Located a convenient stones’-throw away from the Hippodrome, in the heart of the Arcadian is the child of the locally-loved Chez Jules; Le Truc. It’s is one of the hippest French bistros to emerge in the ever-evolving city centre.
The Venue
To call Le Truc ‘cool’ would be a complete injustice; with the vintage posters and in vogue graffiti on the wall, a pink Poodle pointing you to the location of the ladies toilets, a DJ booth entirely made of 80’s cassette tapes and an infinite stream of music playing tune after, often retro, tune, this place just gets it right for those after a little something unique.
A menagerie of of cool quirks, Le Truc isn't your typical Parisian haunt in the city, though it is one of its only.
The Food and Drink
If the look alone doesn’t convince you of the awesomeness that is Le Truc, the cocktail bar will. The menu is a mixture of classics, which are perfectly executed, alongside innovated ones made by the creative bar team that are delicious and unique. Try the Bergamot Fizz with Earl Grey and Prosecco, it's a damn steal at £7.50. There’s an impressive range of bottled and draught beers in the fridges and, of course, a very healthy wine list. Fear not, though, if you’re the designated driver there’s also a lot more on offer than your standard options; they’ll happily whip you up a teetotal beverage with as much enthusiasm as their cleverly crafted cocktails.
The food is out of this world, never mind France. I’m a recent veggie convert, but if there’s one thing I would rave about from previous visits, it’s the steak. On Fridays it’s Steak Night (think rib-eye and porterhouse cuts) with half-priced red wine; you just cannot go wrong. This was my first visit as a veggie, and I was not disappointed. In fact, there are so many options; catering for Vegan and Gluten-free eaters too. Real finesse and thought goes into every dish and you won’t feel like you’ve been treated any differently to the carnivores. My particular favourites are the sharing boards where a plate of crispy polenta, goat's cheese bon bons, a mushroom quiche and more comes in at just £14. The food here is classic French, non-pretentious, and just plain delicious.
Sharing boards and serious steaks make Le Truc an indulgent dinner destination.
The Atmosphere and Clientele
Le Truc offers a home-away-from-home. You’ll be welcomed in by some of the friendliest staff in Birmingham. All walks of life are seen here. It’s an ideal place to take your Mum for a pre-theatre treat, an intimate date for a glass of champagne, or a large booking for friends or work do with a set or a la carte menu to boot. Kids, you say? Of course, bring the whole bunch! What’s even better is that you can enjoy a cosy environment inside, or, should the Birmingham weather allow, an alluring suntrap of a terrace is located outside the restaurant. You should keep an eye out for their events too, from 3-course comedy nights to Vintage music singers which regularly get the place rocking.
There's a no pretence approach to Le Truc that makes it so chilled and inviting.
Summary
Le Truc offers something unique within its surroundings. The atmosphere, the drinks, the food and the people are a shining example of the independent scene in Birmingham. Unconventional, forward-thinking, and exuding charisma. It’s been a weekly treat of mine since it opened, and you’ll absolutely see me there, time and time again.
