Hidden away around the corner from Dishoom, you’ll find Birmingham’s newest steak restaurant, Cow & Sow. With two sister restaurants in Bristol, they promise premium beef and encourage guests to “prepare for a new era of steak.” Since its opening, my inbox has been flooded with requests to review it, especially to compare it to a competitive steakhouse nearby—which just so happens to be one of my favourite restaurants opening in 2024. I went to Cow & Sow with an open mind and a promise to myself: don’t mention the “P word” (Pasture). But, spoiler alert, I found myself screaming the “P word” more often than Cow & Sow after this dining experience.
First impressions? The place is undeniably stunning. The interior design is sleek and inviting, with a view of the open kitchen and dry-aged steaks proudly on display. Coats hung on the handy pegs behind us, we kicked things off with drinks. I decided to behave (for once) and ordered a mocktail: The Tulip Club (£6.50)—a mix of cranberry, raspberry, pineapple, lime, and syrup. Sweet, simple, and refreshing—a nice start to the evening.
Our server was polite, attentive, and served us with a smile. While they were slightly nervous at times, the restaurant only opened in December, so I’m giving the benefit of the doubt—training kinks are to be expected. Overall, the service was good.
Now for the food. Let’s just say, the starters were anything but premium. I ordered the Potted Ox Cheek (£6.95) with truffle butter and fig bread crackers, and what turned up was something I was not expecting at all, and frankly, quite disappointing. The dish resembled a sad attempt at pâté, with the truffle butter rock solid – as if it had been frozen and barely thawed, leaving it unpleasantly cold. Beneath it, the ox cheek was dry, unseasoned, and resembled a tin of dog food. As for the crackers? They tasted stale, like they’d been left out and forgotten. It was a disastrous start to the meal.
My friend Josie ordered the Sticky Pork Belly, but after one bite, she couldn’t finish it. Naturally, I gave it a go, and I immediately regretted it. The pork tasted cheap, sour, and gamey. The smell and flavour were so unpleasant I had to spit it out discreetly into a tissue. While the ox cheek was taken off the bill after feedback, we delivered our thoughts on the pork, but we decided not to take off.
The main event – the steak – was the ultimate let down. We opted for the 35-day aged Porterhouse (priced at £10.50/100g). At 1,110g, it came to £115, served with two sauces and two sides. For three people, I thought the price was fair, but the execution was far from what I expected. We requested medium rare, and while parts hit the mark, others were gelatinous, almost reminiscent of eating raw salmon, with barely any flavour to redeem it.
The bone marrow butter and chimichurri we chose for seasoning were the saving grace because the steak itself was bland. And the fat, usually, my favourite part of a good steak, melting in your mouth with buttery richness. But here? It was tough, gristly, and inedible—like gnawing on a rock. Typically, I’m that person who turns into the dog from Tom & Jerry, clutching every last piece of steak for myself, but I found myself unwilling to fight for the last bite.
Surprisingly, some of the sides were the meal’s saving grace. The Koffmann’s chips with beef dripping were perfectly crispy, and the Miso & Chilli Jam Glazed Hispi Cabbage was gorgeously seasoned with a sweet kick that paired nicely with the steak. Sadly, the Three Cheese Mac was bland, despite looking amazing in its serving pot, and the Cheesy Broccoli and Leek Gratin was just okay (my friends enjoyed it more than I did).
On a brighter note, my friend Sarah ordered from the lunch menu and was much happier with her experience. The pricing is competitive, with one course at £14.00, two courses at £18.00, and three courses at £22.00. That said, the portions were on the small side – perfect for a casual lunch but not if you’re hoping to leave stuffed.
We split the £210 bill and left feeling disappointed. Would I go back? For all of us at the table, the answer was no. Cow & Sow has a big hill to climb, especially considering its proximity to and competition with – Pasture, which frankly knocks it out of the park. I hate to keep bringing it up, but when two restaurants with similar concepts and pricing are just a short walk apart, comparisons are inevitable. And unfortunately, Cow & Sow fell short.
That’s not to say Cow & Sow is beyond redemption. The service was friendly, the waiting times were reasonable on a busy Saturday, and a few dishes showed potential. However, when the star of the show—the steak—fails to deliver, it’s hard to overlook, especially when you’re paying premium prices.
If I were to return, I’d likely stick to the lunch menu or more affordable options. This restaurant does have potential, and with some refinement and a stronger focus on quality, Cow & Sow could live up to the hype they’ve promised. But for now, it’s a work in progress – and for me, it’s got a long way to go.
A fresh addition to Sutton Coldfield! Ash has opened its doors in the former brewhouse, offering dry-aged steak cooked over coals, alongside a classic selection of wines and cocktails. The space is lovely – its bright, welcoming, and a far cry from the dark and dingy vibe of the previous occupant.
The cocktail menu was quite impressive, offering a great variety of options to suit all tastes. From classic favourites to more inventive creations, Ash seems to have something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of fruity, refreshing cocktails or something a bit stronger and more complex, there’s plenty to explore.
The main menu caught my eye with its variety of dishes. There’s a great selection of meat-focused options (and fish options too!) However, I will say there weren’t many vegan choices—around two options in total. But as a self-proclaimed carnivore, I’m here for the meat!
For starters, we ordered the grilled bone marrow with confit onions and sourdough (£7). Two large, chunky bones arrived, beautifully seasoned and paired with crispy sourdough. Unfortunately, there wasn’t quite enough marrow to satisfy, which was a shame as the flavours were spot on. We also tried the fried chicken (£9), which was a little underwhelming for the price. It resembled frozen chicken strips in presentation, though the taste was enjoyable thanks to the accompanying sriracha sauce.
For the main event, we opted for the Porterhouse sharing cut (£9 per 100g—we went for 1kg), which comes with two sides and two sauces/butters. The steak itself was succulent and paired wonderfully with the smoked shallot butter. However, although it was cooked medium rare as requested, there were quite a few pieces that were just rare. Additionally, a few pieces were overly charred, overwhelming the flavours of the butter and chimichurri, which also needed a good whisking as it initially poured out pure oil. I believe the presentation of the steak could also be improved. The truffle and parmesan fries were crisp and packed an epic crunch, while the mac and cheese leaned too buttery and lacked enough cheese. The standout side, though, was the woodfired tenderstem with labneh and lemon, which complemented the steak beautifully.
For dessert, we shared the Basque cheesecake, which sadly missed the mark. The top was burnt to the point that one bite was overpowered by smoke, and the cheesecake texture was unexpectedly tough. The team kindly removed it from the bill and even gave us 20% off the food as a goodwill gesture—a thoughtful touch that we appreciated. They did offer us the apple crumble as a replacement, but unfortunately, that was also not to our taste. Next time, I’ll be ordering the cheese board instead!
Later in the evening, I ordered an espresso martini, and it was absolutely delicious – very smooth and silky! – So I will be back for the espressos!
Service was a little shaky here and there, but it’s their first week, and teething issues are to be expected. Our waitress, though, was delightful, full of energy, and eager to offer suggestions.
All in all, Ash shows promise as an exciting new spot in Sutton Coldfield. They also offer a lunch menu and include a roast dinner on Sundays. Even if not dining, I think it’s a great place for drinks – especially in the evenings when the lights are dimmed, giving the space a romantic and cosy atmosphere. While there are a few kinks to iron out, opening during such a busy season is no easy feat. I’m optimistic for their future and look forward to returning in the new year to see how they’ve evolved!
Traditional Spanish tapas is one of my favourite cuisines. Previously my go-to was Don Diego in Sutton Coldfield but that sadly closed before the Pandemic. I enjoyed many nights in there swinging back sangria and chomping on Don’s meatballs. Before you start to think you have clicked on the wrong link, let’s quickly move on to Alioli, a new Spanish tapas restaurant that has opened up in Solihull’s Touchwood shopping centre.
I was kindly invited by Alioli to experience the gypsy culture of Andalusia through their tapas dishes. Was this the tapas restaurant I had been waiting for? Well I am not telling you yet, read on you little scamp!
Please note that this experience was gifted, and this is my honest opinion.
Thursday lunchtime James and I arrived and had our pick of the tables at the back of the restaurant. Alioli is decorated beautifully throughout, very traditional with splashes of red yellow and blue. I found it quite romantic in there – definitely getting those Friday night date feels. I loved the variety the menu offered but not so much the price – nearly £10 for a couple of prawns in lemon and parsley?! I wanted to find out how special these prawns were but unfortunately they never arrived! I only realised when I got home and noticed on the bill. I must have been distracted by the “Oreo Cookies” £7.50 which were grilled Murcilla de Burgos (black pudding with rice) and goats cheese, finished with paprika alioli. I am not a fan of black pudding, but it turned out to be one of my favourites of the evening.
We ordered the Chistorra al vino which is chorizo cooked in red wine £8 which was beautiful and with a piece of sourdough dipped in the sauce…It was Verdaderamente maravillosa (meaning truly wonderful in English!)
We shared the Tabla de Ibericos, a selection of cured meat which didn’t blow me away at all, to be honest some of the meat didn’t taste right to me, almost like it had been left out for too long. The dish was priced at £17 accompanied by some tiny breadsticks. I didn’t really understand what to do with them as there was no sauce that came with the selection, and my attempt to wrap a piece of ham round one failed miserably.
The Patatas Bravas were very nice, an improvement on the little tiddly ones swimming in sauce that you often find in the not so traditional tapas places. Only a little bit of brava and alioli sauce so you could really taste those crispy coated fluffy potatoes. Another dish that I enjoyed was Berenjena con Miel £6 which is crispy aubergine sticks dipped in a blob of alioli. It really took me by surprise as I am not a big fan of aubergine. Nice and crisp and wonderfully seasoned.
Service was good, I noticed a few others mentioned they received bad customer service on their visits, but I didn’t experience this at all. Very friendly, very helpful and the staff were up for a chat. We ordered mocktails: A Mediterranean Blue which was elderflower, grapefruit, Lemon verbena and cucumber, and the Flamenco Red which was raspberry, red cherry, rose and cranberries. Both were light and refreshing, great drinks to cool you down in the heat.
Overall my experience of Alioli was a pleasant one. It’s sadly not the tapas restaurant I had been praying for but it’s decent. It is quite pricey, so those on a budget may order less and leave feeling hungry. Personally, with the exception of a few dishes, I struggle to see this as good value for money. Of course Tapas can be very pricey, but I have paid around £40 at other Tapas restaurants and have felt very full and satisfied, something was missing here. My bill came to around £55 and I left feeling I could eat 2 x Stripclub burger’s from down the road. Perhaps we picked the wrong dishes and I always think new restaurants should get a second chance so Alioli will be on my “Give it another shot” list to try out in the next few months.
Another day, another new restaurant in Brum. This time it’s Sri Lankan street food chain The Coconut Tree. It boasts a strong fan base with outlets in Cheltenham and Bournemouth and after my visit to their latest restaurant, I can see why…
You’ll find the Coconut Tree sitting comfy in a two storey building on Gas Street. As I walk up the stairs, I’m hit with Island vibes and splashes of rustic Birmingham charm featuring some enjoyable graffiti pieces. James and I sat opposite a vibrant bartender who really contributed to our Sri Lankan experience. The Coconut Tree is made up of small/large tapas-style Sri Lankan dishes with vegan and veggie options a plenty, but first… cocotails!
Please note that this experience was gifted, and this is my honest opinion.
I am a sucker for a good cocktail or shall we say ‘cocotail’, especially in a cute AF elephant jug. I can hear you screaming basic bitch reading this! The Drunken Sri Lankan features Ceylon Arrack, turmeric infused Cointreau, fresh lime and ginger beer, but does it taste as good as it looks? HELL YES! All I need now is the sun and the beach to complement a fully stocked Tiki bar and our fantastic bartender. James’ Sriki-Tiki was like a bonfire night display…thank god I didn’t wear my cheap Shein wig. Sriki-Tiki is made up of Captain Morgan Gold rum, Mahiki Coconut rum, raspberry, pineapple and lime. They were both a fantastic introduction to The Coconut Tree, now we are excited.Service is sharp here and staff are attentive. The whole menu was explained to us and we were asked our preferences of spice, sweetness etc. We ordered around eight dishes and was advised that should be enough…
FAT SISTER (VG)(GF) £5.95
PINEAPPLE CURRY (VG) (GF) £6.40
CHEESY COLOMBO (V) (GF) £7.95
SALMON, SAY WHAAAT? (GF) £9.95
KOTTHU WITH CURRIED CHICKEN £9.95
EGG HOPPER (V) (GF) 4.50
PAROTTA ROTI (VG) £3.95
SEENI SAMBOL (VG) (GF) £1.50
Most of the dishes were quite small, and when we first looked at our food, we thought no way will this fill us up but actually, it did. Everything went so well together, the Pineapple Curry with the Kotthu, then scooped up in a parotta roti (which may I add maybe some of the best roti I have had). Ah it was blissful! To pick a favourite dish is seemingly impossible as I just couldn’t stop licking my lips and ignoring the groans of my stomach shouting at me to calm my tits and slow down eating, but I just couldn’t stop…I am addicted to The Coconut Tree.
If I had HAD to choose it would be The Egg Hopper, which to me was a bit of a bizarre dish at first but I had heard soo much about it, I just had to have it. Basically it’s a bowl shaped coconut milk pancake served with coconut sambol, caramelised onions with a hint of cinnamon, and Sri Lankan salsa. An absolute must-try and again, it went perfect with our other dishes. The Pineapple Curry was sweet and seductive, I couldn’t help mixing it with every dish and the Kotthu was packed full of flavour. Price wise it’s very reasonable and the quality is right up there.
Food went down a treat and we thought let’s celebrate with another round of cocktails, so this time we ordered The ST.Colombo (Tanquerary Gin, Elderflower, and Lemon Soda) and Yaka (Don Julio, 100% Blue Agave Tequila, Lemon, Mint & Honey) another triumph and after four smashing cocktails, The Coconut tree has moved into my top five places for cocktails in Birmingham. They are incredible. Please note they do 2 for £10 or 2 for £12, depending on the cocktail. Staff are great here, really hands on deck. There is just this great positive vibe throughout The Coconut Tree and that’s what I loved, we really enjoyed all the staff members singing along to the music whilst shaking their cocotails, made me want to get up and join in!
All I can say is Thank god, THANK GOD for The Coconut Tree coming to Birmingham, what a win for Birmingham and win for me especially as its just around the corner from my flat. This could be dangerous for the gut, I already made a name for myself “Bab about Belch”. I could be getting myself into some real trouble here but when the food is this good, I couldn’t care less! Bring on the gas!
Authentic, full of flavour and fun throughout, The Coconut Tree have certainly brought the spirit of Sri Lanka to Birmingham. They did it perfectly, Book now for cocktails and a good vibes meal with friends.
I don’t venture out to Harborne that often, probably because I was living in Sutton Coldfield until a few months ago and one disastrous bus ride into Birmingham was enough to put me off. Since I moved to the city centre I promised myself I would make the effort with Birmingham’s trendy neighbourhoods and so, here we are.
Hengata opened in December with high hopes of a COVID free Christmas but was sadly met with the recent uplift in cases. I came across this Harborne newcomer in January but there hadn’t been much noise about its arrival at all. I managed to book in for breakfast to try this mystic venue out. You will find Hengata on Harborne high street, sandwiched between Holy Moly and Boston Tea Party. The venue is beautifully decorated, simplicity at its finest. There are plenty of tables on offer that are accessorised with candles, classic cutlery and cushy cushions. The open kitchen is a nice touch, watching the chefs cook food whilst you sip on a glass of red is quite pleasing, you can see the effort and the attentiveness of putting a dish together.
I was greeted by Liv who I believe is the Manager, very easygoing and was full of knowledge and suggestions. I was doing Veganuary and Liv informed me that many of the brunch dishes can be made vegan. I decided to go for The Millennial (£8.75) – avocado, served with tomato and onion relish, poached eggs (removed), house lime pickle and hot buttered sourdough.Service was sharp, I waited around 10 minutes for my food. I arrived at 10.30am and it started to fill up quite quickly by 11. When my food arrived, I noticed instantly that the food was beautifully presented, so much colour and it looked incredibly fresh. The sourdough was perfect, I feel that many places make sourdough incredibly hard, like biting into a brick! On this occasion, I didn’t have to worry. The sourdough was soft with a tiny bit of crunch that blended wonderfully with the avocado, relish and pickle. At first, I thought it wouldn’t fill me up but by the last mouthful, I was satisfied. I paired my brunch with a non-alcoholic beverage – Hengata’s Garden which was so refreshing and the ideal brunch beverage choice!
Overall, I was impressed. The price seemed very reasonable for the quality of food you are receiving. I found the menu so intriguing and I wanted to explore more options to give an overall review and so, I vowed to return to try out dinner. A week later and I found myself returning on a Saturday evening at 8.30pm with James, hoping to top the first experience.
DINNER AT HENGATA Same as the first visit, we received a friendly welcome. A warm atmosphere flowed throughout with mood lighting from the lit candles on every table, it was extremely cosy and was quite an intimate setting. We both decided to have a night off vegan. I know! We are naughty BUT we have both been doing so well and we just wanted a little break from it for just a couple of hours.
To start, I ordered A Winter Spritiz – Sauvignon Blanc, Elderflower, Cucumber and soda. Rejuvenating yet risky – as it tastes like good pop that you could have about 10 glasses of! When flicking through the menu, it was so lovely to see Hengata support other Independent breweries and wineries within The Midlands such as Attic Brew Co and Wine Freedom, Birmingham does this best!
For starters, I ordered the bone marrow and James ordered the home-smoked mackerel pate. I have never tried bone marrow so it took me a bit of time to work out how to get the filling out of the bone, but with one crack on the plate, I was able to get to the good stuff. It was quite rich, and I found it quite buttery which I enjoyed. Spooned together with a compote of red onion and cranberries, it was very appetizing. The cranberries gave the dish a hint of sweetness which was much needed. The mackerel pate was refreshing and light, James found the portion a bit small BUT when the next course arrived, he was glad it was.
For mains, I ordered megrim sole with deep-fried sage, and caper butter. James ordered the black bream fillet with 2 x side of fries and side of leeks, peas and pancetta. The sole was stunning. Fried beautifully and married perfectly with the leeks, peas and pancetta. The caper butter melts perfectly and creates a delightful combination of flavours. The chips were crisp and fluffy inside, as proper chips should be. James was impressed with his black bream and I managed to sneak a bite and understood his unwillingness to share. Yes, portions are not incredibly big but I felt they were just right.
We ordered a couple of cocktails in between courses, the Harborne Sling – Burning Barn rum, cherry, lime, cranberry and strawberry – Liv’s very own creation and a worthy choice for anyone with a sweet tooth! We decided not to finish on desserts as we were both stuffed, but we were persuaded by Liv to order two Espresso Martinis and thank god she did because they were possibly the best Espresso Martinis we have ever had.With two staff members off, I believe that Hengata did well to accommodate us and the other tables of couples and groups in there. I believe one table complained to the manager about the wait however we also overheard them talking about trying to get a discount…Yes, people will try anything these days to get a discount even for a fifteen-minute wait for mains… James and I did not experience this. The staff were very attentive, and we never found ourselves questioning where our food was. Service was sharp as the first time.
All in all, Hengata is a lovely addition to Harborne, one that I am sure will become a much-loved brunch/dinner spot for locals. I would also like to point out that their coffee is fantastic, really good coffee so Hengata would make a great spot in the mornings if you are on your way to work to pick up coffee. Hengata has created a chilled space with Scandinavian-Chic vibes where people can relax with a glass of wine, meet up with friends or take a working lunch. It’s already become one of my favourite brunch spots and has proven to be also a great place in the afternoon with its charismatic interior, seasonal menus, and charming customer service. Definitely, one to keep an eye on in 2022 and as good an excuse to visit Harborne as any.
Many people (outside of Sutton) would scoff at this guide as many are under the influence that Sutton Coldfield has nothing to offer. I would agree there does seem to be more boarded-up businesses than open businesses in the Centre. We can all agree that the City centre is in desperate need to be restored, However, with revamp plans floating around, we may just be getting that. The foodie scene in Sutton Coldfield is a bit of a scavengers hunt, believe it or not, there are fantastic foodie gems scattered in and all-around Sutton Coldfield. For the past two years, we have seen some new and exciting businesses popping up and bringing a bit of excitement to Sutton Coldfield. So, I have put this foodie guide together to show off some of the great Independents we have in the North and trust me, over the next couple of months this guide will get even bigger! Watch this space.
BRUNCH, BAKERIES AND COFFEE SPOTS
Windowbox Cafe:Located on Birmingham road in Wylde Green, Windowbox is one of my favourite brunch spots in the North of Birmingham. Offering a variety of brunch options from American pancakes to breakfast flatbreads, this is one brunch hotspot that you must visit when you come to Sutton Coldfield.
Silver Tree Bakery: A little bit of Lapland in Sutton Coldfield because, why the hell not? Its a lovely little bakery in Water Orton that offers fantastic cakes and hot food such as toasties. The staff are fantastic and it’s a lovely little gem over in Sutton Coldfield.
Jubilee Garden: Located on Birmingham rd just before Sutton Town Centre you will find new Cafe/wine bar Jubilee Gardens that serves up a lovely brunch with a Hong Kong twist! They serve speciality coffee with a great offering of cakes and savoury delights! Did I also mention they do orange wine? Oh yes! They have a fab variety of wine that is specially picked for the cafe! Its a must-visit whenever you come to Sutton so make sure its on your list!
Bakehouse by Baked in Brick: A friendly neighbourhood Café serving up freshly baked bread, patisserie and Brunch daily on Holland rd. In the evenings (Thurs to Sat) they serve up some gorgeous street food plus they do a fabulous Espresso martini!
Deli Social: Located on Boldmere high street, The Deli Social offer a great selection of brunch dishes and hot drinks. The full english breakfast is a cracker and they also do street food Fridays and is open till 11pm on the weekend.
90 Boldmere: A new brunch/bar on Boldmere High Street serving up great brunch dishes such as french toast and American pancakes plus offer a great bar menu.
Blackroot Bistro: Set within the stunning Sutton Park, spanning 2,400 acresand attracting two million visitors a year, the family owned Blackroot Bistro is perched above Blackroot Pool on the edge of a natural meadow. They seek to provide an informal, relaxed and welcoming vibe, offering food and drink from local suppliers wherever possible.
Bean Green Kitchen: Boasting one of the best brunch menu in the north of Birmingham for a champion breakfast its got to be Bean Green Kitchen in Mere Green. They serve classic cafe faves with healthy twists and tasty alternatives.
Caffe Botanico: A lovely coffee shop inside House of Fraser in Sutton Coldfields Gracechurch Centre, its a popular lunchtime spot for many. I love the coffee here and they also do some fantastic salad dishes aswell as brunch options. The cakes are great too so make sure you dont miss out on them!
Onthebreadline: One of the most popular bakeries in Sutton Coldfield and one where you got to be quick as they sell out fast! The cakes are seriously delicious, people que for them from the morning till closing so you best be quick!
Under Pressure Espresso: Fantastic coffee shop in which you could say its the best coffee shop in Sutton Coldfield. Offer bench seating, cakes and coffee beans to buy
The Pear Tree Creperie: The Creperie, located just outside of Lichfield, has been the flagship restaurant of the Heart of the Country Village for over 30 years. They offer a wonderful brunch and specialise in savoury galettes, sweet crepes and delicious authentic French dishes.
Strawberry Fields Farm and Coffee: Families will adore this place, a Woodland paradise where you can enjoy delicious brunch and coffee.
AFTERNOON TEA
New Hall Hotel: New Hall Hotel is the perfect backdrop to experience a tradition made famous by the royal household at New Hall Hotel in Sutton Coldfield. Classic afternoon tea starts at £22.50 and includes a selection of finger sandwiches, chef’s daily selection of cakes and mixed scones served with jam and clotted cream. They also offer a savoury afternoon tea and cater for children too.
The Belfry: Enjoy a British Afternoon Tea with a range of finger sandwiches and home-made scones accompanied by tea breads, delicate pastries and a selection of herbal teas or coffee, all served in the finest Bone China. Available daily from 12pm-4pm.
The Fig & Olive: Served Monday – Saturday between 2pm and 4pm, their signature afternoon teas are baked fresh by our talented in house bakers and are simply perfect for any occasion. They also offer vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free afternoon tea. The Fig & Olive is a great spot for all day dining serving up a delicious lunch and dinner menu – its a must when you come to Sutton Coldfield.
PESTO: Enjoy an assortment of sandwiches, Italian desserts and fruit scones with jam & clotted cream for only £14.95 per person. Served daily from 2pm to 5pm. Great afternoon if you love a bit of Italian!
Strawberry Fields Farm and Coffee: Families will adore this place, a Woodland paradise where you can enjoy brunch and AFTERNOON TEA. They offer three afternoon teas (Standard, luxury and childrens) and they also offer GF afternoon tea. Prices are from £16.95. Strawberry Fields is open from Tuesdays to Sundays, please contact regarding afternoon teas via website
DINNER/PUBS/ROASTS
Pizza by Goli: My favourite restaurant in Sutton Coldfield serving up fantastic Italian cuisine and exceptional service HOWEVER be warned, this restaurant can get extremely busy so please book beforehand. Fantastic restaurant for date nights and group bookings, I have been going here for years and always have a great meal without fail. The Lamb cutlets in red wine sauce is one of my favourites and the garlic bread is always a winner.Vegetarian, vegan and gluten options available
Eleon: A great Greek restaurant and meze bar that is very popular in Sutton Coldfield and I can see why because the food is beautiful and service is exceptional. You are always guaranteed an exceptional dining experience here in Eleon. The Meze feast is must, experience the greek way of social dining by tucking into 21 dishes from Pork Souvlaki to Baklava all for just £27.50 pp.Vegetarian, vegan and gluten options available
SUSHIDO: A true gem in Sutton Coldfield offering excellent Japanese food that is available for you to dine in or take out. Sushi lovers will adore it here offering a great variety of sushi dishes that caters for vegetarians and vegans, they also offer hot mains such a as red thai curry and bao buns.Vegetarian, vegan and gluten options available
The Bracebridge: A charming restaurant that can be found within Sutton Park that offers a fantastic dining experience with a pretty impressive view of the lakes in Sutton Park. This is a great option for that special occassion, a little bit on the pricey side however they do offer a fixed menu of two courses for £19.95 or three courses for £25.95 on Wednesday and Thursdays.Vegetarian, vegan and gluten options available
Giggling Squid: Giggling Squid is one of the latest additions to the area, a restaurant that specialises in Thai Cuisine with restaurants in Harborne, Leamington Spa and so on. This restaurant has quickly become one of my favourites in the North of Birmingham. The lamb shank dish is a must, and the cocktails are pretty fab here too! Vegetarian, vegan and gluten options available
Veerus: Veerus serve up delicious authenthic Indian Cuisine with a great atmosphere. Prices are very reasonable here for the quality of food you get, and its a great place to chill out with a beer and tuck into some quality food. If you go to Veerus you must order the large mix grill, its pretty incredible! Vegetarian, options available
Cock N Bull: Juicy monster Buns and Camden Hells on draught, thats what I am talking about! Really chilled out place and is perfect for catching up with friends, pre drinks or date night. If you love filthy burgers and kick ass fried chicke, you’ll like this place. Vegetarian and vegan options available
Romantica: A great Italian restaurant located in Mere Green, The food is pure quality using the freshiest ingredients and the service is second to none. A great choice for date night or to celebrate a special occasion. The Antipasto sharing board is a must and pair that up with Romanticas Carre di Agnello (rack of lamb) you got yourself a pretty fine meal. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten options available
Panache: One of my favourite Indian restaurants in Sutton Coldfied, Panache is top quality serving up amazing authentic indian cuisine that is full of flavour and will leave you wanting more! I always have a great experience here and thats why its one of my favourites, the staff are professional, the food is fantastic and overall its a great dining experience. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten options available
Chelo Persian Kitchen and bar: Persian food at its best, I had a few takeaways from here in lockdown and was pleased with everyone of them, next up I wil be dining in the restaurant very soon! The food is gorgeous, full of flavour and cooked to perfection. Vegetarian options available
The Butlers Arms: Lovely pub in Mere Green that provides a great atmosphere, from lunchtime to Dinnertime they have you covered with some great dishes on offer from the Indian Spiced Chicken to Belly Pork that will surely satisfy those pesky taste buds. They have some cracking ales on offer here and its a nice place to sit outside with friends with a pint and enjoy the weather. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten options available
The Four Oaks: Recently refubished The Four Oaks is a beautiful pub just on Belwell Lane where they offer brunch, dinner, small plates, Sunday roasts and a beer garden that is perfect for the Summer!. Beautifully decorated without with plenty of seating, many will enjoy it here and I especially love going here for wine with friends!
Your Flamingo: New Pizzeria on the Boldmere Rd serve up traditional stone baked Neapolitan pizzas that are delcious! Plus they offer a great cocktail menu where you can grab 2 cocktails for £14. Open Tuesday – Friday 3pm-10pm and Saturday 11.30am-10pm (kitchen closes at 9pm)
Tikka Nation: On the Birmingham rd going into Sutton Coldfield you will find Tikka Nation, specialising in Indian “Street food” serving up gorgeous curries, wraps and tasty sides.
The Farmhouse Bistro: A lovely Bistro just on Weeford Road serves up a fantastic all-day menu full of traditional favourites to contemporary classics. The Roast dinner is a must here and they also serve afternoon tea.
Narmaste : Serving up traditional Indian and Ghurka cuisine in Wylde Green. Located just above The Lane’s shopping centre, Namaste offers the very best in Indian cuisine with high reviews, its one to book
BARS/BREWERIES AND STREET FOOD
XO LOUNGE: XO Lounge is the place to be where you can sample a variety of fine wines by the glass any time of day (18 to be exact), a unique location with a high quality and extensive spirit and cocktail selection. XO also offers high quality independent coffee, good quality beer with some food and nibbles to match. They also host monthly street food pop ups.
Simpsons gin bar: Located in the heart of The Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield, Simpsons Bar looks to provide you with an extensive menu of high quality spirits, beers and cocktails. Big fan of the gin here and they also serve hot drinks, you can have your drinks outside on the new lovely outdoor terrace area.
Quinto Lounge: I do like the food from Quinto (especially the brunch) but I feel that the cocktails are on another level. Quinto provide variety, and a great spot for pre-drinks or a night out with your mates. Prices are very reasonable and if you get peckish you can always order a couple of tapas dishes with your cocktails! Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options available
BAR 28: On the Birmingham rd as you come into Sutton, you will find new bar “Bar 27” taking over the old Mutiny Loft venue. Here you can enjoy a great range of cocktails, food, live sports and a game of darts.
The Townhouse: Sleek and stylish through out, The Townhouse is a lovely boutique bar/hotel serving up good homemade food, fabulous cocktails, live music and more. A Hotspot in Sutton, weekends at The Townhouse are pretty lit!
The Station pub: Iconic pub in Sutton Coldfield, I have been going here for years! It seems to be everyones favourite pub in Sutton Coldfield with a great variety of booze on offer, live music and DJ Sets. Its one to visit!
Leviathan Brewing: A hidden gem in Sutton Coldfield located on Reddicap Trading Estate offering a great variety of beer (and plenty of alcoholic options) and host monthly foodie pop ups which have seen What the Cluck, Patty Dabblers and more popping up at the brewery. A fantastic taproom offering a great atmosphere here, it’s absolutely worth the visit.
Cask and Craft: An Independent craft beer bar & bottleshop. Focusing on small independent brewers, small batch Gins/Rums and Ciders and hosting street food pop ups every month. A great place to chill with friends with a pint and tuck into some fantastic street food such as Cleopatra Kitchen, Sticky Beaks and more.
Pitalicious: Mid East Lebanese street food here in Sutton Coldfield, Pitalicious is definetly worth checking out. The lamb shawarma pitta is incredible and I am pretty sure the chips from Pitalicious are the best chips I have ever tasted. Great for quick bite or you can dine within the restaurant. Vegetarian and vegan options available.
The Ale Hub: Located in Mere Green, this is a great micro pub that specialises in cask ales, craft beers and a variety of gins. Lovely little spot, they usually put on themed nights and host quiz/bino events.
Burger Boi: Located in Wylde Green on the Birmingham rd, You will find Burger Boi who serve up smashed patties and tasty buttermilk fried chicken.
Rosa’s Thai Cafe is yet another London restaurant crossing over to the North and opening in Birmingham, we are the second city after all and causing quite a stir on the culinary scene. Rosa’s was founded by Chef Saiphin and serves up ‘award-winning authentic Thai food that is bold on flavour’. I adore Thai cuisine so of course, I was very excited to try this out.
Please note that this experience was gifted, and this is my honest opinion.
Located in the heart of the new Paradise Circus, this is the first Rosa’s Cafe to open in the Midlands. First impressions were at odds with every other Thai restaurant I’ve been too. The decor was understated, the atmosphere pretty vacant – but then again it was a Tuesday night in the cafe’s second week of opening.
My sister and I decided to order several starter plates: crispy prawns, summer rolls, honey-marinated pork skewers, sweetcorn cakes and the obligatory prawn crackers. The portion sizes were decent, the colours were vibrant, and everything looked appealing to the eye. Lets start with what we did like: the crispy prawns were fresh and fragrant and the sweet chilli dip provided a welcome zing. The honey-marinated pork skewers were tender and juicy – a plate I would definitely recommend. Unfortunately, the rest of the dishes were disappointing. There was way too much sweetcorn than cake in the patties and virtually no seasoning. Now I know summer rolls are supposed to be served cold but are summer rolls supposed to give you brain freeze? Biting into one of these was like biting into a choc ice that’s been sitting in your mum’s freezer since 2005. Refreshing maybe but again, bland as fuck.
Luckily the mains were a bigger hit. I ordered the stir-fried beef with black pepper sauce and sticky rice. The beef was full of flavour albeit it a little on the chewy side and the sauce was just glorious drizzled over the sticky rice and scooped up with a prawn cracker. My sister ordered the fried aubergine and confirmed it was sweet, salty and moreish. It was probably the most authentic dish we picked.
The staff were very friendly and attentive, our server was fantastic and I couldn’t help but feel bad when he asked us about the half-eaten plates on our table. Admittedly my sister and I messed up by ordering mostly deep-fried dishes to start. By the time the mains came we were rubbing our tummies and exhaling like labouring women.
Unfortunately for me, Rosa’s Thai Cafe was disappointing. I felt it was lacking the flavours and spice Thai food is famous for. Where was the spice?! I felt I could have gone to another chain such as Sabai Sabai and experienced bolder flavours. After visiting Thailand and tasting authentic Thai cuisine I don’t think Rosa’s comes close. For a quick working lunch maybe – as I said, the service was excellent – but for an evening meal with friends or family it’s a strong no. I understand there can be teething problems in the first couple of weeks so I might try it later in the year, but I’m definitely not in a rush.
I’ll be honest I wanted to love it. It’s in a great spot and the cafe itself is light, breezy and welcoming. But the absence of flavour in its dishes means that Rosa’s might well be overshadowed by others in the city centre who deliver a more authentic Thai experience
The 12th of April is coming, and The UK will slowly start to emerge from Lockdown following the UK governments Roadmap to recovery. Restaurant’s and other hospitality venue’s will open however only providing Al fresco dining but many will be cheering about the news of the curfew and the substantial meal rule being scrapped. I have put together a list of restaurants that are now taking bookings and planning to open from the 12th of April 2021 in the North of Birmingham. Many are booked up already so be quick if you want to get out of the house and dine outside huddling together under a heated outdoor lamp.
I will be updating this list every week, so please check back!
Introducing a vibrant new independent to Birmingham located in the Great Western Arcade you’ll find The Pineapple Club, A new bar that is currently slaying the Birmingham bar scene. Neon lights, pink interior, art deco furniture and the Basic Bitch photo opportunities to be had here, The Pineapple Club is bringing the EXTRA that Birmingham so badly needs!
Opened in September, bookings are filling up quite fast so I managed to book in for early October on a Friday from 5.30 pm to 7 pm for drinks and food. Arriving at The Pineapple Club you enter into the shop where they sell a variety of wines and cheeky alcohol beverages, looking a little bare yes, but its quality over quantity here Bab and there is quite the impressive selection of booze on offer. Walking up the stairs you are hit with botanical and pink neon scenes that is sure to make you eye lit up!
Straight away, this place oozes sexiness and style, So stylish with the 1920s interior with art deco styled furniture throwing in a bit of futuristic neon creating those Instagram photo shoots opportunities. We all are a sucker for a little of neon and pink so straight away my eyes lit up to this and got me quite excited!
Sitting down at our table we took a look at the drinks menu which is very impressive, you got your basic bitch cocktails like Pornstar Martini but then you got your fancy and creative cocktails such as candy club punch and Kawaii Milk. If you don’t fancy a cocktail you can always opt for Wine and beer. They also provide non-alcohol cocktails and soft drinks for those who fancy a quiet one or don’t drink alcohol. In regards to the food menu, they do a good selection of Spanish tapas inspired small plates from meat dishes such as chorizo to vegetarian dishes such as Colombian Arepas with guacamole. We did worry a bit with the amount of food we were going to order as the table was quite small so we did ask if we could change tables however this was not allowed as all tables were booked up.
For the drinks, I ordered a Candy club Punch, Beefeater pink gin, fruit wine, cranberry and vintage candy cordial, so fruity, so sweet and so satisfying. Very easy to drink too however could be going down the dangerous route as I was drinking it like fruit juice! For food, we ordered Gambas al Ajillo (prawns), chorizo, chicken skewers, Colombian Arepas with guacamole and the cheese board for two. The lady who served us was very informative, one of my friends only eats Halal meat so she was very helpful in advising which dishes would be best to eat such as vegetarian dishes.
The food came within 15 minutes, and it was quite the squeeze fitting it on the table however we managed it. The chorizo dish was beautiful but it never came with sliced bread in what the menu said (however we did ask for this and it came straight away, no problem)The prawns were cooked to perfection, couldn’t fault them and full of flavor. Colombian Arepas was surprisingly delicious (it was the least dish I was looking forward to) and the portion was pretty generous!
Unfortunately, the cheeseboard was a little bit disappointing in regards to size and variety, I expected more cheese’s and more meats HOWEVER what was there was delicious, just could do with a bit more variety. The cheeseboard also came with pickles and breadsticks, there was nothing to dip the breadsticks in so to me, it was quite random, it would have been better to have a dip (aioli) or freshly baked bread to put the cheese and meats on top. Early days of course for Pineapple Club but maybe these things can be considered.
The meal came to £60 between three £20 each, which I was very happy to pay and really enjoyed the meal. If you’re looking to improve your Instagram game and chill out with a couple of cocktails and eat some good food hit this place up! It is really thriving and quite busy in there, but no wonder, they got it right, Brum needed something like this. We need more neon, botanical, fancy pink interior and basic bitch vibes because let’s face it, we all have a basic bitch in us and we bloody love it!
There is no doubt in my mind that The Pineapple Club will continue to succeed and become a much loved independent in Birmingham by Brummies and travellers to our City. Thank you to The Pineapple Club for having us and Welcome to Brum Babs!
Disgustingly satisfying burgers, over the top fancy cocktails, and a bathtub full of balls? Welcome to the NO BASIC BITCHES ALLOWED Club. You can’t miss the neon signs, the pinkness, and the jaw-dropping cocktails, this isn’t no basic bitch restaurant Bab! Located in Leamington Spa and tucked away on Augusta Pl (just look for a pink sign) step on through to the world of FEMME celebrating the power of FEMALE! This restaurant just screams girl power and is a must-visit for us girls to meet up, have a bitch, with a couple of prosecco’s in hand or by the end of it…all down us!
From mountain high Mummy Harts roasts to colourful brunches where you can pimp your burger or eat a stack of rainbow pancakes, Hart + Co means business when it comes to having fun and eating good food. On Saturday, my Cousin and I decided to try out the bottomless brunch for £30-£35. We were running a little bit late due to the changes of train timetables, when we informed Hart that we were going to be late they were very accommodating and told us not to worry, our table will still be there waiting for us.
Arriving at Hart & Co, they took our names and walked us over to our table which was under a beautiful pastel display of balloons. The tables were spaced out and social distancing was taking place so straight away I felt very safe in there. We were then approached by our server who asked us what drinks we would be going for, we opted for the beer bottomless brunch as the last time I had prosecco it was a complete and utter disaster…I lost my trousers…like seriously.
Our server then went through the house rules “Don’t fall asleep” “Keep your glasses topped up” very tongue and cheek, and straight away creating that fun experience! We were advised it was table service only, ordering food is done via Instagram. The brunch menu was to be found on Hart & Co’s Instagram story displaying the options for brunch where you could choose from waffles, pancakes, burgers, etc. Ordering your food, you would need to confirm the table number and your order via Instagram message to Hart & Co, very different but also something that maybe the older generation may not like due to not having social media however I am sure Hart & Co would take the order there and then.
The beer was served straight away after house rules were explained and they were HEAVY! I do love a good pint of beer, but this was like two pints in one! Very generous and very satisfying, ice-cold just the way I like it!
Looking around, every table was full of girls, it made me realize how bloody loud us girls are! Sometimes It was hard to hear but when you are in a room with girls and unlimited prosecco, what do you expect?! The layout of the restaurant is very FEMME, Walls covered in Pink, some feminism artwork scattered around that tied in really well with the restaurant, and fun props such as a bathtub full of balls which is set up at the front of the restaurant where groups are invited to take photos accompanied with a selfie light however Due to CO-VID this was sectioned off but still plenty of photo opportunities to have here!
When it came to ordering, I went for the cheeky Hog burger, a beef patty with lots of cheese, chorizo, bacon, crispy onions and topped with brioche. My cousin went for the Cheesy chap which is a beefy patty smothered in all kinds of cheese! Within 20 minutes of ordering the food arrived and…Dayum.
I swear to you, this is a burger alright! It was monstrous! Swamped in chorizo, cheese, onions, and just pure delicious FILTH! Of course, I could not finish it with a side of “basic bitch” fries but it was pretty fun to tuck into especially been given some gloves to try and hack the mess of eating it. The beef was cooked perfectly and what an experience to trying stuff all that in my gob!
Soon as the food arrived, we were asked if we wanted another beer, so they do keep you topped up quite well here and the staff are bloody lovely.! Filling up quite quickly with the massive portions and unlimited beer, this is one brunch where you won’t be leave starving and running to McDonald’s.
I will say it was very HEAVY, very heavy, an overload of carbs and meat and within five minutes I was stuffed. Dining at Hart & Co was so much fun, the brunch is pretty impressive, fun, creative, and massive portions with a quirky twist, I will be honest it’s not my favourite brunch I have ever had but it was definitely an experience and it tasted delicious! We had a lot of fun here and that’s what Hart & Co is about, having fun and eating good HEARTY food.
The cocktails are next level, cocktail in a chinse takeaway box? out of a Russian doll? They certainly do pull the phones out of your pockets!
Many may look at Hart & Co as just another Instagram restaurant to lure these IG kids in to take photos all day, yes everywhere you look is an Instagram worthy post but What I love about Hart + Co is that they are creative and fun with food, they dare to be different, I mean, Who thinks of a spaghetti Bolognese burger?! Only Hart & Co…
They care about their guests, and they want us to have fun whilst tucking into some seriously amazing food and sassy cocktais! An experience that all must experience visiting Leamington Spa, and an independent that is bound to be loved by all for being so EXTRA and fabulous!
Hart and Co are offering their bottomless brunches every weekend, please head on over to their social media page here to book. If you fancy a fun afternoon out with the girls with lots of bubbles, sterling food, and smiles for hours, then make sure you book in with Hart + Co, you won’t be disappointed…Okurrr!
Secret Garden meets Narnia without the snow in Westminster tube station…Intrigued? confused? of course you bloody are. I just involved Narnia and a tube station in a review of a restaurant in Birmingham! Craft Dining Rooms is not the typical dining experience that you will find on every street in Birmingham or any City! Bringing artistry, coolness, and a very British feel giving diners a unique dining experience that they would want to experience all over again.
The last time I went to Craft was for the launch of Crafts Secret Garden back in January/February time, it’s been on the list for ages to try out and finally, on a chilly Friday afternoon, my cousin and I got to try out Craft, finally! Located just outside the ICC opposite the bridge to Brindley Place (you can’t miss it) full of blooms, sleek design, and awesome futuristic dining pods outside. Upon entering Craft, you walk through a tunnel of flowers which is an impressive touch, and I can also hear the squeal of those Instagram Girls eyeing it up for their next post, An blooming lovely great impression.Inside the venue, you are greeted by the receptionist on the front desk, and on your right is a pretty cool cocktail bar that is oh so chic! We first had our temperatures checked which was a pretty odd experience as we just stood in front of a device on the wall which looked like a camera, and then the receptionist confirmed all was well and showed us to our table, technology these days hey?!
The dining room is just stunning, it’s so sleek, so fancy and so clean! Covered with blossoms and a pop of yellow here and there making it already quite the classy dining experience my cousin and I were looking for.
A set menu is displayed on your table: starter and main for £33 or starter, main and pudding for £39, and there is also a four-course set menu for £45. We decided to go for the two-course menu, starter, and main as I am not really a pudding person! A staff member came over and collected our orders. I ordered a raspberry gin with lemonade, for my starter the salted beef, pickles and mustard, then for my main I ordered the lamb, garlic and aubergine.
The cocktails came out first, refreshing, and delicious, and plenty to get through! Within ten minutes the salted beef starter came out, I loved how quirky the dish is, very beautifully presented and it was full of flavour. Accompanied by a Brioche roll, we were off to a great start with our meal! My cousin went for the tomato soup which she said was very delicious and quite filling.
Onto the mains and the lamb came out within 15 minutes, lovely and tender, absolutely full of flavour and I will say this, that was some of the best lamb I have had in a very long time! complimented with garlic, aubergine, caramelized onion, and a variety of purees, it really was quite a powerful dish. Now, a little criticism all though the food was sensational, the one thing I would have liked to be offered is CARBS, a few potatoes would have topped of the lamb dish and filled that pesky little bit of hunger in my stomach after finishing my meal. It just would have been nice to have the option of ordering a side dish to accompany the main, maybe this is something Craft can look into?
That is all the criticism I have to say. The experience and the food is sensational here at Craft, the staff are an absolute joy to talk to, so helpful, so polite, and they really do make you feel quite important here at Craft! Our server was amazing, full of information, and was delightful!
Upon our visit, we managed to get a sneak preview of About 8 which is Crafts sister restaurant opening on 8th October which is going to be the ultimate fine dining experience and something Brum has never seen before! I won’t go into too much detail but if you’d like to know more then please do head to their website here and make sure you book yourself in!
The option of private dining is available, as Craft offers a beautiful private dining area for that special occasion, and let’s not forget booking one of the garden pods which adds a bit of uniqueness to your dining experience. For £33 for a two-course meal oozing fine British dining at its best with a side order of fantastic customer service, beautiful scenery and delicious cocktails is something not to be missed when visiting Birmingham, Craft is a must-visit for all to experience something a little bit different to your “Basic Bitch” chain restaurant dining.
Craft is that unique dining experience we all crave occasionally, however once visited you’ll be craving it once a week. The attention to detail, the creativity, and the passion that this restaurant has put in to create a positive and special dining experience to guests is something that should be admired by all. Craft dares to be different and is a fantastic representative of the foodie community here in our amazing city, which is sure to be loved by all.
Last weekend I was gifted an afternoon tea experience at Browns in Birmingham by the lovely Craft Beer Pin Up to celebrate afternoon tea week that certainly did lift the mood on a miserable rainy day in Birmingham. Snugged just under the Bullring, it has been a while Browns, I think the last time I visited was about three years ago for a Christmas roast dinner so it’s nice to return and try out something different. If you know me, you’ll know I love a good brew and love stuffing my face with sandwiches so I can never turn an afternoon tea down even if Weatherspoons offered one…
Arriving just before our time 3.15 pm, we asked if we could sit down early in which the staff were very happy to assist. We were seated at a gorgeous green marble table (it went very nicely with my green bag!) looking around Browns they certainly do have style, it just screams British Summer with all the floral however I was also getting a bit of 1940s American with the super stylish bar aswell! Tables were spaced out, hand sanitizer was displayed on the way in and social distancing was in place here, straight away I felt very safe.
We were brought the afternoon tea menus right away and left to decide, The traditional afternoon tea was priced as £18.50 however we saw the G&T afternoon tea and we just fancied a bit of a pick me up after our boozy previous night. A staff member came over took our afternoon tea order and asked us what hot drinks we would like to go for, we both opted for English breakfast.
After a five minute wait, the rhubab and raspberry G&T cocktails came out, a very generous glass in which I could possibly get lost in as a 5ft 1 woman. Ice cold and refreshing, the flavour was a little bit on the strong side at first however as the afternoon progressed it became less strong! Our tea followed shortly after and then the afternoon tea.
The Browns Afternoon Tea Includes:
Sandwiches: Prawn & baby gem lettuce, ham & dijon mustard, cucumber & cream cheese, egg mayo brioche bun, smoked salmon & cream cheese on a whisky & thyme oatcake.
Home-baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam.
Sweets: Victoria sponge, lemon drizzle cake, almond macarons and chocolate praline mousse in a chocolate flower pot.
One Pot of English Breakfast tea or any tea of your choice
One glass each of Tarquin’s Rhubarb and Raspberry G&T
Price: £25.50
I was very impressed with the sandwich selection, for some reason I didn’t think I was going to get that much however I was pleasantly surprised. The quality is nothing to be amazed about but it was still pleasable, the sandwiches tasted fresh, there are no arty-farty ingredients here but you can’t beat a traditional cucumber & cream cheese sandwich can you? The egg mayo in a brioche roll was my favourite, just a shame it was a bit on the small side! The only sandwich in which I wasn’t so fond of was the prawn & baby gem lettuce it was a bit too heavy with the sauce creating almost a slimey texture.
The scones were definitely on the small side but I am not a massive cake/scone fan so I actually preferred them that size plus I can’t stand having the massive scones that completely crumble everywhere, you spend more time cleaning yourself than stuffing yourself with them. They were also warm and tasted fresh, so I was pretty pleased with them!
Onto that impressive looking flowerpot, which at first I thought was for decoration but it is a lovely chocolate mousse, perfect for those chocolate lovers out there. The lemon drizzle cake was delicious and so was the Victoria sponge, Wasn’t too mad about the almond macaron. Maybe could have squeezed another sweet (maybe a tart?) on there however I like the variety and I like the portions of the sweets so maybe I’m just being a little bit greedy! I have to say the chocolate mousse is very filling on its own!
The Afternoon Tea with the G&T really complimented each other well and I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised with this afternoon tea. For £26.50 I think it’s pretty good for the money, I have to say I have paid £30+ in grand places where I have received a small/basic afternoon with just a pot of tea, no fizz involved. I believe they have the right balance of sweet and savourly, and I have to say I was pretty full after eating it so I didn’t have to venture out to McDonald’s after.
Browns Quintessentially British afternoon tea with a splash of Gin went down a success, offering a great variety and good quality for all to enjoy. priced at £26.50 with a very generous glass of G&T, a pot of hot tea and an impressive selection of savoury and sweet,I believe that this is a worthy contender for you all to try out in Birmingham.
Never heard of cronuts? Well, you will after your visit to Medicine Bakery in Birmingham however this bakery has a bit more to offer then just the yeast and Sunday morning I was there to find out.
Hidden away in the centre of Brum, you’ll find this gem squished in between Nando’s and Santander Bank literally 20 second walk from Victoria Square, look out for the fresh bread outside. When you step through the front door you are greeted with a grand staircase, but don’t let that put you off as what’s awaiting for you at the top of that staircase is bakery heaven, so in fact, it’s a stairway to heaven.
As I got to the top, I have never seen such a lovely display of bakery goods, but what caught my eye first are the cronuts. The staff are very helpful, straight away a young girl was there to assist me with my non-existent bakery knowledge, I asked what is a cronut? Instead of “its soo good you got to try it” she actually explained what it was “ A cronut is a croissant/donut pastry, looks like a donut but its made from croissant-like dough which is filled with cream, these are blueberry mascarpone flavoured” it’s nice to have staff actually explain what they are selling instead of throwing the “don’t care what you say just buy it” card at customers. Soo tempting but I was here for breakfast, so I quickly shuffled forward to the restaurant/seating area and never looked back… Until 2 hours later.
The restaurant is pretty huge, light, spacious and straight away felt really chilled out in there. Its order at the till service, and straight away I was greeted with a smile, given a menu, and informed of how the service works. Menu was pretty impressive, lots of options – vegan friendly, and I was spoilt for choice. Still dreaming about the cronut, I opted for a light dish-Avocado & chilli on sourdough with a green tea with mint.
Set my laptop up, my tea arrived, and I zoned out, people started to flood in, but the room is so big, it never got loud! I was surprised how quiet it was with the amount of people coming in maybe because the seating areas are all spread out in the room, you are not too close to people. I was then greeted with a big smile carrying a more then generous plate of my avocado and sourdough! Bright, colourful and bloody good looking- tucked straight into it but found myself struggling half way through as I found it to be quite filling! Very tasty and very fresh. I paid under £10 for what I ordered, and I wouldn’t have minded paying more for it as I enjoyed it so much. In fact, I have paid more for a similar dish however the quality didn’t compare to Medicine and I actually paid £15 for what looked like a baby’s nappy that had exploded on my plate.
Plate to the side, work was calling, I was checked on after I finished, and I have to say I was pretty impressed with the customer service. Quite a lot of young staff working, smiles and friendly service, that’s what I like to see! I was already eyeing up the lunch menu after my breakfast but still full, I decided to pack up and pay the bill, however I couldn’t exactly just walk out there just yet, a cronut was calling.
A young girl was assisting with packing the cronuts, I also queried about the carrot & walnut cake , only because I know my mom would kill me if I walked past a carrot cake and didn’t buy her a piece, I landed in her good books that afternoon, I have to say the cronuts are bloody divine however word of warning you have to be quick to swipe one of these bad boys, I tried the following day and failed miserably- all gone by 4pm! Not a big fan of carrot cake however I found myself gobbling it down on the night and vacuuming at midnight *sigh*.
In conclusion, The Medicine Bakery is quirky and different, Great for a grab & go and even better for wining & dining (Yes! They sell alcohol) I would definitely recommend and would like to go back and try the lunch & dinner menu. An independent Brummie gem, I would say that is definitely worth more credit and more visits.
