Birmingham has several restaurants that have been in the city for many years - with some having lasted for hundreds of years. Then, there are those that are several decades old and tell the tale of how the city has changed through time.
The food you can get in Birmingham tells the story of the city and its communities. The number of Michelin starred restaurants reveal how the city’s fortunes have changed while the proliferation of Cantonese restaurants and curry houses reveal how migration and ethnic minorities have changed Birmingham over the years.
However, hospitality has also suffered due to the cost-of-living and several amazing bars and restaurants had to close their doors in the past year.
But, some restaurants have stood the test of time and become part of the community by. They have become places to see old faces, where the staff greets you by name, and meet your mates. You can find probaly a restaurant like that in each part of Birmingham - whether it is the city centre or the suburbs.
You can let us know if there is a restaurant in your neighbourhood that has been around for decades and is an integral part of your community.
Meanwhile, here are 11 restaurants in Birmingham that have been around for many years:
1. The Old Crown, Digbeth - 1368
Step back in time by visiting one of Birmingham’s most historic pubs - The Old Crown in Deritend. It was built in 1368, and some parts of the original building still exist, although most of the Old Crown dates to the early 1500s when modifications were made to the original property. Queen Elizabeth I is said to have stayed at the Old Crown in 1575 whilst travelling from Kenilworth Castle, and slept in the gallery chamber above the main entrance. (Photo - DesignMyNight) | DesignMyNight
2. The Great Stone Inn, Northfield - c 1623
The Great Stone Inn in Northfield has been here for hundreds of years and is a traditional pub with a fantastic beer garden. It’s where you will find a glacial boulder which dates back 400 years. The exact date the Inn opened is not known. These days it offers a great range of drinks, cask ales, meals and entertainment. The Stone, at the heart of the local community, is a great place to visit. The pub has won many awards over the years including ‘best community pub in the East and West Midlands’, in the Great British Pub awards. (Photo - Google Maps) | Google Maps
3. The Plough and Harrow, Hagley Road - 1704
The Plough and Harrow Hotel on the Hagley Road is reported to have existed as an inn since 1704, although much of the red brick architecture dates from the Victorian era. It was upgraded recently and is operated by Best Western Hotels. It still has a traditional pub called Beauforts Bar & The Terrace Restaurant. | Google Maps
4. Taj Mahal, Birmingham city centre - 1962
Started in 1962, this restaurant on Theatre Approach has slowly and steadily become one of the most popular restaurants. Serving Indian and South Asian food, it continues to be one of the most loved traditional Indian restaurants. (Photo - Google Maps) | Google Maps