the stable, birmingham.

Dorset born, Dorsey bred. At The Stable, they're proud of their pizza and savvy about their cider. Whether it's colourful, innovative pizza toppings or seeking out the latest cider blends, their casual dining atmosphere makes their locations a fun place for large parties, date days or birthday gatherings. With a whole host of UK restaurants dotted about, boasting great reviews on Square Meal, it's really worth stopping by one for a slice.

A sunny day, back when I visited, meant they'd opened out the windows of their Birmingham venue, which is a stone's throw from New St station. Bright light, cool copper fittings and edgy typography make this a fun and welcoming location, with a great menu to boot. We were served quickly and with a smile, with the knowledgable servers talking us through the pizza menu and cider offerings. After a few moments they knew I was there for a complimentary review meal, but it didn't change the genuine, friendly tone to myself or the surrounding diners.

They'll admit it themselves, The Stable are serious about cider. With the help of their cider pros, they'll put together a selection of five different 1/3 pints to try for just £7.50. A great value way to find your favourite, if you ask me. I enjoy medium dry and slightly fruity ciders that aren't too sweet, so the Devon Blush and Copse House were spot on for me. Their own new Rapscallion as also particularly delicious.

Behold, the pot of gold! That's actually what this sharing starter is called, and it's certainly earned a place on the podium. It comes in the form of a dipping pot of West Country cider, melted cheese, rosemary and garlic, served with sliced sourdough (£14). Seriously, dangerously moreish. I only had to stop because I knew I'd finish the whole pot and have no room for the imminent pizza feast.

And so onto the pizzas, which are handmade to order with fresh tomato sauce and a sourdough base. Veggies and vegans will also be pleased to know that there are four tasty plant based pizza offerings too, such as the popular dairy free Hazelnutter (£11) made up of spinach, field mushrooms, caramelised onion, green beans, vegan cheese and topped wth hazelnuts.

As a fish and seafood fan, I couldn't wait to sample the Hook, Line and Sinker (£13.50); with marinated cod, coley or pollock, garlic new potatoes, chorizo, mozzarella and finished with romesco sauce, which is said to go with fish. On the menu it explains how the white fish can change depending on availability, to provide the freshest, most sustainable option. It may seem like an odd combination for a pizza, but it was genius. The rich, peppery Spanish romesco sauce went well with the chorizo, whilst the delicate fish and mild cheese was a great accompaniment.

Tarantino fans will recognise the nod to a classic Pulp Fiction dish with the Royale With Cheese pizza (£14). Featuring marinated Longhorn ground beef, white onion and cheddar on a sesame seed crust the creation is finished with shredded baby gem lettuce, house pickles and lashings of burger sauce. And it really worked. Somehow the pizza version of a burger worked and, basically, you need to try it to believe it.

And the grand finale, the chocolate brownie. Also available as a vegan option (both £5.50) this mouthwateringly moist, gooey and delectable treat is available with ice cream, crème fraîche or clotted cream. Take your pick, it'll be delicious either way.

Have you been to The Stable? What pizza would you opt for?

The Stable Birmingham
1, Orion 
115 John Bright St, 
Birmingham 
B1 1BE

I was invited for a complimentary meal at The Stable for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I wasn't expected to write a positive review or otherwise.