The second most populous city outside London, Birmingham is known as London’s “Second City”. Gaining prominence during the Industrial Revolution, this city is historically significant as well as culturally rich. With a mix of contrasting modern and Victorian architecture, the city never bores its visitors. Birmingham has a notable restaurant scene, having four Michelin star rated Restaurants and a thriving foodie culture. With its large South Asian community, the city is known for its excellent spicy dishes, even with a curry that is unique to Birmingham, the Balti.
In 1968, heavy metal pioneers Black Sabbath were birthed in Birmingham. In their wake, wildly successful bands like Judas Priest and Napalm Death were begat by Birmingham. There’s great pride in being the ‘birthplace of heavy metal’. and the city proudly shows off its metal heritage, manifesting in many heavy metal-themed bars. These special restaurants in Birmingham typically serve pub food – to leather the belly against a lager assault. Mainly in the centre of town, these taverns are essential for fans of food and heavy metal (not in the one dish, mind).
From metal to Madras, Birmingham has blessed us with balti. Though the origins of the balti are uncertain, everyone agrees that it was popularised in Birmingham. Influenced by Pakistani and Indian cooking, balti curries are unique in the manner they are served. Ingredients don’t differ from other curries, but cooked at high temperatures in thin metal bowls, the balti stands out. The Balti Triangle, as it is known in Birmingham, refers to the large number of balti houses along Ladypool Road, Stoney Lane, and Stratford Road – simply some of the best places to eat in Birmingham.
Outside of London, Birmingham is the only city in England home to four Michelin-starred restaurants. Having more than one Michelin-starred restaurant is a big deal in England, considering that rival Liverpool and Manchester restaurants have yet to receive their first. These restaurants are top notch, with expert chefs using the freshest ingredients and the most advanced cooking techniques. With such distinctions, Birmingham has made a name for itself in the world of gourmet dining. Finding the best restaurant in Birmingham for you is easy with so many great options.
Birmingham is home to something of a renaissance when it comes to the gastropub scene, with new craft breweries and cozy taverns cropping up all over town. These relaxed yet sophisticated bars offer more than just seasonal pale ales, serving up delicious pub eats to accompany the tasty brews. It isn’t just fish and chips on the menu at these establishments (not that there is anything wrong with fish and chips), but rather real gourmet specialties like slow-braised pork belly and chicken liver pate. Some of these gastropubs belong to the best restaurants in Birmingham.
Broad Street, one of Birmingham’s largest thoroughfares, is home to the city’s best nightlife options and great Birmingham restaurants. A popular party street, its jam packed with cocktail bars, clubs, laid back pubs and quality dining establishments. Nearly any type of cuisine is available here, including American diner food, Chinese restaurants, and historic Victorian pubs serving traditional and modern British cuisine. It is important not to drink on empty stomach – and who wants an empty stomach? – so be responsible and grab a meal on Broad Street!
The area of Digbeth in Birmingham has a long history of Irish heritage. Locals often call Digbeth the Irish Quarter because the Irish community is relatively populous. With options ranging from cheap bar snacks and meals to more expensive, upscale Irish dining, finding a good Irish stew – or a boxty, coddle, or colcannon, for that matter – is never a difficult task in Digbeth. You’ll have to do some field research, won’t you? Whether you are a tourist or a local, making a trip to these Birmingham restaurants is always a good idea.
It’s never been so easy to find exceptional restaurants in Birmingham! Simply create a free Quandoo account and immediately begin finding the top restaurants in Birmingham. Each time you book, receive loyalty points you can trade for vouchers at your favourite Birmingham restaurant! Whether you’re looking for fish and chips or something fancier, you’ll find it using Quandoo. We know you love to enjoy great food. The best restaurants in Birmingham book out fast, so reserve online and never fret again about hunting down dinner!
