Mondays off: where to go? I would recommend having a mooching at the city centre of Birmingham. It’s particularly busy but bear with me, it’s nothing compared to the madness of weekends in the second largest city of the UK.
And if autumn is sometimes inviting us to enjoy some beautiful (and cold) sunshine days outside, it’s time to explore some really nice places around. Don’t forget to take your camera out, of course.
BrindleyPlace is a particular part of the city that needs to be explored more, If possible with your camera in hands. I like the idea of having so many different types of restaurants, bars and cafes around.
Cafe Opus is one of those establishments that adds some refinement to the area. It’s the “baby” of the Opus family, which has its main restaurant at Cornwall Street and Bar Opus.
This inquisitive restaurant has received several awards and good reviews since its opening. As part of the charming Ikon Gallery, it wouldn’t be surprise me to imagine that Café Opus is a modern British cafe. And I love every bit of it.
Especially on Mondays when Ikon Gallery is closed, this cafe is still one interesting point to stop at Brindley Place. I was looking for the perfect coffee latte in town and I think Café Opus nailed it. It’s reasonably cheap as well, only £ 2.00.
And if the idea is adding a bit more flavour to your hot drink, 25p more is what you need to get some syrup sloth on it. Caramel, vanilla or hazelnuts are the options at Cafe Opus. I got hazelnut and didn’t regret any drop of it. It was delicious!
The posters of art and magazines to remind us there is a spectacular art gallery above made the scenery even better.
It was quiet enough to even take some photos of the place without looking like I was disrespecting the privacy of other customers. But that moment didn’t last too long and 10 minutes later the other tables weren’t empty anymore.
I love the atmosphere at Opus. With just one staff member serving all the customers, I have to say he was doing a very good job. Friendly and very attentive. And It’s not a surprise Cafe Opus at Ikon is a very busy establishment.
Ready to ask for some food, I noticed a meat-free Monday menu written on a huge blackboard placed on the wall in front of my table. Sorted! I chose the Lightly spiced chickpea burger with lettuce, tomato, chilli and coriander mayonnaise (£8.25).
To my surprise, this meal is served with a delicious piece of Italian bread. No soggy burger buns at Cafe Opus. And to be honest, I was quite pleased with this option. It was a small portion that really filled me up because sometimes less is more. Cafe Opus at Ikon is for those who want a complete indulgence in a modern English cuisine experience. It’s pure refinement.
Published November 6th 2014 here.
Yes, still going strong! Thanks for your comment.