Nestled in the heart of England and the Capital of the midlands, Birmingham is a vibrant city that boasts a thriving street food scene. With its diverse cultural heritage and culinary offerings, it has quickly emerged as a haven for food enthusiasts that draws people up and down the country for a taste. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring Birmingham's street food is an absolute must. From tantalizing pizzas and mouthwatering burgers to aromatic Indian curries and fragrant Thai delicacies, the city has something to satisfy every craving. 

To celebrate Birmingham’s thriving food scene, Brigad has picked out a few choice recommendations, for your next visit to the city, or even for Birmingham locals to consider the next time they are eating out.

Digbeth Dining Club

One of Birmingham's most renowned street food destinations is Digbeth Dining Club. This iconic club, which started as a small event in 2012, grew into weekly feasts and now has permanent residencies at Hockey Social Club in Newtown and Herbert’s Yard in Longbridge. 

The team behind Hockey Social Club describe it as “a relaxed dining food hall, bar, event space coffee shop, late-night hangout and record store that’s welcome to anyone and everyone four days a week.” Both Hockey Social Club and Herbert’s Yard offer an array of top-tier street food options from global cuisines. As you wander through the vibrant stalls, you'll be tempted by gourmet burgers, wood-fired pizzas, succulent Korean BBQ, and much more. Digbeth Dining Club’s events are not only about the food; they also feature live music, DJs, and a bustling atmosphere that adds to the overall experience.

Taste and Liquor

Another street food hotspot in Birmingham is Taste and Liquor. Founded in 2014, this pop-up food event has gained popularity for its diverse culinary offerings and unique locations. The team describes Taste and Liquor as “ respectably known for creating unique taste festivals, daytime Brunch parties, community cultural gatherings and experimental music offerings.” 

Overall experience for the customer is clearly at the forefront of planning for the team behind Taste and Liquor - they launched the venture after having already launched Shaanti, “a self-funded multi-award winning company responsible for bringing art, music and events across the UK”, and proudly declare themselves “pop-up veterans” who have created some “buzz-worthy experiences, attracting incredible crowds to various locations all across the UK.” 

Taste and Liquor hosts a variety of street food vendors, serving everything from Indian to Mexican delights and British staples. Whether you're craving spicy curries, flavorful tacos, or delicious fusion dishes, this event has got you covered. Keep an eye on their schedule to catch their exciting themed events, live music performances, and captivating entertainment.

Street Food Restaurants

Apart from the vibrant street food markets and events, Birmingham also boasts exceptional street food-inspired restaurants, with many of them originating at street food markets like Digbeth Dining Club, and finding their own permanent residence. Indico, located just down the road from the New Street Station, brings the flavours of India to life with its diverse menu and vibrant ambience, serving dishes inspired by Punjabi & North Indian street food.

1000 Trades, nestled in the Jewellery Quarter, offers a unique fusion of street food and craft beers, providing a great night out. The team “champions all forms of craft over three floors of our nineteenth-century building – built as a jewellery workshop before becoming a badge factory, and then the 1000 Trades pub we are today.” They are also proud to support the local music scene, so a night out at 1000 Trades might also coincide with seeing Birmingham’s next big musical artist.  

Original Patty Men, situated in Digbeth, has become renowned in the city and is a must-visit for burger enthusiasts. The burgers have become so popular that even the rapper Drake put in a food order for himself and his entourage the last time he was in the city. They also have a site at the British Oak in Stirchley, for those living further outside of Birmingham. 

For Vegan and Veggie foods, be sure to check out Notty Bites Street Food, which specialises in plant-based cuisine. Although only starting their journey in June of 2021, Notty has quickly created waves in the Street food scene of the midlands. They serve a 100% Veggie and Vegan menu “with our expertise in Indian cuisine and our love for continental food. Each of our dishes is unique and a fusion of flavours from all over the world.”

Get a taste of Birmingham 

Birmingham's street food scene is vibrant, diverse and of top quality - and waiting to be explored. From the iconic street food markets like Digbeth Dining Club and Taste and Liquor, to the street vendors who have found permanent homes like Original Patty Men, there's no shortage of diverse and tantalising options for you to try. 

Whether you prefer the bold flavours of Indian cuisine, the spicy kick of Mexican street food, or the aromatic dishes of Thai cuisine, Birmingham has something to satisfy every palate. So, come and indulge in Birmingham's best street food.

If you own a hospitality business and are looking for experienced and skilled temporary workers, or if you are an experienced hospitality professional looking for new and exciting work, be sure to reach out to the Brigad team and start your journey with Brigad.