Birmingham’s food scene is packed with flavor and heritage. Whether you’re into traditional dishes or hunting for new-school eats, there’s loads to try. It’s got everything from legendary curries to independent cafés that feel like cozy hangouts.
This is a city where fusion is the norm. You’ll stumble on street food, market stalls, and buzzy restaurants all within a short walk. Seriously—if you love food, you could spend your whole trip just eating. Here’s how to get the most out of it.
What to Eat in Birmingham
Balti
If you haven’t had a proper Balti, you’re missing out. Born in Birmingham’s famous “Balti Triangle,” this curry is spicy, aromatic, and always served in its own steel bowl. Most Balti houses toss in a naan as big as your head. Don’t miss eating it right in the Triangle for max authenticity.
Peaky Blinder Pie
Named after the city’s notorious gang, this meaty pie is pure comfort food. It’s typically packed with beef, potatoes, and ale. You’ll find it at several pubs across Birmingham that like to play up the local lore.
Coventry Godcake
This sweet, triangular pastry is a Midlands classic. Filled with dried fruits and spices, it’s usually dusted with sugar. Pro tip: grab one at a traditional bakery—it’s one of those “only here” treats.
Pork Scratchings
It doesn’t get more pub snack than this. Fried pork rind, salty, crunchy, and perfect with a pint. Legendary all over the West Midlands, so you’ll find them on offer in most pubs and markets.
Ceviche
Maybe not what you expect, but Birmingham’s Peruvian scene is strong—Chakana’s ceviche has even made international lists. If you want something fresh and zingy, it’s worth the reservation.
Foodie Neighbourhoods in Birmingham
Balti Triangle
This area is a bucket-list stop for curry lovers. Most spots are BYOB, laid-back, and the curries are packed with flavor. It’s fun just to wander the triangle and pop into whatever place catches your eye.
Digbeth
Mainly known for street art and creative vibes, Digbeth is home to the legendary Digbeth Dining Club. There’s always something new—Asian fusion one minute, loaded burgers the next. If you love trying multiple street foods in one night, this is your spot.
Jewellery Quarter
Quirky, historic, and perfect for a slow food crawl. There are indie cafés, offbeat pubs, and some excellent fine-dining. If you want a mix of old-school and new-wave, this area totally delivers.
Edgbaston
Home to a couple of Birmingham’s Michelin-star restaurants and leafy streets. It’s more upscale than the rest, but not at all stuffy. An ideal spot for a splurge dinner (and good for cricket fans too).
Great Western Arcade
This arcade is packed with quality independent food spots, from vegan tasting menus to craft bakeries. Snack your way down the lane—there’s something for every craving!
Budget Restaurants in Birmingham
Habanero’s
One of Birmingham’s go-to spots for burritos and tacos, right in the heart of Great Western Arcade. It’s street food style—super fresh, lots of vegan options, and fast enough for a quick lunch without being boring. Prices are seriously chill for the quality.
Cafe Soya
Well-loved for Vietnamese and Chinese classics at wallet-friendly prices. Grab a tofu noodle soup on a cold day, or just dive into one of their loaded platters. Good for vegetarians and plenty of space for groups.
Vietnamese Street Kitchen
You get a modern take on traditional Vietnamese food, all in a casual, colorful setting. They’re popular for their pho, but the banh mi is legit tasty too. Find it inside the Bullring, so you can eat and shop in one trip.
BrewDog
This isn’t just a bar! BrewDog’s food menu surprises: you can get vegan burgers, wings, and loaded fries alongside their iconic beers. Great spot for a chill, affordable meal with friends before a night out.
Mangetout
A deli and café where the sandwiches and salads go above and beyond the usual. Everything comes fresh and good-sized—plus their cakes have their own local following. It’s easy, tasty, and nobody’s wallet hurts at the end.
Mid-Range Restaurants in Birmingham
The Wilderness
This spot’s dishes are creative without being stuffy. Their tasting menus change all the time, but it’s always bold—expect local, seasonal ingredients and music that sets a cool tone. If you want something memorable but not super formal, it’s a win.
Asha’s
A fresh, modern Indian restaurant with a rep for killer curries and a decent cocktail list. The dining room itself feels a bit upscale without wrecking your bank account. Try the tandoori kebabs—they’re cooked to perfection.
Land
If you’re after a plant-based feast, Land inside the Great Western Arcade is where to go. Their seasonal tasting menu is inventive yet down-to-earth, and you’ll always find something new on the menu.
Carter’s of Moseley
This place has built its name on serious flavor and sustainability. You get seasonal British food with a modern, creative spin. It’s a warm, intimate spot—great for a dinner that feels special, but not intimidating.
Shababs
Right in the heart of the Balti Triangle, Shababs is famous for classic balti curries. It’s friendly, BYOB, and perfect with a crew. Try anything with lamb—it’s their specialty.
Luxury Restaurants in Birmingham
Opheem
The first Indian restaurant outside London to earn two Michelin stars. Chef Aktar Islam serves up progressive Indian dishes that play with tradition and creativity. The open kitchen adds to the experience, and the tasting menu is a must.
Simpsons
A Birmingham classic, holding its Michelin star for more than 20 years. The building feels grand but welcoming, with a focus on modern British food and perfect wine pairings. Great for special occasions.
Purnell’s
This is Glynn Purnell’s flagship—creative, playful tasting menus in a lively setting. You’ll get a real feel for the city’s fine-dining side, but it won’t ever get too fussy. They do a fun “Brummie Tapas” course too!
Chakana
Killer Peruvian food, especially the ceviche, and an intimate dining room. Service is personal and everything’s super high quality. It’s perfect if you want something stylish but relaxed.
Couch
Known for cocktails that go above and beyond, but their small plates and snacks steal the show too. Not technically a restaurant, but if you want a luxury date with food & drink, it works.
Best Coffee Shops in Birmingham
Wayland’s Yard
Bright, fun, and known for its brunches as much as its coffee. It’s practically always got students and freelancers around, but still manages to feel pretty chill. The hash brown stack is a sleeper hit.
200 Degrees
Right by Grand Central, both of their locations in Birmingham serve house-roasted beans and spot-on coffee drinks. Grab a flat white and find a window seat for some excellent people-watching.
Urban Cafe Bar Kitchen
Laid-back and homey—looks vaguely industrial, but in a comforting way. Locals head in for specialty coffees and a solid breakfast or light lunch lineup. Kind of place you accidentally hang out all morning.
Saint Kitchen
Right in the Jewellery Quarter, this independent café has a warm vibe and standout bakes. Come for the coffee, stay for the cakes (and the canal views).
Kafenion
Greek-inspired, super friendly, and perfect if you want a lighter bite along with your caffeine. Their pastries sell out, so get there early if you can!
Markets in Birmingham
Digbeth Dining Club
This street food market is a proper legend in the city. Multiple vendors rotate each week, and the variety is huge—from loaded fries to dim sum. Most weekends you’ll find live music too.
Birdsong Food Market
One for organic lovers, Birdsong brings in local farmers and small producers. You get everything from sourdough to fresh veggies and handmade jams. It’s usually buzzing on weekends.
Bullring & Grand Central Market
Historic and always busy, this is the heart of Birmingham’s market scene. There’s loads of international street food, local meats, and plenty of sweets, with something for everyone. Right by the city’s main shopping drag, so it’s easy to add to your day.
St. Martin’s Rag Market
A classic spot for bargain hunters and foodies alike. St. Martin’s is packed with produce stalls, spice shops, and a changing cast of hot food vendors. The prices are a steal and the variety’s huge.
Harborne Farmers’ Market
Not far from the city center, this monthly market features some of Birmingham’s best bakers, butchers, and cheese stalls. Grab a pastry and hang out with locals—super friendly vibe.
Budget Accommodation in Birmingham
Central Backpackers
Well-known hostel right near the center, great for meeting people and keeping things affordable. Bright common areas and a mix of dorms and private rooms mean you can keep it social or chill solo.
Holiday Inn Express Birmingham Star City
Just out of the main drag but easy to reach, this is a simple, modern chain option with breakfast included. Rooms are decent sized and there’s parking, so it’s handy if you’re planning on day trips too.
Conference Aston Hotel
On Aston University campus, so rates can be low if you book early. Clean, straightforward, and close enough to reach the city centre by foot.
Bournville House & Cafe
Charming B&B a short hop from Cadbury World and the University. Rooms are cared for and there’s a real “family-run” feel; plus, the breakfast is home-cooked and hearty.
Best Western Plough and Harrow Hotel
One of the city’s historic hotels, less than a mile from the centre. Still affordable, with gardens out back and easy access to all the main sights.
Mid-Range Accommodation in Birmingham
Bournville House & Cafe
Historic and within quick reach of Cadbury World, this spot is both cozy and modern. There’s strong WiFi for digital nomads, and parking if you’re road-tripping.
Park Regis Birmingham
Four-star hotel with stylish rooms and city views. Right by Broad Street, so you’ve got nightlife, shopping, and canals all close by. Often runs good deals if you book direct.
Clayton Hotel
This modern, award-winning hotel is just steps from Moor Street Station. Restaurants and malls are a few minutes’ walk, and there’s a swanky bar on the ground floor—great for a pre-dinner drink.
AC Hotel by Marriott
Right in The Mailbox area, this hotel has a boutique feel with gym access and in-room conveniences. Rooms are stylish but not over the top—just right for a fuss-free stay.
Shanahans B&B with Sports Bar
Local favorite with a little extra personality—grab a room and catch a match in the bar downstairs. Comfortable and straightforward, with fun vibes if you like to mingle.
Luxury Accommodation in Birmingham
The Belfry
Big-name five-star with top-notch golf and spa options. Stylish rooms, luxe bathrooms, and country-club vibes, but still easy to reach the city sights by car.
Leonardo Royal Hotel Birmingham
One of the swankier new entries, with a prime central location. Chic design throughout, cracking breakfasts, and a short walk to major restaurant areas.
Hyatt Regency Birmingham
City-centre classic with huge windows, a luxury spa, and access to the city’s Symphony Hall. It’s a walk-everywhere base and very polished, but never stuffy.
The Edgbaston
Boutique hotel with art deco-inspired rooms and a bar that gets listed as one of the best in England. Great for night owls or a glamourous romantic break.
Hotel du Vin Birmingham
Super stylish—including free-standing bathtubs in some rooms. Perfect for a treat, with a wine bar and restaurant that actually deliver on the “indulgent” vibe. Convenient for shopping and historic sites.
