Victoria Square is not only the geographic heart of Birmingham but also a focal point of its rich culinary heritage. Birmingham, and Victoria Square in particular, has evolved into a gastronomic hotspot, reflecting the city's diverse and multicultural population. The Council House, overlooking Victoria Square, is the home of Birmingham City Council and has been a witness to various food-related events and festivals that celebrate the city's culinary diversity.
Birmingham's food scene has been shaped by its history of migration, with influences ranging from South Asian to Caribbean cuisine. The Balti curry, for example, is a dish that was created in Birmingham and can be seen as a symbol of the city's culinary innovation and fusion of cultures.
Balti Curry (Non-Veg/Veg): A curry dish that is rich in flavor and is typically served in the steel or iron pot in which it is cooked. You can find both meat-based and vegetarian versions.
Vegetable Samosas (Veg): Crispy pastry filled with spiced vegetables, a popular South Asian snack that's perfect for on-the-go eating.
Fish and Chips (Non-Veg): A British classic, consisting of battered fish and deep-fried chips, often accompanied by mushy peas and tartar sauce.
Vegetable Pakoras (Veg): Deep-fried snacks made from various vegetables dipped in a chickpea flour batter, these are flavorful and widely enjoyed.
Chicken Tikka Masala (Non-Veg): Chunks of grilled chicken enveloped in a creamy tomato sauce, this dish is a British take on Indian cuisine.
Shepherd's Pie (Non-Veg): A savory pie filled with minced lamb (or sometimes other meats) topped with a mashed potato crust.
Ploughman's Lunch (Veg/Non-Veg): A cold meal consisting of cheese, pickles, bread, and sometimes ham, it's a traditional British dish.
Full English Breakfast (Non-Veg): A hearty breakfast featuring eggs, beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, and vegetarian sausages as the veg option.
Beetroot and Goat Cheese Salad (Veg): A fresh and vibrant dish that combines the sweetness of beetroot with the tanginess of goat cheese.
Mushy Peas (Veg): A classic British side dish made from dried marrowfat peas that pairs well with fish and chips.
Adam's
Address: New Oxford House, 16 Waterloo St, Birmingham B2 5UG
Famous Food: Modern British cuisine, including vegetarian options
Purnell's
Address: 55 Cornwall St, Birmingham B3 2DH
Famous Food: Refined British cuisine with innovative twists, offering vegetarian tasting menus
Opus Restaurant
Address: 54 Cornwall St, Birmingham B3 2DE
Famous Food: Fresh and seasonal British dishes with vegetarian options available
Purecraft Bar and Kitchen
Address: 30 Waterloo St, Birmingham B2 5TJ
Famous Food: Gourmet pub food including artisanal sausages and a wide range of craft beers, with vegetarian sausages as an option
The Ivy Temple Row
Address: 67-71 Temple Row, Birmingham B2 5LS
Famous Food: Modern British dishes with international influences, providing vegetarian selections
Note that the food scene in Birmingham is dynamic, and it's recommended to check each restaurant for the latest menus and offerings, as well as to confirm availability of vegetarian or non-vegetarian dishes.