Nestled within the heart of leafy Edgbaston is a hidden gem of a restaurant bar which is low key, unique and delightful. The Blue Piano, sister venue to Blue Ginger (based in Birmingham's retro food catchment - Kings Heath), boasts a delectable selection of pan Asian cuisine and cocktails, headed up by husband and wife team, Peter Hodgson and Siew Kuan.
The Venue
The venue itself is surprisingly spacious and boasts a quaint beer garden with its own bamboo clad bar; perfect for after work drinks, with live music on Friday nights. The restaurant area is chic and modern with ambient lighting and the building itself adds character to the operation by retaining its original features. Sash windows, ornate floor tiling and secret rooms which are often hired out by local businesses for meetings and book clubs, make The Blue Piano a versatile and quirky place in which to be seen. With the city centre and Broad street (Birmingham's evening entertainment area) within walking distance and close to bus routes and the train station, this superb location is firmly on the map.
There's plenty to be discovered at The Blue Piano where no one single room is like the next.
The Food and Drink
With plethora of drink options from exotic juices to fine wines which are reasonably priced at £3.00 upwards The Blue Piano was a pocket friendly retreat; bar snacks are available to nibble and the ambience is always welcoming, thanks to the friendly staff who genuinely appear pleased to be working there.
Tucking into my Singapore carrot cake, it was easy to see what The Blue Piano is all about - modern day, South East Asian street food: flavorsome, delicate, aromatic and beautifully presented. Fruits used in dishes here such as Rambutan and Jackfruit add real character to the meats they showcase; supporting a menu that combines a strong identity of typical South Asian cuisine and the influence of fusion, and creating a superb eating experience for both experienced and new foodies alike.
Boasting a selection of humble classics with Pan Asian cuisine, The Blue Piano is a slick blend of adventurous flavours and old favourites.
The Atmosphere
Weekdays at The Blue Piano seem steady with locals passing through for a light lunch of hearty tipples and business people occupying various corners hosting client meetings. The clientele sees passers by rubbing shoulders with young professionals, and the venue has a pronounced affluence considering the pocket friendly price of the main meals which range from £9 - £17. Weekends seemed a more casual affair with families dining out and groups of friends occupying the bar area catching up on their weekly goings on.
A charming and friendly venue at its core, be it for client meetings or weekend soiree's with friends.
Summary
With its home-made authenticity and inquisitive selection of cocktails that stem from Siew's charming governance over the chefs at The Blue Piano, this restaurant bar is a well managed, perfectly executed and welcoming eating establishment. Definitely worth a visit!
