Birmingham, a vibrant metropolis in the heart of England, is rapidly gaining recognition for its dynamic culinary scene. Each year seems to usher in new and exciting gastronomic experiences, solidifying its position as a food lover’s paradise. While the city boasts a diverse range of international cuisines, it is particularly renowned for its unique Birmingham balti, a flavorful Pakistani curry that originated within its borders.
Historically, the Black Country, the area surrounding Birmingham, was famed for dishes like Brummie bacon cake and Birmingham soup. However, these culinary staples are now largely absent from restaurant menus. Instead, Birmingham has embraced a fusion of traditional British fare, such as the quintessential full English breakfast, and innovative, contemporary offerings often presented in a street food format. Whether you’re seeking to savor classic dishes or explore the best meals Birmingham has to offer, this guide presents a bucket list of foods to indulge in during your visit. Let’s delve into the must-try culinary delights of this exciting city.
Sunday Roast
The Sunday Roast is an iconic British tradition. A cherished meal typically enjoyed for lunch with family and friends, it’s a staple in pubs and restaurants throughout Birmingham. The centerpiece is a succulent piece of roasted meat, usually beef, lamb, chicken, or pork, accompanied by a medley of roasted vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and parsnips. The dish is further enhanced by the inclusion of a Yorkshire pudding, a light and airy baked batter, and a generous helping of rich gravy.
Recognizing the diverse dietary needs of their patrons, many Birmingham pubs now offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives to the traditional roast. These often feature a hearty nut roast or a savory mushroom-based creation. For a truly authentic experience, consider visiting The Old Joint Stock Pub, a historic Victorian establishment situated in the heart of Birmingham. This pub offers a traditional Sunday roast in a classic setting. Alternatively, for a more modern interpretation, The Button Factory, located in the trendy Jewellery Quarter, presents a contemporary take on this beloved dish.
Pork Scratchings
Pork scratchings are a quintessential pub snack with roots deeply embedded in Birmingham and the surrounding Midlands region, dating back to the 1800s. These crunchy, savory treats are made by deep-frying pork skin, typically from a pig’s shank, until it achieves a delightfully crispy texture. The result is an intensely flavorful and satisfying snack that is undeniably not vegetarian.
While pork scratchings can be found on menus throughout Birmingham, for a truly exceptional experience, seek out Black Country Snacks. This purveyor offers a wide range of pork scratching flavors, from classic salted to more adventurous spice blends. The crackling crunch and rich pork flavor make them a perfect accompaniment to a pint of local ale.
Full English Breakfast
Prepare yourself for a culinary experience with the Full English Breakfast when you travel to Birmingham. This substantial morning meal is designed to provide ample energy for a day of exploring. It typically includes a generous portion of eggs, cooked to your preference, along with crispy bacon, savory sausages, slices of black pudding (a type of blood sausage), baked beans in tomato sauce, golden-brown hash browns, buttered toast, and sautéed mushrooms or grilled tomatoes.
Recognizing the modern emphasis on health and dietary diversity, many Birmingham restaurants now offer lighter or vegetarian versions of the full English breakfast. For a budget-friendly and satisfying option, consider visiting JuJu’s Café, a casual eatery known for its delicious and customizable full English, available in meat, vegetarian, or vegan formats. The Ivy Temple Row is another excellent choice, offering a hearty and elegantly presented full English that will set you up for a productive day.
Shrewsbury Cake
Named after the nearby historic town of Shrewsbury, a Shrewsbury cake has been a popular treat in Birmingham for over 500 years. Despite its name, this delightful confection is more akin to a cookie than a cake. It is crafted from a simple yet flavorful blend of sugar, flour, egg, butter, and lemon zest, and sometimes incorporates dried fruit for added texture and sweetness.
While Shrewsbury cakes may appear unassuming to those accustomed to elaborate American cookies, their appeal lies in their simplicity and delicate flavor. Many Birmingham residents bake their own Shrewsbury cakes, and they can also be found in select bakeries throughout the city. For the ultimate experience, consider taking a day trip to Shrewsbury, where Darwins sells both traditional and diabetic-friendly versions of these iconic cookies.
Birmingham Balti
No culinary journey through Birmingham is complete without experiencing the Birmingham Balti. To fully appreciate this dish, venture into the "Balti Triangle," an area renowned for its concentration of balti restaurants. This Pakistani curry is prepared using the distinctive balti cooking method, involving a thin, pressed steel wok-like pan. A traditional balti features a medley of proteins and vegetables, including lamb, chicken, and eggplant, cooked off the bone to maximize flavor.
The Balti Triangle offers a plethora of options for sampling this iconic dish, and you’re unlikely to be disappointed at any of the establishments. Popular choices include Shababs, Adil’s, and Shahi Nan Kebab House, each offering their unique take on this Birmingham classic. The rich, aromatic spices and tender meats make the balti a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Kebabs
England has a love affair with the kebab, and Birmingham is no exception. The city boasts a vibrant array of Middle Eastern restaurants, many of which specialize in Lebanese and Turkish cuisine. For an authentic kebab experience, visit Damascus Legend, recognized as one of the best kebab destinations in Britain. Istanbul Restaurant offers a taste of Turkey with its diverse selection of kebabs, doner, and meze.
For a quick and affordable meal, Pit Stop is a popular choice, serving kebabs until the early hours of the morning. Whether you prefer the marinated meats of a shish kebab or the shaved layers of a doner kebab, Birmingham’s kebab scene is sure to satisfy.
Street Food
Birmingham’s Street Food scene is experiencing a surge in popularity, with new and exciting vendors emerging each year. To discover the best the city has to offer, visit one of the street food collectives, such as Digbeth Dining Club, which operates at multiple locations throughout Birmingham. These gatherings feature dozens of stalls offering a diverse range of dishes from around the world, as well as delectable desserts and treats.
Many of Birmingham’s most successful street food vendors have transitioned to opening brick-and-mortar restaurants, including Original Patty Men. For delicious Indian dishes, consider The Indian Streatery, a family-run establishment with an all-female culinary team. From gourmet burgers to authentic international cuisine, Birmingham’s street food scene offers something for every palate.
Savory Duck and Peas
Savory Duck and Peas is a traditional English dish with a particular association with Birmingham. Despite its name, savory duck is not actually made from duck meat. It is a meatball comprised of ground meat, offal, breadcrumbs, and onions, wrapped in bacon. These savory meatballs are typically served with mashed potatoes, peas, and a generous helping of gravy.
While traditionally made with pork, some chefs are experimenting with more modern interpretations of this classic meal. Despite its old-school origins, savory duck and peas can be found at restaurants throughout Birmingham, including The Bull. This hearty and comforting dish offers a taste of traditional Birmingham cuisine.
Groaty Pudding
Don’t shy away from trying Groaty Pudding, a quintessential Black Country dish. This hearty stew consists of beef and onions, thickened with the addition of groats, typically oats. Sometimes referred to as groaty dick, this filling dish is traditionally eaten on Guy Fawkes Night around Birmingham.
Groaty pudding is more commonly found as a homemade dish rather than on restaurant menus. To experience this culinary tradition, consider befriending a local who can share their family recipe. The rich, savory flavors and comforting texture of groaty pudding make it a true taste of the Black Country.
Pikelets
Somewhere between a crumpet and a pancake, you’ll find Pikelets, a common Birmingham dish. These small, flat cakes are made without yeast, resulting in a denser texture than pancakes. Pikelets are typically enjoyed as a snack rather than a breakfast item.
While American-style pancakes are more prevalent in Birmingham restaurants, dedicated foodies can take a day trip to nearby Derby to visit Derby Pyclets & Oatcakes, which sells authentic pikelets. These unassuming cakes offer a taste of local culinary history.
Afternoon Tea
Indulge in a traditional English Afternoon Tea, a delightful ritual that typically includes scones served with jam and clotted cream, delicate finger sandwiches, and an assortment of miniature pastries, all accompanied by a pot of tea. Birmingham offers a wide range of options for afternoon tea, from luxurious experiences to more casual and affordable settings.
For a chic and memorable experience, consider The Edgbaston, a boutique hotel with a renowned cocktail bar. Their whimsical and delicious take on afternoon tea is visually stunning and perfect for sharing on social media. Whether you prefer a classic or contemporary afternoon tea, Birmingham offers an experience to suit every taste.
Pizza
Recommending Pizza in Birmingham might seem unconventional, but the city boasts a surprising number of excellent pizzerias. Rudy’s Neapolitan Pizza is a particularly popular choice, serving authentic pizzas with a variety of toppings. In the Jewellery Quarter, Otto Pizzeria is known for its wood-fired pizzas made with locally sourced ingredients.
The Stable, located adjacent to Birmingham New Street Station, is another favorite, especially among vegetarians and vegans. Their selection of plant-based, non-dairy pizzas are just as flavorful and satisfying as the rest of the menu. From classic Neapolitan to innovative vegetarian creations, Birmingham’s pizza scene offers a delicious alternative to traditional British fare.
