Welcome to this week's bumper edition of Brum Food Club, your one-stop source for all the latest hospitality gossip from the heart of Birmingham. I'm Kirsty Bosley, a features writer at BirminghamLive and a perpetually hungry bab whose appetite for scran is only matched by my love for gossip. That's why I started this weekly, free email newsletter two and a half years ago, sharing all the news from the city's food and drink scene.
Now, I'm bringing the updates to the website so we can connect even more. Expect a weekly round-up of big hospitality news, ideas, and recommendations. Let's dive in!
Navaraza Closes on New Street
Sad news first: the Indian-Mexican joint Navaraza on New Street has closed. I noticed the notices in the window while strolling past earlier this week, heading to Monty's for a baguette (with tiffin and a can of pop for under a tenner). It's a shame because it replaced Zocalo, which I really rated. Remember when New Street was full of burrito joints? Now there's only Tortilla. I hope Habanero expands from Great Western Arcade to show New Street how it's done.
Monty's Still Going Strong
Monty's, on the corner of Bennetts Hill and Waterloo Street, remains excellent. They offer hot pork and stuffing sandwiches, a wide range of baguettes, and a fresh salad counter. I highly recommend the harissa halloumi option—flavorful, generous, and only £4.70. The chocolate, fruit, and nut tiffin (£2.55) is perfect with coffee. Speaking of which, where's the best cuppa in the city centre?
Yardbird Babs Opens in Society Food Hall
Did you see that Yardbird babs, known for chicken in Stirchley (RIP their standalone on Pershore Road) and at Villa, now has a stall in Society food hall? Bostin Burgers opens on Friday, and the first 50 customers get free scran. The beef is dry-aged for 30 days, and there's a secret sauce—I love a good secret.
New Cafe at Museum of the Jewellery Quarter
One of the city's best-kept secrets, the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter, gets a new cafe today. Craft and Culture is a cafe bar serving speciality coffee, curated wine, and craft beer. You can also order from local restaurants to enjoy with evening drinks. Expect tasting sessions, jewellery workshops, and more. We need spaces like this—I'm chuffed.
Anyway, I need to go vote—don't forget to cast yours too! See you next week.
