When it comes to Asian sweets, my expertise was largely limited to seeing how many syrupy gulab jamun I could enjoy before my dentist intervened. Eager to broaden my sweet palate, I headed to Small Heath, where Ambala Bakery has been delighting taste buds for decades.
A trusted friend told me, “If someone comes with an Ambala box, you know it’s going to be good.” That reputation alone was reason enough to explore. Upon arrival, store supervisor Mohamad Afroze warmly welcomed us. Having moved from India to Birmingham four years prior solely to work here, he was passionate about sharing Ambala’s delicious offerings.
The bakery boasts freshly baked samosas, still warm and generously stuffed. Nearby, paneer-stuffed spring rolls and crispy pakora tempt shoppers, while the sweet counter dazzles with an array of colourful treats. From delicate rose chum chum and trendy Dubai chocolate barfi to the bakery’s famed habshi halwa, the selection spans classic family favourites and Instagram-ready morsels.
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Ambala’s story began in London in 1964, founded by Mohammed Ali Khan, and by 1968 it was already expanding. The Coventry Road branch has served the Birmingham community for nearly 30 years, building a loyal following thanks to its consistent quality and tradition.
Customers flock here to pick up mithai for birthdays, newborn celebrations, Eid gatherings, and Diwali family dinners. Many, like us, also stop by for a casual snack in the welcoming shop.
The samosas are a meal in themselves, priced at £1.50 each and packed with flavourful filling. The sweets offer a delightful range—from the subtle sweetness of habshi halwa to gulab jamun dripping with syrup, satisfying all taste preferences.
In a city where culinary tastes and businesses evolve rapidly, Ambala continues to thrive, especially after being acquired by Cake Box in 2025, ensuring the bakery’s place remains secure. Its reach now extends beyond Small Heath, with branches on Coventry and Stratford Roads in Birmingham, plus locations in Sutton Coldfield, Walsall, and Coventry.
Every family cherishes their top spots for mithai, and I’m eager to hear yours. Where else can we find exquisite samosas or unforgettable sweets? Get in touch at [email protected]!