Top Places to Eat in Birmingham for Every Taste and Budget

Birmingham has seen its culinary scene flourish to become one of the UK's top dining destinations. When visiting the city, you will find a wide range of food options that feature both high-end restaurants, traditional local cuisine, and street food vendors. 

If you're planning to have a special meal, you will have access to dining choices that include quick lunch options and family meals. Our blog will guide you through the best places to eat Birmingham that have many food preferences at affordable prices, so you can experience the city's best food comfortably.

Places to Eat Birmingham 

1. Michelin Stars and Elegant Evenings

Birmingham has an impressive selection of Michelin-starred restaurants for moments when nothing but the best will suffice. Many premier dining spots throughout the city have different fine dining experiences. The service at these establishments matches the memorable quality of their food, while artistry blends with flavour to create an unforgettable experience. 

Dining here offers more than just a meal because it features tasting menus, seasonal produce, and expert wine pairings. You will find many meals ranging from innovative British dishes to sophisticated Indian menus with bold spices. When visiting the city, reservations on the weekends are crucial because they can become crowded quickly.

Some of the Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Birmingham include:

• Opheem

• Adam’s

• Simpsons

• Purnell’s

• Carters of Moseley

2. Trendy Eateries and Instagram-Worthy Plates

Birmingham’s trendier food establishments offer the perfect balance of style and comfort if you're looking for stylish dining without the need of formal attire. These eateries have beautiful interior design with imaginative menus. They're the perfect spot for social gatherings or celebrating special events. 

A variety of trendy restaurants can be found throughout Digbeth, the Jewellery Quarter, and the city centre. They serve Korean fried chicken, bao buns, and modern Mediterranean dishes and gourmet burgers. Their photogenic plates designed for sharing will capture your attention if you enjoy taking photos for Instagram before you eat.

Some of the best trendy eateries in Birmingham include:

• Tattu

• The Ivy Temple Row

• Varanasi

• Mowgli

• Comptoir Libanais

• The Flying Cows

• Tropea (Harborne)

3. World Flavours and Authentic Cuisines

Birmingham transforms dining into a global adventure with Chinese dim sum, Vietnamese pho, Ethiopian stews, and Jamaican jerk chicken without needing to travel overseas. You can find bold curries served in traditional steel bowls throughout the Balti Triangle, which are usually accompanied by fresh, fluffy naan from the tandoor. 

If you love spicy food, you should definitely visit this popular eatery. If you're looking for family-owned establishments, you should visit Ladypool Road and Soho Road for authentic meals that are affordable. The warmth of hospitality and flavour is perfect, regardless of whether you choose Persian kebabs or Turkish meze.

Some of the most popular spots for authentic cuisines in Birmingham include:

• Indian: Shababs, Lasan, and Pushkar

• Pakistani:  MyLahore, Royal Watan, and Desi Grill

• Chinese: Chung Ying, Peach Garden, and Wing Wah

• Thai: Sabai Sabai, Tamatanga, and Chaophraya

• Japanese: Gaijin Sushi, Yakinori, and Otoro Sushi

• Korean: Topokki, Miss Korea, and Seoul Kitchen

• Vietnamese: Vietnamese Street Kitchen and Pho

4. Laid-Back Lunch Spots and Cosy Cafés

Birmingham has many cafés that are perfect to have a laid-back meal. You will find delightful café spots spread across the city and suburbs that are perfect for having brunch, quick lunches, or coffee and cake. Certain cafés focus on delicious vegan and plant-based dishes, while others serve traditional options like jacket potatoes, paninis, and homemade soups. 

Harborne, Moseley, and Kings Heath are prime locations for independent cafés that provide a warm atmosphere and ingredients sourced from local providers.

5. Affordable Eats That Don’t Cut Corners

When visiting Birmingham, you can enjoy delicious meals without spending a lot of money. Many of Birmingham’s delicious dishes deliver great value through their affordable prices. Street food vendors make excellent starting points for anyone looking to eat well in Birmingham. 

Digbeth Dining Club offers a variety of vendors who rotate regularly to provide tacos, halloumi fries, loaded hot dogs, and craft doughnuts. The environment is filled with energy, while generous servings allow you to explore a variety of new food options. You don't need to sacrifice taste for affordability because affordable meals can be both exciting and flavourful.

6. Family-Friendly Restaurants for All Ages

When visiting with family, it is critical to choose a restaurant that serves food everyone in the group will enjoy. Family-friendly dining spots in Birmingham cater to all tastes, including those with the most specific food preferences. In this city, you can choose from endless dining possibilities, which include pizza and pasta places. 

They also have relaxed chain restaurants and buffets where you can eat as much as you want. Some of Birmingham's restaurants offer child-friendly menus that include small portions of healthy food and entertainment. If you're visiting as a family, take advantage of early bird specials and meal packages during the weekdays to lower the cost of eating out.

Some of the family-friendly restaurants in Birmingham include:

• Giraffe

• Frankie & Benny’s

• Zizzi

• Boston Tea Party

• The Botanist

• The Jungle Hut Café

• Mowgli

7. Quirky Concepts and Themed Dining

A memorable dining experience includes more than just the food. Birmingham has a variety of unique themed restaurants which make big efforts to provide entertainment. These restaurants in Birmingham recreate 1920s speakeasies with concealed entryways and spaces where you can eat while enveloped in darkness. 

Since these locations tend to fill up quickly for birthday parties and special events, you should check to see if you need to book in advance. The playful themes of these restaurants do not compromise their dedication to food because they provide quality ingredients and unique menu items.

Some of the best themed dining spots in Birmingham include:

• The Alchemist

• Flight Club

• The Botanist

• Crazy Pedro’s

• The Wilderness

• NQ64

8. Pubs and Gastropubs for Comfort Food

Birmingham is known for its British pubs that offer hearty comfort food. Traditional pubs located in both the city centre and suburban areas serve large portions of traditional British dishes such as fish and chips and sticky toffee pudding. 

Birmingham has many welcoming places where you can unwind while eating Sunday roasts, casual lunches, or having a pint. The majority of these restaurants have cosy indoor fireplaces and outdoor beer gardens to create enjoyable environments regardless of the weather.

Some of the best pubs and gastropubs in Birmingham include:

• The Plough

• Purecraft Bar & Kitchen

• The High Field

• The Lord Clifden

• The Physician

• The Malt House

• The Fighting Cocks

9. Vegetarian and Plant-Based Picks

The city of Birmingham sees increasing popularity in plant-based dining as numerous restaurants and cafés have vegetarian options. Whether you follow a complete meat-free diet or only experiment with plant-based foods, you'll discover many excellent dining options. 

Several places serve creative versions of comfort food by offering dishes such as vegan mac and cheese, meat-free burger options, and desserts without dairy. Many diners choose healthier options through grain bowls, smoothies, and raw treats. These food options show remarkable quality and diversity, making sure you get all the flavours you need.

Some of the best vegetarian spots in Birmingham include:

• Ba-Ha Vegan

• Natural Bar & Kitchen

• The Warehouse Café

• Land

• Vegan Munch

• Plant & Pulse

• Cherry Reds

• Not Dogs

10. Late-Night Bites and After-Dark Eats

Birmingham has many food options when hunger strikes after regular business hours. With late-openings and 24-hour diners, you will never have trouble finding delicious food when most food establishments have shut down. 

Anytime you crave a kebab, crispy chips, or warm pizza, you'll find a hot meal close by. If you enjoy sweet treats, some cafés throughout the city serve waffles, crepes, and milkshakes.

Some of the best places in Birmingham for late-night eats include:

• Original Patty Men

• Peach Garden

• German Doner Kebab

• Mr Singh’s Pizza

• Shababs

• Rooster House

• Missoula

Final Thoughts

The diversity and hospitality of Birmingham's dining options mirror the city's own character. Every food lover and people on a budget can find the perfect plate that matches their personal preferences. 

Each neighbourhood offers distinct culinary flavours through its selection of high-end restaurants and street-side snacks. As a visitor or a local, you should come ready to eat because Birmingham’s best experiences happen through delicious food discoveries one bite at a time!

Places to Eat Birmingham: FAQs

1. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in Birmingham?

Yes, Birmingham has several Michelin-starred restaurants. When visiting these restaurants you can enjoy fine dining through their tasting menus that feature seasonal ingredients and innovative presentation styles. To book a reservation, especially during weekends, it's best to book ahead of time.

2. Does Birmingham have good options for vegan dining?

The city of Birmingham continues to expand its selection of vegetarian restaurants, offering many options that serve delicious plant-based dishes.

3. Are there family-friendly restaurants in Birmingham?

Birmingham has many family-friendly restaurants that provide dining options for every age group. Many eateries provide specialised children’s menus, high chairs, and baby-changing facilities. Some of the most favoured dining spots in Birmingham are Giraffe, Frankie & Benny’s, Boston Tea Party, and Zizzi.