Formally known as ‘House of Kards’ on the Pershore Road, I used to pop in there for birthday stationery. My gast was absolutely FLABBERED by the recent changes. The building now flaunts itself as brand new cafe called The Den.
There is a brand spanking new independent café & bar in Birmingham that you just need to know about. Say hello bab to The Den in Stirchley that serves up some of the absolute best breakfast and brunch dishes I’ve had in Stirchley. It’s open from 9AM and doors close at 11PM throughout the week (but close on Mondays) – so you could spend the entire day here if you really wanted to. Just keep in mind they stop serving food at 4PM (but drinks will still be available.) If you manage to bag yourself a table, consider yourself one of the lucky ones because I have a feeling they’re going to be rammo-in-the-main-room for weeks, if not months to come.
Dining at The Den – Stirchley
We arrived promptly for our 9AM booking on a Sunday, because it was feeding time at the zoo. I had already pre-empted our hungry kids when booking this slot weeks in advance. It was also Father’s Day, so I had to make sure everyone was fed well. By mid-chomp, every single table at the front of the cafe had a family with kids. This included small babies in prams, to toddlers and infants. That’s not just coincidence because The Den absolutely nails the family-friendly situation. It sits within a family-focused area (as we know from living here, previously) so having a beautiful spot where kids are genuinely welcomed and treated like valued customers? Huge thumbs up from me. There’s even a bookcase full of games to keep little minds busy while you wait for grub to arrive.
Inside The Den
Walking in, you instantly feel the Stirchley vibes. There is a ramp directly up to the coffee station area, so it’s completely accessible for anyone who can’t do the stairs. It has four large tables right by the window and entrance, with lots of natural light. There’s a handful more dotted through the middle. Back a bit more, you’ll see the sun-drenched beer space – perfect for evening drinks. It’s like they thought of everything. And the food? And service? It really is seriously wonderful. No exaggeration here, they’ve pulled in some of Brum’s top chefs from other established food hotspots. This alone really shines on the plate.
On the menu you’ll find hot breakfasts options: Full English, sourdough toast with all the toppings you could dream of, quirky porridges, corned beef hash, banana bread… and that’s just the start. Plus, the specials (I assume) rotate as they are clipped onto the menu separately. Parents can rejoice also as there’s a kids’ menu, so there is zero stress when dining out with the little ones. Think beans on toast, pancakes, fish finger sandwiches, hash browns, it’s a melting pot of goodness for the small humans. And judging from our experience alone, yours won’t leave hungry either.
Drinks at The Den
Now, let’s talk drinks: my vanilla oat milk latte? 10/10. I’m already counting down to my next visit when I can kick back with a more leisurely breakfast. Adam, who you’ll probably spot making coffees like the pro he is, is very chatty and such a lovely human. He allowed me to record some footage of him pouring my drink. In reality, it’s a TREAT to be able to drink a hot drink with my kids around. This alone felt like being on holiday. If you know, you know.
They have some great Fire and Flow coffee from Cirencester, alongside alcoholic drinks like wine from Wine Freedom. The draught beer options include some from Glass House, alongside more established ones like Peroni, Guinness, and also some gluten free/alcohol free options on tap. There’s a big fridge full of craft beers you can also feast your eyes on. Cocktails can be purchased from 10AM (oo-er!) so note that if you’re around and want even more tasty booze options.
Heads-up if you’re planning to visit soon: they were fully booked for brunch on a Sunday. Walk-ins were still welcome for drinks, and we spotted people diving in to ask – but if you want food, I’d definitely booking ahead. This place is going to be mega popular. The prices are totally reasonable and our whole meal – which included everyone’s own breakfast, a side plate and drinks – came to just over £50. I gave a tip also because they deserve it. Mega shoutout to all staff for the quality and vibe that’s a steal in one of Brum’s best foodie areas.
Address: 1465 Pershore Rd, Stirchley, Birmingham B30 2JL
Reservations: thedenstirchley.com
Phone: 0121 389 9759