Spotlight on the Great Western Arcade

Just outside Snow Hill train station lies the Great Western Arcade, a unique shopping experience, supporting independent businesses right in the heart of the city. Often called the ‘home of hidden gems’, here are just a few of the amazing stores that the Victorian arcade has to offer.

Sweet & savoury treats

Miss Macaroon doesn’t just sell quality macaroons, they sell macaroons that make a difference. All their profits are invested in helping long-term, unemployed young people to break barriers leading to employment, through training courses and work experience. They really are “baking a brighter future”!

Serving up over 40 freshly baked breads by professional artisan bakers, Bread Collection are open 6 days a week. Not only are they known for bread, but they also sell patisseries and savouries.

Food

For a unique fast-casual dining experience, why not try a Poké (pronounced poh-kay) bowl from Kuula Poké? Originating in Hawaii, these bowls are often called “sunshine in a bowl” and contain a colourful, tasty combination of sushi fish, meats or vegan options, with soft rice, veg and tropical fruits.

Since 2014, Sushi Passion has been treating visitors of the arcade to traditional Japanese sushi in an authentic setting. Widely considered to be the best sushi in Birmingham, it’s not one to be missed!

The Vegan Kitchen is the first, fully vegan street food restaurant in Birmingham. Having started at local Vegan markets, the business has grown to open its first restaurant.

Named after its inspiration, Land offers ‘modern, plant focused dining’. Their menu is constantly evolving to include the freshest, seasonal ingredients in meals inspired by dishes around the world.

Drink

One of the first Not for Profit bars in the UK, Good Intent donates all its profits to local charities. So you can treat yourself to pint from one of their local breweries and get the warm glow of helping your community.

Loki Wine is the city’s most-awarded wine merchant and is fast becoming a Birmingham institution! Their Great Western Arcade bar gives you the chance to sample from a range of bottles so it’s perfect for wine lovers who can’t make up their minds.

Shopping

With over 20 years’ experience in the second-hand market, Designer Exchange specialise in buying, selling and exchanging pre-loved designer handbags.

Established in Birmingham, Rascals Lifestyle is a colourful vintage streetwear store not only packed with clothes and accessories, they’ve also got arcade games and a tattoo parlour on site!

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