Little Laxford

Over the years, this smart roadside hostelry has evolved into a proper dining destination. The on-site ‘micro farm’ provides many of the top-drawer ingredients on the menu, while trusted local producers supply the rest. All of them are treated with a skilled, detailed approach by Chef Liam Dillon and his team, resulting in the likes of tender Staffordshire venison with smoked beetroot or Amalfi lemon parfait with their own fragrant honey. The whole experience is elevated by smooth, engaging service and dish descriptions from the chefs.

With its dark and moody colour scheme, informal vibe and rocking soundtrack, this excellently run restaurant brings something a little different to the Birmingham food scene. Chef Alex Claridge is known for the originality of his cooking, which is always underpinned by superb ingredients (often aged in-house) and clever balancing of both flavours and textures. Stand-out dishes could include a take on brioche bread and butter pudding with barbecued brassicas, or a delicate dessert of smoked chocolate and prunes. Accompany your menu with either an interesting wine flight or creative non-alcoholi

‘All flavour, no pomp’ is the tagline at this relaxed, warmly run restaurant – and that’s exactly what you’ll get. Sit in the boldly decorated first floor restaurant or book a seat at the chefs table to be close to the action. Attractively presented modern dishes are sure to satisfy.

Chef Glynn Purnell brings all of his experience to bear on this restaurant in a newer part of the city surrounded by gleaming skyscrapers. The fluid menu is overflowing with appealing snacks, small plates and sharing platters, starting with the signature Trillium milk loaf with malt vinegar and chicken fat, followed by the likes of juicy Tamworth pork chop with a light salsa verde and full-toned manchego. The well-versed team are happy to make recommendations, while the impressive wine list offers variety and depth of quality.

The Great Western Arcade in the heart of the city is home to this intimate restaurant, where the chefs harness the power of plants for their creative vegetarian dishes. There's an original streak running through the seasonally evolving set menu – which is largely vegan – alongside a scattering of pan-Asian influences ranging from carrot char sui to sake lees, all executed with care and skill by the chefs. Wine flights are available to enhance the experience and the friendly service team will see to your every need.

Located inside a historic former custard factory, this strikingly designed restaurant is dripping in punkish spirit. The music is turned up loud, the walls are covered in graffiti and the monochrome palette ensures there's a sense of style throughout. In the kitchen, the chefs often go in a similarly idiosyncratic direction, offering a daily tasting menu full of creative, playful dishes with intriguing flavour combinations and contrasts in textures and temperatures. The concise wine list includes a pleasingly strong choice by the glass.

Situated in the city's Jewellery Quarter, this smart restaurant is decked out in minimalist-chic style, with neutral tones and pot plants adding a soothing touch. It's run largely by a two-person team: Ben is in the kitchen and the warm, genial Lucy is out front. The cooking, like the interior design, is modern in its approach and allows Ben’s personality to shine through in the flavours and presentation. His short and long tasting menus change with the seasons and the lunchtime option offers value for money.