Since Starbucks introduced the Pumpkin Spiced Latte, the drink has joined the ranks of autumnal drinks alongside hot chocolate and cider. But let’s be honest, there are so many other options nowadays. PSLs are so 5 years ago, and the independent cafés of Birmingham are full of interesting alternatives. Here are the best alternative lattes and where you can find them.
Yorks
Yorks is a staple in Birmingham (and now Stratford-Upon-Avon!) so you know they’re going to be bringing the goods come autumn-time. In addition to their specialty chai and turmeric matcha lattes, they also serve a number of “wellness lattes”. These include the spirulina latte, and the turmeric, cinnamon and ginger latte, and the beetroot and rose latte (which goes perfectly with their Persian love cake). Not only are they delicious, but they’re also very pretty, so don’t forget to get the camera out!
29 / 30 Stephenson St, Birmingham B2 4BH
Chai and Crumbs
As you can no doubt guess by the name, this new café specialises in authentic chai drinks. In addition to the original tea, you have an incredible range of chai lattes. These include (deep breath): karak chai (light cardamom), pink chai (Kashmiri tea), masala chai, saffron chai, vanilla chai, cinnamon chai, matcha chai, turmeric chai, and beetroot chai lattes. If you’re not feeling the spice but still want an interesting latte, they also offer gingerbread, hazelnut, vanilla, and caramel lattes.
18 Holliday St, Birmingham B1 1TS
Kanteen
Kanteen is a Custard Factory-based café, so you can be sure that they’re heavy hitters on the alternative drinks scene. The up-and-coming area is filled with amazing, independent businesses, but if you’re grabbing brunch in Digbeth, you need to come here, and get a great coffee to wash it all down. Serving the classic quadruple of turmeric, matcha, beetroot, and chai lattes, you know exactly what you’re getting, and you know it will be good.
Kanteen Digbeth, Gibb Street, Birmingham B9 4AA
Kitty Café
Did you know Birmingham had its very own cat café? Primarily a rescue and rehoming centre, Kitty Café also serve a full menu of tasty treats, the cost of which helps go towards funding the centre, so there’s really no reason to give it a miss. Their menu includes chai, butterscotch chai, and hazelnut lattes, and to make the day feel even more cosy and autumnal, you might get a little furry visitor while you’re drinking!
Grand Central, Unit 12, Birmingham B5 4BF
Wayland’s Yard
Located in the heart of the business district, Wayland’s Yard is a great place to grab a coffee on your lunch hour and relax for a little while. Serving wonderfully bright green matcha and turmeric matcha lattes, the Yard is made even better with their use of single origin beans which they roast themselves. The coffees are simple but utterly delicious, and the atmosphere brings that warmth and cosiness that you just cannot get from a Starbucks.
42 Bull St, Birmingham B4 6AF
