Cherry Reds, Birmingham

Early days here and I expect a work in progress. Its a fine corner building now a cafe bar on 2 levels, though to reach the second the stairs are a little precarious. Its not large and has a cafe servery tucked in one corner and a mish mash of furniture mainly wooden cafe chairs and tables. There are a few comfy chairs, but you have to get in early to use these. The upsatirs is split into two with views over the pedestrian John Bright Street. It should be a great addition to the City Centre with its cafe style. However, the seating is rather uncomfortable and wobbly, unless you are lucky. Also they still seem to be finding there way (not unsurprisingly), the upstairs had a sign showing only open in busy periods, part was shut off & could really have been done with opening for space. There seem to be between 2 and 3 real ales, including Backyard Blonde from Walsall, which was very good. However, my partner ordered a hot chocolate - we were advised they had run out of cream, but there was no suggestion of a discount. And by the time it arrived it was cold. We were going to eat here but were put off by the experience, my partner especially very disappointed. Not to everyones taste and a work in progress, I will give this another chance soon, but my partner refuses to go back after the poor service and seating.

I was impressed with this café bar when I popped in lunchtime today. Toilets upstairs but there is a disabled one downstairs. 3 ales on and I had Whale Ale Ruby Moby which was fine. A group were enjoying trivial pursuit on one of the tables and there were other games available. Enjoyed the café culture feel sitting outside with my drink. Should do ok here. Opposite the Brewdog bar.

This new addition to the area is in a converted Victorian building and is spread over two floors. I popped in on the Saturday lunchtime after the opening night. It was quiet when I got in at 12:00, but within half an hour was pretty full. The food looked brilliant, but I didn't try any. There were three real ale taps, but one had just run out. The other two were Otter Ale and Backyard Blonde, which were both delicious. There is an extensive range of craft beers and foreign bottled imports. The staff were incredibly friendly. I would recommend this place.