Byzantium — Restaurant in Birmingham

Ok, since everyone has mentioned the good things about here, then I'll talk about the bad things:

I believe that 8 months ago this place was actually quite good with a large selection of tapas with large portions and great flavours. However, now I'd have to disagree. The menus are falling apart which leads me to believe that they've taken out some of the options. Currently there aren't many available, probably about 20.

As for the food, the flatbread starter was hand made, but way too salty making it rather unappetising. The selection of tapas ordered, however, lacked seasonings such as salt, namely the lamb skewers and the other dishes were rather plain as well. However they were cooked well enough that they weren't raw or burnt.

As for the cost, well your bank account will suffer from this, since each tapas costs £7-9. Since they recommend 2-3 tapas per person, a family of 4 night end up paying around £70, and for the food your getting, it isn't worth that money. My expenditure here ended up at £50, and I had ordered only 5 tapas with water to save money. For example, a single, small cut of salmon cost £9.

Furthermore, the atmosphere which may seem niche and comfortable, isn't really. The tables are small and clumped up closely, with wooden chairs that hurt after 30 mins.

However, the service was exceptional with only a 10 min wait.

Overall, if your looking for a local bite to eat and cost isn't a concern, you might end up here, but if your tight on cash, I would...

In theory full of promise in practice disappointing experience. Being Greek the name Byzantium brings a sense of nostalgia and as its local we thought we give it a try. Firstly we made an online boking and they couldnt find it. The seating uncomfortable, the paintings on the wall tilted, the door hanging from the weight and you need to man handle it to open it. The food, at best average and I mean at best and we tried amost the entire menu. Tiny portions lacking flavour and seasoning. The chicken and lamb skewers were so thin almost identical with the skewer stick in width, never seen that before and because they were so thin they arrived cold. I mean I understand they need to make money but... The fish bites didnt have any fish, calamari and prawns are not fish. Can't recommend a single dish maybe the patatas bravas but even those were full of sugar. Half hearted effort by the cook cause it definetly wasnt a chef, in conclusion not for foodies. Won't be going again and its a shame cause we want to support the locals. I am a big spender when it comes to food but 2 adults and a 6 year old £100 with the tip, felt like day-light robbery...

*Update, 2nd visit 6th July * Food was as good second time round, there was a minor problem with some cold halloumi but was removed from our bill. We absolutely loved our visit on valentines day. My wife is vegetarian and was so excited to see the list of options for small plates/ tapas. The standard tapas items are good, but the more Mediterranean /middle Eastern style food was amazing!

Flat breads and dips to start are a must. The halloumi in honey and sesame seeds is so moreish. Meet balls were excellent, as were the courgette fritters.

Plates are £8 - £10 each, and I'd recommend saving up so you can order more than you need and try a bit of what you fancy.

Will...