Restaurant · Birmingham
Pie done properly, in a city-centre spot near the town hall — small, maybe fifty covers, so it's worth booking if you're heading to a show afterwards. Buggy access, high chairs and a kids' menu are all sorted, and food arrives fast, which matters when someone's past the point of waiting. The Mothership deal (pie, mash, minted peas, crispy onions, gravy, around £14) is the one to get; the Deer & Beer venison pie draws particular praise, and there's a gluten-free menu too. Two honest snags: service can drift once your plates land, so flag drinks early, and a 10% service charge goes on automatically — removable, but you'll be asked. Portions read as satisfying rather than enormous. One parent found it "just the place to warm up and fill up" on a cold day.
A little something creative for your next meal out. Filled with colouring, simple drawing prompts for cute animals, origami and conversation starters designed to bring more play, laughter and connection to the table. 3 free printable packs for toddlers, preschoolers and primary-aged children.
Michelin-starred tasting menus in Birmingham, warm rather than stiff, with a kids' menu and high chairs — a proper special-occasion dinner.
Roomy, polished craft beer pub with a kids' menu and fast food — calm at lunch, packed and noisy later.
Fast, generous peri-peri in the city centre — kids' menu, high chairs, pram-friendly room and staff who ask about allergies unprompted.