Everybody loves curry. Whether it is spicy or mild, or whether you have a korma or a vindaloo. Either way, it is one of the most enjoyable nights out that you can have. The combination of delicious Indian cuisine and a few beers to water the food down is a British favourite. However, it hasn’t been embraced anywhere in the country more than Birmingham. But, if you’re in the city and want the taste of India, where do you go? Here are the top ten.
Opheem
The brainchild of Birmingham superchef Aktar Islam is the best place to find the most progressive Indian food in the city. Located on Summer Row, Opheem has a stunning cherry-filled bar and an extensive menu of selections. The style of restaurant is firmly on expression and style, and his reimagined version of the laal maan and Hyderabadi biryani are musts.
Address: 65 Summer Row, Birmingham
Lasan
If Gordon Ramsey has called it one of the best restaurants in the city, who are we to disagree? However, it was long on locals’ lists of places to eat before featuring on ‘The F Word’, and its location ensures that it is a trendy place to be seen. Instead of opting for the traditional curry house that we have come to love, Lasan puts a modern contemporary spin on things. There are dishes such as the Tisria and Bathak which leave customers delighted.
Unsurprisingly, it is a popular hotspot for visitors, and tables for weekend meals should be booked up in advance to avoid disappointment.
Address: 3-4 Dakota Buildings, James Street, Birmingham
Indian Brewery
Beer and curry are one of the best combinations in life, and the Indian Brewery was quick to grasp that and created a sector all for themselves. They cleverly intertwine their love of craft beer and the deliciousness of Indian cuisine; by offering Indian street food. It is a hip idea, and they are located in a trendy setting underneath the railway arches of Snow Hill in a colourful spot. It is essential for those curry lovers that want to experience the best spices possible.
You would be forgiven for thinking that you were in downtown Delhi when you’re inside with the Bollywood posters scattered across the walls. However, the giant naans full with chicken, chill fish and vegetables and best served with a local pint of Birmingham Lager.
Address: Snowhill, Arch 15-16 Livery Street, Birmingham, B3 1EU
Jyoti’s
While England has quickly taken the chicken tikka masala dish as their own, it’s a little known fact that 40% of Indians are vegetarians; so the majority of the dishes that they eat are vegetarian. That is a market that Jyoti’s has tapped into, and they will ensure that you have a unique dining experience. The restaurant specialises in Southern India snacking such as masala dosa. It isn’t just a hotspot for vegetarians either, everybody that goes here is astounded with the wide selection of available dishes.
There are over 70 main meals located on the menu, and if the decision is too tough to make, you can always opt to choose something off their reasonably priced set menu. Just don’t wear your tight jeans.
Address: 1045 Stratford Rd, Birmingham
Asha’s
The chain which has seen roaring success in Dubai and Kuwait for combining the Indian music and food has found further success in the second city on Newhall Street. Somehow they manage to ensure an intimate environment despite being large, and it is decorated in a welcome style. It has been popular ever since opening its doors to the public, and it should come as little surprise in the UK’s capital of Indian cuisine.
The food is delightful, whether you opt for their signature curries or tandoori kebabs; you won’t be disappointed, and you will be counting down the days until you come back.
Address: 12-22 Newhall St, Birmingham
Raja Monkey
Possibly one of the most forward-thinking curry houses in the second city is located in Hall Green. Raja Monkey are embracing the modern methods of creating Asian cuisine and present a range of thalis and street food options. They do this in such a way that is could instantly become your favourite place in the city to eat; with their accessible manner and fantastic customer service. The interior makes you feel nostalgic, and while it may not be the cheapest options; it is undoubtedly one of the best in Birmingham.
Address: 1355 Stratford Rd, Hall Green, Birmingham B28 9HW
Zindiya
This wonderful curry house mixes the colourful Indian street food scene with tradition to make a perfect mix to stand out from the crowd in the city. The décor is lovely and matches the style of the restaurant perfectly. The mishmash of furniture combined with the exposed brick walls makes it a hip place to be seen on a night out in the city. The thalis selection includes chilli cheese on toast and pani puri. There is also an abundance of craft beers to try, along with the Indian soft drinks.
Address: 21 Woodbridge Rd, Birmingham
Pushkar
If you live in the city, you will know all about this restaurant already. Pushkar was recently named as the best restaurant in the Midlands at the National Curry Awards. Despite being located on Broad Street, it isn’t as party-orientated as one may think. It is a classy establishment on one of the most famous streets in the city, and their range of drinks could be a perfect warm-up for your night ahead.
The signature mojito is a must, before indulging in the Punjabi and north Indian dishes. It speaks volumes about the quality of the food that the Indian cricket team often visit the restaurant when they are playing at Edgbaston.
Address: 245 Broad St, Birmingham
Shababs
One of the few remaining original balti houses in the city can be found at Shababs, and while it has undergone a makeover in recent years, the same taste remains. That taste has ensured that it has passed the test of time, and remains one of the most popular places for curry in the entire city. While the makeover was needed to reinvent the restaurant; the dishes ensure that your thoughts of the restaurant are joyous. It is a must for anyone that loves a balti.
Address: 163-165 Ladypool Rd, Birmingham
Qavali
This beautiful Indo-Persian cuisine serves up some of the best tasting curries in Birmingham. With a choice of 10 top curries including some great vegetarian options, Qavali is the place to go for your next meal out. From classic Tikka’s to more exotic dishes this menu will have something you’ll love.
Inside the restaurant Qavali isn’t just known for the stunning dishes but also their show stopping interior with wonderful art pieces covering every wall making this dining experience extraordinary.
