Explore a new city, grab a cocktail and try our favourite places to eat in Birmingham.

13 minutes

Located in the iconic Custard Factory, Passing Fancies is one of the UK Top 50 Cocktail Bars. An absolute must-visit for any cocktail lover visiting the city. The team behind this multiple-award winning venue describe the bar as bringing ‘approachable luxury’ to Digbeth. Passing Fancies is co-owned by Matt Arnold who, in 2023, won the World Class GB competition, he’s at the top of his game and the menu at Passing Fancies really reflects that.

Their offer is regularly changing but if the ‘Salt & Rye’ cocktail is on the list, be sure to give it a go (you won’t regret it!). Keep an eye on their Instagram  too as these guys quite regularly collaborate with other exceptional bars around the country.

30 The Custard Factory, Gibb Street, B9 4BF

27 minutes

Nestled in the heart of the historic Jewellery Quarter, Grain & Glass has a library of over 300 open whiskies…but this is not just a venue for whisky lovers. Unsurprisingly they do have a selection of excellent twists on the classic Old Fashioned but their house cocktails include some great options for gin and vodka lovers too. 

It’s worth taking a look at their website to see what events they have coming up. You’ll find everything from cheese & whisky matching to fortified wine tastings. Often exceptionally good value and something a little bit different too.

75-80 Vyse St, Jewellery Quarter, B18 6HA

7 minutes

There are lots of things I love about Fox and Chance. Firstly it’s table service only, so no lengthy queues at the bar. Secondly they’ve got a cracking indie playlist and the volume is set purposefully low so you can have a conversation without having to shout at your friends. Finally, they are dead serious about drinks. You can expect high quality cocktails, occasional collaborations with other venues and even a mean Irish coffee to warm you up on a cold day. This is another of the city’s venues that features on the prestigious UK Top 50 Cocktail Bar list.

Fox and Chance is open late too, midnight for most of the week and as late as 1am on Fridays and Saturdays.

45 Pinfold Street, B2 4AY

30 minutes

I’m sending you out to Stirchley for this next one, but you won’t regret the taxi fare, not one bit. Couch is Birmingham’s highest entry in the UK Top 50 Cocktail Bar list (yep, another one – we’re absolutely spoilt here in Brum!), placing 12th in 2023. It has won numerous awards and for good reason – this is a neighbourhood bar at its absolute best.

Expect genuinely exceptional drinks from a really friendly and incredibly knowledgeable team. If it was closer to where I live I would be in here a dangerous amount – this is a very special bar and one I’ve only ever heard anyone (even the harshest critics!) say excellent things about.

1466 Pershore Rd, Stirchley, Birmingham B30 2NT

30 minutes

If you’re making the journey out to Stirchley, why not visit another of the fantastic drinking establishments in the area? Jewellery Quarter favourite Bar Ikigai recently relocated to Stirchley – bigger and better venue, same top quality service and same dedication to top quality cocktails.

As the name suggests, these guys take their inspiration from Japan. I really love their commitment to non-alcohol alternatives – every drink on the menu can be made as a ‘mocktail’ too.

If you’re feeling open minded about what to drink – why not opt for their version of ‘Omakase’, meaning ‘I’ll leave it up to you’. You can still tell the team the kind of flavours and spirits you like if you don’t want a complete gamble!

1266 Pershore Rd, Stirchley, Birmingham B30 2XU

13 minutes

Kilo Ziro is the UK’s first zero waste cafe & bar. It was created by the husband & wife duo behind Clean Kilo (which at the time of opening was the first zero waste supermarket in the UK) so when it comes to sustainability these guys really know their stuff.

I really love how they’ve approached the menu – the concept is that each cocktail is made using unloved or discarded ingredients. You’ll find classics on the menu but they’ve had real fun getting innovative with the menu too, take the ‘Sunday Roast’ cocktail as a perfect example. It’s made with blemished butternut squash rescued from The Clean Kilo. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it!

1 Gibb St, Deritend, Birmingham B9 4BF

7 minutes

This celebrated indie is Birmingham’s most awarded wine venue. The team now has three locations but it’s the original Loki Wines, nestled in the historic Great Western Arcade, that is just a short walk from Staying Cool at Rotunda.

Part of the Loki experience is being able to enjoy up to 40 wines by the glass thanks to their state-of-the-art wine preservation machines. These magical machines ensure that every wine is served at the optimum temperature. You can even opt for a small 25ml tasting option so you can sample wines you might not usually choose, without committing to a whole glass. Absolutely perfect if you’re keen to try something different. 

The expert team here are some of the absolute best in the business, and always on hand to answer questions.

36 Great Western Arcade, B2 5HU

8 minutes

Vagabonds started as a little shop in Fulham, London. Now they have their very own Urban Winery and 10 wine bars, including one on Colmore Row right in the heart of the city. Each bar serves up over 100 wines by the glass!

Their own brand wines really are worth a try, give the Vagabond Winery, Bacchus 2019 a sip and you won’t be disappointed; it’s crisp, fresh and aromatic.

Something to keep an eye out for, Vagabonds are just rolling out ‘Bottomless Afternoon Tea With Wine’. 90 minutes of bottomless wine accompanied by afternoon tea!

92-98 Colmore Row, B3 3BD

12 minutes

Something I love about this place is that Connolly’s is a family owned business with a heritage that extends back into the 19th century. Believe it or not, they have been shipping wine into Birmingham since 1906.

It wasn’t until 2018 that Birmingham’s oldest wine merchant opened their Jewellery Quarter wine bar. It’s run by Sommelier Abi Connolly and, as you’d expect, the wine list offers some excellent choices – they also have some of the best small plates in town. Be sure to try a fortified wine here (you’ll find a decent number of options by the glass) but if you’ve had your fill of vino they also serve up a number of rather delicious cocktails.

220 Livery Street, B3 1EU

13 minutes

If you’re looking for a glamorous location to sip a glass of fizz or two in, then look no further! This is a really beautiful bar located right in the heart of the Mailbox, so it’s also the perfect place to rest and refuel if you’re exploring the shops.

That said this isn’t a ‘style over substance’ kind of venue. You’ll find a well formed drinks menu with some great wines chosen by local expert and in-store Wine Specialist, Paul Creamer (formerly of Loki Wine fame).

65 Wharfside St, Birmingham B1 1RE

20 minutes

Another neighbourhood favourite for you and a great excuse to visit the suburbs. Grace + James is a low key, super relaxed bar, restaurant & deli. They specialise in natural wines, ideally served with a selection of their delicious British and European cheeses.

You’ll find this local institution on York Road, Kings Heath, which has to be one of the best places in Birmingham to spend a sunny afternoon with a glass or two of wine!

23 York Rd, King’s Heath, Birmingham B14 7SA

9 minutes

A taste of the ‘Big Apple’ right here in Birmingham. Start with a cocktail in their well appointed bar –  the Spicy Margarita is their recommended serve and didn’t disappoint. Then head on through to the dining room for some top notch American comfort food (and more!). If the Mozzarella Arancini is on the menu – don’t miss it – but really this place is all about Mac & Cheese, New York style hot dogs and burgers. Go all in on the American classics!

If you have room for dessert – a favourite of mine is their NY style chocolate baked cheesecake. Delish!

28 Barwick St, Birmingham B3 2NT

20 minutes

Another worthwhile adventure out to the suburbs, this time to Moseley.

Whilst you’re there, why not enjoy a walk around Moseley Bog? Don’t miss a visit to Sarehole Mill where you can pick up tasty treats baked in their on-site bakery.

But back to dinner…Le Petit Bois is a cosy, friendly and fabulous little French restaurant. It has been awarded 2 AA rosettes and is brought to you by husband and wife duo, Ben (Head Chef) and Zsofia (General Manager). This place is a real gem. Expect to enjoy both classic French dishes and seasonal specials plus a good selection of regional wines.

Their menu du jour is well worth a look – you’ll get 3 courses and a glass of wine for £29.

145 Alcester Road, Moseley Village, B13 8JP

25 minutes

When Luca Laghi set up his first restaurant he wanted to bring a little taste of Bologna to Birmingham, and that’s exactly what he’s done. Laghi’s is a little ray of Italian sunshine on the edge of Edgbaston. 

Perusing the menu, you will be able to tell that this is a restaurant born from a passion for food and created by an Italian with a real love for cooking. Fresh, quality ingredients are at the heart of the offer here, often sourced directly from the markets in Italy!

If their carbonara is on the menu when you visit, don’t miss it. Simple, authentic, delicious.

22-25 Islington Row, Edgbaston, B15 1LD

When it comes to Indian food, it is absolutely impossible to pick just one place. Birmingham is after all home to the Balti Triangle. So here’s the low down on just a handful of your options:

Lasan – 17 minutes

Declared by James May as the best Indian in England.

Shababs – 22 minutes

Founded in 1987, one of the legendary restaurants in Birmingham’s famous Balti Triangle.

Viceroy – 25 minutes

 Probably the best Chicken Korma I’ve ever had, a Jewellery Quarter gem.

Ashas – 9 minutes

A celebrity haunt that blends the authentic with the contemporary.

Dishoom – 10 minutes

A London import but boy it’s a good one.  Whichever dish you choose, be sure to add the House Black Daal to your order.

18 minutes

The Coconut Tree was set up by a group of Sri Lankan friends and family who wanted to bring Sri Lankan eats to communities across the world. 

This restaurant serves up delicious small plates and channels a super relaxed ‘island vibe’. Order ‘Salmon Say What’, ‘Fat Sister’, any of the Kotthu options and a Hopper for a real taste adventure. 

A meal here won’t break the bank and there are quite often special offers running so keep an eye out for those when you book.

18 minutes

You’ll find all your favourite Thai classics on the menu at city centre favourite, Zen Metro. Think Tom Yum Soup, Chicken Satay, Massaman curry and so much more! 

This much-loved restaurant has certainly proven itself over the years, boasting numerous awards for ‘Best Thai Restaurant’ both in Birmingham and the Midlands.

If you like it hot, don’t miss the Zen Inferno Challenge; finish the restaurant’s hottest dish for a place in their hall of fame!

73 Cornwall Street, B3 2DF

28 minutes

This is, hands down, my favourite Mexican restaurant in the city. It’s a fair way off the beaten track but I promise you it’s worth the effort. Expect freshly prepared and delicious Mexican food – all the better when washed down with a classic margarita. You’ll always be greeted with a smile and I’ll tell you now, I’ve never ever left hungry!

This isn’t a ‘glamorous’ venue, so to speak. If you want a high end & polished aesthetic, you won’t find that here. But what you will find is truly special; a family run neighbourhood restaurant that cares deeply about serving up delicious and authentic Mexican fare.

7175 Sandon Rd, Bearwood, B66 4AB

6 minutes

Chung Ying Cantonese is nothing short of an institution in Birmingham since it opened in 1981! If you’re looking for a feast of Chinese specialities, this is the place to go.

You’ll find this multi-award-winning restaurant right in the heart of China Town. The menu is vast and includes strong vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. Oh, and if you’re in the market for some dumplings Chung Ying was recently awarded the grand title of ‘Best Dumplings in the UK’ at the Golden Chopsticks Awards.

16–18 Wrottesley Street, China Town, B5 4RT

20 minutes

Established in 1993 this beautiful restaurant has held a Michelin star since 1999. Simpsons (and it’s highly awarded team) has an incredible number of other accolades too, including being recognised by PETA as one of top ten restaurants in the UK for plant-based dining.It’s set in an elegant Grade II listed Georgian villa in Edgbaston, the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a few hours. Expect a contemporary take on British cuisine in a relaxed environment. Take the Michelin Guide’s advice and don’t miss the soufflé. It is also worth noting that this restaurant actually has a 3-course children’s menu too, so no-one in the family has to miss out on the sheer bliss that is dining at Simpsons.

20 Highfield Road, B15 3DU

13 minutes

This restaurant is a true gem in the Jewellery Quarter’s crown. I quite like that when you browse the website, you won’t read so much about how this is the first and only Michelin starred Indian restaurant in the UK, outside of London. Nor will you read how multi-award winning Chef Patron Aktar Islam was crowned champion of Channel 4’s ‘The F Word’ by Gordon Ramsay back in 2009. Instead you’ll read about Aktar’s story which begins growing up just down the road in Aston, and working in his father’s restaurant and what you’ll discover is that Opheem is a labour of love.

The Michelin guide recommends the tasting menu. They say it is the best way to experience the kitchen’s full repertoire, and trust me when I say this is a repertoire you want to fully experience! Choose from 5 courses or 10 courses. If you’re not in the market for a tasting menu, glance over the lunch options (available on Fridays and Saturdays). You’ll find 2 courses for £50 and 3 for £65.

48-65 Summer Row, B3 1JJ

20 minutes

You might not find a Michelin star here (I’ll let Chef Patron Alex Claridge tell you about that himself here) but you will find insanely delicious food, superb and innovative drinks pairings and a great soundtrack.

I have had some truly brilliant nights at The Wilderness and if you like excellent food, genuinely friendly service and a touch of rock & roll you’ll have a brilliant night too.

Check their website for upcoming events because their recent series of collaborations with other restaurants and artists in the city has been nothing short of legendary.

There is a reason this restaurant is a strong favourite of the team at Staying Cool, go and see for yourselves.

27 Warstone Lane, B18 6JQ

10 minutes

Purnell’s is nothing short of an institution in the city of Birmingham and for very good reason. Chef Patron Glynn Purnell’s bold and innovative cooking has brought him critical acclaim and numerous awards including that all-important Michelin star which he has held for over 10 years. 

Glynn trained with a whole host of top chefs including Gordon Ramsay and Gary Rhodes. Now, he’s a household name, perhaps best known for taking part in the Great British Menu and winning twice. Now you’ll regularly find him on Saturday Kitchen.

The tasting menu at Purnell’s is a triumph. This is the kind of innovative and at times playful meal you won’t forget in a hurry. Service is, of course, on point.

55 Cornwall Street, B3 2DH

7 minutes

There is just a 7 minute walk between you and this luxurious, modern, Michelin starred, city-centre restaurant. You will, of course, visit Adam’s for the food – in all it’s immaculately presented, exquisitely cooked glory. 

What you might not expect is that you may well find yourself staying for the wine. Adam’s has been recognised by The World of Fine Wine as having a 3 Star Wine List – one of only 49 restaurants in the world. The Michelin Guide also writes home about the ‘terrific wines available by the glass’. 

If you’re looking for a more casual dinner – The Oyster Club, Adam Stokes’ other Birmingham venue is just a stones throw away and is also well worth a visit.

16 Waterloo Street, B2 5UG

10 minutes

There is a reason the Dishoom Bacon Naan roll is basically as famous as the restaurant itself, it’s award-winning and absolutely delicious. Yes there are other options on the menu, yes, but this is the only thing I have ever (and probably will ever) order, it’s that good.

Each naan is freshly baked, by hand and to order, in the tandoor. It’s then slathered in cream cheese, topped with smoked streaky bacon and finished with a touch of tomato-chilli jam and fresh coriander leaves. Personally, I love an egg on mine too (order the Bacon and Egg Naan roll for this added extra).

If you’re really hungry you won’t regret ordering a Bun Maska whilst you wait. A simple soft bun with butter, eaten everywhere in Bombay. All of this, washed down with a cup of their House Chai. Perfection.

One Chamberlain Sq, B3 3AX

22 minutes

A true Jewellery Quarter staple (they’ve been here for over 10 years), and a great place to fuel up if you’re going jewellery shopping whilst you’re in the city. 

The Urban Brekkie will certainly keep you going; a strong all-day breakfast featuring a Lashford cumberland sausage and Clarence Court Eggs. For me it’s the Avo & Chilli Smash with poached eggs that keeps me coming back time and time again.

These guys aren’t just about great food though, they are a community orientated business – so all the more reason to visit. For years they’ve been partnered with Sifa Fireside in their work to support homeless people back into work and off the streets.

The Big Peg, Warstone Lane, JQ, B18 6NF

6 minutes

I’m pretty sure I discovered Waylands Yard through finding a photo of their infamous Eggy Crumpets on someone’s instagram page. Picture this –  egg dipped crumpets, halloumi, chilli jam, ketchup, chilli and herbs. Trust me, they taste as good as they look. Add bacon or chorizo for extra joy.

You’ll find classic fry ups here too (including veggie and vegan options) and plenty more to boot. Plus the team at Waylands Yard serve up speciality coffee by Odd Kin Coffee Roasters and Hand blended tea by Bird & Blend Tea Co, so if you’re stopping in for a caffeine fix you’ll be well looked after.

42 Bull Street, B4 6AF

6 minutes

The beautiful Victorian building that is now home to Medicine was previously home to the Royal Society of Birmingham Artists. It’s now been restored to its former glory, a light and airy first floor hide-away right in the thick of the action on New Street.

Whether you want a cooked breakfast or something for the road, Medicine is worth a stop. Miss their cronuts and you are missing out! If you’re rushing for a train from New Street, this is a great pitstop and you can even do an online pre-order so your breakfast is ready to collect when you arrive.

69a New Street, B2 4DU

17 minutes

Located on the perfectly picturesque St Paul’s Square, this is a perfect pitstop if you’re heading out to explore the historic Jewellery Quarter. You can dine in or grab a bite to go, so if it’s sunny why not join the locals and grab some rays in the Square whilst you eat? 

I’m a big fan of the bagels here but you can also pick up a croissant for the road or tuck into smashed avo on toast if you prefer.

Unit 2, 61 St Paul’s Square, Birmingham B3 1QS

8 minutes

If you’re staying at the Rotunda then clearly you have excellent taste when it comes to city views. That’s one of the many reasons why you’re going to love Orellle. Head on up to the 24th floor of 103 Colmore Row for more panoramic views that are bound to impress your clients.

Expect stunning views of a different side to the city and an abundance of elegance and style. The contemporary interiors are inspired in creative ways by Birmingham’s heritage and the menu (French cuisine) celebrates the best of British produce.

If you’re paying, take a look at the Prix Fixe Menu, 2 courses for £33, Monday to Saturday. If the boss is paying you should, of course, opt for the A La Carte.

Top tip, the ground floor cafe is lesser known but a fab place to work from. Grab a coffee, catch up on a few emails and enjoy a light bite (think baguettes, salads and smoothies) in a beautifully designed space with attentive service.

103 Colmore Row, B3 3AG

20 minutes

If you’re looking to surprise your team or clients with dinner somewhere a little bit different, well look no further. Just off Brindley Place you’ll find the multi-sensory dining experience that is Qavali. 

From the moment you enter this Indo-Persion restaurant you know you’re in for a memorable treat. Start with a cocktail (their whisky cocktails are particularly interesting), nibble on a Samsun Pide Paneer and whatever you do, don’t miss dessert, especially if it comes with their turkish delight icecream.

If you’re looking for memorable and unique – this is the spot for you.

9 Brindley Place, B1 2HJ

15 minutes

You’ll find this restaurant in Edgbaston Village, home to a growing number of top quality independent bars and restaurants.

Chapter would be a top pick for me for any number of work occasions. A great place for a breakfast meeting, equally suited to a business lunch or a special dinner to treat your team. This neighbourhood restaurant just doesn’t disappoint. 

Chef Director Ben Ternent and his team describe their work as ‘nature-led’, this is a venue rooted in seasonality and with a notable commitment to high quality and ethical produce.

It’s worth keeping an eye on their events programme too; you’ll find everything from lunches with sporting personalities to perfectly paired wine dinners.

5-6 Greenfield Crescent, Edgbaston, B15 3BE

15 minutes

The Exchange is currently my favourite place to work from when I’m out and about in the city. Why? I hear you ask. Well, firstly it’s based in the historic municipal bank, a stunning building right in the heart of the city. Secondly, the cafe is really big and as a result I’ve never struggled to find a table. Thirdly the food offer is pretty solid when it comes to light bites – it’s not a foodie destination but this certainly isn’t your average university cafe…

There is free wifi, a welcoming vibe and a rolling programme of events and exhibitions if you need to take a break and seek some inspiration.

The Exchange, 3 Centenary Square,B1 2DR

6 minutes

This is one of my favourite spots in the city for a casual meal. It’s tiny, super chilled out and does what it does – which is Bao Buns & Rice Bowls – absolutely wonderfully. For me it’s the Bao Buns that keep me going back for more and I’ve heard plenty of foodies declare them to be the very best in the city.

Don’t expect a huge menu here, this is a small but perfectly formed offer, but you’ll always find a vegan rice bowl and a vegan bao bun on the menu and trust me when I say, there isn’t a dish on this menu that isn’t absolutely cracking.

34 Stephenson St, Birmingham B2 4BH

14 minutes

I first heard about BA-HA when they were doing a pop-up at 1000 Trades, now you’ll find them in residence at The Rainbow Pub (or you can order to your room on Deliveroo). They were founded on a commitment to have a positive impact on animals, the environment and human welfare. 

Now they are multi-award winning and even do things like bottomless brunches and Sunday lunches.

I’m embarrassed to say that I’m yet to try this place, but when I recently asked knowledgeable vegan friends for a recommendation it was here that they mentioned first. Researching their menu has made me both intrigued and hungry – I look forward to visiting imminently.

The Rainbow, 160 High St, Deritend, B12 0LD

7 minutes

This restaurant could very nearly convert me to plant-based living, it’s that good. 

The team here use only the freshest of seasonal ingredients and they take their inspiration from around the world. Every dish on the tasting menu is packed full of flavour, the restaurant itself is beautiful and the service is excellent. 

Jay Rayner described this place as ‘Vegan cooking to file under thrilling’ so why not head into the charming and historic Great Western Arcade for a culinary adventure?

30 Great Western Arcade, B2 5HU

6 minutes

If you’ve read our ‘Around the World in 8 meals’ guide, you’ll already know about the legendary Chung Ying Cantonese, probably Birmingham’s favourite Chinese restaurant!

This also has to be one of the most awarded restaurants in the city. They are best known for their ‘best in the UK’ Dim Sum but a slightly lesser known fact is that they cater really well for vegans and vegetarians with over 70 options! Don’t believe us? Check out the full menu here. Top tip – the vegan chicken wings are really worth a try!

19 minutes

KILN is located at the MAC which is, in itself, a super family-friendly arts venue. Read more about that here. 

They have family friendly activities all-year-round and the venue sits in Cannon Hill Park – a truly great place for a run-about, when the weather allows.

The atmosphere across the site is welcoming. They have space for buggies, changing facilities, there is no fuss about noise and there are plenty of high chairs too.

The children’s menu is small but perfectly formed- choose from handmade pizza, veggie nuggets, fish fingers or mac and cheese. All £5.95 with squash included in the price.

Midlands Arts Centre, Cannon Hill Park, B12 9QH

24 minutes

The Plough is popular with diners of all ages, a much loved Harborne establishment – pop it on your list regardless of whether you’re dining with children or not!

That said, they really do cater very well to families:

High chairs – tick

Changing facilities – tick

Colouring crayons and colouring pages – tick

Children’s cups and cutlery – tick

Have a read of their Kid’s Menu here, unlike most, it includes both brunch and lunch/dinner options.

21 High St, Harborne, B17 9NT

5 minutes

Pho has a great approach to food for children. Expect wonderful healthy Vietnamese meals in their usual style but with slightly toned down flavours to make the dishes more accessible. Kids have the option to eat with ‘easy chopsticks’ and you’ll find plenty of colouring activities to keep them entertained!

Pho is a great spot for families with dietary requirements too – they are accredited by Coeliac UK and their menu is 40% vegan.

The meal deal for children is great value – a main and a drink for just £6.95. You can add pudding (from 50p) if you like – choose from icecream, sorbet, a banana fritter or a piece of fruit.

Don’t just take it from me though, have a watch of this video and see for yourself.

Grand Central,Stephenson Place, B2 4XJ

32 minutes

A visit to Sarehole Mill is a lovely adventure for the whole family. You can take a tour of the mill itself or spend some time outdoors exploring the Woodland Realm which is free to enter.

A trip to Sarehole Mill isn’t complete without pizza though, which is why it has made this list! The menu is very simple with just a handful of pizzas, made in the on-site bakery. Choose a selection for the table, add some delicious dips and sides then tuck in to a family feast.  Keep an eye out for seasonal pizza specials (including a rather popular dessert pizza, covered in mini eggs, at Easter). 

If you book a table in the winter, the kids will love eating in one of the private igloos (wrap up warm though, they aren’t heated). In the summer, the picture perfect courtyard is just perfect for alfresco dining after a run-around in neighbouring Shire Country Park.

Cole Bank Rd, B13 0BD