Bucklemaker (The), Birmingham

One of the city centre's best if not brightest restaurants (it is a converted 17th century cellar in stylish St. Paul's Square), The Bucklemaker is a hang-out for Birmingham's well-heeled set. The menu is extensive, a mixture of English and French cuisine. Fish is a speciality and accordingly excellent—check the daily specials board. Service is efficient, but if you just fancy a light bite at the bar then tapas (including jellied eels) are available at reasonable prices along with a wide variety of draught foreign beers.