Street food has been a part of human life since civilisations first created urban settlements tens of thousands of years ago, dating back much earlier than even the first restaurants in Britain. Today, food is still sold in public spaces across markets, events and even whole festivals dedicated to the stuff - and Birmingham, where street food can be found both in formal dining settings and at pop-ups in the likes of Digbeth, is no exception. Check out our recommendations for the best places to find street food in Birmingham and get your chops around global cuisine.
Last edited by Lauren Cole
Last updated on 19th July 2024
Boasting some of the best Indian street food in Birmingham, Mowgli brings the finest traditional dishes to a casual restaurant setting - complete with cool jungle gym-style interiors featuring rope swing seats, fairy lights and hanging lanterns. We're talking Himalayan cheese toasties through to tamarind fries, gunpowder chicken and Indian-inspired twists on the chip butty, as well as zesty cocktails and beer to wash it down.
Found tucked away in the Jewellery Quarter is Hockley Social Club, a 10,000 square-foot former printing factory that's a known destination for world-class street food around these parts. It's been likened to warehouse venues in Berlin and Budapest, putting it on the map as one of the coolest places to head for casual eats, drinks and top-class entertainment to round it all off. The team at the helm? The same as those behind Digbeth Dining Club, whose street food events and pop-ups bring together the finest local traders in Birmingham for a big ol' feast. Think the South Birmingham Curry Club, Bad Boy wings and Buddha Belly - to name just a few.
After scrumptious street food in Digbeth? Then you'll have heard about Luna Springs, the lively outdoor bar on Lower Trinity Street that's best-known for themed bottomless brunch events, late-night parties, live music and more. Topping it off are the food traders on offer. They play host to Happy Patty Burgers and Joe's Pizza, meaning everything from slow-cooked brisket, bacon and beef burgers to gochujang Buffalo chicken and spicy veggie pizzas are on the cards.
Zindaya is an Indian 'streatery' (that's street food eatery, to you) for quirky interiors and casual eats from India. Created by husband and wife team, Ajay and Shivani Kenth, the venue aims to give you an authentic food experience inspired by the street markets of Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata - but instead, right here in the heart of Moseley, where they grew up. Think chai, chaat, gol gappe, and local craft beers served across rickshaw-inspired booths.
The name of Tiger Bite Pig comes from Taiwan, where bao are often described this way due to the mouth-like shape of the bun that's then stuffed with red braised pork belly filling. Situated on Stephenson Street, the Taiwanese street food spot is home to bao, rice bowls from the Sichuan province, Japanese G&Ts, sake and UK craft beers for a full experience spanning influences from Taiwan, China, Japan and more.
Cork & Cage is a must-visit neighbourhood bar and kitchen; not only because it's an 100% employee-owned, independent venue in Stirchley, but also due to their weekly changing menu of seasonal food - meaning you can nab something new from the street food scene on every visit. In the past, the venue has showcased Mexican street tacos, as well as Turkish small plates and much more. Thirsty? Grab a glass of wine or beer.
