One of the things that makes us most proud of Birmingham, is the slew of independent shops, retailers, pubs, bars, venues, makers, restaurants and the plethora of multi-faceted unique businesses that line its streets and give our city its distinct personality and charm. And if you haven’t already had the pleasure of introduction, Independent Birmingham is the incredible organisation dedicated to bringing the very best of Birmingham’s booming independents and hidden gems to light. And that exactly what they have in store for this month’s Independent Birmingham Festival. As well as food and drink there’ll be artists, makers and live music and we’ll be moseying our way straight over to sample the creative cocktail master Rob Wood’s wares, fresh from his hit collaboration with Kaye Winwood (see here) showcasing drinks from The Wilderness, Smultronställe, The Loft and Zindiya. And after that aperftif, there’ll be plenty of help up on hand to indulge our well-whetted epicuriousity. Our personal hitlist includes (deep breath) The Warehouse Cafe, Baked In Brick, Low ’N’ Slow, Buddha Belly, Clink, Twist, Peel and Stone, Brumhaus, Dot Moth, The Chocolate Quarter, Vincent Van Doodle and Pin Game, but we suggest you make like an urban forager and go utterly wild. Further advice can be found here.

Sat 13 May at The Bond,  180- 182 Fazeley Street, Digbeth, Birmingham B5 5SE. 12pm – 6pm. £8 (kids under twelve free). independent-birmingham-festival