At Mare Mediterranean in Birmingham, you’ll be greeted by a video wall playing scenes of people dancing underwater. While sitting at your table, you’ll be distracted by the people who appear to be regulars filling the loud and lively dining room.

You’ll strain at times to hear your companions over pulsating electronic music that seems more fitting for the club than a restaurant, but it adds to the buzz and energy in the room.” The server will invite you to peruse the market to pick your dinner.