Birmingham has a large South Asian population and it is one of the original spots for the country’s first Desi pubs. Back in the 1970s, when immigrant workers from India, Pakistan, or Bangladesh moved to the UK, including the West Midlands, there weren’t many eateries willing to offer them a job.
Desi pubs and restaurants were the answer to that problem and now they have become a part of the West Midlands pub scene. Affordable beer, great grills and curries with rice or naan are part and parcel of the hospitality scene in this multicultural city.
These Desi pubs are located all over Birmingham now and are popular not only with the Desi crowd but everyone. Many of them have stayed true to the food back home and serve authentic home-style food.
So, if you are looking for a new place to eat, here are eight Desi pubs in and around Birmingham worth a visit:
1. Keg & Grill, Birmingham City Centre
Located in the heart of the city, this pub is walking distance from the Alexandra theatre. The pub offers great home-style Indian food, great ales and premium lagers. They have tried to retain the old-world charm and it works for them. (Photo - Google Maps)
2. The New Bell, Great Barr
The New Bell is a friendly neighbourhood pub in the suburb of Great Barr. They offer delicious curries, mixed grills, wraps and much more - from both Northern and Southern India. (Photo - Unsplash/ Pille R Priske)
3. Hen & Chickens, Jewellery Quarter
Hen & Chickens in Jewellery Quarter is a large pub with some private dining options as well. It has an elegant interior and tasty Indian dishes including Indo-Chinese options. They offer mixed grill and curry dishes, alongside beer on tap and non-alcoholic drinks. (Photo - Google Maps)
4. Soho Tavern, Hockley
This is a family-run bar and restaurant that offers a great range of Indian grills and currys. Located in the heart of the city, you will get kebabs and beer at an affordable price. (Photo - Google Maps)