menu with an emphasis on gourmet comfort food and, of course, retaining its signature high-quality cocktail program.
• Atmosphere: While the original was a sleek lounge, the new venue is expected to maintain the visually appealing, Instagram-friendly aesthetic while adding a more robust dining area and expanded bar capacity.

The decision to expand into a full restaurant model reflects a growing trend in the hospitality industry, where patrons seek a seamless transition from dinner to late-night entertainment in a single, sophisticated venue. Cassanova McKinzy is leveraging his brand equity to deliver a top-tier experience that caters to both diners and those seeking a premium nightlife spot.

What to Expect from the Menu and Cocktails

While the specific, finalized menu for the new Cassanova Restaurant & Bar remains under wraps, the shift in focus suggests a more detailed and chef-driven approach to the food offerings. The original lounge was praised for its atmosphere, and the new iteration is poised to match that with a compelling culinary experience. Expect to see signature, handcrafted cocktails—perhaps with football-themed names—alongside a wine list curated to complement the new menu.

The new venue at 3900 Clairmont Ave is set to become a destination for both pre-game gatherings and late-night revelry, continuing the legacy of the original establishment while offering a fresh, expanded experience for the Magic City’s discerning crowd. The story of Cassanova is one of evolution, from the gridiron to the glamour of Birmingham's upscale hospitality scene.