A true legend in the Desi pub scene
The sizzle of a mixed grill hitting the table, the chatter of patrons and the familiar clink of pint glasses, this is the soundtrack to the West Midlands’ most beloved institution: the Desi pub.
Born from the region’s rich South Asian heritage, these establishments seamlessly combine British and Asian heritages.
Desi pubs have quickly grown in popularity, serving refreshing drinks and sizzling dishes.
At a Desi pub, the star of the show is the legendary mixed grill: a mountain of tandoori-spiced meats cooked to smoky perfection.
For university students, Desi pubs are a place where you can socialise, enjoy drinks and savour delicious food.
From Birmingham’s bustling suburbs to the heart of Coventry, here are 10 Desi pubs that have a lively atmosphere and an affordable menu, perfect for students.
The Red Cow Pub & Grill
Smethwick
B66 3NL
A true legend in the Desi pub scene, The Red Cow in Smethwick is an institution that has been open since 1930.
While it requires a bit of a journey from the main Birmingham universities, it’s easily accessible by bus and well worth the trip.
The atmosphere here is always electric, particularly on weekends, buzzing with a diverse crowd of families, students, and locals.
What makes The Red Cow a student favourite is its incredible value for money.
Alongside the wide array of curries and vegetarian options, the mixed grills are known for their size and affordability, with the “Red Cow Mix Grill” being the perfect sharing platter for a group.
They also offer a 10% student discount with a valid ID, making it even more budget-friendly.
Soho Tavern
Hockley
B18 5SR
The Soho Tavern has cemented its place as a go-to spot for students.
Though located a little outside the city centre, its reputation for fantastic food and a lively atmosphere draws a crowd.
The interior is modern and stylish, making it a great place to watch live sports with friends.
The food at Soho Tavern is consistently top-notch, with the “Soho Grill” being a must-try.
They offer different sizes to suit any appetite and budget, with a small mixed grill priced at around £11.45.
The menu also boasts an impressive selection of vegetarian and vegan options, all clearly marked.
The Vine
West Bromwich
B70 6RD
Claiming to be one of the first Desi pubs in West Bromwich, The Vine is steeped in history and tradition.
A popular haunt for West Bromwich Albion supporters, expect a vibrant atmosphere on match days. The pub has a classic, old-school charm with a warm and welcoming feel that makes you feel right at home.
The star of the menu here is their famous chicken tikka, marinated in a secret blend of spices and cooked to perfection in a tandoor
Their mixed grills are also excellent value, and they offer a great range of curries and other classic Desi dishes.
For an authentic Desi pub experience, The Vine is a must-visit for students.
Desi Yew Tree
Wolverhampton
WV2 4HN
For students at the University of Wolverhampton, the Desi Yew Tree is a local favourite.
Situated just a 20-minute walk from the Molineux Stadium, it’s the perfect spot for a pre- or post-match meal.
The pub has a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal place to unwind after a long week of studying.
The food here has even received praise from renowned food critics such as Jay Rayner.
The “medium sizzler”, a generous mixed grill platter, is priced at a student-friendly £19.
They also have a range of unique Chef Specials, such as the Achari Lamb Curry, which are well worth a try for something a little different.
The New Horseshoe Bar and Grill
Coventry
CV6 5HN
Coventry students are well catered for with The New Horseshoe Bar and Grill.
This family-friendly establishment on Foleshill Road is known for being one of the city’s oldest pubs and offers amazing value, with lots of dishes priced under a tenner.
It’s a great place to enjoy delicious, authentic Indian food in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Chicken Tikka Grill is a dream for chicken lovers, priced at just £10.50, while the Regular Mixed Grill is a steal at £14.50.
The Desi Pub has been refurbished, giving it a modern feel, making it appealing to students looking to enjoy their time away from lectures and assignments.
The British Queen
Oldbury
B69 4EW
The British Queen in Oldbury is a fantastic choice for students looking for a wide variety of Indian and Nepalese dishes.
The pub has a modern and stylish interior and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.
It has an extensive menu, with a focus on tandoori and curry dishes.
They also offer a great selection of Indo-Chinese options, such as Chicken Chilli and Veg Noodles.
The mixed grills are a popular choice and are very reasonably priced, with the Regular Mixed Grill being a great option for one or two people at just £13.50.
The MerryMaid Bar and Grill
Balsall Heath
B12 0EA
Located near the famous Balti Triangle, The MerryMaid in Balsall Heath is a convenient and incredibly affordable option.
A short bus ride from Birmingham’s universities, it offers a no-frills, authentic Desi pub experience that’s hard to beat.
The pub is renowned for its exceptional value for money, with a large mixed grill that is more than enough to feed a group of friends.
The curries are also excellent, with the lamb madras being a particular highlight.
The atmosphere is lively and unpretentious, with a great mix of locals and students.
Hollybush
Coventry
CV6 4DD
Another Coventry gem, Hollybush on Holbrook Lane is the place to be for great quality Indian food at affordable prices in a family-friendly setting.
With a 3.9-star rating on Google, this Desi pub is a popular choice for both its food and its atmosphere.
The menu features a wide range of dishes, from Keema Naan and Peshwari Naan to the Hollybush Special Biryani and Balti Chicken Jalfrezi.
It’s a great place to enjoy a hearty meal and a pint without breaking the bank.
The Red Lion
West Bromwich
B71 1RH
The Red Lion in West Bromwich is a family-run pub that has been serving the community since 1997.
It has a reputation for being one of the largest and best Desi pubs in the country, with a standard of food that could rival high-end Indian restaurants.
The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place for a casual meal with friends.
Their mixed grill is famous, and for good reason. It’s a generous platter of succulent meats, cooked to perfection in the tandoor.
They also have a wide range of vegetarian dishes and a good selection of drinks.
The Red Lion is a bit of a journey, but it’s well worth the trip for the quality of the food and the authentic Desi pub experience.
Jack’s Cafe & Bar
Wolverhampton
WV2 4DU
Jack’s Cafe & Bar is a vibrant, modern destination known for its lively atmosphere and exceptional food.
The venue’s bustling atmosphere is complemented by lagers on tap and large-screen TVs broadcasting the latest sports events.
This makes this Desi pub one for students wanting to watch the football whilst enjoying a pint.
When it comes to food, Jack’s has a huge menu that is ideal for students watching their bank account.
A large Mixed Sizzler serves up to four people and costs £24.
Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or just a place to enjoy premium lagers while watching sports, Jack’s Cafe & Bar offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
The West Midlands is the undisputed heartland of the Desi pub, and for students in the region, they offer a fantastic combination of incredible food, affordable prices, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Whether you’re in the mood for a casual weeknight curry, a celebratory mixed grill after exams, or just a pint with your mates, there’s a Desi pub to suit every occasion.
So next time you’re looking for a taste of home, or simply a delicious and affordable meal out, be sure to check out one of these top 10 Desi pubs for students in the West Midlands. You won’t be disappointed.
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