Finding excellent fish and chips right in Birmingham city centre by night may seem like a simple task, but it’s surprisingly challenging. While the suburbs boast top-notch chippies that make Friday nights memorable, the heart of the city has few standalone options.
Apart from Awesome Chips on Bull Street, serving fresh cones until 10pm, and Cafe Neo near the Bullring, open until 2:30pm, there really isn’t much dedicated fish and chip shops to mention in the centre. Instead, the best fish suppers often come from local pubs.
If you trust online reviews, your best bet is to head underground beneath New Street to Bacchus—a truly unique and beloved Birmingham pub. Located under the Burlington Hotel on New Street, Bacchus feels like stepping into a Harry Potter tale, with painted frescos and suits of armour creating a distinctive atmosphere. The limited phone signal also means a peaceful dining experience, free from distractions.
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Bacchus is part of the Nicholsons pub family and takes its fish and chips seriously. The haddock is dipped in a batter made with their own pale ale and paired with chunky chips, mushy peas, and tartare sauce. For those who like it spicy, curry sauce is available as an extra.
Though the fish and chips cost £19.50—steeper than your typical chippy—the pub offers online deals that can include free drinks, bringing the value closer to what you’d expect at a traditional fish and chip shop.
Satisfied customers rave about Bacchus. TripAdvisor reviewer Nina W wrote: “Best food in Birmingham! Every time I visit Birmingham, I come here. Best pies, fish and chips, even salads—high quality food. Plus the cocktails are fab. The staff are super friendly and fun. Oh yeah, the establishment has good vibes, really cozy.”
Martin Russell chimed in: “I can’t recommend this place highly enough. Great food, great beer, and excellent service. The fish and chips in particular are superb. We have visited twice recently and the icing on the cake has to be the excellent service.”
For a fish and chips experience unlike any other in the city centre, head down to Bacchus at Burlington Arcade, New Street, Birmingham, B2 4JH.