Chinatown - Birmingham
by Laura Walton

Following a regeneration in the 90s Birmingham's Chinatown has come into its own. Situated next the Arcadian Centre near New street station and close to many of the city centre's bars and clubs the area is full of Chinese restaurants and supermarkets. For a laid back authentic Chinese meal, to check out some Chinese architecture or to find that difficult to get hold of stir-fry ingredient don't look any further.

As far as Chinese restaurants are concerned you'll be spoilt for choice, every one has something to set itself apart from the rest, all are friendly and not one could be said to be bad.

For a no nonsense buffet lunch or dinner try Big Wok (5 Wrottesley Road, Birmingham B5 4RT. 0121 666 7031), with its canteen style interior and eat as much as you like buffets it's not one for a romantic dinner but great for lining your stomach before a night out or a leisurely lunch with friends.

For something with a bit more style try one of Chung Ying's (16 Wrottesley Road, Birmingham, B5 4RT. 0121 622 5669) 300 dishes in the opulent surroundings, it's good for large parties without losing quality, although with such a huge menu some dishes are better than others.

China Court (24 Ladywell Walk, Birmingham B5 4ST. 0121 666 7031) is popular with the local Chinese community which is always a good sign, it's one of Birmingham's largest and most well established Chinese restaurants and has an amazing selection of dim sum!

Café Soya (The Arcadian Centre, Birmingham, B5 4TD. 0121 683 8350) has more of a Vietnamese menu, so if you just fancy a salad or a soup give it a try. Again, this isn't one for a date or a family meal - it is indeed a café - but if your feet are tired and your stomach's grumbling it's a good post-shopping stop.

At the top of the Arcadian Centre try a meal with a view. Golden Pond (The Arcadian Centre, Birmingham, B5 4TD. 0121 622 2822) is a traditional Cantonese restaurant with a typical interior and all your favourite dishes, there's not much more to say about this other than it's reliable and friendly with quick service.

Finally, don't forget to pay a visit around the Chinese New Year when the streets are even more colourful than usual and there are all sorts of fun and fabulous celebrations going on.