We’ve all been there: the big night out, the buzz of anticipation, the endless scrolling through reviews. You step into the restaurant, your hopes are as high as the prices, and bam – something’s off. The mood's as flat as last week's cola, and there’s a whiff of Eau de Desperation in the air.

But fear not, fellow foodies! Here’s a foolproof guide to spotting a genuinely great restaurant – one where every bite is a love letter to your taste buds.

1. The Devil's in the Detail, Especially on the Menu

Hey, it's not just about the food! Ever noticed how some menus look like they've been through a food fight? Not here. A good restaurant's menu is a work of art in itself – clean, crisp, and sometimes even wearing a fancy menu cover. It’s like they say, first impressions matter, and that includes the menu!

2. Service with a Smile, and Then Some

Imagine this: your server knows the menu better than their own birthday. They’re not just serving food; they’re dishing out recommendations, stories behind the dishes, and maybe even a joke or two. That’s service you can’t download on an app!

3. Atmosphere: Where the Magic Happens

You walk in, and BAM! The ambience hits you. It’s not just about eating; it’s about the experience. Mood lighting, comfy seating, and a vibe that doesn’t scream “I’m just here for the Wi-Fi”. A good restaurant feels like a mini-vacation.

4. Ingredients: Fresher than a Morning Jog

We're talking ingredients so fresh; they might as well introduce themselves. The kind of quality that makes you wonder if there's a secret garden out back. No canned peas here, folks.

5. Clean as a Whistle, Shiny as a New Penny

Cleanliness is next to godliness, and this place is heavenly. Spotless floors, shining silverware, and yes, menus that don’t stick to your hands. It’s the little things that count.

6. Consistently Awesome, Every Time

It's like your favourite playlist; it never disappoints. You could come in blindfolded, point at the menu, and still end up with a meal that makes you want to write a thank-you note to the chef.

7. Everyone's Talking About It (For Good Reasons)

Word on the street? This place is the bomb. And it's not just your foodie friend saying it; even the internet agrees. When everyone’s raving about it, you know it’s worth the hype.

8. Menu: Where Creativity Meets Flavor

Menus here are like a treasure map, but instead of X marking the spot, it’s that dish you can’t pronounce. It's diverse, it's creative, and it's housed in covers that could double as modern art. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure.

9. Drinks: The Perfect Sidekick

The drink selection? It's like the Robin to your Batman…meal. Whether it's wine, craft beer, or a cocktail that looks like a science experiment, it's all about complementing your food.

10. The Personal Touch: They Remember Your Name (And Your Weird Allergies)

It’s like Cheers, but with better food. They remember your face, your favourite dish, and even how you like your steak. Now that’s personal.

The Proof Is in the Pudding (And Everything Else)

Next time you’re out scouting for a great dining spot, keep an eye on these signs. They’re like breadcrumbs leading to your next best meal. And who knows, you might just find yourself becoming a regular, chatting about the weather with the chef, and feeling like part of the family.

Bon Appétit!

Birmingham may surprise you if you are searching for a modern and vibrant LGBT-friendly community. Centred along the traditional Hurst Street, the Birmingham Gay Village is a thriving force of businesses, entertainment, and culture all at once. Why does it have thousands of visitors every week? Let's take a closer look and find out!

Hurst Street: A fit location hosts a fit celebration

Situated in Central Birmingham and next to the Chinese Quarter, Birmingham's Gay Village parades in the hottest spot: Hurst Street. You can find some of Birminghams best restaurants, bars, shops, and hotels there. However, long before the main street hosted the annual celebration of Birmingham Pride, it was first nurtured by history, architecture, and automobile design. Here’s a fun fact not every tourist knows about! Hurst Street was home to the Fisher & Ludlow factory from the 1930s, a well-known British automobile manufacturer.

A bit of history for a bit of fun

The Birmingham Gay Village, as we know it, was first popular back in the 1990s. But it had to come a long way before becoming the renowned district it is today! Before karaoke bars and drag queen shows, the entire area was a small warehouse district with a few businesses in the 1950s. However, it wasn’t until the arrival of the revolutionary 1980s that everything started to find its unique place and purpose. And Hurst Street was at the heart of it all. Along with gay rights and liberation movements came freedom and lots of celebration. Thus, the Gay Village was born for all the world to enjoy.

Always Pride, never prejudice

Not many neighbourhoods, or ‘gaybourhoods’, can say they are the top choice to host a gay pride festival. There’s far too much to be proud of in the Birmingham Gay Village! Birmingham Pride is the UK’s largest two-day gay pride festival in the world. This annual festival offers a weekend filled with celebration, expression, and acceptance. The mood is set with plenty of music, dance and street performances that captivate everyone and everything. It’s estimated that this major event will bring roughly £15 million to the city's economy. Not too shabby for an economic boost of confidence!

Are you up for it?

Due to its popularity and charm amongst the growing LGBT community, friends, and supporters, the Birmingham Gay Village is up for major improvements to enhance outdoor and indoor entertainment. You can find everything for a fun and enticing night or day, from historically acclaimed bars such as The Nightingale (A.k.a. The Gale, for over 50 years) to the biggest Pride parties in the world. It’s a scene you definitely do not want to miss!

Far from being just a fun place to be around, the Gay Village has proven that cultural values and initiatives are always celebrated. There are lots of things to do and experience! Some of the surrounding attractions are the Bull Ring shopping centre, the Birmingham Hippodrome (a theatre in the Chinese Quarter and the home stage of the Birmingham Royal Ballet), and of course, the Chinese Quarter itself. Tourists love taking pictures at The Pagoda in Holloway Circus, a traditional landmark. You can visit it on your way to your favourite pub!

And let’s not forget about the Balls!

Sure, the Gay Village offers coffee shops, late-night pubs, ace drag shows, and cabarets. But it hosts two other major Pride events! The Gay and Lesbian Pride Ball has taken place every spring since 1998. It’s an opportunity to celebrate diversity and love whilst raising awareness and funds for AIDS and HIV charities. It’s important to remind ourselves of these valuable causes and carry on with these social initiatives.

Now, if you are all about Christmas, you cannot miss the Christmas Ball! This ball represents another exciting event to support gay rights and fundraising activities, all in good fun and with a Christmasy spirit.

Where to Meet & Cheers

Whether you fancy an easy night at a pub or an exuberant dance at a nightclub, the Gay Village has plenty of options to choose from. Let’s have a quick look at some of most famous venues to visit when Going Out in Birmingham!

The Nightingale:

As previously mentioned, ‘The Gale’ has lots of history within its walls. As the oldest gay nightclub in Birmingham, some consider it to be a sort of right of passage. It’s a must! Impressive music shows, disco-themed bingo nights, and an ambience ready to enjoy a drink on the terrace. Not to mention its unique artwork created by local queer artists, which gives it an extra allure.

The Missing Bar:

For a top-of-the-notch night, you simply must get to the Missing! An intimate yet full of personality small venue that hosts DJ nights and major drag shows. Its Victorian design brings us back to the 1800s and makes it a proper party bar to join in and celebrate life. If you love mojitos and daiquiris, you can create your own right there!

Equator Bar:

If partying is not your cup of tea, but you still wish to have fun, this lounge bar is for you. A welcoming and relaxed atmosphere surrounds every person that visits the Equator. It’s truly where comfort and style meet at their best! Perfect for meeting people, friends, and home to the trans community.

Sidewalk:

As one of the first openly gay bars, the Sidewalk building had had many names since its creation in the 1930s, when it used to be a car showroom. Now it offers diversity in and out! As a restaurant and bar, it’s also the proper place for conferences and fundraising events. Certainly the best of both worlds!

The Loft:

If you have ever wondered where to enjoy an open-all-year garden, the answer is right here. Located on Bromsgrove Street, this venue is perfect to start your day with a delicious cocktail and homemade nibbles. The Loft offers an award-winning and weatherproof garden! You might even try their ‘What’s the worst that could happen?’ cocktail, featuring whisky, amaretto, and cherry brandy. What a delight!

Good change is always fit.

As most of its buildings and venues have shown over the decades, the Birmingham Gay Village is living proof that good change is always positive and inviting. No matter the name or the origin, a building can be leveraged by willing people trying to express themselves and help others do the same. This is the case of the Gay Village, right in the centre of Birmingham. Next time you’re in the second-largest city in the UK, make sure to stop by. There are plenty of options for every quid and taste. And it's certainly a pleasure to experience it amongst friends and loved ones!

Birmingham is the second largest city in the United Kingdom and welcomes a diverse population. It’s not only a place that knows how to party but also one that is more accepting and provides everyone with safe spaces where they feel welcome. As such, the city has numerous LGBTQ-friendly spots that people in the community can visit in their free time.

Every single year, thousands of people participate in Birmingham Pride. But the LGBTQ+ scene is not sleeping outside Pride month. There are establishments where you can go shopping, play sports or drink with your friends.

Will you be on your way to Birmingham soon? This LGBTQ guide to Birmingham will give you some fantastic recommendations for spending time in the city.

Getting to Birmingham

First things first, you must figure out how to get to Birmingham. If you come from abroad, you’ll be happy to know that Birmingham Airport will give you easy access to the city. There is a 10-minute distance between the airport and the city centre by train – therefore it will be a piece of cake to travel to and from the airport as needed.

But if you come from London, you will travel about 120 miles to reach the second largest city in the U.K. Birmingham is located in the Midlands.

Annual LGBTQ Events

Birmingham is a friendly and welcoming place for everyone, and the annual events are proof of that. Every year, different events focus on LGBTQ+ music, literature, art, theatre, and film. The most popular event of this kind is the SHOUT Film Festival. However, there are many others where you can have a great time with your friends.

Then, in September, you can attend Birmingham Pride. It is the largest LGBTQI+ festival in the United Kingdom and lasts two days. The whole city comes alive, especially the Gay Village streets. There is live music, a cabaret stage, and a carnival parade. It’s definitely an event you don’t want to miss.

LGBTQ-friendly Accommodation

If you are not from Birmingham but want to enjoy what it has to offer, you will need suitable accommodation. Fortunately, Birmingham has numerous hotels and apartments that make any person in the LGBTQ+ community feel at home.

Here are some options you may want to look into:

• BLOC Hotel

BLOC Hotel is an excellent pick for people who want a beautiful place without spending a fortune on accommodation.

This hotel has 73 rooms in total, with each of them providing guests with HD TVs, fast Wi-Fi, Egyptian cotton sheets, very comfortable beds, and powerful showers. It’s an excellent place to rest and get ready to explore the next day.

• easyHotel Birmingham

If you’re looking for accommodation closer to LGBTQ+ venues, easyHotel should be on your list. It’s very close to the Gay Village and a budget-friendly hotel. Another significant aspect is that this place is only 3 minutes from the Birmingham New Street Station.

• Hotel Indigo

Hotel Indigo will make your experience in Birmingham more magical. It provides guests with incredible city views from private balconies. Besides, it has treatment rooms, thermal pools, a club, and a spa, making it an ideal relaxation spot.

Delicious food can also be served if you go to the top floor, where the MPW Steakhouse Bar & Grill is located.

Entertainment

Birmingham’s LGBTQ+ scene is vibrant, and you can find good spots throughout the city. Whether you want to party in a gay club or have a coffee while taking in the city view, there is always something for you.

Let’s look at some of the best bars and clubs in the UK’s second-largest city.

• The Wellington

The Wellington is a real ale pub where clients can enjoy some of the best drinks. The old-school bar is a great place to chill before exploring the city's beauty. It even won some awards, so it’s undoubtedly a spot you should visit.

• The Village Inn

The Village Inn is a favourite location for individuals who like to go out no matter the day of the week. If you’re in Birmingham for more than just a weekend, you can rest assured that this place is open from Monday to Sunday.

This place is one of the most famous cabaret bars in the area, and there is always something exciting happening. You’ll be safe and have no chance of getting bored here.

• The Loft

If there is one bar that people in the LGBTQ+ community love in Birmingham, it’s The Loft. It is close to the Gay Village and Chinatown, giving you access to other friendly locations.

The Loft is a bar with exposed brickwork, velvet couches, as well as gorgeous chandeliers. It’s a perfect place to spend the night, particularly if you also fancy a few drinks.

The best part is that you’ll be close to other gay venues, such as Nightingale, The Village, and Sidewalk.

• The Fox

Many people in the LGBTQ+ community praise The Fox for a good reason. The venue welcomes men, women, transgender, straight and other people. It is a safe place for everyone.
Anyone visiting this place can forget about their daily issues and socialize with like-minded individuals.

• The Nightingale

If you’re in party mode, you shouldn’t miss the Nightingale experience. This club is a popular location for LGBTQ+ people in the area. Despite having to relocate three times, it became one of the most renowned gay superclubs in the United Kingdom. People from various regions of the country go to Nightingale for a little bit of fun.

The Bottom Line

Birmingham is a great and friendly place with a variety of LGBTQ events, bars, and clubs. If you ever decide to visit the city, you can check the locations in this LGBTQ guide to Birmingham. They will offer you a relaxing, fun, and safe experience you will never forget.

Have you ever been to Birmingham or the West Midlands part of the UK? Then you should probably have heard about Birmingham cuisine. Birmingham's culinary reputation is well-known worldwide, with restaurants representing 27 cultures and no less than five Michelin-starred establishments.

It was also the birthplace of Typhoo Tea, Cadbury's chocolate, HP Sauce, and Bird's Custard. With such a rich culinary history, it's no surprise that the city and its neighboring Black Country have produced numerous traditional recipes over the years, some of which are unique to the area and cannot be found elsewhere.

If you plan to visit this magnificent region, we've compiled a list of popular dishes among residents and visitors so that you can enjoy your dining experience in the UK's second-largest city.

Birmingham is famous for Balti

Balti is a traditional Pakistani curry meal, but it is one of the best foods to try whilst out visiting Restaurants in Birmingham because it was invented here during the 1970s. It is made with native Kashmiri influences but with a flavor twist to appeal to western palates. Birmingham Balti is frequently prepared with meats such as lamb or goat and served in a steel Balti dish.

To be considered a Birmingham Balti, the dish must contain spices such as turmeric, garlic puree, garam masala, and fresh ginger. There are a number of restaurants serving excellent Birmingham Balti across The Balti Triangle. The area, which includes Stratford Road, Ladypool Road, and Stoney Lane, has some of the finest Balti eateries in the city, with Shabab topping the list.

Birmingham is famous for Sushi

While sushi emerged as a simple, fast food alternative in Japan, it is now one of the most renowned cuisines in the world, so much so that you may be spoiled for choice. Sushi and other Pan Asian recipes are becoming even more popular in the United Kingdom. With more than 277 Japanese restaurants in London alone, it's safe to speculate that sushi is taking over the country.

Brits are learning to master proper sushi etiquette and chopsticks when tucking into delightful fish dishes. There are many healthy alternatives, from Maki to Sashimi and Nigiri. Always go to a restaurant that sells fresh fish to get the best flavors!

Birmingham is famous for Faggots

This type of meatball is thought to have originated in Coventry. It got its name because it was initially made with offal and fatty bits of meat that had to be used before they spoiled.

The meatball was discovered by accident when a woman attempted to prepare an Italian meal with minced beef. The result was a tasty dish that has remained popular in the West Midlands ever since! Faggots are traditionally made with pig offal and liver. It can also be combined with minced cut-offs and rolled up in onions, bacon, and breadcrumbs.

Shrewsbury Cakes

These traditional desserts, which originated in nearby Shrewsbury and were quickly adopted by Birmingham residents, are a cross between a biscuit and a cake and bear some resemblance to shortbread.

Many ingredients include dried fruits and a dash of lemon zest for extra flavor, and you can also add a dash of rosewater or a couple of caraway seeds. Several recipes for Shrewsbury cakes from the 18th and 19th centuries have been discovered, though references to the cakes were featured in literature and manuscripts much earlier.

Birmingham is famous for Pork Scratchings

Pork scratchings have always been a popular meal all over the world for centuries. Nevertheless, the British version is believed to have originated in the Black Country.

Families used to rear pigs in their backyards and feed them scraps and cereals to build them up for later meals. No part of the rind was discarded, and everyone had their recipe for it, but it evolved into the crunchy, salty munch we know today.

They have become part of the bar experience since they were first introduced. Due to their energy content, they have even been used on excursions to the North and South Poles, so they can easily sort you out for a night at the neighborhood pub.

Birmingham is famous for Pikelets

Pikelets are thin pancakes popular in many restaurants in Birmingham as well as the entire West Midlands. Non-locals frequently mistake this meal for a crumpet because it is cooked over a slim pan and left to bubble before being spun and flipped to cook on the other side.

Because pikelets lack yeast, they are much flatter than traditional pancakes. Many Birmingham residents enjoy it as a piping hot snack straight from the grill. You may spread butter on your pikelets for extra flavor!

Birmingham is famous for Doner Kebab

Doner kebab, also known as kebabs, is a meat dish derived from a vertical rotisserie. It's generally served as a wrap or stuffed in pita bread to make a sandwich. It goes well with a variety of vegetables, including sliced tomatoes, cabbage, onions, and pickles. It comes with a drizzle of homemade sauces for added flavor.

Doner kebab, originally a Turkish dish, has recently grown in popularity with people Going Out in Birmingham thanks to its easy availability in the city center. It's reasonably priced, especially when you're traveling on a tight budget. It's also convenient to eat on the go because it comes in a wrap.

Malvern Cheese

The Malvern Hills are well known for their stunning surroundings, but they also have another accomplishment to their name. This is due to the west midlands producing some of England's best cheese! The cheese, sold in various stores and supermarkets throughout the county, is made with milk from nearby farmers. The cheese is popular throughout England and has even received recognition for its exceptional flavor!

Finn Cheese

Finn is a double cream cheese produced by Neal's Yard Creamery. Finn is a soft British cheese with a firm texture and a fresh creamy acidity when new. As it ages, Finn softens and develops a more mushroomy flavor from the rind. This rich and tasty white cheese is one of Birmingham's favorites.

Finn cheese is very popular in Stourbridge, an area near Birmingham. It has an unusual appearance due to the holes inside it! It was accidentally created when milk seeped through a tiny opening in an old metal container, causing bubbles to form inside the cheese! The cheese is now made with a unique method that allows the rind to form these tiny holes.

Now that you know all about Birmingham and the West Midlands' most famous dishes, why not plan an excursion to the area to experience them for yourself? This neighborhood has numerous bakeries, cafes, and restaurants where you can sample these delectable treats. They might even motivate you to recreate these regional delicacies at home!

Looking for a great pub in Birmingham?

Birmingham is a city that is full of traditional British pubs on nearly every corner or street you walk down. It can be quite challenging to pick out which pubs are the most worthy of the title of best pub in Birmingham.

You won't know which pub opr bars are the best until you visit it yourself and know what the atmosphere, locals, staff and restaurant food offering is like - finding an excellent pub is very much a personal choice.

Find your perfect place in Birmingham.

There are pubs, bars and venues all over Birmingham centre, high street, and the surrounding areas, such as the Jewellery Quarter, Canal Street and Temple Street. You can find a cosy pub, a bar or a themed pub serving everything from a humble pint, craft beers, pub classics or pizza to a cocktail bar or a hidden gem such as a gin distillery that also offers a food menu and fun things to do such as cheese nights, American style BBQ's and street food!

Birmingham has it all.

Everyone prefers a different type of atmosphere; of course, every pub and bar is different. Birmingham's firm favourites include the Shakespeare Inn, The Old Crown, Rose Villa Tavern and the White Swan - no matter what you are looking for, Birmingham has it all.

We have listed a few pubs below that might just get your attention and be the next pub on your list to visit if you are in Going Out in Birmingham.

The Old Joint Stock Pub & Theatre, Birmingham

A great venue with good beer

The Old Joint Stock Pub is one of the best pubs in Birmingham, situated in an old Victorian bank building that also includes a theatre.

A selection of good food

If you are searching for amazing food, drinks and an absolutely stunning decorated pub, the Old Join Stock pub is the one for you. The Victorian-styled interior is certainly reminiscent of an old traditional British city centre pub and will leave you marvelled because of its beauty.

A convenient pub and bar to get to within the City Centre

Being less than 10 minutes away from New Street Station and with a large open space and seating, it is an ideal pub to bring along a large group of friends and family to enjoy the variety offered and the delicious traditional quality grub available in this listed building.

What is available?

The Old Joint Stock pub offers locally produced ales and a selection of beverages that are much more than just standard beer, lagers, seasonal ale, craft beer, soft drink, cider, spirits and fine wines. The range of drinks available expands and changes so you will be able to get a taste of something different each time you visit.

Birmingham Pub Location: 4 Temple Row West Birmingham West Midlands B2 5NY

The Wellington

A traditional pub that is busy

The Wellington is yet another great British pub that is also located in Birmingham. The Wellington provides a great selection of ales and ciders, which is fantastic for those looking for a nice, chilled drink in the afternoon or evening.

Enjoy live music in this pub

You can enjoy music while visiting the pub, with different events taking place throughout the year, such as the Wellington Folk Music and song Session. This is the perfect event to visit if you want an evening out with a bunch of friends! The Wellington is known to be a specialist real ale pub, which is a fantastic find for ale lovers, sure to be a favourite and a must visit.#

More on offer than real ale

Other than real ale, The Wellington offers a wide variety of drinks. These drinks range from Whiskies, Gin and beers. Within these sections there are other drinks that are offered such as scotches, bourbons, Belgian Bottled Beers, Fruit beers, Fruit wines and mead, vegan drinks and many more beverages. With such a large selection of drinks, you will never be out of choice at the Wellington.

What about the atmosphere?

The Wellington provides its customers with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, one that will be loved by many of those who are seeking to relax with a couple of friends and to get a taste of the different real ales that The Wellington has to offer.

Did you know?

The Wellington is a popular Pub as it is one of the several pubs in Birmingham to provide a huge selection of real ales in Birmingham and that too from across the world.

Location: 37 Bennetts Hill, Birmingham B2 5SN

The Old Royal

One of Birmingham's traditional pubs

The Old Royal is a fabulous Birmingham pub and bar and provides pub grub classics such as pie and chips or bangers and mash. In addition to this, rotational cask ales are always on tap. Pubs such as this are often housed in a grade ii listed building so have a wealth of charm and character.

If great service, great staff, delicious cooking and a cask ale is what you need, The Old Royal is the ideal place. The atmosphere is impeccable, with live sport and delicious food; you are certainly going to be uplifted and enjoy a day or evening of banter at The Old Royal pub and bar.

Did you know?

You don't need to wait for a waiter to order your drinks or food; you can simply get ordering through your phone and get your meal delivered to your table without any hassle, which makes this a great place for busy punters!

You can now also book a table in advance, perfect for a pre-planned day out for lunch with a plus one.

Whats on offer:

With an extensive offering, you will be tired of trying to pick the perfect drink but that's not an issue because a few rounds won't be a problem. The Old Royals drink menu offers customers with a range of different drinks,these include:

• Beer & ciders

• Cocktails

• Gins

• Wines

• Spirits

• Shots

• Soft drinks

If the Old Royal sounds like the perfect pub, you should definitely get your table booked now!

Location: 53 Church St, Birmingham B3 2DP

The Old Contemptibles

A great pub to visit day or night

Known to be a gem with the locals, the Old Contemptibles is a grand Victorian boozer, with high ceilings and original features located in the heart of Birmingham.

A wonderful pub is situated right in the centre of Birmingham, allowing you to easily visit after a tour of the city centre for a well-earned pint of beer. This venue is famous for its cask ales, seasonal pub grub and more, it is the perfect pub to check out when visiting Birmingham City centre.

A friendly atmosphere with hospitable staff.

Providing its customers with a range of different beverages served day and night, you will undoubtedly be able to find your drink of choice. The pub offers its customers a friendly atmosphere with hospitable staff and music, bars such as this to visit for a beer are becoming hard to find in any city these days!

A favourite venue with locals and a credit to the pubs in Birmingham

With outdoor seating, seasonal mouth-watering foods which are loved by all, The Old Contemptibles is a venue to add to your list for this summer. You can also book a table in advance.

The beverage menu served includes:

• Gin

• Wines

• Champagne

• Whiskey

• Rum

• Cocktails

• Craft Beer

• Tonics

Location: 176 Edmund Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, B3 2HB

If any of these Birmingham pubs sound like a place you would like to visit, you can always head on over and book a table. We hope you definitely do check out at least one of the pubs we have mentioned.

Chinatown is found in the City of Westminister, London, and houses the best bakeries, supermarkets, souvenir shops, and Chinese Restaurants in London. This is not the first Chinatown since the first once was located in the East End’s Limehouse.

Chinatown was first formed in the 1950s, once serving as a home to Maltese and Huguenot immigrants. This area, before being formally called Chinatown, has become a Chinese culture hub during the 1960s and 1970s when a lot of businesses and restaurants opened and moved into it.

The first Chinatown was located in London’s East End’s Limehouse. However, during the mid-20th century, after a decline in shipping and the destruction brought by World War II, the Chinese community shrunk.

Top 3 Worth-trying Noodle Dishes in Chinatown

East Asian cuisine will definitely not be complete without noodles. Any type of noodles – chewy crunchy, spicy – can be found in Chinatown. If you plan to try these noodles on your visit, be sure to make a huge room for all the noodles you are going to consume. Here are some restaurants in Chinatown that serve noodle dishes and other remarkable cuisine you can try:

1. Shanghai moder

Shanghai cuisine and famous Chinese dishes are what Shanghai Modern is known for among all Chinese restaurants in Westminster. Many tourists, or even locals, go back to this restaurant for their Piggy Buns and crispy fried noodles. The latter is mixed with shredded pork, so this might be the ingredient which serves as magic for this dish.

Take note of their address if you plan to visit: Shanghai Modern, 12 Newport Pl, WC2H 7PR.

2. Viet food

Viet Food, found in Wardour Street, will surely let you have a taste of authentic Vietnamese street food and cuisine. The menu in this restaurant is designed by Jeff Tan, who also experiments with traditional ingredients to come up with wonderful food people always love to come back for in his restaurant. One of his famous works is his own version of Crispy Coconut Calamari. Make sure you try this award-winning dish when you go to Chinatown!

Aside from the Calamari, other dishes you can try in Viet Food are Tan’s Soy Sauce Fried Rice with Vietnamese Sausage and King Prawns, which is a tribute to Tan’s father, Five Spice Soft Shell Crab, and Chili Grilled Sirloin Salad.

Here is the address of this incredible restaurant: Viet food , 34-36 Wardour St, W1D 6QT

3. Old Tree Daiwan Bee

From Chinese to Vietnamese, let’s now go to Taiwanese delicacies. One restaurant in Chinatown which offers exquisite Taiwanese dishes is Old Tree Daiwan Bee. The restaurant’s Taiwanese beef noodles is definitely a must-try! Even though the ingredients are quite simple, it is cooked in the traditional way and is also affordable. The chewy noodles perfectly go together with the broth which gives the person eating it a feeling of warmth and comfort.

If you wanna feel that warmth and comfort during your visit, do not forget to check out this address: 26 Rupert St, W1D 6DH.

Top 3 Events to See in Chinatown

Aside from eating out in Chinatown, there are a lot of events and activities you can also enjoy during your stay in the city. Since Chinatown is mostly run by Chinese businesses, Chinese culture is dominant in the area. While enjoying the food from the restaurants in Chinatown, here are some additional events you can enjoy in this place:

1. Chinese New Year

Although the dates when Chinese New Year differs yearly, Chinatown does not fail to celebrate this colourful event. Of course, the event will not be complete without lion dances and floats, and there are also live performances held in Trafalgar Square. A lot of craft stalls and pop-up food stalls can be found around Chinatown, and there are a lot of entertainment sources around Chinatown and across the West End. A picture-perfect moment always happens with the red lanterns floating around, too!

2. Water Cube Cup Singing Contest

Every August in China, singers compete for the finals in the Water Cube Cup Singing Contest. To be able to enter the finals, aspiring singers battle for the slots in their respective countries before finally being able to compete in China. This competition aims to strengthen the relationship between China and the other countries in the world.

3. Moon Fest

Moon Fest happens for a whole week to give thanks for mid-autumn’s harvest. Happening on Gerrard Street’s Chinese Gates’ main stage, Moon Fest’s main action will consist of colorful and loud Chinese music and games, together with martial arts display. This is the perfect occasion for family bonding and entertainment. Specifically, most activities are for kids like lantern-making, face-painting, storytelling sessions, and drawing. Great food, of course, will be around everywhere, so make sure you enjoy the lively streets while eating your mooncakes and dumplings!

Top 3 Places to Stay in Chinatown

As you enjoy all the food and events in Chinatown, you also need to consider the place where you can stay and relax after exploring this lively and colorful part of London. After a whole day of Going Out in London, here are some places you can consider checking out for your stay in Chinatown:

1. Radisson Blu Edwardian, Hampshire

For the best view of Leicester Square Gardens, the London Eye, and Nelson’s Column, a stay in Radisson Blu Edwardian, Hampshire will surely complete your trip to Chinatown, London. The hotel’s terrific facilities, which can accommodate up to a group of 120 people, can provide you with everything you need in a very luxurious way. A recommended room you can book is the hotel's spectacular square-facing rooms or suites which will give you a feeling of royalty feeling like you are floating above Leicester Square. Of course, the food in this hotel is commendable as well as you devour your fabulous meals with a spectacular view of the city.

2. W London Leicester Square

If you are the kind of person who wants to stray away from anything conventional and traditional, the W London Leicester Square is the perfect place for you. With a daring contrast of colours, themes, and characters, this place will surely make you feel alive. There is nothing impossible with the hotel with their signature Whatever/Whenever® service philosophy. People who have stayed in this hotel said that the place has a funky ambiance, something that will make every visitor feel young and groovy. The relaxing atmosphere, coupled with the hotel’s friendly staff, makes visitors come back to this beautiful hotel during their visits.

3. St. Martin’s Lane

The design of the hotel is influenced by a number of things, and the final design surely contributes to the magnificence of the place along with its perfect location – at the Covent Garden’s hub, Trafalgar Square, and West end theatres. Giving guests a light atmosphere, a magnificent view of central London can be appreciated from this hotel. There are private garden rooms and suites which guests can choose from, and some special garden rooms even have private patios where guests can really relax and meditate during their stay before or after exploring the lively and loud streets of Chinatown.

There are a lot to do and explore in Chinatown, so this is really a must-see place if you plan to visit London. Checking this place out will not only give you more than a hundred Instagram-worthy pictures, but this will also give you knowledge on the rich Asian culture.

Cornwall is certainly a majestic haven for people who simply like to eat and enjoy a variety of food selections.  Being a giddy mix of the coast and the countryside, Cornwall has a lot of seafood dishes and meat pasties to offer. Located several hours away from London, the breathtaking city of Cornwall offers a unique experience of historical and scenic locations, appetizing food, refreshing drinks, and exhilarating activities.

Visit Well-Known Restaurants in Cornwall

There are a variety of places to eat whilst in Going Out in Cornwall. First on the list is Padstow’s The Seafood Restaurant which has gained popularity among tourists and locals. In 1975, TV chef Rick Stein and his then-wife,Jill, launched this restaurant to serve fish and shellfish to people buying freshly-caught seafood from local fishermen. Although Stein is not working in the kitchen now, the restaurant is still highly favored with head chef Stephane Delourme’s menu which takes inspiration from the recipes of Stein. Among the restaurant’s highlights are hake casserole, Padstow lobster, fruit-de-mer, and Indonesian fish curry. Make sure to reserve your seat since the restaurant can get busy with a long line of patrons.

Another restaurant that deserves your visit is Ben’s Cornish Kitchen. As one of the local and national press’ favourites, It has earned remarkable reviews with its amazing family-run setup. The head chef, Ben Prior, manages the restaurant’s operations with Toby, his brother, who heads the dessert counter. Their mum, Jane, washes up and preps dishes. The notable dishes in this restaurant include smoked venison loin, sweet-curry plate, sea bass with smoked garlic mash, and pan-fried turbot.

Third on the list is Kota Restaurant which can be found on Porthleven. The restaurant is known to serve dishes with influence and dash of flavors from other countries. Since the chef and owner, Jude Kereama, is half-Maori, quarter-Malaysian, and quarter-Chinese, her culinary creations boast of her Asian heritage along with the delicious and fresh ingredients from Cornwall. Among the restaurant’s top-notch dishes are roast hake with crab wontons, Cornish honey-soy duck leg with Asian greens, and Falmouth scallops with local pork.

Explore the Trail of Pubs and Bars in Cornwall

The United Kingdom, in general, is known for the pubs and inns that have flourished since their establishment during the Roman times. A lot of these pubs are located in Cornwall, and as you visit this historic city, make sure to have a taste of the sundry drinks that each pub has to offer.

By looking at the outer part of Blue Anchor in the town centre of Helston, one might think that this is just an ordinary pub. But as the saying goes, “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” Blue Anchor is the home of the extraordinary and most feared ales in Cornwall – the Spingo. There are levels to how strong this type of ale can be, so be sure to ascertain your tolerance before giving this legendary drink a shot.

Another pub you can visit in Cornwall is The Admiral Benbow in Penzance. Not many people will describe this place as the best pub in the area, but this will surely leave an impression. This place might remind you of museums with its quirky maritime decors and interior. The food in this pub is also commendable in combination with their beer. A few steps away from The Admiral Benbow is the Turk’s Head which takes pride in its own assortment of food and drinks.

Tinner Arms, which dates back to the 13th century, is another must-visit in Cornwall. Having withstood the test of time, this Grade II listed pub mirrors the city’s ancient period. This is a cozy bar, so you will never go wrong visiting this place during your stay in Cornwall.

From bars at the beach to sophisticated cocktail bars, Cornwall has everything for you. One of the busiest bars in the area is Blue Peter where you can enjoy your drink at the beer garden and have a stunning view of the sea. On most days, the bar’s sweet, live music sets a perfect ambience.

If you’re into more adventure, you can always head to the Sloop Inn for some pirate-y vibes. Its atmosphere guarantees many locals and guests relaxation and delight with the city’s best beer and affordable food.

From busy and laughter-filled bars, you can always head to a comfortable and classy establishment whilst Going Out in Cornwall. One of the best ones is the Old Coastguard where you can enjoy the Cornish sunshine as you sip your exquisite wine. The various dishes in this place are all made from local ingredients, offering visitors nothing but the best among the restaurants in the area.

The Watering Hole is deemed one of the best bars to visit in Cornwall. Located in Perranporth, this is the one and only bar that is actually on the beach in the whole United Kingdom. Undoubtedly, it is a favorite spot among all places in Cornwall, well-loved by locals and tourists, especially when the sun’s about to set to make way into the night. You can enjoy watching the magical sunset while sipping your beer and covering your feet in sand. The bar also allows visitors to take a dip in the water.

Go Strolling around Cornwall

If you’re staying in Cornwall for another couple of days, there are a lot of other things you can do in this wonderful city to make your stay fun, exciting, and worthwhile.

For one, you can explore the stunning coast of Cornwall by going to the Swim Wild Tribe where swimming sessions are offered by private or by group of up to five people. This is a nice way to unwind and meet people who share the same interests. Your safety is a priority as experienced and qualified instructors run and oversee the sessions.

For land adventures, you can always look for historic or remarkable places to check out in Cornwall. The city has a lot, so you have a broad span of options to consider and choose from. One specific attraction you can check out is the Eden Project. This area is considered as the world’s largest indoor rainforest with its wide variety of plants.

If you’re more of a history buff, there are a lot of castles and museums you can visit in Cornwall. The King Arthur tour is an ideal way to learn about the ancient monarch. After the tour, you will surely have a load of legends and stories to share with your friends.

You really do not need to spend a lot of traveling time when you can go to Cornwall instead. Whether you fancy a bite to eat in one of the Restaurants in Newquay or if you want the sun, beach, drinks, food, and exciting activities, Cornwall is one of the best places for a trip.