Pho Birmingham

Pho Birmingham occupies the first floor of Grand Central, a contemporary food hall near New Street Station. The space has a hip, trendy feel with wooden tables, benches and cosy blankets. Everything is made fresh daily, including bone broth simmered for 12 hours. Specialties include signature phở noodle soups, Thai-style curries with king prawns and broken rice, wok-fried noodles, chargrilled rice bowls and fresh salads. Try the spring rolls with peanut or nước chấm dipping sauce, or summer rolls with shrimp and herbs. Over a third of the extensive menu is vegan; nearly everything is gluten-free and Coeliac UK accredited. Starters like prawn crackers come complimentary. They offer healthy fresh juices, craft cocktails (including spicy lychee margarita), wine and beer. Order at the counter or book ahead for busier times.

Eat Vietnam

Eat Vietnam opened as a pop-up in 2017 before finding its permanent home in a converted greasy spoon café on Stirchley High Street. The restaurant is owned by Ming Nham, who grew up in Vietnam and arrived in Birmingham as a child. The menu changes weekly based on fresh ingredient availability and specialises in short, reasonably priced dishes that combine traditional Vietnamese flavours with modern creative twists. Signature items include turmeric fried fish with jasmine rice, barbecued pork curries, marmite and peanut butter chicken wings, and salt and pepper tofu. Many dishes work for vegetarian and vegan diets, with clearly labelled options. Desserts are locally made by Odi and Moo, and the drinks list features organic and low-intervention wines alongside craft beers from local Birmingham Brewing Company, particularly their EVN Yuzu lager. The restaurant operates a reservation system with timed slots, though walk-ins are accommodated when possible. Expect a small, buzzy space with simple seating, an open kitchen, and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.