An illusive speakeasy located somewhere amongst the archaic streets and brick work of the Jewellery Quarter. Shrouded in a veil of secrecy The Site Office really does keep its metaphorical cards close to its chest – even the one Facebook page it seldom uses gives you no indication of the precise address.
If you’re lucky enough to actually find the entrance? Well, you also need a password.
Obviously exclusivity is a theme this “dive bar” holds dear and this should not be perceived as a bad thing. Compared to every other bar Birmingham has to offer this certainly has a unique edge, even offering you a sense of adventure pre-night out, finding your way on anonymous tip-offs and a mysterious mobile number that may or may not reveal the location.
Upon gaining entry to this hidden gem you’re instantly greeted by the most impressive of interior decors. A striking contrast to the modest, unassuming front entrance that bears a crudely placed A4 piece of paper – bearing the words “Site Office” scribbled in pen – thumb tacked to a blank wooden door.
[Image sourced at www.designmynight.com]
A small, yet intimate basement space awaits you complete with top vinyl spinning DJs and a talented array of cocktail mixologists – This place means business when it comes to creating the perfect cocktail, take the Black Cow, made from a special blend of Cornish milk vodka.
On more detailed inspection you’ll notice the vintage, faded brick work complete with obscure oil paintings and warming levels of dim lighting that encapsulate the tiny venue. When you’re all tired out and in need of some rejuvenation, you can take solace in the inviting arms of the small smattering of luxury Chesterfield armchairs, nestled in the various alcoves and crevices that split off from the main grooves of the bar and dance floor.
The Site Office offers a shady, hedonistic haven populated by Birmingham’s finest revellers, a unique and well kept secret placed just a stones throw away from the social norms of Broadstreet and the generic carnage that comes with it.
For those of you yearning for that sense of discovery, wonderment and just a little touch of class, get yourself down to the Jewellery Quarter, get in the know and get searching for Birmingham’s most covert of operations.
Oh, and good luck.
Kristian F. Birch-Hurst 