Based on 108 opinions finded in 1 websites
Based on 108 opinions finded in 1 websites
Nº 2158 in 4016 in Birmingham
Nº 60 of 145 Chinese in Birmingham
Opinions
The Rainbow is now Bagus Bagus UK and was closed, despite the website stating it was open. No explanation of this change in name was available especially when it now appears to have a peculiar name.
Chris B . 2023-12-10
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I had my dinner at Rainbow Yesterday and today with family. I go to Rainbow for the last 29 years and found it the best Chinese food in Birmingham. Food at Rainbow has a unique taste. I did not visit Rainbow during the last few months because probably there was a different Chef whose cooking was not of my standard. When I visited this week it was surprised by the improved quality of cooking. I strongly recommend the great taste of Rainbow.
Mubashar S . 2022-04-22
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A very old traditional Restuarant ( please don’t change it). It appears to be run by a family and go regularly . We had a fantastic mean, good variety, all freshly cooked and nicely presented. Very tasty. Need to go back sooner. Very good value
davesandilands . 2021-10-31
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We have been back a few times since lockdown ended and I’m pleased to say it’s as good as ever. Great food, good selection of drinks and the same lovely staff. Rainbow remains a favourite.
SheldonB14 . 2021-07-24
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El Rainbow ha sido nuestro habitual durante décadas, pero hemos experimentado un cambio recientemente. La comida siempre estuvo deliciosa, pero nuestras dos últimas comidas para llevar han sido muy decepcionantes. El sabor predominante de la sopa agridulce era principalmente de vinagre, las tostadas de gambas con ajonjolí estaban saturadas de aceite, los fideos en el chow mein eran demasiado finos, no lo habitual, y se empapaban mucho cuando se ponía incluso una pequeña cantidad de salsa de curry vertido sobre él. La carne de pato todavía tenía mucha grasa y estaba muy seca, no es el plato sabroso que solemos comer en el restaurante. Nuestra comida para llevar anterior, pato en salsa de naranja, también era muy pobre. Entonces, ¿qué está pasando en nuestro encantador restaurante Rainbow? Espero que se recupere de lo que le aqueja.
Lenora M . 2020-10-25
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We were looking for a Chinese on Sunday afternoon for a birthday celebration with children We live near Solihull and all those around were not open on Sunday afternoon We didn’t want to go to the city centre so found Rainbow on Trip Advisor. We weren’t disappointed First impressions aren’t good. Rainbow is in a block of shops in a non too salubrious area of King’s Heath. The outside needs sprucing up and the inside is quite dingy. The staff were brilliant but did not really look the part. However, we had a table for 11 and the restaurant was half full at 3pm on Sunday. We ordered the 2 set meals, 1 veggie and 3 kids plus Peking duck as a starter. Every dish was plentiful, hot and tasty, unlike some set menus when some dishes are left untouched. Highlights were the duck, spicy chicken and both prawn dishes. We had the Chinese lager, which was reasonably priced and better than Carling. Even the wine, a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc was good: overpriced as everywhere but OK. We left at 6-30, by which time the place was very busy and you’d struggle to get a table. Obviously the locals know something Finished with banana fritters. We overstayed our welcome and were in the restaurant for 3.5 hours but no hassle from the staff. Highly recommended and will certainly go again, possibly as a stopping off point after a days cricket at Edgbaston
alanratcliffe43 . 2020-01-12
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We made a booking for 8pm on a Friday. The restaurant was packed but few people seemed to have food on the table. Two staff were serving, both wearing outdoor jackets, and the reason for this was soon clear. The place was freezing and a fan above the suspended ceiling was blowing cold air down onto us. We asked for a table in a warmer part of the restaurant and we were moved but it was just as cold there. After a long wait the chilli ribs starter arrived. Ribs were swimming in grease and the taste was overwhelmingly one of fat. Then the mains arrived but only half of what we had ordered. Both dishes were cold and after it was plonked on the table the staff member busied herself taking orders from other customers rather than bringing the rest of our order. I sent the food back to be reheated. Didn’t receive an apology for the cold food or the indifferent service. Eventually all the food arrived. It was quite tasty but by then it was overshadowed by the earlier experiences. This restaurant is obviously popular with the local people and it is good value. However it has a run down and unwelcoming atmosphere and the staff are socially unskilled and run off their feet. I assume it is run on a shoestring- with decent management and more staff in the kitchen and on the floor it could be terrific. As it stands it doesn’t deserve more than 2 stars and I am puzzled how some reviewers could have given 5 stars.
Michaelinshropshire . 2019-11-30
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Okay, so the meal was okay. Nothing special, but not bad. However, when I'm in the middle of giving my order, I don't expect to be left with mid-scentence while the guy answers the phone to take a carry-out order. Apparently this order was more important than me, part of the only customers in the restaurant. Not very good service at all. Will not return.
antonyb878 . 2019-08-17
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Went out with friends to the rainbow on kings heath high street and had a great meal and plenty of it. Two of us had sizzling tofu and chicken chow mien in black bean sauce and the others shared a set meal for four but there we're five who did not go hungry as there was more than plenty. Good food great price and excellent service.
Elaine R . 2019-08-07
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Well this Chinese is the best out there for eating out good value for money food is amazing .. but best of all is there toffee apples and deep fried ice cream heaven always go here
clairecrates . 2019-06-04
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Have visited several times. A little outdated but clean and presentable. Family business, always welcoming. Varied menu and tastefully presented. Recommended.
michaelclifford17 . 2019-05-15
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I've been coming to Rainbow for several years and have never been dissapointed. The food is very good quality, and quantity! The service is efficient and staff are helful and polite. The restaurant decor may seem dated, but it gives an authentic family run feel. Would recommend the mushroom yuk-sung to start and the fish in oyster sauce.
A G . 2019-04-22
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The best Chinese restaurant/takeaway I've found in Kings Heath / Moseley (although that's not saying much!) They don't offer delivery on orders and the restaurant itself could do with a fresh look but the food is well above average, which is the most important thing for me
affront . 2019-02-26
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Visit this place every 3 or 4 weeks but never again after tonight. Overcharged on the bill and it was a simple calculation of food my daughter and I ordered. They tried to cheat me and I told them so loudly in front of all their customers. I absolutely hate being loyal to a restaurant that tries to over charge me. She said 'sorry' but without an incentive apology it means nothing. I'll never be visiting again and I'll be recommending to any one ever again. CHECK YOUR BILL
. 2019-02-02
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Lovely food,helpfull and humble staff,wish we had discovered this restaurant earlier,I think that anyone who visits will be pleasantly surprised
Binisan . 2019-01-17
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We had booked a table, and were looking forward to a lovely meal to start 2019. However we turned up to discover with disbelief that the place was shut with an apology note left in the window. We were not contacted in advance and our contact details had not been taken. We feel very angry and disappointed at the lack of professionalism and poor customer service skills for a place that has been open so long. The restaurant needs to ensure that the booking system and the person handling the bookings are 100% reliable.
TomTKingsHeath . 2019-01-05
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Had a great meal here as a couple. Food is well cooked & delicious, and the service was impeccable. Very friendly place and will be returning.
rigidspence . 2018-10-25
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Qué descubrimiento, bofetada en medio de una fila de tiendas en High Street en King Heath. Para ser honesto, no parece muy atractivo desde el exterior, pero una vez pasada la puerta principal, es fabuloso. La comida es fabulosa y muy buena relación calidad-precio. La comida se sirve muy rápido y con caras amigables. . . . .
Maria R . 2018-10-02
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From the outside you barely know if this place is still trading as it looks quite dark. One evening we decided to give it a try as it’s more of a treat to eat Chinese in the restaurant rather than takeaway. Pleased we did, it’s fairly small, the decor is nothing too fancy but it’s like a traditional Chinese and it has all the dishes you would expect, and the quality was good of the dishes I had. Sizzling fillet steak was very tasty. The staff were friendly, the gentlemen said we could stick to one rice between us and ask for another if we need it which was very good advice. It is good value too. It’s a good local asset and I will definitely be returning again.
GreggSheffield . 2018-09-25
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Myself and my partner visit this Chinese restaurant regularly. Food is consistently delicious and atmosphere inside is relaxed. Value for money is superb - starters, main meals, sides and a bottle of wine all under £50.
RobbieHindle . 2018-09-02
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....the Rainbow was a delight (Saturday 16/06/18). Friendly efficient service, lovely food (piping hot) and more than ample portions.
jrmills2017 . 2018-06-17
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We simply put a search into google maps for a Chinese restaurant when staying overnight in Birmingham. We were looking for something over four stars and found this little place. The food was very good and tasty, the owner of the place was super nice and even paid for our parking as we didn't have any sterling on us and it was located in an area with pay and display parking. The staff was attentive and the place was busy. I would recommend this place.
thecelticyank . 2018-05-22
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Staying locally for a few days, as was born, had lived in the area, before moving north. Fancied a nice meal on our last night, checked Google map, then reviews, chose The Rainbow, and telephoned to book.. We chose well, and were very happy with our visit..
TracenTez . 2018-02-20
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Dinner before a gig, a lovely relaxed dinner with great food and excellent value for money. Friendly non obtrusive staff. Very busy for 7.30 on a Saturday so glad we booked.
485suzanneo . 2018-02-13
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Un momento muy agradable como el personal del restaurante era muy agradable y la comida era deliciosa. Elegimos una de las comidas preparadas para cuatro y cada plato era delicioso, muy bien presentada y en cantidad más que suficiente. El pato crujiente era perfecto como estaba el pollo yuk sung, jill juen pollo, ternera szachuan y langostinos en salsa de alubias negras.
Lynne P . 2018-02-11
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De muy baja calidad, teniendo en cuenta el precio. Teníamos 3 platos diferentes. Uno con arroz y pollo, arroz y pollo estaba claramente superficial era viejo. Una cama que tenía comida sate langostino muy poco y mucha salsa grasosa y gambas cocidas. Un pollo chow mein con mayoría de fideos y pollo muy poco. Esperaba tener mejor para platos de 7 libras cada uno.
delcl86 . 2018-01-25
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Fui allí con mi familia, así que 2 adultos y 2 niño tenía un gran tiempo me encantó la comida a todo el mundo le recomendaría la sal pimienta langostinos con chile como un entrante muy bueno. El personal era amable y atento. Volveremos y pensé que en cuanto a costo que era bastante razonable.
NickPM100 . 2018-01-05
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Se ha convertido en algo de una tradición ahora para comer en el arco iris en la víspera de Navidad y, como en años anteriores, 2017 no fue una excepción. Una vez más, a pesar de ser muy transitada, la comida (nuestro grupo de siete tenía muchos) era delicioso. Conocer el propietario y su familia ya que el servicio fue amable y atento (no preferencial todo el mundo es bien cuidado) y, dado que el lugar estaba lleno, dicho servicio no es lento. Una agradable velada antes de enfrentarnos a Turquía 5 maneras!
jrmills2017 . 2017-12-27
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It’s been a few years since I visited here and was a little unsure what I would find, but I wasn’t disappointed we food was tasty and clean. The sizzling filet steak, we had it black bean, was particularly tender. Then there was the Mongolian lamb this is a dish I don’t get in many places. Perhaps a little extra sauce on the dishes but other than that the sweet and sour chicken was excellent and the crispy shredded beef was particularly crispy. Still an excellent place to go
J M . 2017-12-26
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The Rainbow is a ten minute walk from my house, but I have actually only eaten there a handful of times over the past few years. This evening I went with friends who are regulars, and tried lots of dishes recommended by them.
MsRiley . 2017-12-12
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Just returned having had Sunday evening with the family here, we haven’t been for years. The service was good, the food was really nice and great value for money. I had read about the decor being dated, Don’t know how long ago those reviews were written but although small, the dining area was very pleasantly decorated. I had fabulous duck in plum sauce, lots of it and one of the best I’ve eaten. Will definitely be returning. The only minus at this time of the year, the ladies loo is freezing but so what, great eating place.
JulieB742 . 2017-11-19
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We live next door and we go there all the time. Love every single dish on the menu. The staff...
Petya K . 2017-08-30
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Fuimos un grupo de 6. Manera ordenados demasiada comida, pero la comida que pedimos estaba delicioso. Este restaurante no parece muy atractivo desde el exterior, pero la comida no te defraudará. Siempre parece estar ocupado aquí y allá puede ser una espera para la comida pero es mucho la pena.
JManderfeld . 2017-08-08
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Fuimos allí para comida cumpleaños con la familia - 4. Elegimos el menú 2 y los otros 2 eligió separada comidas del menú y la comida no me decepcionó en absoluto. Los platos eran abundantes y muy sabrosos. El personal era muy atento y servicial y nada era un problema. Intentamos nuestro mejor para comer de todo, pero era imposible porque había mucho. Este lugar es increíble, definitivamente volveremos muy pronto!
Marge L . 2017-07-01
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Spur of the moment evening visit with a mate a boys curry night, have been here on many occasions rang and booked a table at 8pm to eat at 9pm, no drama no pronlem walked in sat down it was a busy night but a good atmosphere. The food was everything i have learned to expect no disapointments quick polite service. If you want simple quality home style cooked food not buffet style then you cant go wrong. The menu is broad enough to please all taste's at very fair prices without the hassel of going to Birmingham, recomend this establishment every time.
Steve B . 2017-06-11
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Booked 3 nights before. When we arrived, were told there was no booking. No apologies, just kept showing us their book with no entry under our name, as if we were in the wrong. There was one free table, but when we asked to have it, they gave it to the group that came in after us. When we protested the staff said 'they booked, you didn't'. They suggested we came back in half an hour, but we had no confidence they would keep a table for us, so we left. They didn't even offer us a complimentary drink. Very disappointing. Shan't be going back there.
Sue G . 2017-05-21
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What can you really say about this honest, no frills chinese restaurant? If your not seeking high end oriental dining in fancy surroundings then the Rainbow shouldn't disappoint with its basic decor and simple dishes.Don't expect a Michelin Star experience and you'll leave nourished at a reasonable price, particularly if you order one of the fixed menu's.
Steve J . 2017-05-18
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We eat here fairly often, yet to be disappointed, good quality chinese food at a reasonable priceHighly suggest trying the Jill Yuen Lamb it's superb.
Jeffp1875 . 2017-05-11
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Brilliant food nice staff very helpful.Could do with the decor begin up graded must try only Cantonese in Kings Heath.
Mavis C . 2017-05-08
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Went here on Tuesday evening with family wish we hadn't bothered. Waiter was very rude, didn't want to give any time to let us decide what to order. My brother asked for sweet and sour chicken to be chicken breast in the sauce not chicken balls, was told ok, but it came as the chicken balls and told that's what we do!!!! Special chow mein was just a vast unappealing mess on the plate in a watery liquid. When we complained the rude waiter just walked away. Rest of the food was very bland, waiter would just lean across us to remove items off table whilst we were eating!When we asked for the bill they still tried to charge us for something that was sent back as it was inedible, when challenged they didn't want to remove the cost but did eventually. To say we were disappointed is an understatement, my brother has been using this restaurant for 30 years, but won't be using it anymore.
Sharon T . 2017-05-04
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group visited for a special meal, the staff were unhelpfull, and at times rude , the food was very bland and poor and some of the orders were wrong but by this time we just wanted to leave , waiters snatch plates from infront of you without a excuse me , when we complained about the meals they just walked away , we couldnt eat some of the ffo it was that poor so asked for it to be removed from bill which didnt go down well , we have known and used this restaurant for many years and can not believe how bad it has got , someone hinted it had changed hands but definately wont return "should have read previous reports
birminghamblue . 2017-05-03
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Ordered a variety of dishes to share and it all tasted pretty much the same. Had starters which all arrived at different times so not everyone ate together. Quite dingy and dirty inside. Was quite expensive and small portions.
B N . 2017-04-15
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We went to have dinner there, my mum went to use the toilet before ordering. Dryers don't work and no toilet paper, floor was sticky as you walked.We left without ordering due to poor standard of hygiene in toilets
delmurphy11 . 2017-04-14
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I took my mom out for Sunday lunch and had a very pleasant meal that for the most part was well cooked, decent food but not spectacular.We had steamed scallops with garlic and 1/4 duck for starters, the were a little disappointing and the 1/4 duck was what you would expect although the addition of a cabbage and carrot pickle was a nice change.For the mains we had chicken with ginger and pineapple which my mom loved but as I am not the biggest fan of ginger wasn't quite for me (nothing wrong with the food just personal taste) and a sizzling steak cantonese which I liked but my mom wasn't such a fan. We had sides of noodles and egg fried rice - oddly the rice wasn't great.All in all a decent meal with friendly service and I would go back.
JimJimmeney . 2017-01-30
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Ordered food, mostly chicken dishes. Took ages as the immigrant could not speak English or remember longer than 30 seconds. Dishes had no chicken in, not freshly cooked, just heated and one smelt like it was on fire. Chicken balls resembled strings of battery and chicken chow me in with no chicken, something else, not sure what it was. Plenty of good Chinese shops, this is not one. When you complain they just hang up. Health inspectors did visit few months back, stacking chickens next to the toilet is not good practice.
Nater21 . 2017-01-18
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The menu may not be as extensive as some places but everything I, or my companions, have ordered has always been of excellent quality. The size of the portions is very generous and the price very reasonable. It is very advisable to book as it is very popular.
charlesbA2153BL . 2016-12-12
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Went with a large group which normally makes the serving difficult but it was very good. Friendly helpful owners (?). All went really well and the food was good. Nice house wine.
LMK63 . 2016-12-08
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Took our son's partner from Sunderland last Saturday to the Rainbow and she was overwhelmed, not being a stranger to Chinese restaurants she had never thought of using chopsticks until she used this restaurant.The reason for her amazement was that it was constantly full during our stay, the staff were very attentive and pleasant in spite of being busy, and the food was excellent and by far the best she had ever tasted and using the chopsticks she reckoned it enhanced the experience.I always enjoy the rainbow but to see the joy on her face really made my evening.Thanks to all at Rainbow.
mal5094 . 2016-11-15
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We've been coming here for a while now and have enjoyed every visit! Special mention to the Jill Yuen ribs starter - they're fantastic!!!
Gareth R . 2016-11-08
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We have live locally for over 30 years and have used The Rainbow for just as long (in different locations). Food and service have been maintained at a high standard throughout.Be prepared for good quality food from a pretty standard Chinese menu with good service from experienced friendly staff
TallTedT . 2016-10-23
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I love visiting Rainbow because the food is really good and the portions are plentiful. It is a bit shabby inside but it means you can go really casual and not feel out of place. I recommend the sizzling sate.
Jaska O . 2016-09-01
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This is one of the best places in Birmingham, the welcome is second to none, Sue always remembers you from the previous visits and asks if you would like to have the same drink this time whilst deciding on your meal.The Hot and Sour soup is spicy and delicious, Ribs and Yuk Sung are great starters and any of the Sizzling Fillet Steak mains along with Singapore Noodles are gorgeous. These are my particular favourites but everything we have tried on the menu has been excellent. Forget any comments about decor and go and enjoy the experience from Stan and Sue, obviously their "English names"
mal5094 . 2016-08-24
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Possibly the best Chinese restaurant in Birmingham. Pork Yuk Sung is an amazing starter. I almost always have the Crispy Shredded Beef and Jill Yuen Aubergine as part of the meal. Service is efficient and I eat there so often, the staff feel like old friends.Best seats in the house are downstairs (avoid being sent upstairs by booking, as the restaurant is popular).Take-away service is good and you can drink Chinese beer while you wait.Splendid!
Jane_and_Gary . 2016-08-24
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We often come here for a weekend meal. We love the starters, it is very inexpensive and service is fairly fast
Paul D . 2016-08-23
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Going to do this review in sections:Hygiene - absolutely spotless place. Toilets , floor, communal areas were all faultless. Decor - old school, in a warm, cosy, comfortable, nice way Service - 10/10. Attentive, friendly, timely, smart without being intrusive. Absolutely perfect.Drinks - ice cold, fresh, properly served. Food - we had punchy, warming, rich delicious soups to start. We also ordered dumplings which were hot and amazingly fresh. For mains we had King Prawns in a deliciously fiery Szechuan sauce plus beef with succulent spring onion and lashings of tangy ginger. Every single dish was basically gorgeous. Price - stunned at the value. Overall - I've just found a new favourite. We will be going back here again and again! Love, love, love, love it!!!!!!
Monkeyman1971 . 2016-07-23
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We have been visiting for years; and have always been delighted. Food is really tasty: butterfly king prawns are gorgeous, as are the 'sizzling' dishes. The service is polite and prompt. Someone mentioned the 'dated' decor... But for me, this just adds to the cosy feeling. Vintage stuff - keep it up!
Rachel H . 2016-05-17
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We haven't eaten here for several years, just not go round to going back, no other reason. We visited with friends on a Saturday night. Food was lovely, just as good as it always was, service was very good and friendly. The decor hasn't changed over the years, but clean, just a little dated.
joolskend . 2016-04-10
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Long menu, seating downstairs and upstairs (when they get busy as they used to). Service is relatively unsmiling, fast and efficient as only the Chinese can do. Food is definitely acceptable but fairly standard fare - but where can you find a Chinese restaurant these days?
1234biffo . 2016-03-23
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We have visited this place a few times. There is no point booking because they offer tables to whoever turns up and leave you waiting. Staff can be rude and recently they turned away a family, without good reason, who had arrived before us & were waiting for a table. Its a shame because the food is quite good. Don't accept a table upstairs. They open this up at very busy times, usually Christmas and new year, and it is cold and gloomy.
katyok . 2016-03-20
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We are regulars here and haven't been able to find a cantonese in Brum that comes close. Food consistently great and a good selection of drinks too. Good team of Sue and Stan who have been there for years and have created a great restaurant always full of regulars.
SheldonB14 . 2016-02-15
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We go to this Chinese restaurant on a regular basis, any excuse for a family reunion. The food is of high Quality, and the beer and wine are both of excellent value. A bottle of wine would be around £14 depending what you have of course. Should book at the weekends if you want to eat after 8pm, getting hungry just writing this review. Never had a bad meal yet and have been going for yearsEnjoy
Caddies104 . 2016-02-09
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What a splendid welcome and what fabulous cooking. This really was the best Chinese cooking we have ever experienced. Not too much salt to leave you feeling thirsty afterwards. We were a family group of 11 of us including three young children and two of them needed a small portion which was neatly served in an attractive box. The birthday pair were 69 yrs and 86 yrs. The latter had never had a Chinese meal before and she loved it. You can't get a better recommendation than that! Thank you for a real pot of gold.
Jan L . 2016-02-07
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The Rainbow is the best Chinese restaurant / takeaway for miles around, the food's always lovely and affordable and the staff are really nice too!
DougBrum . 2015-12-29
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My husband and I had a 3 course meal here last night.The food was delicious and piping hot.The decor is abit old/tired, but the place is clean and food outstanding.We have never had a bad meal here.We will definitely be back.Thanks
Mandy Q . 2015-12-19
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A party of 9 of us came here to celebrate. I had never been before but two of our party had been coming to this little family-run restaurant for over 20 years. I'd never really noticed it, and from the outside you might think it is a take-away. The decor certainly isn't stylish but the food is excellent, as good as that in the old Happy Gathering: all the dishes had interestingly different sauces and textures. Service was friendly. We shared a range of dishes, and over-ordered - they provided boxes to take food home. Lovely evening - will definitely come again and strongly recommend it.
Rosi E . 2015-12-10
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I recently ate here on a Friday night about 8.30. I had fond memories of this restaurant from when my mother, father and I would occasionally visit years ago when I was a teenager, some 15 years ago. The first thing I noticed was that it still looked exactly the same! Same decor and furnishings which are really starting to look rather dated now! They looked a little old fashioned 15 years ago. Even so, that isn't a deal breaker for me and the ambience seemed peaceful and intimate. Service was friendly and efficient enough, perhaps a tiny bit on the rushed side though when I politely asked for a few more minutes to look at the menu. The draught Chinese beer was lovely however. I chose duck in crab sauce with a mushroom fried rice. To be honest, it was not the best Chinese food I'd ever had but I hadn't expected that. I'd expected and hoped to have a tasty meal that wasn't too pricey and that's what I got. So all in all, I had a nice meal and would definitely go back. But they've got to think about doing the place up a bit.
Nick D . 2015-12-02
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I lived in Kings Heath for years and never got round to visiting. What a shame - re-discovered after moving away this place never fails to impress. Quaint 70's styling but food is excellent and good value. Friendly owners warm greeting from Su.
micgou . 2015-10-30
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Consistently good. Friendly staff and great take out service. Their scallops with ginger and spring onions are delicious. The whole sea bass was plump and fragrant. The ambience is a no nonsense, old fashioned, no frills chinese restaurant, indistinguishable from many others with an almost 1970's feel. However what marks Rainbow out is the quality of its product, good chinese food.
KATHRINE M . 2015-10-26
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I go here quite often and the food never disappoints me at all. Lovely people, amazing food and great if you are having a special occasion as there is a big room upstairs you can go in.
CathyJones1989 . 2015-10-20
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I've not eaten in the restaurant but the take away service is good and the food is plentiful and tastes. The chicken in orange sauce is good.
PTG78 . 2015-10-11
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It's the only Chinese I've been to where the food is consistently great. They seem to do more and more takeaways too so we are obviously not the only ones who think this. Reasonably priced and licensed too. Our favourites are barbecue ribs, Mongolian lamb yuk sung and the duck, none of which we have found as good anywhere else.
SheldonB14 . 2015-10-02
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It has been a while since I have been to this community restaurant and it will be even longer till I go again. Poor service and average food!
Paddyp0wer . 2015-09-19
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I visited this restaurant with a friend on a Sunday evening. First of all we didn't get a good welcoming, the owner just told us where to sit when he should be more friendly and welcoming to all his customers to get them back. We were given drink and food menus and waited 15 minutes just to order some drinks. There were four tables in the restaurant including ours; this straight away showed the managers weren't good at all we should of only had to wait five minutes to order drinks. When the wife of the owner came over we had to order food and drinks together which is disgraceful, we should of had our drink firstly then we should of been asked to order our food but it was far too slow. For starter my friend had chicken wings which he enjoyed, I ordered chicken spring rolls. The starters actually came out really quickly surprisingly. Then shockingly I took a bite into one of the spring rolls which all three were FROZEN inside!!!!! I was so shocked it's not hard to COOK spring rolls in a fryer!!!! It really put me off eating there to be honest as I thought to myself I've just ate some frozen chicken!!!!! I told the manager he took them away didn't even apologise which is awful of him and we heard him walk into the kitchen and shout at the chefs, we didn't want to be hearing this whilst having a meal. Whilst waiting I said to my friend oh well not every place is perfect I certainly spoke too soon..... The second lot were still FROZEN inside!!!!!!!!! I couldn't believe my eyes!!!!! At this point my friend had finished his starter!! I sent them back again and the managers just said oh dear and pulled a face!!! Totally unprofessional!!!!! I hate complaining but twice I was given frozen spring rolls it's not on at all!!!!!! Third time lucky they came out and the chefs had obviously microwaved them!!!! The owner came over and asked if we wanted some more drinks we thought oh that's nice of him a complimentary round for having two frozen starters.... NOT we had to pay full price for everything!!!!! Our main dishes were ok nothing spectacular. Overall we will not be returning, due to the rude owners of this place, no customer service skills to say the least!!! They need to sort themselves out!!!!
zigzag24 . 2015-09-14
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Another superb meal at this restaurant. Food is perfect whenever you visit. Warm and friendly service allied to delicious food makes this a perfect place to visit. I thoroughly recommend the food here.
Gilly H . 2015-08-18
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Fantastic dinner, early on a Friday so not wildly busy. I've eaten here frequently, (but not enough!), and I've always found something delicious; steamed fish with ginger and spring onion, crispy duck in a crab sauce,tofu with aubergine... Great selection of dishes for all tastes; all the classics, well stocked vegetarian options as well as some really nice specials.They place a candle-lit-heater in the centre of the table to rest the food on, making it great to share food, and it's licensed with attentive and on-the-ball staff, so a great place for dinner with friends or family. And it's very competitively priced, including the drinks.And they do take-away!!Downsides: It can be easy to forget whether it's day or nightThe calendar needs updating in the ladies' loo
MrGrizzles83 . 2015-08-11
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Great food love all the starters and the duck and crab main is fantastic have eaten here for many years and can honestly say have never had a bad meal here will be back soon
Tonyfarrell999 . 2015-08-04
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My family and me have been going here for over 25 years!!!!!!! We love the food and it always taste amazing. Haven't found any where else that is as good. Won ton soup and pork yuk sung comes highly recommended. Also the chill salt pepper squid!
GLondon14 . 2015-07-28
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Visited Rainbow again which is a family favourite. It was quiet but the food was great. We had mushroom yuk sung starter followed by large steamed sea bass with ginger and spring onion, king prawn and green pepper in black bean sauce and fried fish with asparagus. We finished up with toffee apple and ice cream. All dishes were great and as always great service.
mattleal . 2015-07-20
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This has always been our favourite Cantonese restaurant and we are regular visors. This time 12 of us were booked on a Saturday night. The food was as good as ever, and they coped with the large party really well despite being very busy. It's really good value and had a great evening. I'd recommend the Rainbow whether as a couple of a large party celebrating a special occasion.
SheldonB14 . 2015-07-09
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Good setting - ambience and décor. Friendly, attentive staff. Surprisingly empty. Food nicely cooked and presented.
olivia s . 2015-07-04
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Love the food here.Long time regular customer (the owner knows my name!).Pork Yuk Sung is amazing! Crispy duck is really good (and I have been to Beijing). Jill Yuen Aubergine is a lovely vegetable dish is eating in,
Jane_and_Gary . 2015-07-01
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Visited last night with my partner, greated by very friendly staff that done an amazing job, food was lovely and the beef just melted in your mouth, the chicken & mushroom curry was lovely and spicy! Too top it off loved the draught chinese lager, many thanks too the staff at rainbow had a fantastic evening - thankyou
Tania P . 2015-06-27
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My wife and I have been coming here for years and generally have had good food and service. However, we went on Father's Day and being busy, we were directed upstairs. When the main dishes came, they were just put on the table without the warmer, so in a short while, the food got cold. We left a lot of the food as it was not pleasant to eat. I also noticed in the chilli pork dish, they are using some kind of processed meat and not a fillet of pork as before. It tasted of nothing in particular. My point is , if you are using the upstairs room as part of the restaurant, then have enough warmers for each table. I did complain but was offered only a drink. Not very good after a £30 spend. Disappointed.
Gobinder . 2015-06-25
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Been coming here for 20 years now. Always great service and fab food. Best place to go in Kings heath.
NR Newman . 2015-06-25
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I am really surprised at some of the negative reviews of this place. We we're recommended it by our friends who dine at very high end restaurants so we knew it must be good. We have been about 4 times very recently and wish we'd found it sooner! We don't eat meat and the selection for vegetarians is great! Our favourites are the veggie noodle soup and crispy seaweed to start, then we share the tofu and ginger stir fry and one of the other two tofu dishes (can't remember names but they are all nice) and we have some lovely fresh fluffy boiled rice and the chow mein. The food is always so fresh and light tasting, it doesn't have that heavy greasy taste of some Chinese food. It comes out sizzling on hot plates and you can tell that it is all freshly cooked, the veggies are all lovely and fresh not soggy like in some Chinese places. Best of all it is so cheap! We have a beer and a couple of glasses of house wine, I thought it would be horrible but it's fine, and it usually only comes to around £25, the same as we pay for a stodgy takeaway. The other nice thing about this place is that it is so relaxed and unpretentious, you can just go in your casual clothes and don't have to get dressed up. The service is always great too. We love it here! Just writing this has made me hungry so I think we will go tonight!
Hannah F . 2015-05-01
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Have been going to this restaurant for over 20 years and felt I have to give this review to balance a few negative reviews. Had a meal this weekend and Stan and team as welcoming as ever. They have lots of seafood options so we had steamed sea bass in black bean sauce, Jill yuen fish and stuffed crispy duck in crab sauce. The food here is very good for a local chinese restaurant and as good as many in China town. Yes some will be slightly better there / more specialist but what is special about the rainbow is that it is very welcoming; we even feel relaxed bringing our children here which we would not in china town where this would become a more stressful experience. We had a lovely meal and would recommend the toffee apple desert. Cost £50 for two inc drinks and tip is reasonable for quality if meal.
mattleal . 2015-02-08
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A Great Cantonese restaurant that I have been eating at since the 1980's when it used to be sited further up the High Street before moving to its current location several years ago. The food is always consistently good whether you eat in or take away and the menu is extensive. Service is always prompt and courteous and it's great having a restaurant this good within walking distance rather than having to visit the Chinese Quarter in the City Centre.
redferry . 2015-02-07
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I've had great experience of this restaurant over the years. But the takeaway we had last night was very disappointing. Same ol same ol type Chinese takeaway. Lack of proper flavours. This used to be a fabulous restaurant, but I wouldn't eat here again. Given such variance in reviews I wonder if they have different chefs working different days?I miss the days of beautifully steamed scallops in garlic.
SarahShattered . 2015-01-19
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We have been regular visitors of the rainbow for years. The food is always fantastic and the service top class. I would highly recommend this place to anyone looking for excellent quality food served in a buzzing atmosphere by lovely staff at a reasonable price. We will continue to visit this excellent restaurant for many years to come. I would highly recommend the wafer wrapped prawns, yuk sung and jill yuen spare ribs for starters. The sea bass with ginger and spring onions is a delicious main course as is the aromatic duck. Enjoy!
Dunkwon . 2015-01-04
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I've lived in kings Norton for 30 years and I've tried numerous Chinese restaurants and this is one of the best. Great food cooked well served by friendly chinesse people. I don't go here that much but every time I do it's great. Not over priced reasonable for the quality. Always clean and well presented. Slightly dated decor but not old fashioned
KevinBirminghamuk . 2014-10-26
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Omg, this is my review for the rainbow, what a sham.I started of with a chiness beer I cant remember what it was called but it was off, tasted like vinegar. Next the duck with crab sauce, states on the menu it may sound strange, forget strange try horrible it was disgusting, I told the waiter who found me amusing that I did not like it and so I sent it back. He then recommended the crispy duck with a side of noodles, I thought I was getting the crispy aromatic duck but it wad just a pre cooked then fried duck breast which tasted as bad as the first order. I thought I cant complain again so I'll eat it but it tasted that off I had to say something so I told the waiter who again found me amusing that I did not like this duck dish either. He said you've eaten half of it you cant have another dish, I had not eaten half of it.I decided to settle up the bill which came to £27 for a two pints a glass of horrible cheap wine and my meal which I did not eat. I basically got cheated at rainbow but I thought if business is that bad have the £27.Conclusion I would personally not eat at the rainbow again but the other customers seemed happy however I'm not a food snob.
foody10098 . 2014-10-19
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The BBQ spare ribs tasted like sweet vinegar. The beef in the chow mein was very chewy not tasty. The egg fried rice had no flavour. The only thing that was ok-ish was the chicken curry but still not the best. First and last visit to this chinese. Rather stick to a take away at the maypole.
382Dee . 2014-07-04
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For £30 per head (including 2 drinks) I would expect a far better meal. The BBQ spare ribs tasted almost identical to the Hoi Sin ribs and the soup was bland and tasteless.The mains were 'gloopy' and again disappointingly lacking in flavour. The duck pancakes were the saving grace,,, these were good
mikeyp949 . 2014-04-11
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Used to love the food here, it's still ok but not great like it used to be. The prawn crackers aren't nice anymore and the sweet and sour chicken is bland and pale. Have you changed chefs? Please change back!
Jenniferwhitehouse . 2014-03-10
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The best Chinese locally, beautiful food served by professional and friendly staff. Not exactly cheap but you get what you pay for and it was worth every penny.
Peter P . 2014-01-06
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My and my fella go quite regularly for Chinese but WOW this knocked the socks off other restaurants, takeaways etc.We had the set meal for 2 people £30, we got loads of promptly delivered mouth watering food!Too be honest we could have eaten slightly less and gotten a doggy bag (probably would have been a good idea) but frankly I couldn't help myself!Thank you to the polite, helpful and cheery staff, a job very well done!p.s. please don't change your chef :)ThanksSarah
Sarah P . 2014-01-01
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The food here is good, the usual sort of stuff you find on a Chinese menu done to a good standard.The food takes a fair amount of time to arrive which is reassuring that it is being freshly prepared. It also doesn't have the artificial colour of some Chinese food.It was very busy the evening we went, so it felt quite cramped.The decor could do with a bit of a spruce up, but if you are looking for good food, well cooked and aren't overly in need of a smart looking place then this is the place for you.
HalfWelshHalfKiwi . 2013-12-29
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A regular favourite for my friends and I for some time now. The C2 set menu is a feast of incredible proportions. But quantity by no means reduces quality. All the dishes are fresh and tasty. The szechuan beef is excellent, as are the prawns, aubergine, and lemon chicken. A mighty bowl of special fried rice is always provided, and is rarely devoured even by the hungriest of groups.Service is good, and there is always a good atmosphere. It's not bring your own, but the Sun Lik beer is well worth a taster.
Andy C . 2013-11-27
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We have been regular customers of the Rainbow for many, many years now and it's always our first choice for a good Chinese meal. The restaurant looks nothing from the outside, just a shop front in a row of other shops, but inside it's like walking into a little Chinese palace (or how I imagine a little Chinese palace would look)! The service is always good, fast and polite and the food has always been of a good standard. The menu is full of imaginative dishes and combinations, along with the standard Chinese fare that you would expect to find too. Portion sizes are good, so a meal there always ends up being good value, as we always go home with full bellies! It's also good to find the Chinese Sunlik beer on draught there too, as it works out much more economical to drink it by the pint (or half), than the rip-off bottle prices that they charge in many other places. We have had several takeaway meals from here too, and the quality and value is just as good. In fact it's the only Chinese takeaway that I would eat, as the takeaway food is still top restaurant quality and proper restaurant sized portions too. We have taken many friends and other family members along with us to dine at the Rainbow, over the years and shall continue to do so for years to come yet! Well done Rainbow - top notch nosh!!!
JoolzTrekker . 2013-11-07
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When we lived around the corner the rainbow was a frequent destination after work or at weekends. But now we live in Bristol visits are obviously less often and it must be 4 years since we were last there. But it did not disappoint in providing a very pleasant and good value night out. The food may not be the most sophisticated but jolly nice - we enjoyed our sea bass with ginger and spring onion and other dishes. The atmosphere and service are great. I am sure we will be back again sometime - if only it were closer!
David J . 2013-06-23
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