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Sian Victoria © - Ana Rocha Bar & Gallery Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham

Jewellery Quarter's Top Hidden Gems for Indie Drinks & Live Music

The Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham is a great place to escape the bustling city centre and enjoy some delicious cocktails. Amongst historic buildings of the West Midlands and traditional shops, you'll find a collection of independent cocktail bars that offer unique and intimate experiences.

From trendy speakeasies to elegant lounges, each bar has its charm and character, making it a perfect spot for a fun night out with friends or a romantic date. As a resident, I've explored this area and discovered some brilliant bars that offer a refreshing break from the busy city.

So, join me on a bar crawl to discover some great cocktail bars in Birmingham that are hidden gems in the Jewellery Quarter.

1. 40 St Paul's

One such bar is 40 St Paul's, it's a popular port of call for gin enthusiasts, with a collection of over 140 gins and an intimate setting that accommodates a maximum of 24 guests, creating an exclusive and laid-back drinking atmosphere. The personalised service and warmth of the establishment make it a connoisseur's delight. In 2019, they were named the World's Best Gin Bar, a testament to their unwavering commitment.

40 St Paul's is famous for its gin tastings, which offer an educational journey through the history of gin, paired with Fevertree Tonic. The tastings start at £40 per person, and locals love them. Additionally, the establishment offers Gin, Cheese, & Chocolate events, which pair the intricate flavours of gin with award-winning cheeses and handmade chocolate truffles, making it a complete indulgence for any foodie.

This award-winning drink place located near the 1000 Trades kitchen is not just another great bar but a destination that immerses you in a trip through Birmingham's best gin concoctions.

2. Acapella

Acapella is the latest addition to Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, offering a refreshing mix of live music and delicious cocktails on Frederick Street. As someone who frequently explores the vibrant nightlife scene in Birmingham, discovering Acapella was a pleasant surprise. The venue boasts a perfect blend of comfort and style, featuring cosy leather booths and ornate frames that adorn the walls, creating a welcoming and intriguing atmosphere.

Acapella is not just any bar; it's a cultural hotspot, showcasing an eclectic mix of Acoustic, Jazz, Soul, and Blues. The live music is performed by exceptionally talented local artists, adding a soulful vibe to every visit, making it an unforgettable experience. The reasonably priced cocktails starting from £6.95, such as the Purple Rain and Glam Slam, are as creative as the musicians that grace the stage, ensuring an enjoyable evening.

In addition to its spacious interior, Acapella offers outdoor seating, making it an ideal venue for parties in Birmingham. The vibe here brings together the best of Birmingham's musical talent and expertly crafted cocktails. Whether you're a music enthusiast or a cocktail connoisseur, this bar is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique night out in Birmingham.

3. The Pig & Tail

The Pig & Tail reimagines the traditional British pub with a modern twist. My first visit was a brief encounter, but the lively ambience and diverse clientele quickly made it a favourite spot. The restaurant boasts a chic, contemporary interior, complemented by an open-air seating area ideal for alfresco food and drinks in Birmingham.

One thing that caught me by surprise is that the establishment is committed to sustainability, sourcing renewable electricity and local suppliers to reduce their environmental impact. Something you don’t usually expect from a historical pub in Birmingham.

The menu offers an exciting selection of British small plates, expertly paired with an extensive variety of craft beers and inventive cocktails. Whether you visit to enjoy brunch in Birmingham or a late-night snack, the exceptional quality and originality of the food and drink are undeniable.

What sets The Pig & Tail apart is its community feel, where both regulars and newcomers can come together to unwind over a beverage, a hearty meal, or even just a coffee. The attentive service fosters a welcoming atmosphere from the very first visit.

So, if you're seeking a relaxed hangout in Birmingham with exceptional food and drink and an eco-conscious approach, The Pig & Tail should be at the top of your list of places to check out. As a lover of all thing’s heritage in the West Midlands, you’re bound to love the rustic décor and large paned glass windows that greet you as you step inside.

4. Lucky7

Lucky7 is a new bar that draws inspiration from East Asian culture and has the atmosphere of an Izakaya. The bar is adorned with unique decorations that transport visitors to Tokyo, and it offers a unique Sakura Whisky Tasting experience featuring a curated selection of cherry blossom cask Japanese whiskies.

The venue is cosy with dim lighting, a back street of Japan vibe, and an infectious energy that makes for a memorable night. The cocktails served at Lucky7 are not just drinks, but crafted experiences that match the bar's distinctive setting.

It is an intimate spot that shows Birmingham's independent scene and diverse spirit, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique night out.

Sian Victoria © - Ana Rocha Bar, Birmingham food bloggers

5. Ana Rocha Bar & Gallery

Ana Rocha Bar & Gallery is an independent Spanish tapas restaurant in Birmingham. It is a great place for those who appreciate excellent food, exquisite cocktails, and fine wines. What sets this venue apart from the rest is the extensive collection of fine art and antiques that are available for purchase, providing a feast for the eyes and the palate.

As visitors step down the red carpet and into the white hallway adorned with paintings, they can't help but feel a sense of anticipation. Walking into the main room, surrounded by beautiful antique furniture, stunning pieces of art, and the flickering of ornate candles, is truly an experience.

Recently opened, Ana Rocha Bar & Gallery was the perfect venue for the Birmingham Bloggers meet-up hosted by The Ting Thing. Over 50 food bloggers from the West Midlands arrived, name tags in hand, ready to indulge in their passion for food and mingle with like-minded individuals.

After exchanging pleasantries with fellow bloggers, the main event began where we snapped photos of delectable food, tweeting about it, and finally indulging in its deliciousness. To access the complimentary food on offer we had to tweet about it first, leading to the trending of #bbxanarocha on local social media platforms, indicating the great success of the evening.

While I and other content creators found the purple lighting not very camera-friendly, the cold and hot tapas served at Ana Rocha Bar & Gallery were delicious, leaving our taste buds satisfied.

Overall, Ana Rocha Bar & Gallery is a hidden gem in Birmingham, offering a unique and intriguing dining experience surrounded by a collection of fascinating antiques and art pieces. It's a place where you can enjoy great food, drink, and conversation in a setting that's second to none.

Taken by Ana Rocha Bar & Gallery, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham

To conclude

As my tour through Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter ends, I hope you have discovered some remarkable spots that capture the city's lively cocktail scene. Each venue, from the cosy gin retreat of 40 St Paul's to the rhythmic atmosphere of Acapella, presents a distinctive aspect of Birmingham's diverse appeal.

Whether seeking a refined evening indulging in exceptional whiskies at Lucky7 or a carefree night out at The Pig & Tail, these locales offer something for all tastes. Beyond their label as mere bars, these hidden gems provide immersive experiences that enhance my appreciation for what sets Birmingham apart as a uniquely welcoming destination.

*SHOP THE POST

Take your love of cocktails beyond the Jewellery Quarter! Deepen your mixology skills with a cocktail masterclass experience, then whip up your creations using a top-notch cocktail-making set. Stock your bar knowledge with a comprehensive cocktail recipe book, and for a taste of fizz, nibbles, and fun, try a bottomless drink experience.