On campus
The University will always work with you to ensure you can enjoy eating out on campus.
If you're a new student, we recommend visiting the Food Fellows team at Vale Infusion or in University Centre, just upstairs from the Student Living office. When you arrive ask for Shaun Craig, Associate Director of Culinary Development and Operations. See the Campus Map for directions.
They’ll arrange for you to meet with a chef who’ll listen to you and help you feel confident about your choices at restaurants and cafes all over campus. If you like, they can even teach you how to cook a few of your favourite dishes!
When you’re out and about on campus, you’ll find lots of ready-made, pre-packaged options like snacks and sandwiches with clear labelling. Our freshly made hot and cold options don’t display allergen information, so please ask a member of staff before you order.
If you’d like to arrange a meeting to discuss your needs, or to give feedback, contact fbandrsupport@contacts.bham.ac.uk.
In the city
Birmingham is well known for its food culture. Selly Oak, a popular student area close to campus, is also packed with places to eat.
You might already feel confident about what you need to do when you dine out. If not, here are a few pointers:
- Check the restaurant’s menu in advance, if you can
- Ask to see allergen information if it’s not on the menu
- Tell your server you have an allergy, and ask them to make a note on the order that is sent to the kitchen
- Make sure the people with you know about your allergy
- Don’t assume a meal will be ok without checking
Some styles of cooking or cuisines may make cross-contamination or the presence of your allergen more likely. If your friends have chosen a restaurant which can’t promise to offer a safe option for you, don’t be afraid to explain and suggest an alternative.