Merlin’s Cafe Bar | Alt Bar & Restaurant – Cocktails, Events & Live Music

open 7 DAYS : TIMES VARY

Location : BIRMINGHAM

Welcome to Merlins

Anything
but ordinary

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About Us

Merlin’s Cafe Bar – Birmingham’s Alternative Bar & Dining Experience

Step Into the Dark & Mysterious World of Merlin’s

Welcome to Merlin’s Cafe Bar, Birmingham’s one-of-a-kind alternative bar & restaurant, where great food, unique cocktails, and a darkly immersive atmosphere come together for an unforgettable experience. Whether you're here for a craft cocktail, a hearty meal, or just to soak up the spooky, gothic vibes, Merlin’s is the perfect place to escape the ordinary.

🖤 Spooky Cocktails & Sinister Spirits

Our expert mixologists create hauntingly delicious cocktails that will send chills down your spine. From our signature Zombi to the dangerously good Friday the 13th, each drink is crafted to perfection with premium spirits and bold flavors. Pair your potion with our carefully selected beers, wines, and spirits, including our very own Widow Maker Lager.

"The cocktails are just awesome!"

🍔 Wickedly Good Food, Cooked Fresh To Order

At Merlin’s, we’re not just about cocktails—we take food just as seriously. Our chef-driven menu features everything from juicy burgers and gourmet wraps to vegan delights and decadent desserts. Every dish is made with quality ingredients, a touch of magic, and a little ‘alternative’ attitude.

🎭 Events, Music & Alternative Vibes

Looking for a night out with a difference? Merlin’s hosts some of Birmingham’s best alternative events, from live rock & metal nights to spooky masquerade balls and horror-themed parties. Plus, we’re the perfect pre-gig stop, offering exclusive food & drink discounts for ticket holders heading to Birmingham’s biggest music venues.

Merlin's Cafe Bar

Our Menu's

Chicken Menu

Burger Menu

Light Bites Menu

Transylvanian Specials Menu

Drinks & Cocktail Menu

Merlins

Our Signature Selection

The Haunted Bourbon Brisket

Slow-braised beef brisket, expertly shredded and coated in a rich, smoky bourbon BBQ sauce, delivers a deep, savoury flavour with every bite. Topped with crispy fried onions for a satisfying crunch, fresh baby lettuce for a touch of green, and juicy slices of tomato. All served in a soft, buttery brioche bun that adds a subtle sweetness, making it the ultimate comfort food experience. Accompanied by our crispy house chips, golden and perfectly seasoned, this is a hearty, indulgent meal that hits all the right notes.

£16.95

The Poultrygeist

A hauntingly delicious burger featuring a freshly pan-fried chicken breast, tender and juicy, paired with smoky streaky bacon for a rich, savoury bite, mayonnaise and fresh tomato add a smooth, tangy contrast, all nestled in a soft, buttery brioche bun that elevates every flavour. Served with golden, hand-cut chips, The Poultrygeist is a satisfyingly indulgent meal that combines comforting, classic flavours in every bite. (*Gluten free option available.)

£16.95

Latte

Cappuccino

Iced Coffee

Espresso

Black Coffee

Coffee with a difference

Award winning, Ethical, Sustainable and Carbon Negative Coffee.

We're proud to be leading the way in selling sustainable coffee, only sourced from Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance growers.

The coffee we supply is roasted locally using modern convection roasters, consuming 80% less energy, whilst the energy used is supplied via solar and wind generation to achieve the carbon negative status.

100% Ethical

Every coffee we sell is either Fairtrade or Rainforest Alliance certified and fully traceable to source
Guild of Fine Food Award

Winner of The Guild of Fine Food Award for coffee

more about our coffee

110+

Drinks Selection

including beers, wines and cocktails

125+

Covers

available for food and more seating in the bar area

255+

Sleepless Nights

Located just minutes from New Street, Moor Street, and Snow Hill Stations, Merlin’s Café Bar is the ultimate alternative hangout in Birmingham. Whether you’re here for a casual drink, date night, or pre-gig party, our doors are open for you.

🔮 Dare to experience Merlin’s? Book a table or drop in today!