Birmingham's Balti Triangle — centred on Ladypool Road and Stoney Lane in Sparkhill and Moseley, a short bus or taxi ride from the city centre — is the most distinctive Birmingham food experience. The balti, a dry curry cooked and served in a thin steel wok, was invented in Birmingham in the 1970s by Kashmiri immigrants, and the Triangle has over 50 restaurants serving it in its authentic form. Prices are very low; the restaurants are unlicensed but allow you to bring your own beer.
In the city centre, Chinatown on Ladywell Walk is compact but functional. The Mailbox and Brindleyplace areas have more upscale options. Cheap eating is found around the Bullring market and Corporation Street. Indian, Chinese, and Bangladeshi food represent the best value at all levels; the city's Italian and European restaurants are generally less interesting per pound than those in London or Manchester.