We all have those tried and tested restaurants, cafes and bars we love to revisit time and time again, but sometimes it’s nice to break the norm and seek out something a little bit different.
Birmingham has a thriving food and drink scene but some of the best finds are actually the hidden gems often over-looked or unheard of by the majority. We’re probably all guilty of gatekeeping a few secrets spots!
Finding a hidden gem when it comes to food and drink is a delight. Often they’re squirrelled away down a side street or only known to a select few. In most cases they’re simply stumbled upon by chance, but either way there’s lots of joy to be found when you look a little outside of your comfort zone.
We asked local food and drink blogger Bite Your Brum to uncover some of the best spots across the city for those looking a food and drink experience with that little extra something to mix things up.
5. Sankara-men, China Town
Hidden within the Let’s Go supermarket in China Town you’ll find this pop up ramen bar. It’s a bit convoluted (you order at the counter, pay at the supermarket tills then wait for your food upstairs in another area) but the ramen is fabulous and the owners couldn’t be nicer. It’s cheap as chips and the food really hits the spot. There’s also a Vietnamese trader in the same space if you want to mix and match dishes. Check out the Instagram page for information. | Laura McEwan
6. Blow Water, Kings Heath
Another Kings Heath gem, this small café serves up authentic Hong Kong meals and snacks including some of the best dumplings I’ve ever had. It’s a lot like dining in someone’s house that makes for a more interesting dining experience. There are often special events on that are worth keeping an eye out for. Take a look at the Instagram for information. | Google Maps
7. Autobrew, Digbeth
A pour your own drinks type bar, they specialise in beer and always have a great playlist on in the background. It’s hidden away within the Custard Factory so you could easily miss it but that would be a shame because it’s a proper vibe, particularly at the weekend. More information can be found on the Instagram page. | Laura McEwan
8. Yikouchi at Chancers Cafe, Stirchley
It’s quite hard to impress how good the dry-fried chicken is from Yikouchi. The perfect mix of small plates and delicious Chinese morsels, it’s unlikely you’ll find a lunch that makes your mouth as happy as it will here. Limited opening times so best to find more information including the weekly menus on the Instagram page. | Google Maps