We all want a bit of opulence in our lives, and what more could you ask for than a glass of bubbly in a bar full of likeminded Champagne enthusiasts? You don’t need a reason to celebrate to pop open a bottle, or share a glass or two with a friend after work. So pull out your fanciest clothes because you’re off to a Champagne bar!
Marco Pierre White
When going for a shopping trip or a day out in Birmingham, there is nowhere more luxurious to spend your time than The Mailbox district, and the final addition to this development is the jewel in its cap – The Cube. In the top floor of this impressive building is Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill. As well as a classic British food menu, they incorporate a Champagne bar and Champagne room into the features of this restaurant, located just next door to the main dining area. Due to the high and seemingly unending windows, the view from the Champagne Room is a 360° panoramic of the Birmingham skyline. The terrace roof can be retracted to enjoy the night sky in the summer months, and is fully heated during the winter. The “smart clothing” dress code gives you a great excuse to dress up for drinks and adds to the luxury atmosphere of the place.
When it comes to drinks, you best be a fan of Laurent-Perrier Champagne, because there are six varieties on the menu and is the only brand of Champagne available. You may also choose between a couple of Proseccos and one sparkling pinot noir if you prefer the taste of Italy over France.
The Cube, 200 Wharfside St, Birmingham B1 1PR
Fumo
Fumo is a well-regarded restaurant that serves a menu of Italian dishes designed for sharing and combining to create a personalised meal. Although there are two locations in Birmingham, you should go to the one in Selfridges in order to enjoy their Champagne bar. Being located within the luxury shopping centre, you are just a step away from the shops whilst still being in an oasis of calm. The interior décor is awe-inspiring, with a large, open plan dining area that exudes both contemporary design and classic elegance, inspired by Italian craftmanship, of course. Both the overhead light and the lamps on the bar provide warm lighting that gives respite from the harsh LEDs of the shops, and the bar itself is a combination of gold and marble that reflects the grandeur of the Champagne menu.
The variety of Champagnes on offer are impressive, but the producers themselves are the real draw. You may choose between Champagne Testulat, Veuve Clicquot, Bollinger, or Laurent Perrier. Still not impressed? Well then how about a bottle of Dom Perignon or Cristal to see you through your end-of-shopping meal?
Selfridges, Upper Mall East, Upper Dean St, Birmingham B5 4BP
FIZZ! Bar
Champagne, Prosecco, what’s really the difference? Well, place of origin of course but let’s be honest, most of us can’t tell the two apart so we’re including Prosecco bars on this list as well. If you’ve got a spare half an hour before jumping on a train, or you just want the taste of a Prosecco bar without having to worry about dress codes, reservations, and pretention, then the FIZZ! Bar in Grand Central is perfect for you. No more than a bar, a few chairs, and the odd table, this spot is perfect for the easy going drinks connoisseur, and is a refreshingly casual place to visit. Despite this, it’s still got all the hallmarks of a high-end bar, with the design being a good mix of sleek and traditional, and the drinks on tap and ready to go. But don’t worry, the prices aren’t exorbitant like many other places.
You’re not ordering by the bottle here, but rather the glass, and you have the choice of three Frizzenti Proseccos (or you could test out all three!) If you prefer a cocktail but still want some of the bubbly, they have a range of them to choose from, all topped with some Frizzenti to add a twist to the classic recipe.
MK4, 68A East Mews, Birmingham B2 4XJ
The Bubble Lounge
At a hotel called “Hotel du Vin”, you would hope that their wine list would be a priority. Luckily, they live up to their name and serve a great selection of Champagnes (and Proseccos) at their in-house bar, The Bubble Lounge. Walking into the hotel, the lounge is directly to your left, so you don’t need to be a guest to drink there (although it is well worth a night’s stay). The staff are always happy to give you advice on what’s good, and if you indulge, they offer cigars with your drink too. You may even see a celebrity or too, as it is a common pit stop for the wealthy and famous crowd! The décor is in the style of Caffé Florian in Venice, so you can easily pretend that you are Lord Byron or Proust as you sip your Champagne amongst old Italian style.
Choosing your drink may be the most difficult part. With tonnes of options on the menu, it is lucky that the staff are there to help you. Among the Lanson and Prosecco, you’ll find some more eclectic additions. A Classic Cuvee from West Sussex may appeal to those who are feeling patriotic, and there’s an alcohol free Riesling for the designated driver. Among the signature selection you will find both a Laurent-Perrier Vintage and a Grand Siècle, both of which you can get by the bottle and share amongst your closest friends for a rare treat.
25 Church St, Birmingham B3 2NR
Bottega Prosecco Bar
Another Prosecco bar in a major transport hub, what are the odds? You’ll have to have a flight booked to enjoy this one, but it’s well worth a visit if you find yourself with a long wait before departure. Since you’re at the airport, time means nothing, so their opening time of 5am will be perfect for the frequent flyer or one who wants to start their holiday just a few hours sooner. Focusing on Italian delicacies, they serve food as well as drinks, and their menu offers pairings for each snack, meal, and dessert.
There are a range of white Proseccos on offer, as well as a rosé Prosecco and a sparking rosé by Bottega themselves. Their signature cocktails are topped with the Italian drink, so grab a mimosa before your flight takes off.
Birmingham Airport, Birmingham B26 3QJ
