In 1988 Stitt opened Bottega Restaurant nearby, borrowing Italian cooking traditions. Both restaurants spawned more casual siblings, Bottega Cafe adjoining Bottega, and Chez Fonfon next door to Highlands. Stitt's kitchens have directly influenced many local culinary talents, such as Chris Hastings, owner of Hot and Hot Fish Club. His activism on behalf of locally grown farm products has energized the area's local food movement.Carlton, Bob (November 16, 2008) "20 years of favorites." Birmingham News
