I confess I have lost track of how many bars and restaurants have opened in Birmingham lately. And this is a positive thing, I guess. We’re constantly surprised by amazing options to go out for a casual drink or two. You go, Brum!
That was the case when I visited The Distillery for the first time a couple of weeks ago. The pub, bar and micro-distillery are placed in a gorgeous red brick building by the canal side, next to Brindley Place. Excellent excuse for drinking before or after a gig at Barclaycard Arena.
This building was used for many businesses in the past, but it seems that space now has found its character. And I am glad they preserved the features of this typical canal side construction that probably was a factory during the Industrial Revolution times.
And the pub is yet more impressive inside. Besides two floors, The Distillery also has a courtyard. I had a table booked in the dining area; a spacious lounge with an open kitchen and a magnificent large window revealing a pleasant view of its courtyard in a summer afternoon.
I scrolled down the gin cocktails menu before being served and the Rhubarb & Rose Hip Coup looked like a dream coming true. And it was indeed. As a rhubarb maniac myself, I thought quite soft the combination of Tanqueray gin, Campari, lemon juice, rose hip cordial and violas composed this classic drink. Beautiful to taste and to appreciate. I could go for more than one or two like this easily.
As soon as my friend arrived, we were ready for food. I went for the Bavette Steak served with chimichurri, gem, mint & radish salad, and fries. I am not a big fan of radish but the salad was good. As well as the steak was tender, and hot and the chimichurri was delicious.
Before adventuring myself in more gin cocktails, I accepted the suggestions of the staff and tried the Corpse Reviver #2. My biggest fear was facing the Absinthe added to it. But I can tell it wasn’t as strong as I had expected. There was nothing to fear about it! To be honest, gin & absinthe make a perfect pair and this classic drink got me. It is refined.
Pudding time was on the way with an irresistible Sticky toffee pudding sundae, brown butter & pecan ice cream. This is a perfect choice for the sweet tooth ones. Not my case. Tasty and rich as it is supposed to be. But I loved the pecan ice cream more though. And I can repeat it on any other sunny day.
During the night, I got my eyes (accidentally) on other people’s tables (sorry about that!), which made me quite interested in trying some pizza the next time I visit the place. They look and smell delicious and nobody can resist a wood-fired pizza.
The extensive gin list seems to be another reason to research more about this fine spirit at The Distillery.
I heard that The Distillery will have a School of Gin for those interested in learning a bit more about the art of dealing with botanicals. I want to hear more about it!
My last gin drink of the night was the Bramble made of Plymouth gin, crème de mure liqueur, lime and sugar syrup. Another classic from the 80’s.
The Distillery, 4 Sheepcote Street, Birmingham, B16 8AE
Disclaimer: This post is not affiliated with the company mentioned and I paid for my food. All words about food and drinks are part of an honest review about the business and the photos are also mine. <3
