With the Commonwealth Games bringing in a wealth of fresh faces to the city as well multiple large investments into improving the city’s infrastructure and its general aesthetic appeal, there’s never been a better time to be setting up shop in the Second City. With that, comes a string of new businesses that are set to open or have recently opened – here’s a few of our favourite new businesses including new restaurants, bars and clothes stores.
1. Passing Fancies
A new cocktail bar is set to open in Digbeth’s Custard Factory. Passing Fancies, which promises ‘approachable luxury’, will be joining Digbeth’s thriving nightlife scene. The bar plans to avoid any notable theme and will constantly update its menu to keep things fresh and exciting, following an idea of ‘creativity out of love’.
2. Fat Hippo
A brand new specialty burger restaurant, Fat Hippo, opened up on Bennett’s Hill last month. The independent burger chain, which already has stores in Cardiff, Nottingham, Newcastle, Leeds, Liverpool & Durham, has made its debut in our city.
Described as “good old fashioned, roll up your sleeves and get it all over your face” food, Fat Hippo offer some of the most obscene yet fantastic looking burgers including the ‘4×4’, a four-patty beef burger with American cheese, smoked bacon and Fat Hippo sauce. Their chicken burgers include the ‘Hangover III’ with buttermilk chicken, American cheese, smoked bacon, lettuce, pickles, BBQ sauce and rank dressing.
3. Wellgosh
A brand new athletic-inspired clothing store is opening on Cannon Street. Having expanded from its home in Leicester, this is the third store that’s set to open from the clothing company following their sophomore launch in Nottingham. Wellgosh offer all of the biggest brands in urban streetwear covering everything from New Balance and Adidas to Carhartt WIP and Vans.
4. Vinoteca
Birmingham’s biggest, brand new wine bar Vinoteca opened in Chamberlain Square on Monday 18th July. With seating for up to 150 customers and a quaint outdoor spot for drinks by the Chamberlain fountain in the summer sun it’s certainly one to try! They also offer British dishes with a European twist which can be enjoyed at the bar or at your table.
5. Schooner’s Bar
A new craft bar is set to open on York Road, with Schooner’s offering a taste of only-locally sourced products, late night food and hopes of live music on weekends. With so many great local businesses set up on the bustling Kings Heath street we’re sure Schooner’s will have a warm welcome to the community.
Which new businesses are you keen to try? Are there any we’ve missed?