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

15 minutes

This one is a little different…

Atelier is a stunning creative drinks studio and cocktail bar from award-winning drinks creator, Robert Wood and our favourite chef, Alex Claridge of Wilderness fame. You’ll find it in a beautifully restored factory in the Jewellery Quarter.

This brand new venue is open for just a few nights a week for only a handful of guests each evening so it’s definitely advisable to book in advance. In the name of research, I tried the 7 course cocktail tasting menu which was frankly spectacular. Spend the evening here if you’re looking for something you won’t forget in a hurry. Photo credit: Tom Bird.

Newhall Square, Newhall Street, B3 1RU

7 minutes

Coming in at number 44 on the official UK Top 50 Cocktail Bars list, The Pineapple Club is a Staying Cool team favourite and must visit for cocktail connoisseurs. You’ll find this multi-award winning venue tucked away in the beautiful grade II listed Great Western Arcade – this might just be the most instagramable bar in the city! 

The menu showcases innovative signature serves alongside a selection of classic cocktails but if you don’t find something you fancy – just ask, the team are happy to shake up an off-menu classic for you.

16 Great Western Arcade, B2 5HU

13 minutes

Located in the iconic Custard Factory, Passing Fancies is a brand new addition to the city that is already making a name for itself. Brought to you by a trio of award-winning bartenders, the team describe their venue as bringing ‘approachable luxury’ to Digbeth. 

The menu 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!). The food offer is not to be missed either – this isn’t your standard selection of nibbles – the team at Passing Fancies have teamed up with Dan Sweet, former chef at Michelin-starred Simpsons Restaurant in Edgbaston.

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

8 minutes

If you’re looking for super friendly service and a little slice of the tropics right here in Birmingham, you need to pop down to Jungle Bird. Expect fresh, bright and fun tropical themed cocktails – if a Piña Colada slush doesn’t put a smile on your face, I don’t know what will! 

If you’re in the market for a mocktail the team at Jungle Bird will make any of their cocktails into a mocktail. Feeling peckish? Their food menu is just as tropical as their drinks, taking inspiration from Polynesian cuisine.

Westside Two, 20 Suffolk Street, B1 1LW

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.

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

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

15 minutes

This award-winning Digbeth venue is all about natural wines; wines from sensitively-farmed vineyards, made without chemicals. 

Enter their very cool, bright and airy warehouse-style bar and you’ll immediately know you’re in for a different kind of wine experience. This is a super relaxed venue and the team pride themselves on talking about wine in a really accessible way. You won’t find wine jargon here! I’ve had some brilliant wine flights over the years, perfect introductions to natural wine if you’re new to it, so keep an eye out for those

28 Floodgate St, Digbeth, B5 5SL

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

10 minutes

The newest addition to the city, when it comes to specialist wine bars, Vinoteca has one of the best locations going. You’ll find it on Chamberlain Square with floor to ceiling windows giving you a fantastic view of some of Birmingham’s stunning Victorian buildings; Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery and Birmingham Town Hall. 

Vinoteca sources wines from all over the world and pairs them with seasonal British dishes. Talking of which, don’t miss the lunch set menu – bag two courses for just £18.

My guilty pleasure here? A plate of croquettes and one of their constantly changing wine paddles.

2 Chamberlain Square, B3 3AX

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

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.

6 minutes

Walk into this traditional restaurant and you’ll be transported to an old Polish country cottage. Don’t believe it? Take a look at the virtual tour here.

The menu is all about homely, hearty and rustic polish food. Don’t miss their pierogi and you’ll no doubt want to finish the evening with a sip of vodka (they have over 12 flavours on the menu).

Polish Millennium House, Bordesley Street, B5 5PH

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 £45 and 3 for £55.

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

25 minutes

I don’t think I’ve ever taken as many photos of my food, as I did when I last dined at Carters of Moseley. Some of the dishes are frankly works of art. If you don’t mind losing out on the surprise factor, take a look at the restaurant’s instagram and marvel at ‘Suffolk Street Queensway’. And if you manage not to pull out your phone when the ‘Birmingham Soup’ is served, I’ll eat my hat. 

Don’t be mistaken, this is not a venue that is style over substance. It’s a restaurant that does both, exceptionally well. Expect wholehearted commitment to seasonal British produce from a Chef that is part of the very fabric of Birmingham, in the best possible way.

This is another of the city’s Michelin starred restaurants that is absolutely worth the journey.

2c Wake Green Road, Moseley, B13 9EZ

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

7 minutes

Quarter Horse Coffee was the first cafe-roastery in Birmingham, so as you can imagine these guys are serious about your cup of Joe! They source super-high quality beans from around the world and freshly roast them every day. You can try an Espresso Flight or an Espresso Taster if you want to get to know their produce a little better.

This place isn’t just for your coffee fix though, their brunches won’t disappoint either. Grab a breakfast bap to-go or settle into a corner of their clean & modern, white-walled cafe for a tasty Eggs Benedict.

88-90 Bristol Street, B5 7AH

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

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 £35, Monday to Friday. 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 – this 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