Baked In Brick: Vibrant Wood-Fired Pizza at The Custard Factory

A Creative Culinary Gem in Digbeth

Baked In Brick is nestled in the heart of Birmingham’s Custard Factory, a historic and cultural hub in the Digbeth district renowned for its creative energy and independent spirit. The Custard Factory itself was originally a warehouse for Bird’s Custard production, now transformed into a vibrant space housing artisan shops, galleries, and eateries. Baked In Brick fits perfectly into this dynamic environment, offering a modern yet welcoming space that reflects the area's artistic vibe.

From Street Food Roots to Restaurant Success

Originally acclaimed as one of the West Midlands’ best street food vendors, Baked In Brick transitioned into a full-fledged restaurant in 2018. This evolution retained the vibrant, informal spirit of its street food origins while elevating the dining experience. The kitchen specializes in wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas, celebrated for their perfectly blistered crusts and imaginative toppings. The menu showcases a blend of classic and innovative options, including smoky burrata salads and pizzas featuring wild mushrooms, goat’s cheese, and smoked salmon.

Atmosphere and Service

The restaurant exudes a laid-back, friendly atmosphere that complements its artisanal food offerings. The staff are noted for their warmth and attentiveness, enhancing the overall experience. The interior is casual yet stylish, with an open kitchen that invites diners to watch the pizza-making craft. The use of scissors to serve pizzas adds a quirky, practical touch that has become a signature of the venue.

Community and Culinary Impact

Baked In Brick is more than just a restaurant; it’s a community hub within Digbeth’s creative quarter. It contributes to the area’s reputation as a food destination, alongside other notable venues like 670 Grams and Kanteen. The restaurant also operates its own bakery, supplying fresh bread, cakes, and pastries to its venues and other local establishments, further embedding itself in Birmingham’s food culture.

Signature Dishes and Dining Experience

Signature dishes include the award-winning Beef Shin Ragu Calzone and a variety of pizzas that balance traditional flavors with inventive twists. The menu also features sharing plates and salads that complement the main offerings. Despite some critiques of portion sizes for certain dishes like the Sunday roast, the overall culinary creativity and quality remain strong draws. The venue’s moderate price point reflects its quality and location within a trendy urban area.

Location and Surroundings

Located on Gibb Street within the Custard Factory complex, Baked In Brick benefits from the vibrant surroundings of Digbeth, known for its street art, indie shops, and nightlife. This makes it an ideal spot for visitors seeking a blend of great food and cultural immersion. The restaurant’s presence enhances the Custard Factory’s appeal as a destination for food lovers and creatives alike.