Café deals in Birmingham: things to know before you go

There’s nothing like a quick pit-stop in a café to get you going for the day. With Birmingham’s streets peppered with some of the best cafés and places to grab a brew near you – here are all your café queries answered.

What is the best coffee shop in Birmingham for something sweet?

With freshly baked moist cakes, delicate afternoon teas and ice cream fit to bury your face in, your sweet tooth is more than well catered for among the city’s bakeries and cafés. Here are a few ideas based on highly-rated cafés on Groupon:

• Coffee Factory Diner is tucked just outside the theatre district and is arguably one of the best cafés in Birmingham city centre, serving up a range of breakfasts and lunches. Take our word for it – its crumby cheesecakes and fluffy scones will hit the sweet spot.
• Pirlo’s Dessert Lounge. The clue is in the name with this one. From cheesecakes to waffles, to sundaes and a range of other indulgent treats, Pirlo’s is the place to go for any dessert. It also has a solid range of vegan, gluten-free, nut-free and dairy-free choices. Look out for their monster Creffle Tower, with layers of crepes and waffles drenched in your choice of toppings and gelato. Nom nom.

What are the best places to get afternoon tea in Birmingham?

The city has a ton of great choices when it comes to afternoon tea, including:

• Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar and Grill. It may be better known for its sizzling steaks, but with Marco behind the menu you know afternoon tea is going to be excellent.
• Madeleine in The Cube. This cafe brings a touch of French chic to Birmingham and to high tea. It couldn’t be more central, making it a great spot for lunch at work.
• Victorian Restaurant . This traditional café is decorated with period china, chandeliers and framed artwork – so it feels like you’ve taken a step back in time to dine with the 19th century aristocracy.

What are some alternative types of afternoon tea in Birmingham?

Some of the best local cafés have taken the high tea concept and given it a shake up to give the city some of the most unique afternoon teas in the UK. Try these out for size:

• Lacey’s Bistro out in Codsall serve their afternoon tea with an Italian twist with bubbles and bruschetta. Bellissimo.
• Out at Treat Street in Sutton Coldfield serve their afternoon tea with luxurious Belgian chocolate – a real sweet treat.

Are there any special local foods from Birmingham?

The most famous of all Birmingham’s food exports – and arguably the most loved – is the classic Balti. Served across the city in its many fine curry houses and fusion Indian restaurants, it’s thought to have been invented by immigrants who arrived in the city in the 1970s. Other traditional dishes include Birmingham Soup – a hearty broth of stewed beef and vegetables served with a slice of bread.