Box Office Now Open for the Allergy & Free From Show 2026 Taking Place for the First Time at the NEC Birmingham

The Allergy & Free From Show is thrilled to announce the official opening of its box office for its landmark 2026 edition, taking place 9–10 May at the NEC Birmingham.

To celebrate the first edition at the NEC Birmingham, the first 500 visitors can benefit from free tickets using the code AFF26.

This will be the show's first-ever edition at the NEC Birmingham, following an overwhelmingly positive response from visitors calling for a more central, national event. The move marks an exciting new era for the UK's biggest celebration of free-from living.

In excess of 150 allergy-free and free-from brands will be exhibiting at the 2026 event, spanning food & drink, skincare, health, wellbeing, and women's health. 

Visitors will have the opportunity to sample products, discover innovations, and connect directly with experts, advocates, and leading voices from across the entire sector.

Returning for 2026 is the Inspiration Stage, sponsored by Koko Dairy Free, featuring an absolutely unmissable line-up of speakers including Becky Excell, best-selling author and the Queen of Gluten Free, and Becky Adlington OBE, GB Olympic swimmer and coeliac advocate. Both will share empowering insights and guidance for living well with allergies and intolerances.

The show will also welcome the return of The Kitchen, hosting an action-packed schedule of live demos and fresh recipe ideas; and the Balmonds Skin Hub, offering visitors a hands-on opportunity to explore and test the latest skincare designed for sensitive and allergy-prone skin.

Exciting New Additions for 2026

The Hormone Health Hub, sponsored by Arla Cultura, will deliver practical sessions and expert advice on hormonal health and wellbeing giving attendees key insights and valuable takeaways.

The Health & Wellness Zone is a brand-new area showcasing leading wellness brands and breakthrough startups for visitors to meet, sample, and learn from.

“We couldn't be more excited to open the box office for what will be our most accessible and ambitious show yet,” Annie Bennett, Event Director, The Allergy & Free From Show, told That's Food and Drink. 

“Our move to the NEC Birmingham reflects the overwhelming feedback we've received from our community. With fantastic new features, returning favourites, and over 150 brands, 2026 is set to be a truly national celebration of living well with allergies and intolerances. We can't wait to see the community come together.”

Free tickets are limited to the first 500 using code AFF26. For more information and to register to attend, please visit www.allergyshow.co.uk

Tastes of the West Midlands: Celebrating the Rich Culinary Heritage of Birmingham, the Black Country and Beyond

The West Midlands is a region rich in cultural fusion, industrial heritage, and a deep love of hearty, flavour-packed food. 

From the bustling streets of Birmingham to the characterful towns of the Black Country, and across the wider Midlands, you'll find a table groaning with delicacies that reflect the area’s diversity, resilience and creativity.

1. The Balti – Birmingham’s Signature Dish

You simply can't talk about Birmingham's food scene without mentioning the iconic Balti curry. Invented in the city during the 1970s by Pakistani and Kashmiri chefs, the Balti is cooked quickly over a high flame and served in the steel bowl (or "balti") it was cooked in. 

The Balti Triangle – comprising Ladypool Road, Stoney Lane, and Stratford Road – remains a culinary destination for curry lovers from across the UK.

2. Faggots and Peas – Black Country Soul Food

In the Black Country, traditional fare like faggots and peas still holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of locals. Faggots are savoury meatballs made from pork offal, mixed with herbs and breadcrumbs, and smothered in onion gravy. Served with mushy peas and chips, it's comfort food at its finest.

3. Groaty Dick – The Midlands' Best-Kept Secret

This quirky-sounding dish has serious history. Groaty Dick is a slow-cooked Black Country stew made with groats (hulled oats), leeks, onions and beef – a winter warmer often enjoyed on Guy Fawkes Night. Though not as common today, it’s a reminder of the region's humble yet resourceful cooking traditions.

4. Pork Scratchings – The Proper Midlands Pub Snack

Ask any Midlands local and they'll swear by a good bag of pork scratchings. These crispy, salty bites are often made with thick pork rind and seasoned to perfection. Traditionally found in Black Country pubs, they’re now a nationwide favourite – but many say the best still come from the West Midlands.

5. Coventry Godcakes and Shrewsbury Biscuits

The sweet side of the Midlands also has its stars. Coventry Godcakes, triangular puff pastry parcels filled with mincemeat, were traditionally given by godparents to their godchildren. Meanwhile, Shrewsbury biscuits – crisp, buttery treats often flavoured with lemon zest or dried fruit – hail from the Shropshire town of the same name.

6. Birmingham Markets – A Melting Pot of Flavour

Birmingham’s Bull Ring Markets are a haven for food lovers. From Caribbean patties to Polish sausages, Punjabi samosas to artisan cheese, the markets reflect the region’s multicultural makeup. If you're a fan of trying something new, this is the place to graze.

7. Staffordshire Oatcakes – A Versatile Midlands Staple

Further afield, but still proudly part of the West Midlands identity, the Staffordshire oatcake is not to be confused with its Scottish namesake. These are soft, crepe-like savoury pancakes made with oatmeal and often stuffed with cheese, bacon, mushrooms or sausages. They're loved for breakfast or lunch – or any time, really.

8. Midlands Brewing and Cider Traditions

Let’s not forget the drinks. The West Midlands has seen a resurgence of craft breweries and traditional cider houses. Bathams, Holden’s, and Sadler’s are just a few of the Black Country’s legendary names in brewing. And if you’re out in Herefordshire or Worcestershire, expect proper scrumpy cider served in a pint jug with no frills.

Final Thoughts

The West Midlands is a region that embraces its past while celebrating innovation, and nowhere is this more apparent than on the plate. Whether you’re tucking into a spicy Balti, dipping oatcakes in brown sauce, or savouring a Godcake with your tea, you’re taking part in a rich culinary story that reflects the people, the place and the pride of this unique part of Britain.

Brum! Brum! The Great British Beer Festival returns for 2025 and will be hosted at a brand-new location

Hailed as the UK’s most popular beer festival and hosted by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), it takes place this year for the first time at Birmingham’s iconic National Exhibition Centre (NEC) from 5 to 9 August.

Leaving the UK’s capital city after a successful 34-year stint in London, the festival’s new location makes it even easier for festival goers to raise a glass and explore the many drinks on offer.

CAMRA has been running beer festivals on this scale for 50 years, with the first four-day event taking place in 1975 at Covent Garden. 

The first Great British Beer Festival was held back in 1977 at Alexandra Palace. 

With tens of thousands planning to attend, the festival – which is part of CAMRA’s mission to bring together beer-lovers – will feature in excess of 500 cask and other beers, a dedicated cider and perry bar, ‘no and low’, wine and cocktails - catering for everyone. 

These are provided from renowned UK and international breweries including St Austell Brewery, Brains Brewery, Green Duck Beer Co, Harvey’s Brewery, Greene King, Siren and Thornbridge, as well as Birmingham-based Attic Brew Co.

Campaigning since 1971, CAMRA has been the leading light in ensuring quality cask beer, cider and perry can be enjoyed in pubs across the UK, while celebrating pubs, pints and people.

Alongside its famous selection of pints, attendees will also be able to enjoy a selection of food and snacks, as well as a variety of entertainment including live music in the afternoons and evenings.

And the winner of CAMRA’s much-coveted Champion Beer of Britain competition will be unveiled at the festival, with the winning beers available at the event.

Beer and pub lovers can also join the campaign, getting involved in CAMRA’s vital work, aimed at protecting pubs, protecting pints and championing people. There is also the chance to meet brewers at the Discovery bar, learning more about beer.

For non-beer drinkers, a wide array of ‘low and no’ alcohol drinks will be on offer, along with hot and cold drinks meaning there’s something for the whole group — or the designated drivers.

Adam Gent, CAMRA's Great British Beer Festival Organiser, told That's Food and Drink: “At CAMRA, we’re proud to stand for beer drinkers and pub-goers across the UK. 

"We know that pubs are a vital social centre for many and are passionate about promoting real, good-quality beer, cider and perry."

Adam went on to say: “The Great British Beer Festival is a fantastic way to bring people together and has played a leading role for more than half a century in our successful campaigning to protect our pubs and champion cask beer.

“Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or just curious to try something new — we’ll have more than 500 drinks across a range of styles to choose from, so you’re sure to find something you love. And after a year off, we’re delighted to be bringing the festival back bigger and better than ever at the iconic NEC in Birmingham, so let's raise a glass!”

To secure your tickets to the Great British Beer Festival and stay up to date with future events and campaigns from CAMRA, visit: www.camra.org.uk

Birmingham: The Balti Capital of Britain

When it comes to diverse culinary experiences in the United Kingdom, Birmingham is a city that proudly stands out. 

Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and unique contributions to the world of gastronomy, Birmingham has earned its reputation as the Balti capital of Britain. In this blog post, we will explore the fascinating world of Birmingham's Balti cuisine and the city's impact on the culinary scene.

The Origin of Balti Cuisine

To understand Birmingham's claim to the title of the Balti capital, it's essential to know what Balti cuisine is. Balti is a style of cuisine that originated in Birmingham in the 1970s. Its roots can be traced back to the Kashmiri immigrants who settled in the city. These immigrants brought with them their culinary traditions, which were adapted and fused with influences from Pakistani and Indian cuisine.

The word "Balti" refers to the type of pan in which these dishes are cooked. Traditionally, Balti dishes are cooked in a flat-bottomed wok-like pan that gives them a distinctive flavour and texture. Balti cuisine is characterised by its use of fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and the absence of heavy sauces, allowing the natural flavours of the ingredients to shine through.

The Birmingham Balti Experience

Birmingham's Balti Triangle, located in the city's Sparkbrook, Sparkhill, and Moseley neighbourhoods, is where you'll find the heart of the Balti culture. The area is teeming with restaurants, each offering its unique take on this beloved cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned Balti enthusiast or trying it for the first time, you'll find a vast array of choices to tantalise your taste buds.

One of the most remarkable features of Balti cuisine in Birmingham is its authenticity. Restaurants in the Balti Triangle often prioritise using the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, staying true to the roots of this cuisine. Diners can expect an array of dishes, from the fiery and spicy to milder, aromatic creations, all served in the iconic Balti pan.

Signature Dishes

Birmingham's Balti cuisine boasts a diverse menu of dishes. Some of the must-try items include:

Chicken Balti: A classic choice, this dish features succulent pieces of chicken cooked in a spicy tomato-based sauce with a blend of fragrant spices.

Lamb Balti: Tender pieces of lamb are cooked in a similar fashion, with a medley of spices and herbs creating a mouthwatering experience.

Vegetarian Balti: Birmingham's Balti restaurants offer a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options, showcasing the versatility of this cuisine. Vegetables, lentils, and paneer (Indian cheese) are often featured prominently in these dishes.

Garlic Naan: To complement your Balti experience, try a freshly baked garlic naan, a type of flatbread that's perfect for sopping up the flavourful sauces.

Cultural Influence

Balti cuisine is not just about food; it's about culture and community. In Birmingham, the Balti experience is as much about the ambiance and social interaction as it is about the food. The city's diverse population and inclusive spirit have contributed to the rise of Birmingham's Balti culture, making it a unique and cherished part of the city's identity.

Birmingham, England's Balti capital, is a shining example of how cultural diversity and culinary innovation can come together to create something truly exceptional. The city's Balti cuisine reflects the rich tapestry of its history and the passion of its residents. So, if you're a food enthusiast looking to explore new flavours and experiences, Birmingham's Balti Triangle is the place to be. Come and savor the Balti experience, and you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for this unique culinary gem in the heart of the UK.

(Images courtesy of Phil Wild and Iril Kolle from Pixabay)

BBC Good Food Show

It is the BBC Good Food Show at the NEC this week, with the launch today. I will be there today.

That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas will be reporting on what is available at the Good Food Show over the next week or so.

Join the Birmingham Pudding and Desert Club

Despite the current climate of doom and gloom, the people of the Midlands - and further afield, have shown that they are determined to get their just desserts.

The Birmingham Pudding and Dessert Club launched by locally-based event and banqueting caterer Redcliffe has a waiting list for each of its events – held in the Victorian splendour of the City’s renowned Botanical Gardens.

Redcliffe Director Colin Cook said, “The Birmingham Pudding and Dessert Club has been an amazing success. Some might find this enthusiastic reaction surprising – after all we keep being told that we are all cutting back on eating out!

“This is not our experience, however. In times of recession, people need an affordable treat to cheer themselves up – and when things are going well, they want to celebrate. We provide a dazzling array of pure indulgence in the form of our delicious desserts matched by a suitable dessert wine to accompany the dish – and preceded by a tantalising main course.

“The dessert selection is different for each event and really gives our chefs the opportunity to experiment.

“One of the features of the Pudding and Dessert Club is our inimitable master of ceremonies Jason Pritchett who makes everyone feel relaxed and lose any guilt complexes that they may have!

“There is a lot of fun and enjoyment involved - and at the end of the evening, we ask our diners to vote for the best desserts and to suggest new alternatives for the next event.”

The Birmingham Pudding and Dessert Club began in 2009 and has attracted hundreds of diners more than happy to pay £24-95 for a light main course, a selection of up to 10 hand-crafted desserts and accompanying wines. Each event is normally sold out in advance. The next event takes place on Thursday 15th September.

To find out more about the Birmingham Pudding and Dessert Club, call Freephone: 0800 389 8950.

Redcliffe Catering manages events, conferences and catering at selected venues such as Birmingham’s Botanical Gardens and at its Town Hall, the Birmingham Centennial Centre and the Royal Pump Rooms in Leamington Spa. It also has a separate contract catering division with over 35 contracts around the UK. and for more information about the event and catering facilities operated by Redcliffe Catering, go to www.redcliffe.com.