Welcome to Passing Fancies
Passing Fancies, located in the heart of Birmingham at 30 Gibb St, is a vibrant bar celebrated for its creative cocktails and warm atmosphere. Renowned for its exceptional hospitality, the welcoming staff go above and beyond, even recommending exquisite non-alcoholic options. The menu changes weekly, ensuring fresh and innovative choices like the refreshing toasted sesame colada or the unique Dinosaurs Food cocktail. Guests praise the pet-friendly vibe and the engaging open bar experience, where you can watch skilled bartenders craft your drink. This establishment expertly balances flavor and ambiance, making it a must-visit destination for both casual outings and special occasions.
Passing Fancies: Reviews & Ratings
Love love love this place. Staff are wonderful, hospitality at its finest - even suggesting non alcoholic cocktails to suit. The food was so good also, was not expecting it to be so tasty!
Very lovely bar, the menu changes weekly, friendly and welcoming atmosphere— great for going with friends and alone. The drinks were very good, my favourites were the toasted sesame colada and the adult ribena. The non alcoholic cranberry margarita was very good too. I didn’t try the pear margarita but it looks very tasty too. And unfortunately they were out of the passion fruit highball. I didn’t enjoy the shrubby-ness of the pie plant, it was not hard to drink nonetheless. If you like white wine, the pink lady would be amazing. The toasted sesame colada was like nothing I have ever tasted before, it was refreshing and smooth, sweet and aromatic. The adult ribena was sharper in taste and you could taste the alcohol more, its taste was sour and sweet and very fruity. Overall it was a very cool experience, my company particularly enjoyed the open bar aspect and how you could watch the bartender build your drink in front of you. Watching them shave the ice cube was very satisfying too. Recommend!
Great service, lovely looking cocktails (we had wine on a Saturday afternoon), and a nice atmosphere. Looking forward to going back and getting stuck into the drinks menu.
The best bar in Birmingham!! Pretty chill vibes, a good place to social. Pet friendly as well! Their menu is very creative, my favourite one is called Dinosaurs Food ( a rum based cocktail). They change the menu every week or so. I’ve only been here twice, but this place has won my heart!
First-class cocktails by folk who genuinely give a damn about how they’re made. Lovely ambience too—sit right at the bar for a nice chat with the staff or any of the tables dotted around for a more private experience. Adult Ribena is an absolute must-have, and if you have the Independent Birmingham app then I highly recommend taking advantage of the venue’s monthly special drink. Last month I had a delightful cranberry cosmopolitan that was to die for. Not too sweet, not too bitter, perfectly balanced. Passing Fancies has absolutely nailed its craft. An establishment deserving of its many awards!
Absolutely fantastic first time at Passing Fancies. The two people serving were truly excellent, so knowledgeable, passionate and friendly. I can't recommend this place enough....quality cocktails, lovely environment and great service.
One of the best cocktail bars in all of Birmingham! Stunning drinks with a changing menu, incredibly friendly and knowledgeable staff and never too busy or loud and just the perfect atmosphere if you want a good cocktail (or 10) Highly recommend!! Also the food?!?! Amazing. It’s so underrated but I’d come just for the food if it was on more frequently
Honestly, one of the BEST cocktail bars I’ve been to in general. The drinks are perfectly mixed. Not overpriced. Banging stuff. Also, the mixologists/staff are super friendly and welcoming. Shout out to Matt. He’s the main reason we came back for a second time
Location
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30 Gibb St, Deritend, Birmingham B9 4BF, United Kingdom Hotline:
Welcome to Passing Fancies, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Deritend, Birmingham. This vibrant bar and restaurant has caught the attention of locals and visitors alike with its innovative approach to food and drink. Known for its ever-evolving menu, Passing Fancies invites guests to embark on a weekly journey of flavors and creativity, making each visit a unique experience.
The atmosphere here is warm and welcoming, where hospitality shines brightest. Guests rave about the amiable staff, who are always eager to suggest pairings or craft non-alcoholic cocktails that rival their spirited counterparts. Patrons like Lucy can't help but express their admiration: "Love love love this place. The hospitality is at its finest," she notes.
Beyond the stellar service, the drink menu deserves a spotlight of its own. From the uniquely refreshing toasted sesame colada to the fruity punch of the adult ribena, each cocktail tells a story. Jade M highlights her favorites, lauding the toasted sesame colada as "like nothing I have ever tasted before." The creativity doesn't stop there; themed cocktails like the intriguing Dinosaurs Food reflect the innovative spirit of this establishment. With a mix of classic and experimental flavors, there's something to please every palate.
A visit to Passing Fancies also comes with aesthetic enjoyment, as the art of cocktail making becomes a captivating performance. Guests enjoy the entertaining process of watching the skilled bartenders craft their drinks, even involving intricate details like shaving ice. As Jichao Bai describes, it’s a "pretty chill vibe," ideal for socializing or enjoying in solitude.
The ambiance is as inviting as the drinks, with comfortable seating options ranging from sociable bar spots to cozy tables, perfect for deeper conversations. People can gather with friends or relish a solo adventure, immersing themselves in delightful culinary expressions. As Mollie puts it, “First-class cocktails by folk who genuinely give a damn about how they’re made,” encapsulates the essence of what Passing Fancies stands for—dedication to craft and superior quality.
If you're in Birmingham and seeking a memorable outing, look no further than Passing Fancies. With its inventive cocktails, a rotating menu, and first-class hospitality, it’s not just a visit; it’s an experience waiting to unfold. So, come thirsty and ready to indulge!