A Foodie Guide to Birmingham: Best Restaurants, Coffee & Brunch Spots
Born-and-bred Brummie and local foodie Fay Robson gives Travelista readers an exclusive whistle-stop tour of the most delicious spots in Birmingham. This is the ultimate foodie guide to Birmingham.
A Foodie Guide to Birmingham: Best Restaurants, Coffee & Brunch Spots
Jump Menu
Top 5 – Best Brunch in Birmingham
Top 5 – Best Casual Restaurants in Birmingham
Top 5 – Best FIne Dining Restaurants in Birmingham
Top 5 – Best Coffee Shops in Birmingham
Birmingham’s Best-Kept Foodie Secrets
Where to Stay in Birmingham – Hotels and Accomodation
Welcome to Birmingham
I’ve been lucky enough to call Birmingham “home”, since the day I was born. I’ve taken my Brummie accent to live in different cities, even another hemisphere; however, like many, I returned to the place that feels like a big hug. My husband and I have chosen to raise our family here; surrounded by our family, friends, and the wonderful people of Brum.
As a mom (yes, mom) of 2 small humans; I love that I’m raising them in a city brimming with a rich culture, full of exciting diversity. These are key components to Birmingham’s food scene, placing it firmly on the ‘Foodie’ map; which my family and I very much enjoy. Actually, the biggest challenge about writing a Birmingham food guide, is that there’s simply so much to shout about. Narrowing down the best places to eat and drink is near impossible – but I’m here to give it a shot.
Starting off strong with some Brummie food facts; Birmingham is home to Opheem; a 2-Michelin Star restaurant. The city centre and surrounding areas boast more Michelin Stars than anywhere outside of London. The fine-dining scene in Birmingham is a delicious mix of global influences, along with traditional, local cuisine with finesse. If fine-dining isn’t part of your foodie pursuits when visiting Birmingham; the city is also bursting at the seams with independent cafes and restaurants. The recently-opened food hall; St Pauls Market offers a variety of independent, local food traders to try in one venue.
The food in Birmingham offers something delicious for every budget, taste, and appetite. The diversity of the population here is reflected in the vibrant food scene – and you can be sure that Brummies will welcome anyone who wants to enjoy it all, with confident and friendly, open-arms.
Top 5 – Brunch in Birmingham
I live for brunch, and Birmingham never disappoints. Just like the rest of its culinary delights, Birmingham’s brunch offering has something for everyone. Brunch? Yes. Where? Well, that’s a great question… This list has probably been the hardest to narrow down; however, the following are places I’ve been to repeatedly, and always left delighted. They’re popular with locals and visitors alike.
1. Saint Kitchen
Unit 2, 61 St Paul’s Square, Birmingham B3 1QS
Saint Kitchen is a such a staple for those living and brunching in Birmingham; especially those within the Jewellery Quarter. It’s a friendly, relaxed spot and the price point is between budget-friendly and mid-range, depending on what you order. The welcome is warm, the coffee is excellent, and the food is all homemade and freshly baked.
I love that even though the menu is small; it packs a punch! Serving your classic brunch offerings, like french toast and smashed avocado, alongside hearty beef shin sandos and hash browns with truffle mayo. There’s also always a lovely selection of baked goods, so you can go and grab a coffee and a donut if you don’t have time to sit-in and eat.
If you fancy some comforting and flavourful food, in a pretty location, with a relaxed atmosphere; it’s definitely worth a visit. Just a note; it gets pretty busy at lunch time, so I’d recommend early-mid morning for a more leisurely brunch.
2. Waylands Yard
42 Bull St, Birmingham B4 6AF
Waylands Yard is the place to go if you’re a modern diner-food fan. Sometimes you just need that crispy, salty bacon on a fluffy, sweet pancake. I highly recommend the eggy crumpets (I’ve been enjoying these for years) however, there’s also classics like eggs on toast, and a selection of porridge and lighter options on the menu too.
The vibe is fun, friendly, and super laid back. You can even grab yourself a beer or cider. The price point is mid range; however, you’ll get a generous sized meal and won’t leave hungry. For around £12-£15 per head, it’s a lovely open venue for leisurely catch-ups, or a solo coffee and cake. Don’t skip on the sides menu either!
3. Cafe Lovelife
28 Floodgate St, Deritend, Birmingham B5 5SL
I actually enjoyed my birthday brunch at Cafe Lovelife because I love the menu so much and it feels like a bit of a treat. Self-described as a taste of the Mediterranean in the heart of Digbeth, you’ll find all your expected brunch options, with a flavourful, Mediterranean infusion. There’s Zataar with your eggs, sides like Patatas Bravas, and an indulgent lamb croque madame to name just a few from their menu.
I adore the pretty pink decor, and the option to enjoy a brunch with a large group of friends and family. It’s a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, but it feels like a bit of an occasion or special treat.
4. The Early Bird Bakery
28 High St, King’s Heath, Birmingham B14 7JT
The Early Bird Bakery offers creative brunch options along with a delicious and eclectic mix of pastries and cakes. Nestled on the high street in Kings Heath, it’s well worth a trip outside of the city centre to visit this local gem. Another super friendly and relaxed venue (Brummies do it so well). The space is simple and fresh.
The focus really is all about what comes out of that kitchen and on to your plate. I love that the menu changes regularly, so there’s often something new to indulge in. After brunching here, I’d advise grabbing one of their croissants to go; they are elite.
5. Medicine
Mailbox, 53 Wharfside St, Birmingham B1 1RE
Renowned for their incredible baked goods, Medicine now has 8 locations in and around Birmingham. Each one has a different vibe which I feel are location-dependent. However, for a sit down brunch I’d choose their cafe in The Mailbox. It’s another place that feels like a bit of a treat, with its bottle green tiles, rich wood panelling and leather chesterfield booths. It feels like an established and cosy space in the heart of the city.
With flavours like harissa and miso infused into their brunch menu, I feel it offers an elevated brunch and a reasonable, mid range price point. It’s somewhere to go if you’re ready to indulge.
Top 5 Casual Restaurants in Birmingham
With so many great independents, there’s plenty of relaxed dining options in Birmingham that don’t involve brunch. Actually, some of the best restaurants in Birmingham are places you can pop into, wearing your comfies.
1. Indian Brewery & Indian Brewery Taproo
Arch 15 & 16 Livery St, Birmingham B3 1EU
Ok, so this is technically 2 places. However, they are literally around the corner from one another and obviously, run by the same traders. The Indian Brewery is located under the arches at Snow Hill Station, making it an ideal spot to grab some of the famous plates from their menu after work or before a shopping trip into the city.
Just feet away is their Brewery & Taproom, which is now known for its Indian Pizzas, and is great for a larger group of diners. Both venues unsurprisingly have a great selection of cask and keg beers to offer.
2. Smoke + Ash
2 Greenfield Cres, Birmingham B15 3AU
This is a bold statement, but in my opinion, Smoke + Ash pizzeria offers the best pizza in Birmingham; I often dream about their divine toppings and their addictive crusts. It truly is a slice of pizza heaven.
Just on the outskirts of the city, in Edgbaston, they offer a selection of lovely cocktails and a pizza menu that will have a topping for everyone. I love that there are dreamy side plates and sharing board options too, making it a great place for a date night or dinner with friends. Pizzas are around £14-£15 on average, making it an affordable option, especially if you’re sharing a pizza and a salad with a friend.
3. Trentina
33 Mary St, Birmingham B3 1UD
If pasta is a love language for you; Trentina is a Birmingham must-visit. With a clean and simple interior, they offer a small seasonal menu and specialise in fresh pasta, small plates, and charcuterie. They also have a wonderful cocktail selection, making it one of my favourite places for a laidback dinner date.
Please do not leave without trying their homemade focaccia with house oil; I could keep returning for this alone! Mains are around £15, making it a relaxed option for your wallet too.
4. The Plough Harborne
1 High St, Harborne, Birmingham B17 9NT
Ok, I couldn’t do a list about casual dining spaces without including this gem of a pub; best known for its great food offerings. It has the wonderful cosy atmosphere you’d expect from a pub, with a menu that offers a peppering of mediterranean influence alongside great quality pub classics.
There’s a dish for every appetite, making it ideal for a quick catch-up and a pint, or a leisurely dinner over a bottle of wine. It’s super relaxed and friendly. Oh, and there’s a lovely outdoor space which is perfect in the summer.
5. Han Bao
46 Floodgate St, Deritend, Birmingham B5 5SL
This is a fun space, with plenty of atmosphere. The staff here are so welcoming and you’ll be greeted at the bar with a huge smile. It’s good vibes from the get-go. It’s a large open space, but never feels empty, and is ideal for relaxed get-togethers no matter the size of the group.
Most importantly, the burgers are brilliant quality; smashed to perfection and with plenty of more-ish East-meets-West flavours. Whether you go for a drink and stay for a burger, or vice-versa, it’s an affordable option on the edge of the city.
Top 5 – Fine Dining Restaurants in Birmingham
Narrowing down the top 5 best fine dining restaurants in Birmingham was so hard, as there is an abundance of options in Birmingham. I managed to sneak in an extra one, with the aforementioned, 2-Michelin Star; Opheem. The following are some Birmingham restaurants for those who want to make some culinary memories, with some of the best cuisine in the city.
1. Adams
New Oxford House, 16 Waterloo St, Birmingham B2 5UG
With a Michelin star, Adams is a foodie must-visit if you’re in Birmingham. With a fresh yet luxurious interior, you’ll know you’re in for a treat as soon as you enter. The food reflects your surroundings and is modern, British, fine dining at its best.
Adams is at the pricier end, which is what you’d expect. However, I think £115 for the 5-course tasting menu and mains starting at around £30 make it reasonable for the level of food, service and experience you get. I also love that they do a kids menu. This, to me, encourages families to attend for special occasions, without the fear that children wouldn’t be welcome. Adams is also right in the city centre and within walking distance from New Street Station.
2. Grace and Savour
Hampton Manor, Shadowbrook Ln, Hampton in Arden, Solihull B92 0EN
An immersive and sustainable approach to Michelin Star dining in Birmingham, Grace and Savour is about a half an hour drive from the city centre. Nestled in a walled garden at Hampton Manor, it’s a truly unique place, and experience, for any foodie.
I love that there are suites within the walled garden so that you can stay overnight, and fully immerse yourself in the beautiful location, as you make the most of the unforgettable food.
3. Pasture
15 Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 2BH
Pasture has proven to be an excellent addition to Birmingham, and it’s in an ideal central location; perfect for literally any occasion. Self-described as a celebration of fire, meat, and music, I can guarantee you’ll leave having had such a good time. The steaks here are among the best in the city, and the small plates pack such a punch. I recommend ordering a variety and sharing at the table. The bar has knowledgeable, skilled staff too and the cocktails are a dream.
I love how welcome and special you’re made to feel here, and the staff are passionate about their food and drinks. The venue is also beautiful; think traditional New York vibes, cosy booths and larger tables, for a big celebration. Prices are to the higher end of mid-range. However, you can really splurge on a truly memorable steak, which are priced by weight (£11-£15 per 100g, cut dependant).
4. The Wilderness
27 Warstone Ln, Birmingham B18 6JQ
Described as rock n roll fine dining; The Wilderness is for those prepared for an innovative and “playful” take on British, seasonal cuisine. If you’re excited to eat, with punk, rock, and heavy metal, fuelling the atmosphere then this is definitely one for you.
I adore that there’s a real sense of everybody’s welcome attitude, and there’s no expectations on dress code. It really is all about the experience you’re going to have. There’s a single tasting menu, which costs £100, so the hardest decision you’ll have to make is what drink to order. Just go and eat, drink, and be merry!
5. 24 Stories
103 Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 3AG
I know that this is all about the food; however, you can’t talk about 24 Stories, without acknowledging the views of the city, which are among the best you’ll find in a Birmingham restaurant. Walking in, you’ll already feel like you’re part of a special occasion.
I love the rooftop restaurant’s love of local and seasonal cuisine; finessing the best of Birmingham’s and British ingredients feels like a celebration of how lucky we are to have what’s on our doorstep. It also offers a kids menu, a bottomless brunch, and seasonal celebration menus for things like Valentines and Mothers Day. Therefore, there’s always a great reason to go and enjoy the food with that view.
Top 5 Coffee Shops in Birmingham
I’m never worried about grabbing a bad coffee if I’m in and around Birmingham. The Brummie caffeine scene is thriving, and worth shouting about. It’s worth mentioning that every one of the brunch spots mentioned previously, offer an excellent selection of coffee. I can’t do brunch without it. Therefore, you’re actually getting a list of 10 places to get a coffee…
1. pause.
56 Poplar Rd, King’s Heath, Birmingham B14 7AG
I’m forever envious of those local to this infamous neighbourhood coffee shop, as it serves some of the best coffee in Brum. Owned and run by a passionate barista and talented, scratch baker; pause. caffeinates its customers with specialty coffee and provides delicious, freshly-baked treats.
The clue is in the name, but I love the emphasis on taking time out to enjoy quality coffee, inventive baked-delights (they’re always fresh and changing, but expect things like black sesame & matcha basque cheesecake, and coconut salted coffee cookie sandwich) and some quality time with yourself or a friend.
2. 200 Degrees Coffee Shop & Barista School
21 Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 2BH
Bang in the hustle and bustle of the commercial and shopping area of the city centre; 200 Degrees serves up excellent coffee, made by baristas trained in-house. They have their own roast house, where they roast over 200 tonnes of coffee per year, so when they’re making your coffee, they’re really starting from the very beginning.
I love their sustainable approach to sourcing their coffee, ensuring farmers are taken care-of, and the coffee beans are of the best quality. You can tell its a passion and at the heart of what they do. They also serve-up sandwiches and baked goods, making it a great spot for brunch or lunch when in the city.
3. Faculty
14 Piccadilly Arcade, Birmingham B2 4HD
Faculty is tucked into the historic and beautiful Piccadilly Arcade, which is a stone’s throw from New Street Station. Aside from the phenomenal location, the small independent coffee shop offers speciality coffee, tea and a fresh range of food to all who visit.
I love that the coffee changes fortnightly, as they like to showcase various beans from around the world. You also feel tucked away from the busy city centre for a while, if you choose to sit-in.
4. Yorks Cafe at Ikon Gallery
1 Oozells St., Birmingham B1 2HS
I had to debate whether Yorks Cafe at The Ikon Gallery went in this list, or the previous brunch spot lists. However, I’ve popped it on here because its coffee and drinks menu is also a winner in my opinion. Their coffee is so good and there are an array of options when it comes to matcha lovers, hot chocolate fans, and tea connoisseurs. This is such a plus point if you’re going for “a coffee” with a non coffee-drinker (my husband being one).
The setting is so lovely too; if you can, head there when the cherry blossoms are in bloom right outside and enjoy the exposed brick interior as you cosy-up in the colder weather. It’s also attached to an iconic Birmingham gallery and gift shop, making it part of a lovely day out in the city.
Under Pressure Espresso
23A Birmingham Rd, The Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham B72 1QA
This neighbourhood must-visit is definitely for the coffee lover. Under Pressure couldn’t be more straightforward; serving great coffee, roasted in-house. They sell a small selection of baked goods; their peanut butter cookie is just the best and they also sell their own beans.
I think the simplicity and straightforward approach of this independent gem is what I like the most, after their quality coffee of course!
Birmingham’s Best-Kept Foodie Secrets
The Bakehouses by Baked in Brick are petite cafes dotted around Birmingham’s suburbs and you can always get something freshly baked and a quality hot drink. My favourite has to be in Wylde Green. It’s tiny, with just 2 tables. However, it feels so old school, and sitting in the window when it’s raining outside, encourages me to romanticise my life.
Hockley Social Club is where we go if we’re craving some quality Brummie street food and a good time. The traders are always so exciting and rotate regularly, so there’s always something fresh to try; the great bar, and live music help to ensure it’s the perfect weekend destination.
Chinatown in Birmingham is brimming with the best restaurants and noodle bars; I adore that there’s always something new to discover, along with locally well-known, established eateries. Chung Ying Cantonese Restaurant is popular with good reason and boasts one of the largest selections of dim sum in the UK.
My wildcard would be The Bracebridge in Sutton Park. The 2,400 acre park and nature reserve is a draw for many. As a local, with a dog and kids; it’s part of weekly life to visit for bike rides, walks, and more often-than-not; food! I love The Bracebridge for so many reasons; it offers something for every occasion.
The restaurant and terrace sit lakeside, with views to die for. The main restaurant is a sophisticated space serving elevated British cuisine. I’ve eaten here for birthdays and special occasions often. For something more relaxed; the heated terrace, or Sip and Slice boasts the same views, with a separate menu and central bar. There are often live music events here, and it comes alive in the summer months. There’s also hatches to grab a coffee, a slice of incredible pizza or some chicken strips. Grab on-the-go or for at the picnic tables mid-walk. There’s even an area to wash your dog’s muddy paws (cleaning your children here is not recommended).
Best Areas to Stay in Birmingham for Food Lovers
Foodie or not; The Jewellery Quarter is a great place to stay when you visit Birmingham. It’s home to some of the best restaurants in Birmingham, along with coffee shops, pubs, and cafes. Saint Pauls House sits on Saint Paul’s Square, surrounded by the Jewellery Quarter venues I’ve already mentioned. You’re also walking distance from the city centre.
A great (and often economical) option is to book a stay at a Birmingham aparthotel, such as the Adagio Birmingham residence. Suitable for weekend breaks or longer stays in Birmingham, an aparthotel allows you to benefit from a fully equipped kitchen and dishwasher. The Aparthotel Adagio Birmingham is ideally located in the heart of the city, just a 5-minute walk from Birmingham New Street station and the Bullring shopping centre.
Harborne and Edgbaston are neighbours on the outskirts of the city centre, and are perfect to retreat from the city just enough, but not too far. They also house plenty of independent bars, restaurants and cafes. The Highfield Townhouse is attached to the beautiful Highfield Pub (which serves one of my favourite roast dinners in Birmingham). And the previously discussed Plough Harborne has its own Plough House, just next door. This option offers a luxurious space to sleep, rest, and relax.
There are an abundance of city centre hotels in Birmingham; however, I feel that The Grand Hotel is really special. Aside from the lovingly restored, Victorian interior and accommodation; it has one of my favourite bars in the city. Madeline Bar is just beautiful, and I urge anyone to visit and order a lobster roll from the bar menu, with a champagne cocktail.
Parting Thoughts
Birmingham is a modern city, full of history, culture, and some of the best people you’ll ever meet. This all feeds directly into the food scene here. Brummies hold such love for our independent and local traders and we offer an incredible array of dining experiences. I love my city so much. I have favourite places that I’ve eaten and drank within for years, and there’s also always someone and somewhere new to try. This makes the Birmingham food scene both a culinary, comforting hug and an exciting, experiential joy.
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