I had two goals in mind during a recent trip to Cullman. I wanted to try a new eatery I'd heard about, and I wanted to see a Christmas display recently installed that was made in Germany and adds to that country's influence in this North Alabama town. I accomplished both AND found a fun spot for taking photos.
It's a small place, but it's easy to find. Just take Highway 31 through Decatur, Hartselle and into Cullman. Turn left on 4th Street, which is also Highway 278, then turn right on 2nd Avenue. 412 Public House is, appropriately enough, at 412 2nd Avenue, SE.
The building is very narrow in the front but deep once you walk inside. It has been open for only about 20 months but is already gaining a great reputation. My Silver Fox and I went for lunch on Christmas Eve, but I've already spotted items on the dinner menu that I will want to try in the near future.
Steve ordered the turkey burger, and I had the grilled chicken breast with American and mozzarella cheese and a slice of fried eggplant on a brioche bun. We both had the sweet potato fries which were very good. I was REALLY tempted by both the crab dip and the wonton nachos for appetizers, so I might just make a meal out of appetizers in another visit. For dinner, I want to try either a steak or the quail breast, and the creme brulee cheesecake sounds amazing. Prices are moderate. There's a large bar in the main dining area, and the vibe is very casual.
WEIHNACHTSPYRAMIDE (Christmas pyramid)
No doubt you've seen small ones in gift shops. They have candles that cause a horizontal windmill type of effect when they are lighted. The one in Cullman, though, is HUGE -- 30 feet high with six tiers. A German company, Erzgebirgische Holzkunst Gahlenz, made the individual pieces, then shipped them to Cullman and sent three of their workers to help put it together in a prime spot near the Cullman County Museum. It is only the third such Christmas pyramid in the United States, with the other two being in Texas and Colorado.
Each tier has a different theme, with the bottom one (and largest) being the figures of the nativity. The second is filled with nutcrackers, the third with snowmen and other tiers have more Christmas themed characters. The whole pyramid revolves slowly around while music plays. It is a stunning addition to the Christmas decor and adds a beautiful piece of German authenticity to the landscape.
I'm not sure when it will be dismantled until next Christmas, so go soon if you want to see it this year.
PUBLIC ART WITH COLORFUL WINGS
While driving away from the Christmas pyramid, I spotted a splash of color on the side of a building near the Farmer's Market at the very edge of the Warehouse District. I had to take a closer look. They aren't angel wings, but this fanciful pair of bird's wings is a sight to behold. You know you want to get your photo made in this spot.
Thank you for following ThereGoesConnie. I have many more places to show you in 2020.
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