Two of Birmingham’s most renowned drinking spots have been awarded 2 Pins, an accolade similar to that of Michelin Stars for restaurants.

Handed out by the prestigious Pinnacle Guide, the Pin system has become a globally recognised marker of excellence across the drinks industry.

Both Passing Fancies, which recently unveiled its brand-new premises in the Jewellery Quarter, and Stirchley neighbourhood favourite, Couch, were recognised with the coveted double Pin rating. The intimate, Izakaya-inspired Lucky7 also retained its Pin in the latest round of rankings.

 

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To be included in The Pinnacle Guide, bars can go through a self-application process before undergoing rigorous assessment modules, followed by a series of spot-check interviews and anonymous in-bar reviews. 1 Pin signifies ‘Excellent’, 2 pins ‘Outstanding ‘, and 3 pins to ‘Exceptional’ cocktail bars.

Venues are assessed on several factors, including:

• Front-of-house
• Drinks programme
• Venue look and feel
• Staff management
• Operations
• Community

Taking to Instagram to share the news, the Couch team wrote: “We are completely over the moon to gain our shiny new pin. It means the world to our little neighbourhood spot, our community, and all our wonderful regulars — thank you for helping put Stirchley + Birmingham on the map, once again.”

You can read more about The Pinnacle Guide here.