Grain & Glass, JQ in Birmingham

AVOID This is the type of place that dissuades ordinary people from trying independent businesses. Rude bartender and patrons, incredibly inhospitable venue. Went in being new to whiskey and left incredibly disenchanted. EDIT: I want to explain that despite the same bartender’s claim that we “went to a whiskey bar looking for wine”, our treatment was entirely separate from our misconception, and instead associated with our age (early 20s). Our interactions with this member of staff have included him asking us to delete our negative reviews, IN PERSON, after we had already left the venue. EDIT 2: There is now a review actively lying about our behaviour in the venue. We did not complain about the wine selection, in fact the bartender made us wait 10 minutes while he served his mates before he sarcastically informed us that there was only the one wine option. Onto the idea that we "decided to tamper with the venue", one member of our party knocked over a small lamp that was on the table, and this meant the member of staff felt vindicated in shouting at us like children. Sure, he shouldn't have touched the lamp, but it was completely undamaged and the response was completely out of order. EDIT 3: I can’t believe I’m editing this again, but its clear to me from the reply to this review that the member of staff working Saturday has lied to the owner about his actions, which to me are grounds for dismissal. That is all I’m going to add.

Me and my girlfriend visited here for my birthday and it was absolutely amazing. The staff are incredibly friendly and very knowledgable. A proper local institution and my favourite bar in Birmingham. I couldn’t recommend it enough for whiskey drinkers and non whiskey drinkers. Everybody is welcome

great experience, the lady was very knowledgeable

A small group of people left negative reviews this evening. This was a co-ordinated misrepresentation of the establishment. The group walked into a WHISKY bar, complained about the wine selection, and despite being recommended somewhere more accommodating, decided to tamper with the establishment and negatively impact other patrons. As a result; they were told to pipe down, or leave. They then expressed their intent to leave a negative review to intentionally damage the reputation of this overwhelmingly excellent whisky bar.

condescending crowd. let's promote places where people from all walks of life can come in and have a nice time instead.

Great way to spend an hour learning about and tasting whisky. Very knowledgeable and fun host who shared her passion and interest in all things whisky.

My family and I had a great time at the Tasting Experience at Grain and Glass. The whole setting is brilliant and Matt, who led the session, was very knowledgeable and welcoming with all our questions. We also stayed for a while afterwards in the bar where the Whisky collection is super extensive. Would recommend a visit, even if only for a quick dram.

Best place for whisky in Birmingham 🥃

What a gem of a place I would highly recommend

We attended the A World Of Whisky tasting experience, we were treated to a wealth of fascinating knowledge about whisky as well as tasting some fantastic different whisky. He enjoyed a drink in the bar both before and after the experience and were recommended some great whisky to try that perfectly fit the taste I had requested. Would strongly recommend the he experience if your looking to learn more about the different Whisky’s or simply pop in to the bar to try some of the large selection they have to offer.

Excellent Whisky tasting experience. Lovely building/venue, easy to get to from the train station either by foot or a taxi. Renata's relaxed delivery was informative, humorous and engaging. We will return for more tastings!

My husband did a whiskey tasting class which he loved. Staff were all very friendly and great atmosphere

Went to a whisky tasting experience, great selection of whisky on offer and very knowledgeable and friendly host. All other staff very friendly and helpful too. Didn’t eat there.

Did the Scotland whiskey tasting event. Very fun, informative and chilled.

Went as a group of 3 for the “world of whisky” experience. There were 8 others there and it worked really well as we were all there for the same reason so everyone got along really well. The host was very knowledgeable, but also very funny and easy to talk to, she made the whole experience what it was. The whisky’s were quite varied and all of a very good quality so it was a really good chance to try some things that I wouldn’t normally get to. The price was very reasonable considering the whiskys and the experience we got. I wouldn’t hesitate to book another session

Went on a whim. Me and my partner were total whisky newbies and the bar tender made us feel right at home. We explained to him we hadn't really tried whisky before and he was so considering. Talking us through how to drink it in a proper fashion. He asked what flavours we liked and suggested drinks that would fit our pallet and within our price range. Fantastic little night out that didn't brake the bank

Fantastic venue, knowledge staff and great whiskey! Highly recommend.

Fantastic range of whisky with friendly knowledgeable staff

Attended a whisky tasting event which was well run and well attended. The pre event drinks at the bar seemed expensive to me. Three small cans of IPA beer and a packet of crisps coming in at £16.50 ! I would have expected three pints of cask ale and a packet of crisps for that much !

I thoroughly enjoyed my Whiskey & Cheese tasting night. Renata, the host, was excellent and the atmosphere was nice. I would absolutely recommend this place, Grain & Glass, 76 Vyse Street, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham

Absolutely superb place. Celebrating a friend's birthday and the atmosphere and service in this place is second to none. Aaron made us feel so welcome, answered any questions we had and pointed us towards some truly magnificent whiskys. The knowledge and care of the staff is brilliant, and made for a wonderful evening. I will be definitely be coming back again!

We came for the world of whisky tasting with Renata, and had a fantastic time. Renata was very knowledgable and entertaining, and answered all of our questions really clearly. Also - the whiskies were amazing! Before and after the tasting, we were hosted by Aaron who was fantastic. He helped one of our party, who was in a wheelchair, access and leave the venue and was attentive throughout, checking in regularly and making sure everything was accessible. We’ll definitely be returning!

Our second time visiting, each time for a separate tasting event, and not one member of our group could find one fault about this place. Venue is cosy and classy, staff are incredibly enthusiastic and knowledgeable, and have a real passion for whiskey, and the variety of whiskey they have on offer is second to none. Will definitely be back, wish nothing but the best for this superb business and the staff who run it so wonderfully.

We didn't eat at the venue which we attended on Saturday 25th January 2025 (7pm) for a whisky tasting session with Ren. On arrival we were greeted by Aaron Collins who helped us access the premises via a portable ramp as my husband Martin uses a disability scooter. He ensured everything was accessible for us and we were OK throughout the time we were there. He also helped Martin out of the premises at the end making sure he was safe on the ramp. As regards the whisky tasting Ren was very knowledgeable and not only provided us with great advice and guidance with regards to tasting and drinking the six whiskies available but also invited questions and comments throughout the session. Thanks to both Aaron and Ren for a great night at Grain and Glass. We will certainly return in the future and strongly recommend the venue for improving your knowledge and experience of whisky as you'll be well looked after! Sue and Martin Jones (Stourbridge)

Fantastic service at Grain & Glass! We attended the World of Whisky tasting, which was very interesting and informative. Ren was very knowledgeable, passionate and funny and made us feel very welcome, happily answering our questions about the different whiskies we tasted! Aaron was very warm, helpful and friendly, coming to chat to us several times and ensuring we had everything we needed. All of the staff seemed very on the ball. We look forward to coming here again!

A wonderful tasting experience. Our host was very knowledgeable and gave really interesting information on all the whiskys. It's a shame that some of the group were a little too chatty when she was trying to talk. I went in to the session not really being a whisky drinker and came out converted .

A wonderfully in depth, funny and relaxed tasting of whiskies from around the world. Ren was an excellent host and the whole experience was great. Would thoroughly recommend

We went for the Burns Night experience and, therefore we tasted Whiskys from Octave matched to the Scottish food courses we tried. The night was outstanding. Lots of like-minded people there to really enjoy themselves and open-minded to a totally new experience sharing their love for whisky. It's one of the best evenings I can remember. I go the the Grain & Glass about every 6 weeks and I love the friendly staff who are very attentive, funny and extremely knowledgeable about whisky in general. They cater to all tastes. There is even a blackboard up in the establishment to track how many whisky converts they have made. Of course, they serve other non whisky drinks, craft beers, G&T, cocktails, etc. I couldn't recommend the place highly enough.

'The story of Japan' Whisky Tasting was a great experience. 6 whisky samples and a lot learned about the whisky & culture of Japan. Our host Renata was fun, engaging and extremely knowledgeable. It is very good value for money & I'm looking forward to booking my next tasting experience at Grain&Glass!

What a great experience, we visited for the whiskey tasting session and found it to be really well planned, interesting and fun! The host has so much knowledge and makes your journey through the different whiskeys from around the work really enlightening! The atmosphere was great and all the staff were friendly and helpful. Really enjoyed our night thank you

Fantastic venue with an excellent range of world whiskys and other spirits. Food boards are also top quality, as are the staff who are friendly and welcoming. Memberships available with good value benefits as well, but they also cater very well for newcomers too.

Great bar with impressive whisk(e)y selection and friendly knowledge staff. Best selection in Birmingham. Nice building too. Recommended

Amazing bar, and fantastic service. What an experience! Can totally recommend the rum old fashioned, best ever. If you have the opportunity to visit, DO!

A Memorable Whisky Tasting Experience My partner and I recently attended a whisky tasting at Grain and Glass, and it was an outstanding experience from start to finish. Ren led the session, and her expertise truly shone through. Her immense knowledge of whisky (and whiskey!) was impressive, and she guided us through the nuances of each sample with enthusiasm and clarity. Not only did she make the session highly informative, but her approachable style also made it thoroughly enjoyable. We both came away having learnt so much more about the art of whisky production, the differences between regions, and how to better appreciate the unique flavours in every glass. If you're a whisky lover or just curious to learn more, I can't recommend Grain and Glass enough—especially with Ren leading the way!

Had a fantastic time at the "Whisky Tasting - A World of Whisky" event. The host was extremely knowledgeable and patient and was clearly very passionate about whisky. The bar staff were also equally helpful and the entire place had a friendly vibe. Would definitely come back.

A hidden gem in the Jewellery Quarter! Myself and a few friends visited after winning a voucher for a whisky tasting experience. We had never heard of the place despite counting several whisky lovers amongst our number. We were treated to some amazing whisky drinks that we would probably never have tried before a few more after with some simple but amazingly filling, delicious, and satisfying food. Four of us signed up as members. Will absolutely be coming back. Friendly staff, lovely atmosphere, nice food, and you could go twice a week for a year and still find a whisky you hadn't tried. Top marks!

This was our second time for the world of whisky experience. We booked it again as we had such an informative experience the first time, but we were a bit disappointed this time as the host was not as knowledgeable as our first host and as it was very busy in the bar it was quite difficult to hear what was being said. However, we would recommend as we still enjoyed the experience and the different whisky’s we tried were lovely.

Great venue, excellent speaker, very interesting, engaging, enjoyable and informative evening all round

Lovely whiskey tasting experience... Would love to visit again 🙂

Second time in a few weeks that I've visited. Brought my wife, a peaty whisky lover for some cocktails, flights and meat and cheese board. Loved chatting with the knowledgeable staff, particularly Amy. Food and drinks were superb. My wife loved it. We will be back.

Had the most amazing cheeseboard and drinks here. Would recommend for great service, staff and atmosphere. They couldn’t do enough for us, even as a non-drinker I had a wonderful time and felt so well cared for. Can’t wait to be back.

Staff were very rude. We were made fun of and made to feel like we were unwelcome and to leave.

I visited this venue during the Birmingham Cocktail Weekend and was disappointed by the experience. The staff were unfriendly and unwelcoming, and the tables remained dirty and uncleared from previous customers for the entire duration of my visit. This meant I had to enjoy my cocktail alongside leftover plates and glasses. Additionally, this venue seems ill-prepared for the Birmingham Cocktail Weekend. It felt out of place for them to have signed up, especially since they expect patrons to keep quiet (no laughing) to avoid disturbing customers in the adjacent room who were participating in a tasting session Our group was asked to leave despite just enjoying ourselves and expressing our happiness. It’s unacceptable that we were treated this way.

There really isn’t enough good that I can say about Grain & Glass! Forever welcoming, great hospitality and knowledge of true masters. My only sadness is that I don’t get to go anywhere near as much as I would like. For those of you who love a dram of the best in a nice, relaxed environment this is the one for you!

Went for the whisky tasting experience, fantastic overview of the whiskies and service

Lovely place. Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Great music and amazing whisky. Highly recommended

A great experience. Would recommend it for aficionados or anyone interested in whisky.

We enjoyed a Premium Whiskey Tasting experience with Amy which we found interesting and enjoyable. But first, we were served by Aron the bartender and he was such a great character that he made our day! Top marks all round, highly recommend if you are in Birmingham. It’s off the beaten track but worth it.

I can't rate this place highly enough. Super knowledgeable staff, fantastic range of whisky. If whisky is your thing then you can't do much better.

Cracking service, made a really enjoyable experience for whisky novices and experts alike.

We went for a whisky tasting which was very good, great setting, quality whisky and just the right level of informative. I liked that you could ask questions and interact with the person hosting.

What a fun afternoon! Thank you!

Amazing venue, super friendly staff and a huge selection of exceptional whisky. Cannot recommend enough

A terrific experience that reminded me why I fell in love with whisky in the first place. A warm welcome from Renata before our group was taken on a "World Of Whisky" tasting. Flavourful whiskies, infectious enthusiasm, wide-ranging knowledge, and one of the best parts of whisky in my humble opinion – getting to know people. I'm already subtly hinting to my nearest and dearest about gifting me another tasting experience for Christmas and plotting how to sneak in a swift dram whenever I find the time.

The atmosphere was absolutely amazing. So friendly and welcoming. We had a fabulous time thank you guys.

Excellent and most enjoyable experience, lady who hosted the session had great knowledge, will definitely rebook on another tasting session

For 'food' read whisky / whiskey. This tasting experience was a birthday present. Our host (the owner) was excellent and kept a large table of us engaged (even as the tasting developed..). I am not new to the spirit but learnt lots. Hope to go again.

One of the best whisky bars in the UK. They offer amazing collection of scotch, world whiskies and I was fortunate to taste some of the rare and allocated bourbons as well for great prices. Absolutely recommend.

I took my father for a Whisky tasting session. We had so much fun and the host was very knowledgeable. In the bar the selection of whisky was incredible. The staff are so friendly and there is a great atmosphere

First visit there had a really good time , bartender was extremely knowledgeable and helpful will definitely return.

Came here for a whisky tasting session and was not disappointed. Wonderful all round experience and great value for money. We were taken then through whisky’s from around the world along with their stories. Brilliant experience!

Spent a lovely afternoon at Grain & Glass, redeeming a birthday gift voucher for a 'World of Whisky' tasting experience.All staff encountered were friendly and helpful and the experience itself was really interesting - we left with a greater knowledge of whisky making, history and 'suggestions' on how to drink and enjoy it- no whisky snobbery here, with an over-riding message that the best way to drink whisky is 'your way'! We also really enjoyed the wild boar pate board we had in the bar afterwards and hope to return to do another tasting session sometime soon.

Did the Japanese whiskey tasting experience, really enjoyed it. Out host was so knowledgeable and a good communicator. Great value for money overall.

We did the whiskey tasting experience of a stag do. It was a really good afternoon. The gentlemen running the session was incredibly knowledgeable.

Great array of whiskey, friendly helpful staff, very much recommend. Big up to Aaron & Jack who were super knowledgeable helpful and friendly

I didn’t have any food but we went to do some whiskey tasting and the experience was fantastic! As a non whiskey drinker, I thoroughly enjoyed myself. We had the experience to ourselves because we went on a weekday so it was really intimate. Renata was great, enthusiastic and you can really tell she not only loves whiskey but also loves her job. I couldn’t recommend the tasting experience enough. Will be going back to visit and continue expanding my knowledge and pallet. Thanks again Renata. You were great!

Great choice of whisky and great service, really enjoyed my afternoon here. I will return!

Went for the whiskey and cheese experience - what a really enjoyable couple of hours. Really friendly and knowledgeable hosts, real gem in the heart of the jewellery quarter. A whiskey lovers paradise and definitely now full on whiskey converts 😍 can't recommend this enough

Went along for the Scottish whisky tasting. Had a fantastic time, expertly guided through tasting of six whiskies, each very different and given the time to appreciate each one as well as picking up some new hints, tips and info which is always a pleasant surprise after having done quite a few tastings, distillery tours etc. The bar and tasting room are well decorated and it is a great atmosphere, with friendly knowledge people. I'll definitely be headed back, thank you!

Really enjoyed the experience. Staff were excellent and very knowledgeable.I can't say how much I spent as the experience was a birthday gift.

What a gem of a find! My son’s Christmas voucher (mid 20’s) finally being used and I got invited too. We sat in the bar and had a whiskey and a lovely chat with the barman, who was very helpful and knowledgeable about the whiskey’s from all over the world, before having our Japanese whisky tasting experience. Renate (hope I’ve got that right) was a wonderful teacher, explaining about the history, the different distilleries and how to smell and taste whisky as well as blending our own! We learnt so much and even stayed for another and a sharing platter before catching the train home - station just a few minutes walk away. Highly recommend and we can’t wait to go back. Thank you Grain and Glass for a fabulous evening, if I could have given more * I would have.

Excellent evening. Bar staff were friendly and helpful. Ren, who led the tasting, is a true expert on all things whisky. Me and brother learnt a lot. I recommend to both those new to the world of whisky as well as veterans.

My husband and I had been kindly given a voucher for the whisky tasting and the whole experience was fantastic. We arrived early and were greeted with a warm welcome. We enjoyed a superb Old fashioned before the actual tasting which was so good that we had to have another before leaving! Renata was an excellent guide to the 6 whiskys that we tasted and injected humour and serious whisky knowledge into the experience. Everything was perfect and we will definitely return to try a different tasting session and enjoy this hidden gem of a place again. Many thanks to the lovely staff.

Booked a tasting session as a gift for my dad. I’m not a whiskey drinker but both of us had a great time. As we arrived we were welcomed by the two guys on the bar who got us started with a drink. I asked for a suggestion and he made me a lovely old fashioned. Renata who hosted our tasting session was very knowledgeable and you can tell she really has a passion for whiskey. I was a bit sceptical going in as whiskey is really not my usual thing but she made the session very accessible for non-whiskey drinkers and now I’ve been converted. After the tasting we joined my mom at the bar and finished with “A little bit of everything” sharing platter. Delicious! Perfect way to end the afternoon. It’s a lovely bar with friendly staff and a great selection of whiskeys. I’d highly recommend the tasting sessions as a gift if you know a whiskey lover.

The best Whisky bar, bar none. Awesome drama selection, in depth knowledge and great service. It is said that there’s a whisky out there for everyone’s taste, and I’m sure you’ll find that dram at the G&G.

Second visit, absolutely brilliant. Very knowledgeable, friendly people. Would highly recommend

Gem of a place with lots of fresh and exciting products ..try a flight well worth it

Whiskey tasting, very good and by very knowledgeable people who know whiskey.

Went here for a whisky tasting class. From the moment we walked in we were made to feel welcome by all the staff. The class was very informative, and we learned so much in the time we were there. Amy who was giving the class was lovely and so knowledgeable. They have a huge range of drinks at the bar for afterwards, or if you just want to go in for a drink. We can’t wait to go again.

Had a great and informative whisky tasting session, in a very sociable group with a very engaging host. Now adding a bit of water to my drink, but hasn't changed my view that Laphroig is the best whisky ever!

Visited for the Whiskey Tasting Experience and had a great time! Renata as host was very welcoming and informative and made the day really worthwhile

Birmingham's premier specialist bar set in the Jewellery Quarter, serving hundred of whiskys, whiskeys and other quality drinks. Stylish and relaxed with seating at the bar, at tables and in a dedicated tasting room, there's a vast array of whisky on offer. All Scottish regions are naturally well represented, alongside Irish, English, Indian, Japanese, Nordic with others being regularly added. Amy and her team are super friendly, very welcoming and extremely knowledgeable. If you're unsure or new to whisky, you'll be guided through the menu, or ask for a tasting flight which is a great way to try a few different expressions. Memberships are available for regular visitors and are a great way to get into the fascinating world of whisky. Heartily recommended.

Visited grain and glass for a whisky tasting with my wife Lucy and dog Luna, really friendly place both staff and other customers, Aaron the bar manager was really friendly and funny really made my wife feel comfortable while she was waiting for me to do the whisky tasting which was amazing Renata was so knowledgeable and helpful, she also gave me lots of advice afterwards on a trip I am planning to Islay (when I could drag her away from my dog Luna). Can’t recommend more highly and am looking forward to my next visit.

Found the whole experience excellent would definitely recommend a whisky tasting it's extremely informative and fun we both left with a new found knowledge of whisky and will return to the bar that offers an amazing selection of different ones with friendly and helpful staff FIVE STAR EXPERIENCE

Great evening at the grain and glass celebrating our sons birthday. The staff were very friendly and helpful with choosing our drinks. It was not packed, which was lovely, a very relaxed and enjoyable evening

Visit for A Tour of Scotland whisky experience. Our host was first rate. The tasting was entertaining and factual. Fully recommend for all whisky lovers.

Went for a corporate whiskey tasting which was just excellent

First visit & had a great time. Excellent drinks & friendly, knowledgeable staff. Will definitely use this bar again

Lovely warm welcome and great guidance on choosing a whisky.

Great place to visit if you like whiskey

You want whisky comw here. Hightly educated on everything whisky or whiskey 😉 or rum ☠

Whisky lovers will enjoy the location.

Three friends and I stopped in before attending a West Brom game a couple weeks ago anticipating doing a tasting or two then moving on. We ended up spending the rest of our night before and after the match here. We simply couldn’t leave the combination of great whiskey, relaxing environment and welcoming personalities of Amy, Aaron and Max. During our week in England that was aimed at seeing Goodison Park one time before Everton leaves, I would never had expected to say our time in Birmingham was the best part. Thank you to everyone at Grain and Glass for an experience these four yanks will never forget.

Just had drinks but very good by

A truly welcoming and recommended visit. A warm relaxing atmosphere ranging from background music to playing easy-going board games to accompany whisky. An obvious significant selection of world whisky with friendly and knowledgeable staff to offer knowledge. Recommendations and explanations to expand an amateurs palate or guiding someone new to whisky, the team here will go out of their way to ensure your whisky exploration is met. Friendly, exemplar vibes and throughout enjoyment - this is a highly recommended evening and venue.

Didn't eat there,everything else top draw

Went for a whisky tasting session which was good and I would say to anyone who likes whisky to go on one. The whisky expert was very good and so was the whiskys tasted.

Great place which I found by accident but will definitely be back. Really enjoyed the flight of Whisky I chose

Exceptional collection of spirits focusing on Whisky from around the world. Really great schedule of tastings too.

Wonderful bar with lovely staff and a superb selection of whiskies. We cannot wait to come back!