O2 Academy Birmingham

You're not coming here for a romantic dinner, but when you've got tickets to see someone at this Digbeth stalwart, the food operation does the job properly. The menu keeps things straightforward – think loaded nachos, burgers, and sharing platters that'll soak up whatever you're drinking before the headliner takes the stage. The kitchen knows its audience: punters who want something filling without missing the support act. Service moves at a decent clip, and whilst you won't be writing home about the culinary creativity, everything arrives hot and tastes better than venue food has any right to. It's honest grub that understands its place in your evening – fuel for dancing, not the main event.