A Foodie’s Bible to Bustling Birmingham

Last updated Jul 16, 2025

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a curious local looking to spice up your routine, Birmingham's dynamic food and beverage scene is bursting with bold flavours, hidden gems, and unforgettable dining experiences. From award-winning restaurants and buzzing craft breweries to soulful cafés and global street eats (thanks to the city’s diverse and multi-ethnic community), there is something for everyone. The Brummies boast a bustling food and drink scene, so you won’t be short of ideas for your stay in the Magic City. We have compiled a list of recommendations of our best-loved restaurants, bars and events you should watch out for.

If you fancy a ‘snap’ (slang for meal in Brummie terminology!), then give these options a go:

Itihaas Restaurant

Itihaas is a renowned Indian restaurant located in Birmingham's Fleet Street, serving delicious cuisine in a historic setting. It offers a warm and welcoming ambiance with impeccable service. It’s about an eight-minute walk from our property, and what’s more? If you bring your Staycity card and show it to the team, you will receive a 10% discount!

Address: 18 Fleet Street, Birmingham B3 1JL

 

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Pasta Di Piazza

Situated on Brook Street by St Paul’s Square, this family-run gem since 1995 sits in a charming red‑brick Victorian building with rustic charm and cosy vibes. It’s the prime location for no fuss lunches, guaranteed delicious dinners, or wine-fuelled catch-ups. Pasta di Piazza blends friendly service, hearty Italian cooking, and a welcoming setting—without the pretension or hefty price tag.  For authentic flavours in generous portions, this spot remains a Jewellery Quarter classic and one to keep on your watch list.

Address: 11 Brook Street, Birmingham B3 1SA

 

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Boston Tea Party

A fourteen-minute walk from our property, Boston Tea Party gives you bang for your buck when it comes to that part of the day when breakfast, brunch and/or lunch are needed. They also offer an afternoon tea party service, which is perfect for celebrating those special occasions in life, but also for celebrating everything in between. Just be sure to book this in advance. Boston Tea Party certainly gets the locals stamp of approval.

Address: 190 Corporation St, Birmingham B4 6QD

 

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Drinks

You may need to wash down all that food, and what better way to do-so than with a tipple at a local cocktail bar, pub or brewery. Here are our top recommendations:

 

The Indian Brewery

Tucked under the railway arches at Snow Hill and only a mere six minutes from us, The Indian Brewery blends craft beer and Indian street-food energy like a DJ mixing beats. It’s loud, lively and bold. Think of an urban, industrial space dotted with vintage Bollywood posters and paraphernalia, exposed brick-work and plenty of TV screens for the sports lover in your life. It’s a casual, open-plan social hub—darts, pool, match-day multiplex vibes. With the two locations near to us, you're spoilt for choice. 

Addresses:

Snowhill: Arch 16 Livery Street, Snowhill, Birmingham B3 1EU

Brewery Taproom: 1 Mary Ann Street, Birmingham, B3 1RL

 

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The Alchemist

The Alchemist is a fan favourite in the city, with two locations to choose from and both under a 15-minute walk from us. Ready to delve into a cocktail adventure that feels like Willy Wonka meets Hogwarts? The Alchemist delivers just that: a sensory overload of smoke cannons, bubbling flasks, and Insta-ready drinks that fizz, foam, swirl, and occasionally smoulder!

We recommend this place for all types of explorers; it’s intimate enough for two, and boozy enough for parties of four or more. Our top tip is to book ahead, especially if you want the underground Lab experience or a weekend brunch slot.

Address: 10-12 Brindleyplace, Birmingham B1 2LP

 

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Tonight Josephine

Last, but certainly not least, we couldn’t let you go without recommending Tonight Josephine. To let your hair down, both physically and metaphorically, Josephine is “all about having a good time” and dancing the night away. There’s no place quite like it in town, with its famed pink walls, neon signs and fierce atmosphere. Bring the gals in for a themed bottomless brunch that they will never forget – or never remember!

Address: 12 Burlington Arcade, Stephenson St, Birmingham B2 4BL

 

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While we’re on the hot topic of beverages, why not head to the Birmingham Cocktail Weekend! They run a summer and winter edition (10th-13th July and 23rd-26th October). Attendees get exclusive access to £6 signature cocktails and £5 mocktails across all participating venues. There are also some fantastic food deals and offers up for grabs, plus a complimentary sample at The Hub.

Location: Various locations across the city

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In short, Birmingham’s food and drink scene is a lot like the city itself; down-to-earth, endlessly creative, and quietly confident. It doesn’t shout - but it shows up. And those who take the time to explore it are richly rewarded, one bite and one sip at a time.

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