The Balcony opens in Selfridges Birmingham

Food Heaven has come to Selfridges Birmingham in the very tasty form of The Balcony.  The newest part of the Searcy’s family of bars and restaurants had a very special bloggers evening last week, and I was lucky enough to be asked along to sample some of the exquisite dishes and cocktails that are on offer. I can honestly say that I can’t wait to pay a return visit.

The Balcony is offering something a little different in terms of gastro delights. There are traditional and classic dishes with a twist, and new and exciting concoctions that make the mouth water at the thought. We started with a trio of sharing boards, the ‘Charcuterie’, which was all about meat ( Chorizo, Salami and Serrano ham), the Seafood, the highlight of which was the very tasty mackerel on toast, and a traditional cheese board, with a brilliant choice of St Killian, Red Leicester, Berkswell and Peakland. These were the perfect appetizers and would be a fantastic sharing option if you are looking for a light lunch and glass of wine.

As well as the sharing boards, we were treated to a good selection of appetizers that gave a real feel of the quality and style of The Balcony. One of the biggest hits was the ‘Trio of Sliders’. These were delicious mini burgers containing felafel (my personal fave), mini beef burgers and the Squid and Chorizo burger that was a huge hit with all the diners. We were also treated to the quirky Club Sandwich Martini. This looked amazing, and contained all the elements that you would normally find on toasted bread, but this was served in a Martini glass. Definitely an acquired taste, but for the more adventurous foodies, this would be a dream.

The main event was a Monkfish Curry served with lemongrass and Quinoa, which was surprising light and delicious. And then came the deserts, and in particular, the desert that will see me visiting The Balcony just for Pudding! Snickerbocker Glory, is, as you might have guessed, a Snicker bar in the form of a desert. Think Peanut butter ice cream, creamy caramel, a sprinkling of nuts, and you basically have my idea of the ultimate desert. It was so good that yes, I had two. (ahem…well, it is Christmas so I think I’m allowed!)

The whole of the evening was a gourmet delight, with the quality of the food being very high. I must also mention that this could become the new premiere venue for afternoon tea, with The Balcony version being served on the cutest mini picnic table, totally screaming Summer and indulgence.

I cannot finish this post without a special mention for the cocktails. Fabulously quirky, these were served in glass jam jars and mini bottles that again added to the overall atmosphere of The Balcony has a delightfully fun and modern venue for drinks and dinner.

A note on the dress

The dress I wore was the Sequin Striped Tunic from Phase Eight, this is currently in the sale and is now available for just £39, which I think is a real bargain. (Click here to view).

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