Birmingham

[ZittiEBuoni]

Inspired by the 'surprisingly good places' thread, I've booked a 2 night stay in Birmingham for the Feb half term.

Any recommendations for things to see and do/good places to eat for me and art-loving, indie/alternative 16 yo dd?

The museum/art gallery is already on the list, along with the Oasis market (remember buying the most amazing gothy dress there in the distant past), but the last time I was in town was a good 20 years ago when you would leave New Street station and find yourself in the middle of a massive building site, so there must be tons of new stuff to check out now.

Dd is a fan of Wagamama and Asian-influenced cooking in general - I've seen a Dishoom near our hotel so might try that too.

Tattu and The Botanist are both very popular and extremely Instagrammable! Tattu is Chinese and does a few amazing non-alcoholic cocktails.

Teppanyaki. Entertaining and delicious food!

Miyako teppanyaki.

These all look amazing, thanks!

Head down to Digbeth and the Custard Factory. Lots of independent shops, cafes etc. - sustainable, arty, good food etc.

The museum is closed until April for renovations. See what the Ikon has on- they have regular exhibits
Oasis isn’t as great as it used to be- it’s a bit smaller now! but plenty of places down Digbeth.
The food court at grand central is worth a look and the massive primark we have now.

Thanks for the heads up about the museum being closed - I hadn't thought to check. How annoying.

But the Custard Factory area looks right up dd's street! Just a shame the ice rink will have gone by then.

What about Gas Street Basin/Jewellery Quarter area? Is that a good place to browse and wander?

I’d say the jewellery quarter is better for the night life tbf. More of an over 18 scene.

Go on the balcony garden at central library to get views of all the building work going on 😂 Brum really is a building site at the moment to get ready for the common wealth games.

the electric cinema is opening back up - it’s the oldest working cinema.

She might also like China town and the arcadian. Loads of different food places.

If you don’t mind venturing out a bit further- head to Cannon hill park and The Midlands Art Centre (Mac) performance exhibits, theatre shows and a pretty great park.