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.