I haven’t written a food review on here for quite some time, that may be due to feeling a bit too comfortable writing short and snappy reviews on Instagram, dealing with exhaustion since last year and just not feeling excited to write about something. However, a trip to a restaurant in the Jewellery Quarter sparked the excitement inside of me and suddenly I remembered why I loved writing on this blog. There’s something about places like this. Quiet, not much of a social media presence, sitting on a busy street on a Saturday lunchtime with no diners inside, even though they’re serving one of the most impressive value lunch menus in Birmingham. And honestly…kind of pissed me off.
Because it should be full on a Saturday lunch. It should be full every day it’s open from Thursday to Saturday. So I guess it sparked that fire in me again, to shout about incredible independent businesses like this, the ones quietly getting on with serving brilliant food while everyone chases the latest opening. And that’s exactly why I’m back writing food reviews on this blog.
Folium has been sitting on Caroline Street in the Jewellery Quarter since 2017, run by Chef Ben Tash and his partner Lucy Hanlon. And embarrassingly, I’ve pushed it down my “must visit” list more times than I’d like to admit. New openings kept taking priority. Hype, press nights, noise… you know how it goes.
But finally, I made it.
We arrived at 12:50pm on a Saturday lunchtime and the restaurant was quiet. In fact, we were the only ones dining there for lunch, which after the meal we’d go on to have, felt absolutely baffling. We were greeted by Lucy, who was lovely from the moment we walked through the door. Josie threw out an “I think I know you from the MySpace era” and within minutes they were chatting away like old friends. That’s Birmingham for you! As we settled into our seats, the first thing I noticed was the soundtrack. HAIM. The 1975. Sam Fender. Basically my emotional support playlist in restaurant form. At that point, even if the food had been average (spoiler: it absolutely wasn’t) – I was already halfway won over.
We went for the short tasting menu — six courses for £45pp, which genuinely made me raise my eyebrows so high I thought I might need Botox to bring them back down. “That’s ridiculous,” I said to Josie. And it is. But in the best possible way.
First up – chicken liver parfait with burnt onion. A delicate, crispy tuile made from caramelised onion purée, deepened with burnt onion skins, wrapped around a silky chicken liver parfait and finished with pickled thyme ketchup and a fresh thyme leaf. It’s rich but not heavy. Sharp but not overpowering. Apparently it’s been on the menu since day one, and I fully understand why. In fact, I feel like Folium need to cram these little beauties into some sort of Christmas selection box, Forget chocolates, give me 24 of these behind little advent calendar doors and I’d absolutely lose my mind!
Just saying. But honestly… can we make this happen?
Then came the sourdough with cultured butter. Warm bread, a crisp crust, that slight tangy depth from fermentation, and butter that melts instantly when spread on. Simple, but absolutely beautiful.
Next up were the biodynamic grain noodles with shiitake mushroom – earthy, savoury and comforting in a way that feels almost medicinal. Like if you were feeling a bit run down and someone handed you a bowl of this, it’d probably cure your cold on the spot!
And then came the Staffordshire lamb with chicory. Perfectly cooked lamb so tender, deeply flavoured, with a beautiful sweetness running through it. This was the highlight of the menu and one of the best lamb dishes I’ve ever had. And that’s saying something, because lamb is my favourite meat. I’ve eaten a lot of it over the years, but this is genuinely the best I’ve ever had. It was so good I nearly had a moment when Lucy came to take the plate away. Not that there was much left on it anyway (it was all gone to be honest) Just a thin line of sauce, which In fact, I very briefly and quite embarrassingly used my finger to mop up the last bit of sauce – Zero regrets!
Then onto dessert — Yorkshire curd tart with birch syrup. Light, gently sweet and properly comforting. Slight caramelisation on top, almost Basque-style in feel, served with ice cream and raisins. Beautiful.
And finally, the perfect petit fours to end our meal: a Bee Pollen Financier with Chamomile and a Manjari Chocolate Financier with Woodruff. Perfect with a cup of tea and the ideal way to gently finish off what had been a wonderful dining experience at Folium.
Lucy deserves her own paragraph, honestly. Service wasn’t service in the transactional sense, it felt like hospitality in its truest form. We ended up talking about Birmingham, the food scene, life, all of it. It didn’t feel like staff and customer. It felt like people sharing space, sharing stories, and I think that’s quite rare. There’s something really grounding about a place where people genuinely care – not performatively, not for show, but because they truly believe in what they’re doing. It was lovely to speak to Lucy. Within minutes it felt like we’d known her for years.
I genuinely don’t understand why Folium isn’t constantly spoken about in the same breath as some of the louder, more hyped restaurants in the city. Because this, for me, is right up there. In fact, I’m slightly confused it hasn’t been picked up a Michelin star. In my opinion, it matches — and in some cases surpasses — a lot of restaurants currently holding one across Birmingham and the West Midlands. Maybe that’s exactly why this review brought me back to writing.Because restaurants like Folium deserve people shouting about them.
A special restaurant. One I’ll absolutely be returning to. And one I really hope gets the recognition it deserves, not just in Birmingham, but far beyond it.
Do you remember that scene from Toy Story 3 where the toys anticipate a delightful stay at a children’s day care, only to find themselves in the clutches of dribbling, toy-mutilating toddlers? Well, my seafood boil experience at Seafood City was kind of like that…
Please note: This was an Influencer event and this experience was gifted. All opinions are my honest thoughts.
Seafood boils, a foodie craze that has taken over TikTok, typically feature people in bibs, sucking on crab legs, with tables draped in Cajun and garlic butter sauce. Vegans, beware! Despite my reservations about messy eating, the concept intrigued me. So, when Seafood City, Birmingham’s very first seafood boil restaurant, opened in The Arcadian, I was eager to dive in. I had never tried a seafood boil before. I love seafood, but never have I eaten it with gloves and had a bucket-load of it on my plate.
Inspired by the original ‘seafood boil’ made famous in Louisiana in the USA’s Deep South, Seafood City is the very first seafood boil restaurant in Birmingham. It is run by the lovely people behind Vietnamese Street Kitchen—the family-run restaurant in Birmingham. Located on the top level of The Arcadian, Seafood City boasts a decent size and a prime location. The whole point of this experience is to get messy, and even though I’m not one for faffing around with my food, I was ready for this new dining experience.
We started with scallops in a garlic and spring onion sauce. While I can’t recall the exact price of the scallops, the sauce was £3.99. These scallops were delightful—beautifully garlicky and buttery! Size-wise, they were spot on, pretty big, and presented nicely in their shells. So far, so good!
My orange wine fans will be happy to know there is an orange wine on the menu! I was over the moon to see Solara Orange on the menu—a gorgeous orange wine that could easily be drunk like pop! Alongside the wine, we enjoyed a couple of cocktails. They offer a fantastic deal: 2 for £15. We sampled the apricot fizz, raspberry ice, and lychee cooler, with the lychee cooler emerging as my favourite.
The wait for the seafood boil was a bit lengthy, but since this was an influencer event, I understood the delay. Bib and gloves secured, the seafood feast finally arrived. Lobster, mussels, squid, king prawns, potatoes, and corn on the cob, all drenched in Cajun sauce. You also have the option of garlic butter or hot and spicy sauces.
Gloves on, it was time to get down and dirty. Cracking open the lobster revealed a generous amount of meat, and the prawns were big, juicy, and perfectly seasoned with Cajun spices. However, as time went on, cracking open the prawns and lobster became a laborious task. Looking around at people sucking on crab claws, pulling apart lobster bodies, and sauce dribbling all over people’s mouths and bibs, it was quite a horror scene. With my gloves soaked, I started to get the ick.
Now, I have a peculiar aversion to wet things. It dates back to my school days, walking home in soaking wet trousers that clung uncomfortably to my legs. That sensation of wet material against my skin makes me cringe, and I experienced a similar discomfort here. The messiness, the wetness, the sauce in places it shouldn’t be—every time I spoke, Cajun spice squirted into my friends’ faces. I did not sign up for a seafood orgy!
For those who enjoy messy eating, this place is a blast. It’s fun, but if you have a phobia of soggy things clinging to you, this could be your worst nightmare. That said, the food was undeniably tasty. The flavours were robust, the variety was impressive, and the extra touch of garlic bread to soak up the sauce was a nice addition. The seafood boil costs £15.95, with the lobster tail as an extra for £16.95 and £3.75 for 5 squid rings, bringing the total to £36.65. While I won’t be rushing back for another seafood boil, the fried cod, crab, and prawn burger on the menu caught my eye and seems more my style. In regard to the seafood boil, they also offer fried and grilled options, plus larger portions.
In conclusion, this new craze is something people will either love or hate. For me, the messiness was a deal-breaker, but I thoroughly enjoyed the food. It’s an experience everyone should try at least once – just maybe bring some goggles to avoid lobster juice in your eye!
I am partial to a big, fat, juicy steak. To be honest, steak would be my death row meal: steak in a chimichurri sauce with Nan’s deep-fried chips, a glass of orange wine, and Early Birds Bakery pecan pie. I like to think everyone would respect my wishes and deliver, but I have a feeling Nan’s response would be, “Piss off, I’m nearly dead.”
The food scene is buzzing in Birmingham, From incredible wood-fired pizzas to rich and aromatic curries that nod to the city’s storied history with South Asian cuisine, and from vibrant Thai dishes to gourmet burgers, Birmingham’s culinary landscape is as diverse as it is delicious. I have pretty much everything I need except, a quality steakhouse. Finding out Pasture was opening a new restaurant on Colmore Row, my curiosity was immediately piqued. I had heard rave reviews about their Bristol branch and when they announced their Birmingham opening, my DMs lit up like never before, flooded with messages from many of you begging me to review it. So, could Pasture be the steakhouse that finally fills this gap in Birmingham?
We went on a Thursday around 5:30 PM,the bar was filled with city workers going for their after-work tipples and the restaurant was quiet but slowly filling up. Pasture’s Birmingham branch is their biggest yet, and I have to say the design of the restaurant is pretty flawless throughout. The décor had a lot of Manhattan feel to it that I really loved, especially the bar. Sexy interior, high class, and I can see this being a hot spot for couples’ date nights, after-work drinks, or catch-up with the girls! Walking into the dining area, you can see the big glass-fronted dry-aging fridge, which I believe is the biggest in any UK restaurant, as well as an open kitchen for diners to see the ‘theatrical’ open-fire cooking. As we took our seats, water and menus were delivered straight away.
Let’s start with the menu, the cocktail menu that is! It was about eight pages long and offered plenty of options; it was pretty impressive. There were a few that raised both mine and James’s eyebrows: Chimichurri Margarita? Jude’s Beef? We’ll take them both! I do applaud an adventurous cocktail menu. They arrived quickly, and my god, were the cocktails delicious. Jude’s Beef: beef fat-washed spiced rum, coffee liqueur, demerara, and walnut bitters—a cocktail I wouldn’t usually go for, but it was sweet and strong, and warmed the lungs! The chimichurri was different yet oddly satisfying after a few sips. My favourite was Nina Rose, a Ramsbury gin, rose, elderflower, and prosecco drink, which was a refreshing summer drink that I could drink like pop! Price-wise, it was around £10/£11 per cocktail. Overall, the cocktails were a big hit and they matched the price.
Now for the food. For starters, we opted for crispy fried chicken wings in a soy & bourbon glaze and kimchi dressing (£8.50) and the char siu pork belly with puffed crackling, BBQ sauce, and sauerkraut. Service was quick and strong; our server went through the menu for us and was sharp in replying to our questions about various dishes. We tucked into the chicken wings, which were seasoned beautifully. Each wing was licked clean like I set my dog on them. They were crispy, battered incredibly, and a great dish to start with. The char siu was petite yet had an almighty kick of flavour! Paired with the puffed crackling in a sweet BBQ sauce, it was our favourite starter dish overall.
Now, let’s talk steak. You’re going to find pretty much all the steak your heart desires here, just not that £1000 steak covered in “gold leaves” served by someone who looks like they should be out of Lemony Snicket’s Series of Unfortunate Events, which is a good sign. From rumps to sirloins to large cuts like Tomahawks to porterhouse. The house cuts were showcased by our waiter, and we were instantly sold on the dinosaur Tomahawk. Each cut delivers a different flavour profile, texture, and experience. The sirloin is rich and flavourful, the ribeye is marbled and juicy, and the Tomahawk is an impressive cut that’s both tender and full of robust, beefy flavour. The Tomahawk house cut comes with two sauces and two sides, £9 per 100g, with the weight displayed on their blackboards that change daily. We decided to go for 1kg, paired with brown butter béarnaise and Sichuan pepper. Add the chimichurri—it melts beautifully into the fat, and it is sensational. For the steak, it was £90 – now I know a few people will raise their eyebrows at the price, but come on, this is not Wetherspoons where you’re going to find a steak for £10. This is PREMIUM—the best of the best. Highest quality steaks you can get your hands on, from sirloins and ribeyes to the ‘dinosaur cut’ Tomahawk and prized Chateaubriand—all dry-aged for a minimum of 35 days, and you can really taste the quality!
The upscale steakhouse serves some of the finest cuts of steak for miles, using only local ingredients that are ethically and sustainably sourced. For £90, the Tomahawk comes with two sides. We were recommended fire-roasted carrots and Thai som tam, which was a highly flavourful salad with a great balance of sweet and sour that my partner completely demolished. Both were beautiful sides that paired up rather nicely with our steak. We cut into the Tomahawk, and it sliced perfectly. Once thrown into our mouths, it melted and was cooked to perfection. The fat was sweet yet salty and melted away. You could really taste the quality of the meat, and I felt the portions were enough for two people, maybe a little bit more than enough. With a few bits of steak left, we were left clasping our stomachs, and it must have been a sight to see as we looked like a couple of pregnant ladies doing breathing exercises.
I must say service was exceptional throughout our dining experience. The service added to the value of the dishes and experience. Our server couldn’t do enough for us; he was exceptional throughout. Desserts? I was struggling to get up from the seat and do my lipstick, so we had to skip. But eyeing up the options, we know it’s a must to come back.For those curious about veggie options, yes, they exist! But let’s be real – this place is practically a shrine to all things beef. So, I wouldn’t hold my breath waiting for a crowd of vegans to flock here!
So, the question is, is this the best steak restaurant in Birmingham? For me, it is. I have been mourning the loss of Pulperia in Brindleyplace, which served up the best steak, and I have to admit there is just nowhere that comes near it until Pasture. The bill came to around £180, and we left feeling full and satisfied. Pasture, to me, has fired straight to the top tier of restaurants in Birmingham. I believe it’s here to stay for a long time, and I, for one, am hugely relieved that Birmingham once again has a great steakhouse.
Six weeks have passed, and Six by Nico once again invites guests to try out their new dining experience and ‘tumble down the rabbit hole’ into Wonderland for their latest theme – the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. As I embarked on this culinary journey, I met a few familiar faces such as the white rabbit to the Queen of Hearts, but that wasn’t enough to satisfy my curiosity, and by the end of the experience, I found myself filled with disappointment, wishing I had chosen a different rabbit hole.
PLEASE NOTE: THIS WAS AN INVITE; however, my views are my own.
Six by Nico, known for its affordable changing menus every six weeks, sets a price of £39 per person. With the option to indulge in a wine pairing for an additional £30, it promises a unique dining experience. On my last visit, I couldn’t sing its praises enough, as I really enjoyed the chippy menu. So, I was overly excited to see what Six by Nico had in store for us next!
On a Thursday at 5pm, the restaurant was less than half full, and as we scanned the menus (which we later discovered were edible), we ordered the “keyhole” mocktail, a refreshing concoction resembling a summer drink which was lovely and refreshing. I opted for the Classic menu (meat) and The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party began with a Mushroom Tea, Smoked Bacon Jam, Truffle Parmesan Royale, Pickled Walnut & Keens Cheddar Scone. A pleasant introduction, though it failed to scream “Mad Hatter’s Tea Party,” the cheddar scone emerged as a standout element, one bite revealed a gooey, molten core of cheese that melted luxuriously in my mouth. The mushroom tea was okay, but it resembled more of the swamp scene out of The Neverending Story than wonderland.
The second course called “The White Rabbit” consisted of rabbit, chicken & date ballotine accompanied by Beef Fat Roasted Carrot, Tarragon Pesto, Rabbit Bolognese, and Carrot Ketchup. While the ballotine was enjoyable to eat, however, an overpowering amount of Tarragon pesto really ruined the whole dish for me. The third course, titled “Paint The Roses Red,” showcased goat cheese Mousseline, Baby Beetroot, Garden Radish, Kalamata Olive Soil, and Red Apple Caramel. Creatively presented but disappointingly bland, the dish lacked the expected burst of flavour. The goat’s cheese was nonexistent, and it felt almost like a palette cleanser; there was no substance to it at all, and it was just an overall confusing dish.
When it came to the fourth dish, the waits were longer around 15 minutes where as before they came within five minutes. The fourth course, “Eat Me, Drink Me,” featured Roasted Black Pollock, Miso Glaze, Bonito Emulsion, White Turnip Puree, Pickled Tokyo Turnip, and Dashi Broth. As the dish was finally presented, the gleaming white fish, Pollock, cooked to perfection, caught my eye. Lovely and tender with a flaky texture covered in a miso Glaze, however it lay in a dashi broth that lacked flavour.
“Off With Its Head,” More like off with my head. I was getting a bit restless with the lack of theme however the fifth course, brought a glimmer of hope with Pork Belly, Choucroute, Apple Gel, Pig Head Croquette, Cauliflower & Sauce Charcuterie. Delicious and glazed to perfection, it offered a moment of redemption.
Finally, for the dessert, “The Queen of Hearts,” A dish that was very much on the theme, a White Chocolate Mousse, Red Velvet Cake, Raspberries, and Pecan Brittle, marked the climax of the meal. Creamy, sweet, and crunchy, it was a stunning combination that silenced the table. Regrettably, it was the last dish, leaving me wishing the journey had started with such brilliance. of course, you can’t really start with a pudding, but then again, this is a Mad Hatter’s tea party after all…
The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party sadly failed to fully embrace the Alice in Wonderland theme, it felt more Coroline than Alice with its moody tones and swamp-like broths. With missing characters like the Caterpillar and that googley-eyed cat, where was the bloody Cheshire Cat?! Teacups, flowers, drink me bottles, etc. Inconsistencies in service and explanations about the dishes further detracted from the experience. We were served by three different people, one who explained the story behind the dish and how it kept with the theme (this was explained once) one who wasn’t too sure what was in the dishes and the third was very friendly and just explained what was in the dishes and not the story behind them – it was incredibly inconsistent but one thing was consistent that they were all very pleasant and polite. Perhaps the theme wasn’t a match for my taste or maybe the theme was too big for Six by Nico, but leaving the rabbit hole, I felt more confused and tired than enchanted. While acknowledging it’s the first week of the new menu and with new staff in training, honesty compels me to admit that this Six by Nico experience fell short of expectations.
I fI find myself in a state of internal conflict when contemplating the price of a six-course tasting menu priced at £39. On one hand, it’s hard to argue with the affordability and the number of dishes, it is a bloody bargain However, I left feeling disappointed and that overshadows this consideration. I believe there was immense potential for creativity and innovation with the theme, and it’s disheartening to see that potential unrealised. The promotional material led me to expect a really cool and “out there” Mad Hatter’s theme, yet the execution sadly left much to be desired. I liked some dishes but the majority of them just didn’t do it for me, a totally different experience from my last visit where it was winner after winner. Despite my previous love for Six by Nico’s “The Chippy” theme, the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party left me eager to scramble back out of the rabbit hole. As they say, curiosity killed the cat, and in this case, I would have preferred to skip this theme altogether.
Despite the disappointment with this particular theme, I’m inclined to believe that one subpar experience doesn’t entirely diminish the appeal of the restaurant. My first encounter with their innovative concept left me thoroughly impressed, and I’m willing to chalk this instance up to a one-off letdown. To be fair, one or two on our table enjoyed the experience so it’s one not to strike off, it just wasn’t for me bab. The unique approach to changing themes every six weeks is a fantastic aspect of Six by Nico that has kept me intrigued and I applaud them for this. While the Mad Hatter’s theme may not have lived up to my expectations, I’m optimistic about what the future holds. Another six weeks will reveal whether this was just a hiccup or a pattern, and I’m eager to see what culinary adventure Six by Nico has in store next.
The independent establishment that has given me a bit of trouble throughout blogging in the past year or so is Tropea. No fault of Tropea, the blame is all on me for taking what feels like a lifetime to try them out. I often ask, “Where should I review next, folks?” “Bab, for goodness’ sake, TROPEA IS THE ONLY ANSWER!” After the backlash from those who constantly insisted, I visit Tropea (now, I thank you all), I decided to kick off the new year by finally giving Tropea in Harborne a try. Recognised as the Best Local Restaurant in Central and East England by the Good Food Guide UK and featured in the Michelin Guide, and a fan-favourite of many!
On a Saturday lunchtime, they were able to accommodate us. To be honest, I couldn’t believe my luck as I have been told it’s quite tricky to get a table at Tropea. Greeted by a familiar face, Toby, an incredible Birmingham bartender with whom I’ve had the pleasure of working with, showed us to our seats. The restaurant is small, offering diners a modern and intimate dining experience. It’s a lovely restaurant and has a great atmosphere even though it’s only 1pm!
I requested water, adhering to my newfound “new year, new me” commitment. However, I realised I started this way too soon as we were seated right next to the bar, witnessing glorious cocktails being crafted. My god, they were tempting – the espresso martini was like a knife to my heart, but I stuck to my word, proceeding to stick with water and remain good. What a bloody prat I am.
Looking through the menu, we found a great selection of Italian dishes, an adventurous and daring menu not seen elsewhere. Meats, vegetarian options, plenty that I wanted to explore here and It was recommended for two people to share around 6-8 dishes, resembling a tapas-style dining experience. The menu changes according to availability of seasonal produce and Toby guided us with recommendations on dish pairings which was a great help.
To start, we ordered burrata with roasted sweet red peppers, rocket, toasted hazelnuts, basil oil, and Maldon salt, bombolone (Italian filled doughnuts) stuffed with gorgonzola, pickled walnuts, red onion jam, and focaccia with olives and house pickles. Where do I start? Let’s begin with what blew me away – the Bombolone doughnuts were like a kick in the mouth of sensational flavours, a welcome to Tropea and a realisation of what I had been missing out on. Next, we tried the burrata, beautiful, especially when paired with the focaccia—it was rich and creamy, what a dream!
Next up, the pasta. We ordered pappardelle venison ragu with rosemary and 24-month Parmesan and Cappellacci stuffed with butternut squash and sage butter. The venison ragu was gorgeous, rich, and succulent—venison seasoned beautifully with rosemary was a dream to eat. But the cappellacci stuffed parcels stole the show—my favourite dish of the night. Filled with a beautiful blend of butternut squash, it’s a dish that many should experience and one that took me by surprise to be honest as I often find vegetarian pasta options just, well boring really! but this was far from it.
Filling up nicely, I totally forgot that we had ordered some meat/fish dishes—gulp! I am about to burst here, and Josie was half asleep. As soon as the dishes arrived, I nearly shot up out of my seat but I was mesmerised by the shell-on baked wild red prawns in chili garlic oil, accompanied by plain focaccia for dipping, and grilled pork collar with stewed borlotti beans, pear, and mustard chutney, rosemary. Succulent prawns seasoned beautifully—usually when I order shell prawns, they’re seasoned on the outside and not on the inside, so I was chuffed to taste some seasoned prawn with an easy-to-crack shell. The chili oil drizzle went wonderfully with the focaccia. The grilled pork was cooked perfectly, and I loved pairing it up with the borlotti beans, pear, and mustard chutney—what a mouthful!
We skipped dessert as it was approaching 3pm, right when they close for dinner. however, they were very accommodating even nearing 3pm and beyond. No rush, faultless customer service, and incredible food—the trifecta of Tropea. It’s firmly in my top ten dining experiences, and one thing that stood out was the constant smiling of customers. Clearly, people really adore this place; it’s not pretentious—it’s a fantastic spot for everyone to gather, socialize over great food, and, of course, experience the magic of Tropea. A little bit on the pricey side however how can I complain when the quality is so outstanding? You pay for quality, and you get quality here, simple as that. I could sing its praises all day long—really, REALLY loved it. As many would say, better late than never. Now, it’s my turn to offer a bit of advice: if you’re contemplating a visit, don’t wait like I did. But honestly, who am I kidding? You all bloody know about Tropea, so all that’s left to say is good luck getting a table!
As we step into the new year, the lingering exhaustion from the festive chaos of Christmas may have settled in. The aftermath of excessive spending on lavish buffet spreads, upgrading our entertainment subscriptions (NOW TV and Netflix), and just generally getting wasted AF!
If you’re like me and your on the lookout for fantastic bargains this January without further denting your wallet, then this guide is tailor-made for you! I’ve created a helpful list of restaurants, bars, and hotels in Birmingham that are offering fabulous deals to make your January delightful without breaking the bank. Whether you’re craving a delicious meal, a night out, or a cosy stay, this guide has got you covered. Keep an eye on updates throughout the month, be sure to bookmark this post, and share it with friends and family, ensuring everyone can enjoy these budget-friendly delights!
Please note: Imagery is not mine – Credit to Orelle and The Cocktail Club
We have a new opening in Birmingham (Colmore Row, to be exact!), and this time it’s SIX BY NICO, Founded by chef Nico Simeone, Six by Nico offers guests a delectable and affordable menu that changes every six weeks, drawing inspiration from a theme, destination, or concept.
The menu is priced at £39 per person, with the option to enjoy an expertly selected wine pairing for a £30 supplement. For their new restaurant, they put on “The Chippie,” where we get to immerse ourselves in the world of Britain’s beloved favourite cuisine, “Fish and chips.” But of course, there is a twist.
The restaurant is sleek and designed beautifully throughout, with plenty of room. We took a table that had the perfect view of the kitchen, where we could see Nico hard at work! We decided to go all in with the wine pairing. Now, £30 for a wine pairing, I can’t complain – I felt each wine complimented each course so well. Not to go into detail, as I’m no wine connoisseur, just a humble expert in orange wine, but hey, I know my way around good food, so let’s start there.
We start with course one: Chips & Cheese – Parmesan Espuma, Curry Oil & Emulsion, Crisp Potato Terrine – Holy CHIP! What an introduction to a six-course menu! The emulsion was absolutely sensational mixed with the terrine; I couldn’t help but lap it up – The waitress had to literally fight me to collect my bowl because I couldn’t stop fingering the sauce.
Course 2 – Scampi: Brandade, Dill Emulsion, Gribiche, Peas, Beurre Blanc – was an enjoyable second course. The Brandade brought a creamy richness, the Dill Emulsion added a burst of freshness, and the Beurre Blanc tied it all together quite nicely.
Course 3 – Steak Pie: 24 Hour Beef Shin, Burnt Onion Ketchup, Mushroom Duxelle, ‘Meaty Salsa – In the words of babs, “I DON’T WANT TO BE A PIE, I DON’T LIKE GRAVY”. this was the dish I was least looking forward to as I’m actually not a fan of pies or gravy, but one spoonful and it quickly became my second favourite dish of the night. That meaty Salsa, OOF! I enjoyed it – I wished my local chippy did this.
My eyes seemed to be gleaming throughout until I got to the fourth course, during which I just had to throw my knife and fork down and kind of surrender to the fact that Six by Nico is going to cause some bloody problems here…but first, Course 4 – Fish Supper: Scrabster Coley, Pickled Mussels, Confit Fennel, Samphire, Beer Emulsion – Fish cooked perfectly, the vinegar of the pickled mussels, the sweetness and bitterness of beer emulsion – oh my god, I could bloody go on; for me, that was the standout dish of the night.
By course 5, I accepted the fact that I really like it here but can’t help but wonder that it might cause a little bit of uproar in Birmingham as it’s priced so cheap – What does this mean for competitors? Because let’s face it, where can we find a pretty good six-course tasting menu for £39 these days? It’s like trying to find a 10p Freddo in a sweet shop; it just doesn’t exist.
The next course was Smoked Sausage: Trio of Pork, Apple, Crispy Crackling, Salt Baked Celeriac, and Choucroute – The Smoked Sausage brought a rich smokiness, the Trio of Pork offered layers of succulence, and the combination with Apple, Crispy Crackling, Salt Baked Celeriac, and Choucroute was truly delightful.
We ended with Course 6 – Deep Fried Mars Bar: Chocolate Pave, Irn Bru Sorbet, Deep Fried Mars Bar – You know I am not a big pudding fan, so I am not going to scream from the rooftops that it was amazing, but yeah, it’s like a deep-fried Mars Bar, isn’t it, lol. It was very nice, chocolate lovers will swoon like the rest of the table did over this but for me, Puddings are a bit meh but that’s because I am more of a savoury kind of girl, the whole table enjoyed it so it was a success, just not for me.
Service was good, a little shakey at first but we were made aware that staff were training but the food was put on the table promptly, and each course was explained. I think they were a little scared of us at first and to be honest, we are quite a loud bunch but I thought the staff did very well to handle a big group. I did ask for a cup of tea at the end of it and it never appeared but that’s just me being a complete old fart.
Overall, I thought this is a fantastic addition to Birmingham, incredible value for money – it’s hard to pick up what’s wrong with this price; I just couldn’t find anything wrong with it. The dishes were reasonably sized. I mean, £39 – I can’t exactly expect a huge buffet coming out to me, but I left feeling satisfied and full. I feel this is a great introduction to fine dining, maybe for those who are a little unsure (usually price scares them off and small plates – the question arises, “You don’t get full up at those kind of places surely? and “They are asking for how much?! just for some tiddly plates of what looks like just flowers?!” Quoted by Martin Langston, my Dad who is a bit of a funny bugger but I reckon he would really enjoy this.
Yes, it’s not “AMAZING” food like you will find in a Michelin-starred restaurant but it’s pretty bloody good food for the price and quality your getting. Dishes full of flavour, and creativity and overall, we all had a wonderful dining experience. I left feeling very happy and impressed with Six by Nico; I am looking forward to booking again!
I never thought someone else could feed me more than my own mother. ‘I’m full’ becomes a cue for my mother to whip up a roast dinner. Even after indulging in a 10-course tasting menu, my mom insists on making a chip butty for me because I might be a ‘little’ peckish. And the cherry on top – when I’m trying to stick to a diet, she surprises me with pizza and chips! But wait, it’s not so bad; the pizza has vegetables, she says, so I guess I’m all good, right? I thought my mother was alone in this until one Friday lunchtime when a trip to Opheem to try out their Lunch/A la Carte menu (3 courses for £65) with my partner left me needing a helping hand to leave the restaurant; now Aktar Islam has taken over my Mother’s role.
Opheem, a Michelin-Starred Indian fine dining restaurant on Summer Row in Birmingham, is said to be an embodiment of culinary artistry meticulously crafted by the talented chef Aktar Islam. Its approach is refreshingly different as it refuses to cling to the familiar food and culture of yesterday. Instead, Opheem embraces the evolution of Indian cuisine, capturing the essence of India’s diverse culinary heritage.
The experience at Opheem began with an invitation from Empress Ale to sample their beers, so firstly, I have to disclose this was gifted; however, my views are my own.
Upon arriving at the restaurant, we were warmly greeted by the host, who opened the grand stained doors reminiscent of a scene from ‘The Wizard of Oz.’ The lounge was luxurious and sleek throughout, and the service was impressively sharp. Within moments, we were served a sharp, zesty, and gingery palate cleanser, along with mouth-watering snacks such as Linseed Crackers with Mustard and Yoghurt and Mango Tuille with Chutney, Burnt Lettuce and Raw Mango. I paired the snacks up with Empress Ale IPA. We were there to sample the beer, which I felt matched well with many of the dishes. All snacks disappeared within one mouthful, leaving us eagerly anticipating the upcoming culinary journey. After 45 minutes of snacks and drinking beer, we were escorted up to the restaurant for…more snacks.
Opheem’s dining room is a stunning sight with its sleek design and open kitchen layout that allows diners to witness the chefs’ do their thing. Again, service was sharp with drinks orders, and within five minutes, what I thought was our lunch set menu was indeed another snack: BHUTTA – Mumbai, which was grilled corn with spiced butter and corn sorbet. The grilled corn was coated in a sublime spiced butter that was worth smudging my lipstick all over my chin. The corn sorbet, however, fell a bit flat; I could just taste coldness, no flavour. However, my partner enjoyed it; a snack that just isn’t for everyone but that was completely forgotten about when the bread course was served, which was beautiful. PAU is a Hokkaido milk loaf that came with a light spiced lamb pate that was just gorgeous, bread was soft, fluffy and dipped in the pate was just simply flawless.
Starters arrived, and we tucked into the unforgettable Aloo Tuk – Achaari potatoes and tamarind, along with the Kekda Kerala, a soft-shell crab with caraway seed tempura and crab shaami (the winning course on Great British Menu). The Aloo Tuk left us speechless; no words can sum up how beautiful that dish is, while we tucked into the soft-shell crab dish, it became evident why it was the winning course. The attention to detail, the creative use of ingredients, and the seamless fusion of traditional Indian elements with contemporary techniques elevated this dish to a level of culinary brilliance.
Before we could catch our breath, the chefs wanted us to try the Orkney scallop, tomato rassam, mooli, and apple, which dazzled our palates. This dish was the real winner for me, by far the best scallop dish I have ever tasted. Scallops are my favourite starter, so I am a tough critic! Coated beautifully, full of zest, and lovely and light and refreshing, we couldn’t help but pick up the bowl and slurp up the rest of the sauce because that was one of the best damn dishes I have ever tasted.
The main courses showcased the Allepy Kerala, a day boat fish with seasonal greens, raw mango, and coconut. This dish was absolutely divine, perfectly balanced and an ode to the freshest ingredients. On the other hand, the Shalgam West Bengal, a roasted poussin with tandoori thigh, turnip, and Bengali chicken sauce, didn’t quite resonate with my personal taste, but it was still well-crafted. Admittedly, as someone who isn’t a big lover of chicken, this might have influenced my perception of the dish. While the presentation was stunning, and the poussin was cooked to perfection, I found that the dish seemed to be heavily laden with sauce, which subdued the flavours of the chicken. Perhaps the intention was to add depth to the dish, but for my palate, it leaned towards being a tad bland despite the generous amount of sauce.
On to dessert; AAM with Alphonso mango and lime, and SEB Moghul featuring Granny Smith samosa, sorrel, cinnamon, and wild berries provided a sweet end to the meal. The Granny Smith samosa stood out with its delightful interplay of sweet and savoury, the crisp, flaky pastry encased the tender apple filling, which was expertly spiced with the warmth of cinnamon. The addition of tangy sorrel and the burst of flavour from the wild berries added a burst of freshness that perfectly balanced the sweetness of the dessert. My partner said the AAM with Alphonso mango and lime dessert was delicious and perfectly refreshing, making it the perfect palate cleanser from the richness of some of the mains.
Just when I thought it was the end of our meal, we were then told that we were to go back to the lounge for after-dinner snacks. Reading this back, it almost comes across as if I was irritated with the number of snacks, but I was far from that; to be honest, I was shocked and incredibly impressed at how much customers are getting for their money! To be honest, by this point, I was satisfied, but I couldn’t say no to a warm cup of Assam and some delicious after dinner snacks such as mango ice lollies dipped in white chocolate (which were stunning). We finished with a selection of petits fours.
While there was one main I wasn’t so keen on, I felt the overall quality, impeccable service, and uniqueness of the dining experience was unrivalled. Opheem’s dedication to preserving India’s culinary treasures while infusing modern touches is truly incredible to experience. The lunch set menu offered exceptional value for money, making it one of the best dining experiences I have ever had. In conclusion, Opheem is not just a restaurant; it’s an extraordinary dining experience that transports diners on a journey through the evolution of Indian cuisine. With each dish, Opheem masterfully captures the essence of India’s diverse flavours, leaving guests in awe and longing for more. 100% a fan and looking forward to experience more of Opheem over the next couple of months.
Do you remember that video of people in a bar watching one of the Euro football games and when England scored, the whole place went wild with beers flung everywhere? I imagine a similar reaction from most of Birmingham when Buddha Belly announced they were opening their first restaurant.
After making their name in the city as top-notch street food vendors, Brum’s foodies have been calling for them to set up a permanent spot where we can feast upon owner Sai’s cooking to our hearts content. And now our dreams have come true! Say hello to Buddha Belly’s newest venture: SOI 1268! Situated on the busy Pershore Rd, next door to trendy Japanese bar Ikigai, of course, it had to be Stirchley, right? Would I have liked it to be Sutton Coldfield? Obviously, but Stirchley is just so cool…and I guess, it just had to be you, f*** Stirchley…anyway, back to the review!
The restaurant captures that rustic Thailand street food vibe throughout, and it’s relaxed dining at its finest. Once we sat down at our table, we wasted no time and ordered some ice-cold drinks, I went for a pint of DEYA. As we flicked through the menu, I was happy to see some Buddha Belly classics such as the deliciously moreish Beef Massaman and their beautifully crisp and tender Thai Fried Chicken. Its order at the bar service and we got into it straight away.
Let’s start with the Thai Fried Chicken, adorned with fragrant Thai herbs, crispy batter, and a divine sweet sauce. That tantalising crisp when biting into it tastes as good as it always has. But let me tell you, their King Prawn Toast, accompanied by a heavenly sweet and sour sauce, claims the title of the best prawn toast I’ve ever had. It’s the best in the Midlands, and I will fight you if you disagree!
The Garlic & Lime Wings were a perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness. Paired with a fiery tamarind sauce, personally, I couldn’t resist smothering them in sweet chili sauce because, well, I’m a bit of a slag for sweet chili sauce.
Another new dish, Pork Pa Lo, brought together braised duck egg, chili and garlic pickle, five-spiced succulent pork, and fragrant jasmine rice to create a symphony of flavours that left us longing for more. It was undoubtedly my favourite dish of the evening and definitely the dish to order. To balance out the rich flavours we ordered the refreshing Som Tam Isaan salad. The combination of shredded vegetables, fermented fish sauce, and a hint of chili was a delightful palate cleanser, with a cheeky little spicy kick! Prices in my eyes are very reasonable, and the portions are big so I do feel its great value for money here.
Before visiting, I must admit I felt a sense of nervousness. Having worked with Buddha Belly before, I knew first-hand how much passion they had poured into this venture. I felt like I was part of their journey in some way, and I’m forever grateful to have had the opportunity to work with such an incredible team. And, as expected, they absolutely smashed it. SOI 1268 has been a huge success, and it was heart-warming to see people with smiles on their faces, enjoying the dining experience with their families. The Buddha Belly team has achieved something special with this new restaurant, and I couldn’t be more thrilled for the team.
Firstly, I want to start this review by apologising and saying I am a complete tit for taking bloody ages to try out Smoke at Hampton Manor. I also apologise for using the word “tit”
Smoke is located in the stunning setting of Hampton Manor, which is jaw-droppingly beautiful, It is an enormous estate that now holds a Michelin-starred restaurant, Grace and Savour, a Victorian Manor House that looks like something out of a fairytale holding fifteen boutique bedrooms and Stuart Deeley’s first restaurant, “Smoke”. If you’re unfamiliar with Stu, then let me fill you in. Stuart won the title of MasterChef: The Professionals in 2019, and he has worked in some of the city’s best restaurants, including Simpsons and The Wilderness. Now, he is hidden away within the beautiful grounds of Hampton Manor in his restaurant “Smoke.” Mysterious yet the smoke is pretty inviting!
The interior is rustic throughout, almost like walking into my dad’s garden shed, If my Dad had a luxury garden shed with leather chairs, steel and iron throughout. Glistening glasses and copper lamps create a warm ambiance, and there’s a lovely view of the glass house where they grow some of the ingredients used in their cooking. We took our seats, were given the menus, and I squealed with excitement, “They do orange wine!” Now, that’s the way we like to start! Sadly, I didn’t take note of the name of the orange wine (Bloody numpty Amy), but luckily, there are only two, and I couldn’t decide between the two as they were so refreshing and beautifully flavoured and therefore I must advise you to order both.
Not a fan of orange? (You are killing me man!) then the wine list offers a good variety of options that cater to all palates. It offers something truly special – wines on tap! Smoke is committed to serving up sustainable, exceptional quality wines that are grown without chemicals or pesticides, with a focus on quality and sustainability, Smoke’s wine list is a true testament to their commitment to offering the very best and guess what? I felt on top of the world when I left and didn’t suffer a dirty hangover the next day, SCORE!
We opted for the lunch menu, which consisted of three courses for £60. Ingredients are especially selected and cooked over coals to optimise flavour and intensity, creating that smoky texture – We couldn’t wait. We started our meal with an introduction course that featured garden vegetables such as beetroot, radishes and kale served alongside Cobble Lane cured meats with a nasturtium emulsion and sunflower seeds. I love a good picky session and scooping the silky nasturtium emulsion and spreading it all over the freshly baked sourdough was just heaven. Kale so crispy and full of flavour, beetroot so sweet and combined with the smoky cured meats – a truly delightful experience. We got a bit carried away and totally forgot; this was not our starters. “Are you feeling a bit full?” my friend Josie asked. Bloody full at this time?! The party is only just getting started!
Next, I had the Crispy Ox Cheek, Pickled Walnut, and Sherry Jelly. At first, it looked like a bird’s nest on my plate. I never thought a bird’s nest would taste so delicious. The ox cheek was perfectly cooked, with a crispy exterior and a tender and juicy interior. The pickled walnut added a tangy and acidic note that complemented the richness of the meat, and the sherry jelly provided a lovely sweetness! Every bite had me swooning, so much that I nearly fell off my chair.
We had the chance to taste the Scallop and Courgette in Thai Green Sauce (Stu wanted us to try it) and it was incredible. The scallop was perfectly cooked, with a delicate and tender texture, while the courgette added a nice freshness and a little crunch to the dish. The problem with this dish was, it was too good, like I could have had about ten bowls of it.
For my main course, I had the Berico Presa Pork with Artichoke, Grelot Onion, and Black Garlic. This dish is possibly the best I’ve had so far this year and I am going to spit out some fancy-word bars now. The pork was cooked to perfection, with a succulent and flavourful interior. The artichoke and grelot onion were a perfect accompaniment while the black garlic provided a subtle smokiness that enhanced the overall flavour. I want this on subscription! I know I’m no Gordon Ramsay or Brooklyn Beckham (lol), but my god that dish is possibly one of the best dishes I have had in a very long time and it didn’t end there. Caramelised boulangere potatoes were shared between the table, and they were like bloody gold dust. Thinly sliced, tender and caramelised to perfection. I would also like a subscription for these too please.
Feeling incredibly satisfied. Stu made an appearance and offered to take us for a tour. I think it was too much to ask him to roll me around, so we walked instead. Showcasing the beautiful walled garden where each restaurant at Hampton home-grows their herbs, vegetables. I got to learn more about the Manor Cottage (I wasn’t aware that you could stay there!) The walled garden also leads to Grace and Savour, where I had the pleasure of experiencing last year, and to no surprise, has received their very first Michelin star. David and Annette are a power couple that have really grown and championed this wonderful business, its truly incredible. We came back to Smoke, and I was eyeing up the lovely glasshouse, in which the team advised we could have our desserts inside. Light, spacious, and a beautiful setting to enjoy a fabulous cheese board!
For dessert, I had the Tunworth Cheese with Pear Chutney and Lemon Thyme Cracker. The cheese was creamy and tangy, with a slightly nutty flavour that paired perfectly with the pear chutney. The lemon thyme cracker added a nice crunch and a subtle herbaceous note that tied everything together. It was a delicious and not too heavy, just perfect. Josie shared her dessert, which was the 64% Chocolate Delice with pecan brittle and coffee ice cream. The chocolate delice was rich and decadent, with a velvet texture that melted in your mouth, while the coffee ice cream provided a refreshing and slightly bitter contrast that balanced out the overall sweetness
After our meal we stayed to chat with the staff, who were all so lovely and attentive throughout our stay. It felt like we were in a cosy, homely atmosphere, and we were really pleased with how brilliant the staff were. Their kindness made our dining experience all the more enjoyable.
Overall, my experience at this restaurant was exceptional. The food was expertly prepared, full of flavour, and inventive, and the setting was stunning. I left feeling incredibly satisfied but extremely frustrated that I had waited so long to try out Smoke. Michelin, if you’re reading this (which most likely you won’t be, but hey, a girl can dream right?), Smoke should be at the top of the list to explore. None of the dishes here are just “okay”; they are all exceptionally executed and were a constant reminder of why I love writing about food. Experiences like this will stay with me for a long time. Don’t do as I did, book immediately and treat yourselves. It offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience that is priceless.
But does it really taste like a Michelin-starred doner kebab? What the fuck does a Michelin-starred doner kebab even taste like?
Just to be clear, this is a kebab created by a Chef who has a Michelin star for one of his restaurants. One Star Doner kebab does not have a michelin star, it’s just made by a Michelin star Chef.
I’m fairly new to Chef Brad Carter’s food, and when these kebabs came out with many raving about them, I had to try them for myself… twice within two days, just to be sure. Created by a Michelin-starred Chef whose food I have yet to taste (don’t worry, it’s on my list) has set up shop in the Hare and Hounds pub in Kings Heath, a place that brings back memories of me moshing to underground bands with my mullet haircut and leopard fur coat – a cross between Cat Slater and an 80’s Rod Stewart. It’s a great pub, and it’s quite the experience to see a Michelin-starred chef grilling up kebabs at a pub that used to be my favourite spot to get pissed off my tits as a teenager. Now lets get back to my baps, I mean kebabs.
As I mentioned I visited Mr Carters kebabs twice, the first time I was pissed, and any kebab will do tbh. I ordered the Devon White chicken shawarma kebab (as that was recommended to be the best) and when I bit into it, I got a shit-load of bread. 3 bites later I got to the filling and that’s when I started to rock back and forth with enjoyment BUT it didn’t last long, as I could hardly taste much of the spices, just a lot of mayo. It was filled with it and it overpowered the spices, plus more mouthfuls further in I realised I was swallowing more sauce than the chicken shawarma?!
Not what I was expecting but I thought maybe this is a bit unfair to review as halfway through eating I forgot where I was. Kind of pointless right?
Two days later I thought, let’s give it another go! I went for the chicken shawarma again, and one thing I noticed was this time, it was PACKED! Which is what you want to see for £11 but then bloody hell, it was so packed that it fell all on me and the bread broke apart. Luckily I had a few mouthfuls before it fell apart and the filling is tasty, with plenty of spices and pops of that garlic mayo coming through (a lot less this time) more tender chicken coming through this time but sadly not enough. You could taste the quality but was it the best kebab I have ever had? No but washed down with a pint, it’s pretty decent.
I still dont know what a Michelin kebab tastes like, maybe I’ll never know but I just gotta be honest it just didn’t give me the wow factor BUT it was still a pretty decent kebab, have I had cheaper kebabs that taste better? Yeah 100%, so its definetly not in my top 5. It just left me a bit puzzled babs, as I expected it to be pretty mind-blowing BUT it did leave me with an inexplicable urge to try the other flavours, maybe thats where all the rave reviews are coming from?
Malmaison in Birmingham, where comfort meets style and some pretty fabulous Negroni sbagliatos! Located in the City Centre and part of the luxury Shopping centre “The Mailbox”, Malmaison is a prime location where hotel guests can enjoy the best of Birmingham. Exploring our fantastic museums and art galleries and going head over heels for our fashion retailers situated in the Bullring. I was kindly invited to stay over and enjoy the “The Mal experience” and live like a Rockstar for the night!
Please note that this experience was gifted, and this is my honest opinion.
Just a five-minute walk from the train station, you will find Malmaison tucked under the luxury shopping district “The Mailbox”. Hotel guests will first be greeted by a Starbucks on the side of the hotel, in which guests coming by train may be happy to see after a long train journey. The entrance is big, and the reception is just after the Starbucks on the left, checking in was easy and took five minutes. Staff are polite and friendly, and if you are new to the City they are ready with plenty of recommendations to make your visit to Birmingham a jam-packed one! There is lift access and by following the directions, it was pretty easy to find our room. Sleek throughout, it kind of gave me boujee Batman/Gotham vibes which I am all for!
Upon entering the room, we noticed the size straight away, for a standard room it’s pretty impressive. The room included a super king bed, en-suite with bath and shower, TV, desk with chair, two lounge chairs and two glasses of prosecco which was a lovely welcome gesture. Unfortunately, there wasn’t much of a view as the windows looked out onto buildings however, we were pretty impressed with the room. It was very clean, completely spotless actually and there were spare toiletries and tea/coffee facilities which I was very happy to see. Plenty of wardrobe space and plenty of space in general to do some exciting pre-dinner zoomies! A standard room is priced from £80-£120.
At 7pm we were called down for our dinner which took place in the Chez Mal Brasserie which is a very glitzy/glam restaurant that serves up British/American dishes with plenty of variety to cater for all. It was great to see a menu that catered for many allergies. From Tiger prawns to Slow braised Beef massaman curry, the menu was quite diverse, and the food was packed full of flavour. The curry was my favourite, and we ordered a couple of Negroni cocktails and prosecco. To finish we ordered the Chez Mal Vanilla Crème Brulee however it was a little bit bland. Service was sharp and attentive, and overall we enjoyed our dining experience.
After dinner, we were asked if we would like to check out the Nirvana suite (The coolest suite in Birmingham) of course we jumped at the chance as usually this suite is booked up. I think we got our first taste of Hollywood life when we entered the room, it was made for a Rockstar, equipped with a jacuzzi, a shower room that you could get a party of 15 in and a giant bed that even I could get lost in! Price-wise you are looking at around £350 which I thought was very generous as many suites in Birmingham are way over this price and don’t include a jacuzzi!
After a couple of more Negronis we headed back to our room and rested up. The bed swallowed us both up, it’s that huge I completely forgot my cousin was there! Morning came, and I awoke as fresh as daisy, possibly one of the best nights’ sleep I’ve had in a long time.
We headed downstairs to breakfast and tucked into a continental breakfast (£15) that included freshly baked pastries, a selection of cereals, fruits, fresh juices, and more. We were still quite full from our dinner the night before so we opted for cereal and pastries, all enjoyable. Again, service is very good and staff are very quick on refilling hot water/refilling the food, any mess made was cleaned up straight away.
Check-out was at 11am so we headed back to the room packed and headed out. Checking out was very easy and we left the hotel feeling refreshed. Overall, I enjoyed my stay at Malmaison, it has many positives; the location, spa facilities, and a fabulous bar and restaurant where you don’t exactly have to leave the hotel. I found it reasonable value for money and the location is superb, to get the best out of Birmingham, you are in the right place at Malmaison. The only downside was there was no view of the City in the room, but this was more than compensated for by the level of facilities and the service we received which were perfect.
A prime location for anyone visiting the City, Malmaison is the hotel to book and let your hair down and live the Rock ‘n’ Roll Lifestyle!
Have we finally got a decent Spanish restaurant in the City?
A new tapas restaurant has opened up on Edmund Street brought to you by our very own Michelin-starred chef Glynn Purnell. Mr Purnell has certainly answered my prayers as I have been begging for a good quality Spanish tapas restaurant in the city centre for years now. With a high celebrity profile behind the brand and a long wait, expectations for Plates by Purnell’s are high, but does it deliver?
The restaurant is small, intimate, and decorated beautifully with a Spanish rustic interior and around 28 covers. Four of us all were nestled in one corner and luckily we were the only group in there – otherwise I think we would have pissed off a few diners with our happy food dances.
The waitress who served us was very polite and attentive. As soon as we sat down I heard a “Drinks ladies?”- I was still looking for a peg to hang my coat on. I was contemplating ordering an espresso martini before my meal but quickly forgot where I was and mumbled “I hope they got a decent toilet here”. Luckily the lady thought it was funny, so it was nice to know that Plates by Purnell’s appreciates a bit of toilet humour, anyway, enough about toilets more about espressos!
One sip and I was convinced with its smooth, almost velvety texture with a hint of sweetness, that it was one of the best espresso martinis I have ever had. I could be in trouble here…but we are off to a good start!
Scanning the menu I could see there was plenty of choice from fish to pork to a good variety of vegetarian options (lunchtime menu). We ordered around nine dishes with two/three dishes at most coming out all at different times. The first dish that came out was the Berenjenas con Miel (Aubergine chips with truffle – £6.50). They gave a wicked crunch and were absolutely gorged in truffle, we found ourselves fighting over them, so the first dish was a huge hit. Bread is a must, so we ordered two of these that were the toasted bread with olive and tomato (£5) it was nice but wasn’t much to shout out about, I used the bread more with the other dishes’ sauces then the tomato sauce it came with as I found it a bit bland.
The cod (Bacalao Al Pil Pil £9) was gorgeous in the chilli and garlic sauce. I cut into it and I was nearly blinded by the glistening white of the fish, it had a lovely silky texture to it that just melted away in my mouth and was full of flavour, a dish everyone must order.
The Gemba’s al ajillo (Prawns and garlic, £11) another perfectly cooked dish however a little on the small side for the hefty price tag, I did love it, but I didn’t love it enough to pay £11 sadly. The prawns were covered in a beautiful garlic sauce and when I bit into them, they were so juicy and succulent. Scooped onto the toasted bread and scoffed down, it’s a great dish but I just think the price might scare a few people off.
The Patatas Bravas dish (£6) was smothered in a lovely tomato/paprika paste, but I had to do a little prayer before I tucked in as my biggest pet-hate with this dish, whenever I dine in Spanish restaurants is that it comes so smothered with the sauce that the potatoes are soggy. Soggy Potatos break my heart, however, there was no issue here. Golden-brown with a good crunch and fluffy golden potato inside, each time getting spicier and spicier. I am fully convinced, these are the best Patas bravas I have ever had.
Another dish that is definitely worth ordering is the Croqueta de Queso (Cheese croquettes) almost a snack-like dish, these little pleasure balls are bloody addictive. Shame they go within a minute shared by four, another dish we had to fight over!
The chicken thighs were nice but I am not a big fan of chicken, so I preferred the other dishes more, the girls loved this dish. We ended our meal with a very generous offering of Queseo Espanol (Cheese selection £6) A dish that I thought was very good value for money and had a variety of Spanish cheeses that were superb! We washed our food down with a good quality jug of Sangria, my god it was stunning! What a fabulous way to end a great meal. So much so, that the Spanish music and the authentic Spanish food that we just consumed suddenly lifted us up from our chairs and we started breaking out the Salsa dancing – It was almost like we were transported to Spain, that sangria is pretty magical.
Bless the staff, I think the lady came out one or two times and didn’t know what to do with the spontaneous salsa dancing, we finally went back to our seats once the sangria had been finished off. The bill came and it was around £30-£40 each between four, I found it quite reasonable. Most of the dishes were great value for money and I only found one or two that were not, however, it’s Tapas, which can be quite a pricey cuisine. I have in the past been constantly frustrated with Spanish restaurants offering tapas that are not authentic, have a lack of variety and offer expensive dishes for tiny portions. This however was different; Plates by Purnell’s is well worth it. The quality is obvious, and the restaurant offers such a pleasant dining experience that had us all smiling and laughing all the way through, we were full of compliments and we all left very satisfied.
I do feel this is a perfect restaurant for all kinds of occasions and I am really looking forward to booking again but this time for a date night with my partner. Glynn has got it spot on and expectations were met. Finally, we have a great Spanish restaurant in Birmingham City Centre, there may be one or two tweaks, but it has the potential to be a permanent fixture of the Birmingham food scene.
Who in this day and age, doesn’t love a bottomless brunch? especially in the Summer! Birmingham knows how to put on a good bottomless brunch bab but with soo many bars and restaurants offering this, it’s hard to keep up! So, I decided to make it a bit easier for you babs and put all the places offering Bottomless brunch in the City in one place, your welcome bab!
PASSING FANCIES – DIGBETH
Every Saturday (12-4pm) and Sunday (2-4pm)
Unlimited Stella Artois, Cava and Cocktails
The long-awaited bottomless brunch from Passing Fancies is finally here! Indulge in unlimited drinks with a choice of 8 options, select 2 plates from a menu featuring 8 delicious choices, and take 90 minutes to savour the entire bottomless experience. AND, as a special treat, enjoy a complimentary arrival drink! Get ready for what promises to be the best bottomless brunch in town.
Every Saturday from 10am-5:30pm and Every Sunday from 10am-3pm
Bucks Fizz, Prosecco, Bloody Mary, Espresso Martinis AND Brewdog Punk IPA
Urban on Church Street offer a fab bottomless brunch for £34.95 per person for 2 hours filled with fun, food and fizz! Your choice of meal from their Brunch menu plus an unlimited* supply of Bucks Fizz, Prosecco, Bloody Mary, Espresso Martinis AND Brewdog Punk IPA
Delight your taste buds with great Thai cuisine, featuring fragrant curries and delectable stir-fried noodles that cater to every palate. The highlight of this culinary adventure is the opportunity to savour a 2-course meal paired with free-flowing drinks. Immerse yourself in unlimited refills of your favourite beverages, including cocktails, gin, wine, and Prosecco. Whether you choose the option with Unlimited Prosecco/Wine for £35.95 or elevate your experience with Unlimited Pornstar Martinis, Mojitos, or Pink Gin for £45.95, Zen Metro promises a feast of flavours and a lively atmosphere for a truly memorable dining affair.
Bottomless tacos – choose from 3 toppings per person with unlimited prosecco, Sol beer, Palomas, or frozen margaritas from £28.95. Non-alcoholic options available from £23.95
Bottomless Prosecco and Cocktails (Pornstar Martinis and Brambles) – choose from one or two hours of bottomless from £35pp
00’s Bottomless Brunch at The Cocktail Club in Birmingham where you will be belting out iconic 00’s tunes such as Beyonce, Gaga and Gwen Stefani! You will receive a welcome cocktail, bottomless prosecco and cocktails (Pornstar Martinis and Brambles) brunch food (half a pizza per person) and enjoy fierce entertainment for up to two hours from £35pp
Please let The Cocktail Club of any dietary requirements before your brunch so they can cater for you
DIRTY MARTINI – BIRMINGHAM
Available Monday to Friday at 4pm, Saturday 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm, and Sunday from 2pm and 4pm.
Enjoy a fabulous birdcage full of delicious bites such as burgers and chicken strips plus a choice of bottomless Martinis, G&Ts, Prosecco & Beer for £37.50 PP
Ready to book the most gram-able Brunch in town, for 90 minutes you can enjoy bottomless drinks such as martinis, prosecco, beer and more and enjoy sharing one of their brunch birdcages filled with delicious food! OFFER – join Dirtymartini from 12pm on Saturdays or Sundays-Thursdays and enjoy their martini brunch for just £30 PP
Their food birdcages come in 4 options: Regular, Vegan, Regular Non-Gluten Containing and Vegan Non-Gluten Containing, so they will need to know 72 hours before what you would like
THE LOST & FOUND – BIRMINGHAM
Friday to Sunday – Last sitting at 3pm
Select any brunch dish with bottomless Aperol Spritz, Prosecco, Mimosa, Bloody Mary, Green Machine, Strawberry and Cucumber Fizzor Italian AF Spritz (alcohol-free) for 35.00pp
Enjoy a delicious brunch at The Lost & Found where you can indulge in Spritz galore! plus Bloody Marys, prosecco and there are non-alcholic cocktails. Choose from steak and eggs, cornflake chicken waffle or English breakfast for £35pp
Choose from 2 dishes and a side for just £29.00 (PP) with unlimited drinks – Choose from a range of cocktails, mocktails, Prosecco, beer and more
Jamaya serve up a banging Jam-Roc Bottomless Brunch with plenty of Jerk chicken! Choose from Jamaican Fried wings to Jerk burgers plus wash it all down with a lovely Rum punch! A bottomless brunch that is far from basic? This is definitely it!
90 minutes of unlimited drinks (Long Island Iced tea, Sex on the beach and more) and 1x platter of delicious Vietnamese food per person – Come along with friends & family for an amazing bottomless experience for £25.99pp
Available from 11am – 6.30pm (last table sitting at 4.30pm) Mondays – Fridays and from 10am – 6.30pm (last table sitting at 4.30pm) at weekends
Unlimited Bellinis & Mimosas, Bloody Marys and Beers.
Gas Street Social located in The Mailbox has been serving up their famous bottomless bellinis since 2015. Food choices include eggs benedict, crushed avo & eggs, full & vegetarian English breakfasts alongside their legendary full English pancakes are the perfect way to start your day.
Pornstar Martini, French Martini, Noel’s Mimosa, Cherry & Cranberry Spritz, Rosé Prosecco including 2 courses (£35.95) and 3 courses (£39.95)
Noels the Mediterranean restaurant near The Mailbox offers a set menu bottomless brunch where you can enjoy dishes such as Angus Bavette steak and mini mushroom arancini. They offer vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options plus a good selection of cocktails from £35.95
Choose one main and one dessert and get bottomless Prosecco £29.95 OR Prosecco, Bubblegumtini’s and Pornstar Martini’s for £37.50
Aluna located in the Mailbox is almost like walking onto a Harry Potter set. Sparks flying, smoke filling up the bar and some of the coolest cocktail you will ever set your eyes on are here at Aluna. Great location for a Bottomless brunch, enjoy their popular rainbow bagel, vegetarian breakfast and buttermilk pancakes!
2 Courses (starter, main and side) from £40pp where you get unlimited drinks such as prosecco, beer, cocktails and champagne.
immerse yourself in a place doused in history and artistic finesse at Qavali. This first-of-its-kind restaurant takes inspiration from the mountains of Turkey and Iran, the plains of Afghanistan and the dewy fields of India and Pakistan. The food travels the same path as “Qawwali” (Sufi devotional music); and the experience is designed to entice all of your senses like no other restaurant in the city. Feast on dishes that draw upon years of culinary history and stories, such as Samsun Pide, Sikandari Falafel, Sultani Chaat, Charsi Chicken Tikka, Daal Bukhara and Adana Kebab – and all while soaking up live performances.
Treat yourself to mouth-watering brunch dishes and unlimited Prosecco, Tanqueray London Dry Gin & tonic, Aperol Spritz or your choice of flavoured Daiquiris from £32 pp
Enjoy one dish of your choice and (Brunch dishes such as Full breakfast, Eggs Royale and French Toast) bottomless drinks from £32pp. You can upgrade for +£10 per person and enjoy 1.5 hours of Porn Star Martini, Espresso Martini and Long Island Iced Tea.
Available all week -last sitting at 5pm Sunday-Friday & 3pm Saturdays
2 hours of unlimited cocktails, mocktails, Red Stripe and prosecco with any brunch dish, burger or roti from £32 pp
From sunshine-inspired Big Kingston Grill Down, to the infamous Vegan Yardbird or their twist on Avocado Smash, From £32 pp you can grab a delicious brunch dish and enjoy 2 hours of unlimited cocktails, mocktails red stripe and prosecco.
Enjoy 90 minutes of bottomless Prosecco or a choice of 4 Spritz cocktails: Aperol Spritz, Lillet Spritz, Hugo Spritz or Limoncello Spritz. Enjoy 2 courses £34 or 3 courses £39.
Enjoy a Tex-Mex bottomless brunch at Perios where you can enjoy dishes such as Buffalo wings and grilled chicken burriots with unlimited drinks such as prosecco, beer, Aqua Fresca and Daiquiris for £29pp
Choose from two options: The two course bottomless brunch served with unlimited Prosecco, Pornstar Martini, Lychee Martini, Mocktails (£45) or two course bottomless brunch served with the unlimited drinks in option two and unlimited Champagne and Rosé Prosecco (+£9.95)
Starter & Main / Main & Dessert with just Prosecco and Mimosas £32.50pp OR Pornstar Martinis and Cosmopolitans for £39.95 – Make it three courses for an extra £3.95
Enjoy Thai Bottomless Brunch in the heart of Brindleyplace where you can grab dishes such as Sweet and Sour Chilli Chicken, Pad Thai and more. Choose start and main OR main and dessert from 12pm, 2pm or 4pm.
Want a bottomless brunch with unlimited beer or prosecco? Sommar Brewery is for you! Their Bottomless Brunch in Birmingham lasts 90 minutes in which you can devour one of their delicious burgers with fries or choose one of their fully loaded fried chicken boxes plus unlimited Prosecco or any Sommar Brew Co beers
Get the gang together and head to the Brunch Social at Flight Club every Thursday to Sunday. Prosecco, bottomless pizza and the option to include a Social Darts sampler will be available. During your two-hour brunch session, you’ll have a glorious table in their bar where each guest will have a bottle of Prosecco to themselves (yes, a whole bottle!)
Enjoy a delicious bottomless brunch with pizza, pudding and plenty of beer! Freedom Lager, Devon Red Cider and bubbles are included but you can upgrade for unlimited cocktails for £8 pp
Choose from 60+ Korean dishes and 25+ from Itaewons drinks menu for2 hours for only £39 PP
Only £39 to live out your ultimate mukbang dreams! Choose from 60+ Korean dishes and any drinks from their drinks menu such as Korean Ales and cocktails, Its all unlimited! Korean bbq dishes such as pork belly, prawns and short ribs are available plus Bibimbap & Jjigae!
From Harry styles to Abba, Tonight Josephine put on fun-themed bottomless brunches for you to get DRUNK AF! From bottomless prosecco to cocktails, burgers to crispy coated red prawns to some epic performances! Grab the gals and get wild!
Staff need to be made aware of any allergies before the brunch so they can cater for you
TRENTINA – JEWELLERY QUARTER
£35 per person – pasta + soft serve ice cream + 90 min of bottomless drinks
Experience the authentic flavours of Italy with Trentina’s indulgent bottomless brunch in Jewellery Quarter. For just £35 per person, enjoy a delightful selection of pasta dishes like Fowey Mussels Linguine and Spaghetti al Pomodoro, accompanied by soft serve ice cream. The highlight of the experience lies in the 90 minutes of bottomless drinks, featuring prosecco, Angelo Porletti, Limoncello Granita, and Aperitivo Spritz. Available every Sunday.
Available on Saturdays from 12pm to 4pm, in two hour sittings
Enjoy either two courses for £38 or three for £42 with unlimited Bellinis or Prosecco
From Sticky pork bites to fried chicken and waffles, Button Factory offer a nice variety plus unlimited prosecco and bellinis – no glass shall go empty! They also put on some great themed brunches that are worth checking out such as unlimited 90’s and Drag Brunches.
These Brunches are extra AF! Luna springs hosts a range of Bottomless Brunches with fabulous themes such as the 90’s, Brunchaoke, Cosmic Disco and more. “Pure Lunacy” Brunch is on every Saturday from 3.30pm where you will enjoy 3 hours of bottomless cocktails, buckets of beer, live music and burgers! Take a look at their Bottomless Brunch events, you will definitely be spoiled for choice!
Zumhof are offering a great bottomless brunch if you love daiquiri’s and burgers. On Sundays from 12 to 6pm you will received unlimited daiquiri’s and velveteen burgers – Daiquiri flavours include frozen bubblegum, strawberry and Pineapple. Velveteen burgers are Zumhofs very own burgers that include flavours such as kimchi som loving’ and squeaky cheese.
FRIDAYS AND SUNDAYS – 1:00pm to 2:30pm, 3:00pm to 4:30pm, 5:00pm to 6:30pm, 7:00pm to 8:30pm
90 minutes of UNLIMITED fizz refills, up to 3 glasses of artisan, organic, and biodynamic wines from our wine wall, up to 3 pints of craft beer on tap, or up to 3 delicious Mindful Mocktails. £35pp
If you’re a fan of Bottomless Brunch, you’ll absolutely adore our Kilo Ziro’s Graze & Refill experience, Indulge in a veggie Graze Board loaded with over 20 antipasti items, including locally sourced cheeses (vegan options available), artisan bread, infused dipping oils, crudites, foraged chutney, jams, marinated olives, mushrooms, peppers, artichokes, and more! Pair this delightful spread with a choice of Drink Refill options: 90 minutes of UNLIMITED fizz refills, up to 3 glasses of artisan, organic, and biodynamic wines from their wine wall, up to 3 pints of craft beer on tap, or up to 3 delicious Mindful Mocktails. Priced at £35 per person for a 90-minute booking.
Two hours of unlimited sweetshop cocktails for £35pp
BA-HA offer a fantastic vegan bottomless brunch at The Rainbow pub in Digbeth for £35 pp. This includes any main/2 small plates and 2 hours of unlimited sweetshop cocktails that are delicious! You also get a complimentary croissant on arrival! Vegans, you will love this!
And here we go again…Its Valentines! Love is in the air, hearts are bloody everywhere (even on the Tampax tampons this year) and we are all looking to get out of the house and avoid the couch whether it’s a romantic candle-lit intimate dinner with that special someone or attending a bingo rave with your friends! Valentines should be for everyone and here is how you can spend it in Birmingham.
TASTING MENU’SAND STAY OVER EXPERIENCES
ADAMS
Secure your spot for a truly special Valentine’s Day at Adams! Dine with Adams on February 14th for an exquisite Tasting Menu, complete with a glass of fizz upon arrival, all for £150 per person. Bookings are open for their restaurant and the exclusive chef’s table. Make this Valentine’s Day memorable with an unparalleled dining experience at Adams. Reserve your table now and treat your loved one to a night of culinary perfection!
Indulge in a romantic Valentine’s Break with The Clayton Hotel. Enjoy a delightful three-course dinner, complete with a Love Potion Cocktail upon arrival, setting the mood for an enchanting evening. After a restful night, wake up to a full buffet breakfast, making it a perfect couple’s retreat. To extend the bliss, you will recieve complimentary late check-out until 12 noon. Treat your loved one to a special getaway filled with love, culinary delights, and relaxation.
Celebrate love and exquisite flavors this Valentine’s at Punells! Indulge in a culinary journey with their 5-course set menu, featuring decadent dishes like Orkney scallop and fillet of Herefordshire beef. To add a touch of sparkle, enjoy a complimentary glass of their limited Piper Heidsieck by Glynn Purnell champagne. Book your table now for a night of romance and gastronomic delights at Punells! £125 per guest.
For one Wednesday only, Opheem will be opening its doors to create a special Tasting Menu to celebrate Valentine’s day. Booking are open now and you can enjoy a full Valentines day experience at Opheem for £150pp
For the most romantic day of the year, Chef Director Luke Tipping has prepared a special six-course menu for a special event at Simpsons “Valentine’s day Solo Diner” served in their private dining room on Valentine’s Day where you can enjoy a 6 course Tasting menu with 11 other singles from £135pp
Dine at Folium this Valentine’s day, a Modern British Restaurant, situated just off St Paul’s Square. On Wednesday 14th February they will be openfor dinner where diners can enjoy a signature menu of 12 – 15 servings from their signature menu priced at £135 per person.
Please note: Folium are unable to cater for any dietary requirements for the Valentine’s Day menu.
Join Gulp for Valentines for their New-Unromantics, the ultimate pop-up event for those seeking an anti-Valentine’s experience without the clichés! Hosted by Suzie Russell, the culinary genius behind Artisan Epicurean, this gastronomic affair is perfect for celebrating self-love. Indulge in an array of meticulously crafted dishes that play with textures and flavours, putting a twist on nostalgic classics. The experience begins with delightful canapés, followed by three small plate courses, and concludes with a dessert meant for sharing. Escape the traditional and focus on yourself this Valentine’s Day with outstanding food at The New-Unromantics.
Sunsets, cocktails and live music is the perfect romantic setting to treat your loved one this Valentine’s Day. Enjoy six courses from Orelle for £120pp.
Chef Robert Ortiz invites you to savour a distinctive Peruvian Valentine’s Menu priced at £85 per person. The evening begins with a delightful choice of a glass of bubbles or a Pisco sour upon arrival. The gastronomic journey continues with an array of tantalizing snacks, including options like Beef Tartare with quail egg and caviar, Aji de Gallina with purple olives, Tuna Ceviche with rice paper, rocoto, and cream, as well as Anticucho de Corazon featuring black truffle and potato. Indulge in the unique flavours of Yellow Corn Bread accompanied by Chia & Escabeche sauce. For starters, choose between Orkney Scallop Tiradito with yellow chili, pickled cucumber, and watermelon, or Crab & Prawn Chuppe with Cuzco corn and rice. The main course offers a selection between Pisco-poached Hake with saffron, beetroot, and Jerusalem artichoke, and Roast Pigeon with braised banana, cacao, and algarrobina. Conclude the romantic evening on a sweet note with a choice of desserts, including White Chocolate Mousse with sweet potato and passion fruit, or Pisco Madre Macerated Strawberries with organic cream and lemon verbena meringue, followed by Petit Fours to perfectly cap off the celebration.
Experience an enchanting Valentine’s Day at Le Petit Bois! Indulge in an intimate evening of culinary delights and candlelit ambiance that will surely ignite the spark of romance. Secure your table now to ensure a memorable night filled with love and exceptional flavors. Make your reservation today at just £60 per person and elevate your Valentine’s celebration at Le Petit Bois.
Escape to romance with Hampton Manor where guests will enjoy a stayover experience at The Manor House. Check-in at 3pm and be welcomed with a refreshing drink, setting the tone for your enchanting stay. Whether you choose to indulge in an afternoon wine tasting or prefer to settle into your cosy room, the choice is yours. At 7pm, enjoy a unique dining experience in the Manor House’s dining room, a glass of Nyetimber and delectable canapes await, followed by a sumptuous five-course dinner crafted by Executive Chef Stu Deeley.
Priced from £234 per person, the package includes dinner, bed, breakfast, and everything listed.
Indulge in the perfect Valentine’s retreat or a delightful day out with friends at Malvern Spa with their fabulous February offers! For couples, “You’re Berry Special” offers spa access from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, a 50-minute spa treatment, Strawberry Daiquiri, £10 allocation towards lunch, and £20 credit towards retail, all starting from £129 per person. If you’re celebrating with friends, their beloved “I’m Fond-ue You” package provides 4 hours in your private pod, a scrumptious sharing chocolate fondue delivered directly to your spa pod, and 4 hours of spa access, starting from just £89 per person. For more year-round options, visit our website and make this Valentine’s month unforgettable at Malvern Spa!
Celebrate love at its finest with Verbena this Valentine’s Day! Immerse yourself in romance with their specially crafted six-course tasting menu, featuring everything from crispy oysters to slow-cooked beef cheek. It’s a super decadent experience, perfect for treating your favourite person! Bookings are open now, so head over to their website to secure your spot for an evening filled with love and exquisite flavours.
Don’t forget to let them know if you prefer the veggie option when making your reservation.
Attention all Love Birds! This Valentine’s Day, head to Yardbirds for a special celebration. For one night only on the 14th of February, indulge in their Love Birds menu designed for two, featuring the perfect fried chicken share platter. Priced at £25 per person, savour the flavours of their delectable platter and enjoy a complimentary glass of bubbles to make your Valentine’s dinner truly special.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day in style at Poli! Join Poli on Saturday 10th and Wednesday 14th February, between 5-9 pm for an intimate dining experience tucking into some of the best pizza in Brum. Enjoy a delightful spread with sharing small plates, 2 pizzas, and a decadent sharing dessert, all for just £45 for two.
Whether it’s a romantique night out or a fun gathering with friends, celebrate Valentine’s with a delectable experience at La Sante! Join them for their Cheese Fondue Evening on Saturday, 17th February, for just £18 per person. Indulge in the richness of cheese fondue, accompanied by unlimited bread and two sides. It’s the perfect way to savour delightful flavoiurs and create lasting memories with your loved ones. Book your table now for a night filled with warmth, laughter, and delicious indulgence at La Sante!
Indulge in a romantic Valentine’s celebration at Fox Hampton Lane! Enjoy their delightful lunch experience from 12pm to 2pm, featuring their normal à la carte menu or for an enchanting evening. From 6pm to 8:30pm, enjoy a tantalising 5-course menu at £65 per person. With limited availability, reservations are now open.
Indulge in romance with Coombe Abbey’s Valentine’s Day offer! Your stay includes a warm welcome with a bottle of wine in your room, a cuddly Teddy Bear, and a sweet Box of Chocolates. Enjoy a delightful three-course dinner, a cosy overnight stay, and wake up to a scrumptious breakfast the next day. Make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable with love, comfort, and exquisite dining.
Looking for something different for this Valentine’s Day? Elevate your celebration with Kilo Ziro’s exclusive Valentine’s High Tea. Savour the delights of their specially crafted menu, featuring exquisite treats like asparagus primavera arancini, french onion, thyme and olive pissaladiere, cake pops, scones and the irresistible Last Rolo tart. Who will you share yours with? And let’s not forget, You will also receive a specially selected cocktail to compliment your Afternoon Tea.
On Wednesday, 14th February, indulge in the romantic melodies of Tims Wedding Piano (back by popular demand). Tim’s enchanting music will play from 4.30pm to 9.30pm, creating the perfect backdrop for your Valentine’s celebration. (£38 per head on Wednesday) They also have two more dates (without Tims Piano, £35pp) Saturday 17th February and Sunday 18th February 2024.
MANAHATTA – THAT’S SO FETCH! GALENTINES BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH
Get in loser, we’re going to a Mean Girls Bottomless Party at Manahatta Temple Street! 💅🏼🎀 Channel your inner Regina George and head to Manahatta for a plastics-approved event in Birmingham that’s so fetch. In girl world, Valentine’s is out and Galentine’s is in – the one weekend a year to sip, savour, and spill the tea with your besties, and no one can say anything about it. Indulge in a fabulous meal and enjoy their perfectly pink cocktails for two hours while vibing to the soundtrack from your favourite movie and the brand new musical. Dress code? On Fridays we wear pink, duh! Don’t miss out on this cool Bottomless Party – tickets at £41.95 per person.
Enjoy a gorgeous afternoon tea in one of the best hotels in the City Centre – The Grand. Every Wednesday – Sunday from 1pm you can indulge in this luxurious afternoon tea full of savoury delights and super sweet treats!
BLOW WATER – IN THE MOOD FOR LOVE WITH RIOT STRING QUARTET
14th February 2024
Embark on a journey of cinematic and musical enchantment this Valentine’s Day with Blow Water at the Hare & Hounds! On Valentine’s Day enjoy a spellbinding silent film screening of “In the Mood For Love,” accompanied by the hauntingly beautiful melodies of Riot String Quartet. This local, all-female quartet, two of whom proudly bear Chinese heritage, will weave their musical magic, heightening the emotional resonance of the film. Immerse yourself in 1 hour and 30 minutes of cinematic bliss, including a Wonton Noodles break, echoing the delectable flavours of the film.
Calling all Gal Pals! Join Maisie Violet (An incredible creative specialising in maximalist interiors and DIY decorating hacks) and Hiya Petal (An amazing Midlands florist specialising in bold and beautiful blooms!) for the ultimate Galentine’s date night at the cosy and candle-lit Verbena. Embrace your creative side as you sass up your own Anthurium flower with heart and letter diamantes. Send some love with a hand-made collage card, and try your hand at marbling while upcycling a bud vase for your beautiful creation. Top it off with a slice of the best cake in town, made with love by Verbena. It’s the perfect evening of creativity, laughter, and sweet treats for you and your bestie. Date: Tuesday, 13th February | Time: 7-9 pm. Don’t miss out on the fun
Join Trentina for a Valentine’s Drink & Draw event! Gather your friends for an evening of camaraderie, wine, and creative fun at Trentina JQ on Tuesday 13th February from 7pm to 8:30pm. Tickets are £15 and includes a welcome glass of fizz, all necessary art supplies, and a mix of guided drawing and a themed creative brief. While additional drinks will be available for purchase, the kitchen is closed, so feel free to bring your favourite snacks. This inclusive event is not just for the ladies – everyone is welcome to join in celebrating the joy of friendship!
Discover a unique and delightful way to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year! Join The Cake Spa for their first Good Pud Club of 2024 on Friday, February 16th, at 8pm, for an evening filled with Valentine’s-themed desserts. It’s not overly soppy, making it perfect for a Galentine’s celebration with your besties, friends, or family. Bring along your loved one or your favourite people and indulge in an 8-course meal, featuring a glass of fizz as a welcome drink and 5 small dessert courses. From hot and cold puddings to savory starters and canapés, each course promises a delightful experience. All set in the charming ambiance of Main St Cafe in the heart of Whittington village, just outside Lichfield. Tickets are limited at £40 per head, so secure your spot for a sweet and unforgettable Valentine’s celebration!
Grab the girlies for a night of candle painting, cocktail sipping and pizza eating whilst listening to girl-power ballads at Laghi’s Deli in Edgbaston. Each ticket includes 2 cocktails, hand-stretched pizza, 2 candles sticks + use of candle painting supplies. Dress code is Pretty in pink and romantic reds!
Announcing ‘The Flapper Speakeasy Valentines Edition’ brought to you by The Flapper and Dominus Von Vexo of House Of Allure! This show promises to tantalise and entertain, featuring a stellar cast bringing decadence, glamour, comedy, games, and lovin’ fun to your Valentine’s celebration. Hurry and secure your tickets fast, as the last event was a big 𝐒𝐄𝐋𝐋 𝐎𝐔𝐓!!! Don’t miss the Valentine’s chaos – the show kicks off at 7:30 PM. Get ready for an unforgettable evening of entertainment and celebration!
If there is something that Birmingham is in short supply of, it’s quality afternoon teas. We sadly lost our champion “The Edgbaston Hotel” this year and there are not many I can recommend other than Hotel Du Vin and Qavali. My biggest pet hate with afternoon teas is that many businesses think it’s more important to shove a load of sweet treats on there and totally forget about the savoury options – cue the basic bitch finger sarnies! Come on, its 2022 – let’s think outside the box. I have struggled for ages to find a well-balanced afternoon tea that hits the spot…until now.
Currently hidden behind those pesky roadworks at the Custard Factory, it is easily missed and it’s a great shame because this place is a true gem. What was once the Clean Kilo, a zero-waste supermarket that focuses on reducing waste and your carbon footprint has now transformed into the “UK’s first zero waste café bar and refill taproom”. I have to say, as soon as I stepped in Kilo Ziro I was blown away at how beautifully decorated it is throughout. The 1920s aesthetic sits at odds with the grunge exterior of this corner of Digbeth. But delightfully so. Kilo Ziro is not afraid to stand out.
Kilo Ziro’s vision is to offer THE BEST Afternoon Tea in Birmingham but have they done that? Kiro Ziro’s afternoon tea is a celebration of small businesses who have thrown in their own creations to create a delicious and special offering. Contributors include private chef Artisan Epicurean, local bakery Sunshine Bakehouse, Holly & The Ivy from The Moseley Farmers Market, Hundred House Coffee and Born Wild Tea.
When the afternoon tea arrived, I nearly jumped for joy – “Is that a load of savoury I can see?!” You know when you have those moments where time slows down and everything goes really quiet like that film, Big Fish…I had one of those moments not with a man or a dog, but with a sandwich. I was just so happy to see a good balance of savoury and sweet, and deserts that I actually love the look of – I was sick of rolling up fruit cakes and chocolate brownies in tissue and binning them when getting home.
SAVOURIES
Goats cheese, shallot marmalade and pistachio tart.
Provolone piccante and roasted pepper piadinas
Applewood smoked cheese with chutney and chive scones
Vegan sausage rolls with poppy seeds
Home-made traditional quiche
SWEETS
Freshly baked scone with clotted cream and jam
Victoria cream sponge cake round
Rich chocolate, biscuit & sultana tiffin
Chocolate, salted caramel & Honeycomb tart
You get quite a generous offering here at Kilo Ziro. Any by now you’ve probably realised this is a vegetarian afternoon tea. However, I am a meat-eater and I certainly didn’t miss it. The vegan sausage roll was my favourite as well as the victoria cream sponge cake which was utterly gorgeous. All savoury options hit the spot and delivered on satisfying my savoury needs. Maybe they could hold back on the cheese if they want to cut back – I do feel they are being overly generous with their offerings. But when that is the only criticism you can think of you know you’re on to a good thing.
The traditional afternoon tea includes a choice of tea, coffee, or iced coffee which was amazing value for £25. We decided to try the afternoon tea with cocktails which is priced at £34 and comes with hot drinks too. They use local and sustainable ingredients and work with many distilleries plus craft beer and cider brewers to reduce their carbon footprint. It was nice to receive a bit of an education on this during our dining experience as I have to admit, I know very little about managing waste. We asked our server for a cocktail recommendation and boy did he deliver. I can’t remember the name of the one I had but it was one of the server’s own creations paying homage to his mother’s homemade rhubarb crumble. Light, fruity and with delicate notes of honey, it was delicious. My sister wanted to get in on the action but couldn’t drink so he made a mocktail version of the cocktail for her which was a really nice touch.
We left with full bellies, smiles on our faces and me finally at peace that I’d found a great afternoon tea in the city. Given the bargain price of this afternoon tea, the quantity of treats you get and the delightful drinks on offer, I truly believe that it is the best afternoon tea in Birmingham. Book it immediately.
