In Birmingham, the UK’s second city, restaurants serving “balti,” a Pakistani-influenced dish, are in danger of extinction. These establishments used to be emblematic of the city and gave their name to a neighborhood known as the “Balti Triangle.” Today, however, only four of them remain, representing a loss to Birmingham’s culinary heritage.
Traditional “balti” was created in the 1970s by Pakistani immigrants to satisfy the patrons of the area’s Irish pubs. It reached its peak in the 1990s, when more than 30 restaurants served it in south Birmingham. However, new culinary habits and changes in neighborhood demographics have led to the closure of many of these establishments.
Rising rents and a lack of interest on the part of younger generations of immigrants in continuing the family business have contributed to the demise of “balti” restaurants. Despite this, some establishment owners, such as Zaf Hussain, are committed to preserving this culinary legacy and keeping the tradition alive. Hussain is in charge of “The Shababs,” a restaurant that has been run by his father and brother for a long time. He passionately explains and demonstrates how the iconic dish, which is served directly in the cooking vessel, is prepared.
Although “balti” restaurants have lost their regular Irish pub customers, they have attracted a more family-oriented crowd that enjoys taking their time eating. Despite the decline in the number of restaurants, there is still a demand for this dish, considered the best in the world by some loyal diners.
Proponents of “balti” tried to gain recognition of its status as a culinary heritage at the European level, but Brexit put an end to that possibility. Still, those involved in preserving this tradition continue to fight and seek support from the city council. Despite the decline of restaurants in the neighborhood, owners like Hussain remain optimistic and are expanding their locations to adapt to changes in the culinary industry.
In short, “balti” restaurants in Birmingham are in danger of disappearing, a loss to the city’s culinary heritage. Despite the challenges, advocates of this iconic dish continue to fight to preserve their tradition and keep the balti legacy alive.