Ok. I am that stereotype... Man with time to kill between journeys. No one to talk to and a few hours to wait. In need of food and not really wanting a beer... Well not a generic beer anyway. Not dressed to impress (probably a little rucsac weary).
Not a hundred percent sure of the locale, so wonder around the stunning new new New Street Station (if you are heading here from the station go for the Hill Street exit). But I am a man with time, for once, to write a review!
And then I catch sight of a sign that brings me joy (who needs the Golden Arches- not me?!) THE BREW DOG LOGO!
I suddenly know where I am like a divine intervention: it is less than three months ago that Ian and I brought Wendy and Betty (two much loved pals from Birmingham) here... And I know they have already been back with their own huddled masses since, because they were so impressed!
Firstly I get greeted like a regular! Every man and women's dream... And hell it works!
The cheerful barman with amazing tattoos (maybe they all have them), greeted me- implied he remembered me (probably my faffing over the immense selection of craft ales they have was more memorable). I knew I wanted the £8.00 burger with bacon, cream cheese, fresh lettuce, glorious mushrooms, onion, and BBQ sauce- it was recommended by another happy Yelper).
And I know I wanted a draft, displayed on an old-school 70's style cinema screen behind the bar. But I kinda panic by the sheer choice this place offers. However, a couple of supportive questions later, from the skilled barman, about what I like (just the same as last time) and I choose his suggestion: Lacerated Sky, 9.0% £4.05 for a half. This, like many of their beers is strong, to be sipped and will last you as long as more than a pint. This was decided by a small "taster" opportunity- I did not even ask, it was freely given... This bar WANTS you to enjoy the taste of good ale!
So I take a seat in a booth...and take in the place... The street art, laid back under-designed decore (wood and putty grey and metal and brick) is wonderful interesting and relaxed. This bar has effortless cool BUT it is also a bar you would feel embarrassed but not mortified-and-have-to-leave-if you dropped your drink in (if that makes sense).
It feels welcoming in Brewdog Birmingham. and, more importantly, consistently welcoming every time... ALL the staff seem genuinely happy to work here like few other places I know. And that in itself is rare and adds to the feel-goodness. And I have now been here at all times of days and night and received this content, good service. At the moment, this place is not as busy as it deserves (early lunch slot)- but it has atmosphere and a relaxed warmth... Music made me feel like squirrel or moose from supernatural, simple upbeat, feel good, guitar-drum-lyric heavy music that you can still talk over.
Gawd, going on a bit here in my desire to state just how good this place is. Right. Sprint to the finish.
Burger is amazing. Yup amazing. One of the best ever. Great flavours, nice toasted bun, generous topping. Only it is served in a chicken in a basket affair and I almost flipped my chips and bap on the table... Again I would come back even if they'd seen me do it! But maybe this is less criticism, and more about my ability to use a knife and fork. The strong craft ale hits the spot and works well (I get offered a second on tab and willingly take it with a glass of water too).
Service remains chilled and chirpy, I get work done (yes- I can actually think here, AND enjoy myself). The other "punters" are polite and relaxed (reap and ye shall, and all that...) They also chat and laugh and relax... This is a bar you come to to talk to food friends... All this culminates to make me feel so happy I stumbled across the place.
The higher strength, higher taste ales must come with a warning... Make sure you do not relax and order to the point that you pour yourself out of the place because you are going to want to go back.
So I am going to get back to my Lacerated Sky*** Knowing, not only do I want to come back here to this Brewdog, specifically in Birmingham - but that I am getting (over ?) excited about the second Brew Dog venue opening in Glasgow's Merchant City. I am hoping I am going to get this pleasure on my work's doorstep much more often and very very soon.
And know that I will be visiting here again, as I travel through... as I am sucker (and loyal) for good craft beer and food on welcoming surroundings... As with Brew Dog...
Birmingham is better for it, and you never forget your first.
***disclaimer- I just edited this from yesterday- for anyone who read version one... Told you the craft beers can be strong! read more