HARD TO SWALLOW FOODIE PARADISE

20-09-2007

Unlikely as it might sound, Kings Heath is rapidly establishing itself as a foodie paradise - Poplar Road is a cafe and restaurant quarter in its own right. On the other side of the tracks - oh, alright then, the High Street - Barbara Panvel discovers the delights of The Kitchen Garden.

The Kitchen Garden - a cluster of enterprises in York Road, Kings Heath - offers organic fruit and vegetables and much more. It has been described as a 'hidden oasis' and has a charm rarely met in urban areas.

Beyond the entrance arch the walls are lined with plants for sale and there are two herb tables by the courtyard garden.

A range of organic fruit and vegetables is delivered each Wednesday at noon and set out on the stall near a door which leads to the café, bar and a delicatessen which stocks home-made food and specialist groceries.

Beyond the restaurant is an attractive recess used by many young parents in the area. It has lots of toys and room for children and parents to meet others and enjoy an informal and relaxed meal. The café & restaurant use organic ingredients with a few exceptions which are marked on the menu.

Turning right gardeners find the Garden Shop and Pete Luffman who offers organic gardening advice. They can buy the plants and herbs displayed outside, organic products to control pests and disease, peat-free composts and fertilisers, wormeries and composters.

Next week shopping 'on the wing' during the lunch-hour or on journeys to and from work, & other journeys will be considered – and a visit to Organic Carol in the Bull Ring, recommended by one of the Stirrer's readers.

Any other Stirrer readers been to the Kitchen Garden in Kings Heath? Anywhere else you want to recommend? Leave a comment on the Message Board.