Birmingham has a massive food scene, thanks to its multicultural population and the famous ‘Balti Triangle’. Over the past two years, I’ve been uncovering as much of it as I can. This guide is my highlights for cafés, bakeries, and restaurants I’ve discovered while wandering the streets on weekends, hunting for snacks for study sessions, and exploring the city’s tastiest spots!

Perch Bakery

Genuinely the best bakery I’ve ever been to is Perch Bakery. They have a rotating monthly menu of baked goodies; my favourite so far was a festive Stollen Croissant. I packed my Kindle and set out on an adventure to buy a sweet treat! I had the perfect afternoon people watching, reading, and enjoying the architecture you can see out of the windows. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for catching up with friends or spending a quiet hour reading.

Morridge (Great Western Arcade)

Also in the city centre, is Morridge – a cosy spot with an adorable upstairs tucked away in the Great Western Arcade. Coffee and a fridge-cold brownie are the ultimate combo, and the sofas and swing chairs make it feel like your own little hideaway. I stumbled upon it on a whim, but it’s a great spot for catchups too! Their morning porridge is INCREDIBLE, so it’s a great choice if you’re an early riser or can’t get enough of your oats!

Coffee and a fridge-cold brownie are the ultimate combo, and the sofas and swing chairs make it feel like your own little hideaway.

Kafenion

I couldn’t not mention this spot. Walking to Bourneville feels like stepping back to a quieter time – the Tudor-style houses and quiet charm is a great break from the hustle of University and Selly Oak. They have affordable breakfast sandwiches, gorgeous mugs, and a cosy, unhurried atmosphere make it perfect for a slow Sunday morning. On the highstreet, it’s right next to a wholesome bakery and butcher, so after a brunch, you can grab picnic supplies and make a day of the visit!

Satori

Satori is a Michelin-rated Japanese restaurant that’s perfect for date nights or special occasions. The dim lighting and attentive staff make it feel intimate, while the food is a masterclass in Japanese culinary artistry. I recommend booking via FirstTable for their 50% off deals – it makes the experience much more accessible, though still a big treat! The pudding was set on fire in front of me, service was very special, and it was such an experience!

The dim lighting and attentive staff make it feel intimate, while the food is a masterclass in Japanese culinary artistry.

Ristorante Caffè Arena

Finally, my TOP recommendation in Birmingham. Ristorante Caffè Arena is a family-run, Italian restaurant tucked along the canal past the Roundhouse. The Executive Chef, Shawky, who once cooked for Pavarotti, creates authentic handmade Italian dishes with high-quality ingredients – you can tell, trust me! I’m obsessed with their fresh pasta, but the meat dishes are just beautiful! You can’t miss the Calamari either! The pricing is similar to any high-street pizza chain, but the quality far exceeds them! The staff are incredibly welcoming, and sometimes they have local music, adding to the warm, inviting vibe. It’s the kind of place where you immediately feel like a regular (though maybe I’m biased, as I visited on their opening day)!

Finally, a shoutout to my favourite deal: the Independent Birmingham app. They have over 125 independents listed, each offering member discounts – from free drinks to 50% off your bill! It’s a brilliant way to uncover hidden gems and explore the city in a new way.

Coming to Birmingham for University, and exploring the food scene, it’s certainly a city to keep foodies happy! Whether you’re hunting for pastries, or treating yourself to dinner, Birmingham has so many spots to discover. Happy eating!

 

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