Birmingham is one of the biggest hubs of nightlife, but is also home to cocktail bars and classy hangouts galore. Because I truly believe I’m Blake Lively in A Simple Favor with a gin martini (or just Blake lively in general) I love a cocktail bar and a glass of something sophisticated (shaken not stirred). Going to a cocktail bar is the perfect place to celebrate any occasion, catch up with a friend or have pre-drinks before a night out.
In Birmingham there’s a plethora of cocktail bars and since turning 18, I’ve sampled my fair share of Bellinis and cosmopolitans. Here’s a few of the best places to go in Birmingham for a drink:
Slug and Lettuce
What a classic. With their open star martini trees and lively Saturday night dance floor, Slug and Lettuce is the obvious pre-drinks place on a Friday and Saturday night. I love the vibe in Slug and Lettuce and they have a great range of cocktails for everyone.
All Bar One
All Bar One is a great place to relax, with a big food and drinks menu, classic cocktails and nibbles and a large space so you’re more than likely to be able to find a table. I really like this as a summer afternoon drinking and chilling place .
Pitcher and Piano
I’ve only been here once but one of the really nice things about this place is the outdoor seating which is really nice for a summer drink. They do a great range of cocktails. I would say this is a more adult bar than students as the demographic seem to be slightly older especially on a weekend. But I will say I was living for the tunes in this bar.
Dirty Martini
Located on Bennetts hill, Dirty Martini is the home of the Insta-worthy angel wings. Every girl in Birmingham has had a photo here and I think that’s why many people go. Not one of my favourites but a decent bar with a great happy hour in the week.
This is probably my favourite place for a casual meal and drink. Great food and drinks, great customer service and every single time I’ve been there the staff have been great and helpful. Cosmos aren’t on their drinks menu but the staff are happy to make them for me which I think is really great. I am such a repeat customer there as the food is delicious and it just has a great vibe.
Aluna
I’d say this is my favourite on the list as the drinks are so theatrical and fun. I’d say completely worth the price, as a small bar it’s quite cosy with mood lighting. I’ve had a great experience every time I’ve been here as I always order the biggest drink with the most dry ice and bubbles (yes, I’m a complete child).
Bar Estilo
Tapas, tapas, tapas. My favourite place for evening tapas and a cosmopolitan. Great vibe and even better bar. I’d say this is a go-to place in The Mailbox, if all else fails sitting by the bar here constitutes a great night.
Harvey Nichols
This place is very classy and I’d suggest it for an occasion like a birthday for a relaxed drink when you want to get all dressed up. Prosecco and wine galore and beautiful opulent decor, Harvey Nichols I’d say falls into the posh bracket.
As previously mentioned on the UCB blog, due to the fact we were invited to the launch event – we had a great time here with great food and cocktails. I’m keeping my eye out for lots more foodie events here!
So any more venues I’ve missed out or should try? Feel free to comment or tweet us at @UCBloggers or message us on Instagram @UCBloggers. Lots to check out on our Insta page as well, so get following!
R.B