Passing Fancies

Passing Fancies is a premier cocktail bar located in the Custard Factory building in Birmingham, recognized as one of the UK's greatest bars. Opened in 2022 by industry veterans, it presents a compact 54-cover layout that feels intimate and conversation-focused with low lighting. The bar's cocktail menus rotate frequently, conceived as flavour experiments incorporating seasonal produce and local ingredients rather than fixed classics. Food offerings are intentionally pared back, featuring small plates and otsumai-style bites with dishes like arancini and seasonal vegetable preparations. Less than 12 months after opening, Passing Fancies won New Bar of the Year at the Class Bar Awards, and later earned a pin from The Pinnacle Guide, a Michelin-style award for the world's best drinks spots.