Adam’s | British Cuisine

Importance and popularity comes first, hence why “Adam’s” is the top of our list. Located swiftly next door to the Town Hall, Adam’s in an unbelievable amount of time earned it’s Michelin star for the finest cuisine in Birmingham. If you’ve been searching for restaurants in Birmingham on the Internet, Trip Advisor and other online sites, you’ll most likely see that Adam’s is a very popular choice. Adam’s is a sleek, modern restaurant serving up the freshest and most beautifully placed food – perfect for a lot of people who are looking to dine out. Be sure to wear something damn comfy, because customers can choose from a five or NINE course dinner, with three course meals available at lunch. All their dishes are seasonal and change depending on the times of the year, so if you have been reading reviews or someone’s recommended this place to you – be sure to check that they didn’t go in the Winter whilst you’re going in Spring – the menu will most likely be completely different. A very important pointer, due to the high demand of people wanting to eat at Adams, their is an actual policy for cancellations so be sure to read up on that before you make a reservation. Apart from that, you will find the very best wine list to choose from accompanied by a passionate and highly skilled team – be sure to book your special event here if you can, you will definitely give a outstanding impression.

Purnell’s | British Cuisine

It’s not fair to call Purnell’s second on our list seeing as Purnell’s and Adam’s have both been awarded their Michelin stars, Purnell’s earning theirs back in January 2009. Purnell’s is ranked number 8 according to Trip Advisor, yet they have a Michelin star award so they deserve to be right at the top of our list. If you’re close to Colmore Row or St Phillips Cathedral, you will find Purnell’s within meters of these two places. The restaurant decided on the given name by calling it after the Michelin star Birmingham chef himself, Glynn Purnell, he who set up Purnell’s back in July 2007. Purnell’s gives a really special feel to every individual that dines here, besides the fact that it’s a very popular and lusted over restaurant. The outside layout and feel of Purnell’s consists of Victorian redbrick and terracotta based on a corner building, providing large bay windows on both sides of the window providing a nice amount of natural light throughout the day. The inside interior is spacious and Purnell’s has it’s own bar lounge area – exclusive to diners only, where a pre-dinner cocktail or after dinner coffee can be enjoyed within the comfortable seating areas. The Private dining room caters to parties of 7-12 diners and with prior contact, the restaurant can be available for complete hire if parties were to be of a large size. So if you are in Birmingham or are in the area and you are after the ultimate gourmet adventure, maybe you’re also after a Michelin star awarded restaurant, we couldn’t recommend a better place that fits your description.

Morton’s Kitchen | British Pub | Shirley Area

Mortons’ Kitchen, Bar and Deli is a newly built, refreshing diner based in the heart of Solihul. With the building being newly built, it has enabled a specific design which enhances relaxed drinking and dining in a widespread space lit with mostly natural lighting. Morton’s cater for more than one eating style, offering sizzling hot bar food grub indoors to offering the alfresco dining on their tree-shaded-terrace. With the alfresco dining option available, Morton’s Kitchen is perfect for a lot of people. Shoppers who are after a light snack/meal, out door walkers passing by and anybody who likes to dine outdoors – especially when the weather is nice, are guaranteed to love Morton’s Kitchen. Doors are open from 10am so that even if you don’t feel awake, Morton’s are happy to set you up for the day with a delicious latte or energizing espresso whichever may be your choice, followed by a healthy light breakfast featuring the scrambled eggs with smoked salmon. Maybe you had a heavy night drinking and fish and eggs are the last thing on your mind, Morton’s can cater to your needs providing their traditional fry up which is loved by their visitors. Morton’s passion is providing quality food with a quality service, so if you’re around Solihull or are looking for somewhere where you can grab breakfast, lunch or an evening meal – Morton’s Kitchen should be on your agenda.

The Warehouse Cafe | British, Vegan, Vegetarian, Contemporary Cuisine

The Warehouse Cafe specializes for the  Vegetarians and Vegans, which is greatly appreciated seeing as more and more restaurants are now catering to these dietary requirements. Placed in a cost situated in the upstairs part of the building, The Warehouse Cafe like to please even the meat eaters. Vegetarians and Vegan eaters shouldn’t feel privileged when they find a cafe which only specializes in vegetarian dishes, because all pubs and restaurants should offer something appetising for none-meat-eaters. However people are usually limited in most restaurants with the same dishes, especially when they are dining with meat eaters and none vegans. Therefore If you’re close by, send your love for everything green to the Warehouse Cafe. Their dishes offer a wide range of variety, meaning you may even find your new main favorite or you’ll choose your current favorite meal but have someone to cook it for you!  Even though this cafe in particular is vegetarian food based, meat-eaters are most welcome and according to Trip Advisor, meat eaters love the food there as much as the vegetarian eaters which is a true sign of delicious, organic and damn good, fresh food!

Rico Libre | International, Spanish, Tapas, Contemporary Cuisine

There is something about the Brits and their love for Spanish food, and we can’t knock it because let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good tapas!? For all of the tapas lover’s make sure you eat out at Rico Libre if you’re in the area. Set in the Industrial part of Birmingham stands a cafe-style restaurant that will definitely exceed your expectations. According to Trip Advisor, previous customers have stated not to judge the place by it’s front and area (that being the industrial part). It’s important that previous customers have stated where it’s situated, especially for potentially new customers because it isn’t stated on the high street meaning for anybody, it’s kind of hard what to expect these days seeing as more and more restaurants are moving to the high street where they can offer the wow factor with interior and location. However, Rico Libre obviously is a winner in Birmingham and has truly proven that despite their setback in location, they provide the greatest Spanish food you could get your hands on in the West Midlands. So if you’re not jetting off to Spain this year, make a point of visiting Rico Libre where even though it may be raining outside, your taste buds will back in your tapas restaurant abroad.

Birmingham Food and Drink in the Region: Solihlull

There’s a myriad of international and home-grown food and drink venues on offer in Solihull with something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a leisurely lunch, a special evening out, family occasions or a quick snack while you shop. Solihull High Street, The Town Centre is packed with great restaurants including: Yo! Sushi, Cafe Rouge, Pizza Express, Nandos, The handmade burger Co., Slug and Lettuce, Zizzis, Giraffe and Wagamama to name but a few, alongside independent restaurants like Horton’s Fine Dining restaurant and snack bars, catering for every occasion and budget. You may recognize some of those big branded food giants which can be found in Birmingham City Centre as well. However if you fancy something completely different, then there’s even more to tempt your taste buds in the villages and hamlets with a host of gastro pubs like Morton’s Kitchen in Dickens Heath, exquisite Peel’s Restaurant at Hampton Manor or Loch Fyne fish restaurant in historic Knowle.

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Pitcher and Piano – Piano Bar

As discussed earlier in this post at the top, we stated that there are plenty of places to eat and drink in Birmingham if you’re looking for something a little less hectic, or you’re after quirkiness… Located in Brindley place sitting on the canal is the Pitcher and Piano. The perfect location for the heat right? Correct. This unique, high vibe bar is extremely popular when the sun is out, it’s the perfect location to soak up the sun and enjoy some pitchers that’s for sure. Pitcher and Piano have 17 other bars spotted around the UK and the majority of them are nestled in the heart of Big Cities. Whether it’s the breakfast you’re after, your lunch break, cocktails and wine after work or you’re seeking a great night out, this is your venue.

This particular Pitcher and Piano is highly recommended by local residents and tourists. These tourists are not here for sight-seeing, they are out for an unforgettable night out. Pitcher and Piano offer specialist services for big groups including the Christmas Duration. So whether you’re after a hen do, birthday, family reunion or a big night out to celebrate the weekend – the Pitcher and Piano takes all great news seriously, offering you an unforgettable experience!
 

The Rose Villa Tavern – American Style Menu / Unique bar

Most people will say (usually the blokes) that they don’t care what’s hanging from the ceiling or what the inside of a pub looks like, but they do care about the quality of their ale and if their barman is great to talk with or even better – their is football or some form of sports selection, including darts, pool table, bandit etc… However, the interior to most people is crucial – it sets the mood and when done correctly, it can really lift anybody’s mood and more customers want to be in this environment, right? If you’re a lover of stained glass windows, antique furniture and rejuvenated pub seating areas, then this is a place for you since this tavern was built back in between 1919-1920 meaning it’s definitely kept it’s characteristics. The best part is that The Rose Villa Tavern is set in the Jeweler Quarter, if you’re not familiar with that it’s a major shopping center in Birmingham – so the ladies can shop and the men can drink! If you’re looking for American theme style food, rest assured you can indulge in classic American Style Diner options, and if you’re drinking as a couple, friends or as work colleagues or even alone, you will find the up most classic cocktail lists and global beers to comedy nights and festivals, a great place to drink in the afternoon and into the evening! Overall, it’s a happily affordable place and is your best spot for chatting and drinking, relaxing with friends and for those unique and vintage lovers.
 

The Jekyll and Hyde – Alice in Wonderland Themed Beer Garden

When have you come across an Alice in Wonderland inspired bar before? Not very likely I suppose! The Jekyll and Hyde Beer Garden offer their bespoke and tailored cocktail lists on their two floor layout. Upstairs you will find the Victorian Gin parlor which is open after 5pm on a Friday and Saturday night. It sounds like a bit of a wacky warehouse so far doesn’t it? Outside is where you will find the Alice in Wonderland themed courtyard, and upstairs is strictly Victorian themed, you can’t find more quirkiness in one place if you tried. As far as the drinks are concerned, you won’t be served by the Mad Hatter or Alice (sorry, no can do!) – however you can have a drink on them if you’re opting for the cocktails which include the Chimney Sweep and the Prince Albert Punch. Those cocktail names were inspired by the bar name itself, so you won’t be finding those cocktails elsewhere, another truly unique feature. Overall, the Jekyll and Hyde is one of the coolest and quirkiest places to drink in Birmingham. For all of the gin-lovers, cocktail fanatics and relaxed weekday drinkers – this is your place if you’re looking for something a little different on your night out in Birmingham.
 

Symphony Hall – Lady-wood (Added Extra Feature – Must go!)

Are you after a theater or a concert? Then the Symphone Hall is your best place to go. Rated Number One in Trip Advisor, this theater is truly impressive. A beautiful concert hall known best for the size of the hall and the amazing acoustic sounds. THSH (Town hall Birmingham, Symphony Hall Birmingham) are behind this amazing feature spot who believe that music has the up most power to transform everybody’s life, mindset and output on life. Symphony Hall opened back in 1991 and has celebrated their 21st anniversary three years ago which was a huge festival, a major hit for tourists, holiday makers and local residents. Whether you go weak at the knees for Jazz, Stevie Wonde, Musicals or comedians, you’ll be sure to find the perfect upcoming event for you and the whole family.

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Pubs and Nightlife in Birmingham are a major tourist attraction as it’s a forever expanding city. Not just with the tourists but locals and students thrive off the Birmingham Nightlife as well, therefore there is a place to suit everyone’s personality! We took a look at what tourists, locals and Birmingham Lovers were writing on Trip Advisor about what Birmingham has to offer nightlife wise, and we was impressed! If you’re planning on a night out in Birmingham or any city, you should be expecting the large number of students and also the hen do’s and stag do’s.

However don’t let that put you off if you’re not drinking in Birmingham for those reasons. Their are plenty of small boutique bars, restaurants and clubs which are away from the hustle and bustle or are even in the city center. These are designed for the after-work drinkers, wine and dining occasions and the people who like to be seated and have a few drinks before they head to the busier places. You will also find that those places are still busy because they are lovely places to drink however conversations, birthday celebrations, catch-ups and small talk can be best entertained there due to the brilliant atmosphere. Below you will find the top five bars according to Trip Advisor, where you can find either the perfect mayhem, the best ale around and the overall best loved bars. We hope you enjoy your stay and your night out in Birmingham!

The Prince of Wales – Moseley – number one

Are you planning to head to Birmingham for the night, two nights or a weekend away? Be sure to check out Trip Advisers “3 days in Birmingham“. It’s the ultimate guide for Pubs and Nightlife in Birmingham, also used for the most recommended hot spots whether you’re seeking history, arts and cultures, shopping, food and a good time! The Prince of Wales is featured in the “3 days in Birmingham” guide featuring your first pointer. Perfect for all of you bar crawlers as this location is within the main hot spot. Cocktails like no other are created here followed with the best garden in Moseley, an incredibly lively atmosphere, cigar room followed with a range of classic ales, house wines and spirits – perfect if you’re not into cocktails.

The Wellington – Birmingham City Center – Number Two

If you’re after the best real ale in Birmingham, then you have certainly come by the right place. Voted number two in TripAdvisor and also featured in the “3 days in Birmingham” is The Wellington. What do most pubs miss out on when we’re fortunate with great weather? Roof tops! For some reason, we just love them they’re amazing sun catching spots and well, with real ale what more could you ask for? If you can’t afford to jet away this Summer and you’ve decided or you’re contemplating a city break within the UK – this pub is your alternative atmosphere to Spain. Ladies, unless you’re not up for 16 pumps of proper ale and everything traditionally pub related, then this wouldn’t be your catch! A true hidden gem.

Brewdog – Birmingham City Center – Number Three

When pubs and restaurants list a phenomenal, kind of intimidating list of drinks you’ve never heard off – it ruins our creative mindset to try something new. You don’t need to be an ale geek to drink here! Voted number three in Trip Advisor with a certificate of excellence is the Brewdog, with incredibly friendly staff on hand, they are more than happy to guide you and answer any questions you may have about their drinks. If you are in a group and you’ve got a lady friend or a certain somebody that isn’t that much into their ales, this may not be the best venue for the entire night since it is strongly all ale recommendations. However as stated, if they’ve never tried it before – the staff are more than willing to try and tempt their newbies into trying something that could possibly, become their favorite ale ever. Overall, a brilliant atmosphere in plenty of space meaning it’s an ideal spot for friends or big groups.

The Craven Arms – Birmingham City Center – Number Four

Pubs that provide food are excellent, and sometimes their not aimed at families. Food provided in pubs is usually for people who have drank a bit to much and are after some grub, (just kidding!) – yet most people don’t class them as traditional pubs anymore. Rated number four in TripAdvisor with a certificate of excellence, stands the Craven Arms. Are you after a traditional pub, no main dishes but just snacks? Then this is the perfect, typical, northern style pub. Known to many local residents as “the best ale house in Birmingham” it’s definitely a must if you’re an ale lover, without doubt. With incredibly knowledgeable staff on hand, you will have an unforgettable experience here and you may be more open minded to trying different ales!

Post Office Vaults – Birmingham City Center – Number Five

Voted number five in TripAdvisor also obtaining a certificate of excellence is the beloved Post Office Vaults who also obtain a certificate of excellence. Which pub nowadays do you know of that provides you the upper hand on saving money on food? We’re not talking about discounts and freebies, we’re talking bringing your own food in and nobody giving a single damn about it. Around 200-300 ales are stocked within the Post Office Vault, probably the given reason for the extended name “vault”. Can get extremely busy so seating can become a  problem, especially if you have a lady in heels accompanying you or you are a typical drinker who likes to be seated. If you are over-whelmed by choice, knowledgeable and passionate staff are on hand to tempt you into something new, quirky and the pub’s specials and general favorites, no doubt if it’s not peak time that a regular drinker here will step in and guide you themselves.

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Birmingham like any other city had a plethora of food and drink manufacturers. In the food industry Cadbury is the most well known and the cities largest employer and unlike other large players in the food and drink market has remained in Birmingham. Ansells Brewery, once the dominating focal point of Aston, has gone, along with Birds Custard and Typhoo Tea, the brands still exist but have been absorbed into multinational groups and moved away from Birmingham.

HP sauce is another recent casualty, now there is virtually no industry left in Aston at all..

The way we buy food has changed dramatically and has resulted in the demise of the corner shop and the domination of supermarkets. Supermarkets had been around in the 50s but in the 60s the out of town large supermarket in purpose built buildings started the slow decimation of the corner shop.

Supermarkets could stock a far larger range of products and consumer demand was for more and more varied products. The introduction of Chinese and Indian food also widened the tastes of the average British family. In the 1950s how many British families had tasted curry or Chinese food for instance? Now we could ask the question how many British families have not tasted or even cooked this food?. Package holidays to the Mediterranean countries have also had a effect on the way, and more importantly, what we eat. Pizza and Pasta being unheard of by the average British family in the 50s.

Did you know…

Corner shops have taken on a new role as late openers for fill in shopping. The ability of immigrant families, mainly Asian, to work long unsociable hours alongside their families has kept corner shops alive. In the 90s we have seen supermarkets actively target the corner shop market by opening smaller shops in towns and cities. For instance leaving Birmingham City Centre at around 8 pm at night in the 80s and wanting some small shopping items would mean a stop at a local corner shop on the way home. Now you can find small shops run by Tesco & Marks and Spencer within the city opening till 10 pm with an amazing assortment of goods.

Its interesting to note how there has been an about change in restaurants and cafes too. Remember the Kardomah Cafe in New Street, if you look carefully you can still see the imprint of the name in the wall above the door! New Street also had two Lyons Coffee shops and then they fell out of favor. Now we have Costa Coffee  etc and all of a sudden coffee shops are back in favor. Did we get sick of years of Instant coffee after Kardomah closed?

The Balti curry was  invented in Birmingham in the mid seventies by an Indian restaurant owner anxious to get an edge on his competitors, it soon spread and now Balti dishes are served in every UK Indian Restaurant! The Balti Triangle, which is mostly in Sparkbrook, specializes in Balti dishes and is now a tourist attraction. However don’t ask for a Balti when you are in Asia because unless they have been to Birmingham they wont know what you are talking about, apart from the fact you have just requested a bucket! You often see the sign inside the window saying Authentic Indian Food but its neither authentic or Indian in the majority of cases. 90% of all Indian Restaurants are run and owned by Bangladeshi’s and the food they serve is a contrived Europeanised version of the Bangladeshi curry. Still we all love it and it is a major industry in the UK so pass the poppadoms!

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