An American social media personality with millions of followers has turned to his audience for culinary guidance in Birmingham, sparking a flood of enthusiastic recommendations that overwhelmingly pointed towards a legendary West Midlands establishment.
The Viral Food Inquiry
Kalani Smith, better known online as Kalani Ghost Hunter, boasts a formidable following exceeding three million on TikTok. His content typically blends food reviews with paranormal investigations as he travels across the United States. During his UK visit, having already sampled a traditional roast in Sutton Coldfield and a classic Birmingham Balti, he posed a simple question to his social media followers: where should he eat next in the city?
The Unanimous Answer
The response was both swift and remarkably consistent. While suggestions like Opheem, Trillium, and The Blue Nile—all located within Birmingham—were mentioned, one particular recommendation dominated the conversation. The clear favourite was not technically within Birmingham's boundaries but has become a cherished institution across the wider West Midlands region.
On Facebook, Luke Nixon advised, "Mad O’Rourke's in Tipton for a pie with battered chips or any Black Country chippy for orange chips." This sentiment was echoed repeatedly. Kate Tucker added, "Not quite Birmingham but close by, how about a Desperate Dan Cowpie from Mad O' Rourke's in Tipton."
A Legendary Pie Factory
Diane Millward provided vivid detail, commenting, "Mad O'Rourke's Pie Factory for a Desperate Dan cow pie, complete with horns and a mixed grill served on a shovel." The enthusiasm was palpable, with Elis Jones noting, "I'd drive to Mad O'Rourke's Pie Factory in Tipton. Only 20 minutes away and absolutely quality," and Kirsty Hall simply stating, "The pie factory in Tipton, ask for the Desperate Dan pie."
History of Mad O’Rourke’s
The venue commanding such loyalty is Mad O’Rourke’s Pie Factory, situated on the corner of Hurst Lane and Sedgley Road West in Tipton. The building has served as a public house since the 1860s, originally known as The Doughety Arms. It was rebranded as Mad O’Rourke’s Pie Factory in 1987, and the site has been synonymous with its famous pies ever since.
Adapting to modern challenges, the business launched a "Pies by Post" service during the pandemic, ensuring fans could enjoy their signature dishes from afar. This blend of rich history, unique culinary offerings, and community affection clearly resonates, making it a must-visit destination recommended by locals to an international audience.
This incident highlights how social media influencers can shine a spotlight on regional gems, with a Black Country pie factory capturing the imagination and taste buds recommended for a visiting TikTok star's Birmingham food tour.
