For the first time, I let Wifey loose without me to find out about a new exciting dessert venue in Digbeth…
When Ryan was invited to the grand launch of Pirlo’s Dessert Lounge, due to a prior engagement, he asked me to step in and go sample some delights from Birmingham’s newest dessert lounge.
My knowledge of dessert cafes & lounges is practically non existent. A couple of work colleagues have raved about the ones in Ladypool Road, so I was looking forward to trying some sweet treats in this new city centre venue and see what all the fuss was about. The lounge was about a 5 minute walk from Selfridges, located on Coventry Street, hidden behind the main Moor Street car park.
The interior is classic New York loft-style, creating chill out high-backed booths, copper light fixings and the obligatory exposed brickwork. The impressive neon sign adds a touch of warm to make a cosy interior, suitable for enjoying your time.
Mohan Singh, the head pastry chef, came over and introduced himself. He was clearly passionate about producing desserts for everyone to enjoy, offering vegetarian, vegan, dairy free, gluten free and nut free options.
The extensive menu of desserts covered favourites such as New York style lemon cheesecake, waffles, crepes, gooey sundaes and a wide variety of gelato flavours.
Along with fellow bloggers (The Ting Thing, Positive Fridays, Nutella Tasha, Sophie Etc), we sampled Mixed Berry Pavlova; Victoria Sponge; Carrot Cake; Red Velvet Cake and Chocolate Brownie, all beautifully presented. My favourite was Red Velvet Cake as it was moist, with a brownie like soft and rich texture and not overpowering in its sweetness.
We also sampled the Raspberry & Chia Seed Verrine and the Walnut Treacle Tart (unfortunately, I did not get photos of these). The Verrine was smooth almost yoghurt like in its consistency and delicious; I cannot recall having tried Chia Seed before, only knowing it’s a superfood and super healthy. The Walnut bites were very moreish, with a chewy texture and reminded me of flapjacks.
I, personally, was looking forward to trying the waffles and these did not disappoint, they were crispy and light. We had two different ones: Blueberry Compote and Chantilly Cream, and Fresh Strawberries & pouring cream.
The light & fluffy crepes had a gooey salted caramel sauce, and had a good balance between pancake and sauce.
Independent company Quarter Horse Coffee is also served here.
Pirlo’s is open 12pm to 12am, extending to 1am on Friday and Saturday so if you are in the city centre, in need a late night sugar fix or don’t fancy going for a drink, this is ideal. All within a stone’s throw of the Bullring.
Disclaimer: For this event, I was a guest of Pirlo’s and Delicious PR, who provided all food and drinks; this provides no bias to the post. This blog is my own personal opinion and strives to provide an independent view, promoting, enjoying and reviewing the range of exciting food and venues in and around Birmingham.
When: 22/04/2016
Where: Pirlo’s Dessert Lounge, 6 Coventry Street, Birmingham, B5 5NY