Arriving at Modern China is an occasion in itself with the original features from its former incarnation as the Stockland public house still resonant. The restaurant looms on the horizon on Marsh Hill Road in Erdington and with plenty of parking at the rear it's a welcoming sight.

The Venue
The large tables would look cramped in any other restaurant but here they look comfortable and although the old public house is very spacious it’s been made to feel like it’s a very personal dining experience.

The bar located at the entrance as you walk in is also a feature with its black granite worktop. Sipping drinks here sets the mood that the restaurant name promises. The ornate fixtures on the walls and in corners, such as the charming water fountain, add to the overall Shanghai-feel of this busy buffet restaurant.

The People
Due to its open-plan areas and fairly predictable dishes this is a popular restaurant with families who are superbly catered for. Accessible high chairs and space for the children to enjoy the evening give parents the time to enjoy the food and to sit back and relax. And the staff work hard to entertain your children and are quick to take the plates from under your nose as soon as you finish so there's no chance of the little 'uns getting bored and turning the food into a toy.

Modern China is also popular for an after-work social and the sense of occasion the large room and furniture conjures is perfect for that after-work celebration of a new business deal. There will always be something for everyone and at £13 a head for dinner Monday to Saturday no-one will be complaining.

The Food
As already stated the dishes can be a little predictable but what do you expect from a Chinese buffet? The buffet is split into three orderly sections which offer you a wide choice of starters, mains and desserts. The starters are always a big hit including favourites such as barbecue ribs and crispy duck pancakes that you can make up yourself at your table. The duck is always tender and you could fill-up on these alone.

For the main meal try the delightful beef in a black pepper sauce as it just melts in your mouth. It comes with a choice of rice, noodles and (if you must) chips so every time you have you feel like you're having a different dish. Modern China has a varied selection of desserts all in miniature slices so you can chomp as many as you want without feeling too guilty.

The Drink
It's best to book before you go as it can get busy but if you go on the off-chance at least there's a well-stocked bar which will help you while away the time.

There's a small selection of wines and beers but if you enjoy a small tipple then you won’t be disappointed. The only downside is sometimes you can wait for long periods for drinks at your table which is irritating. Ask for a jug of water with a few glasses before you begin eating to avoid getting parched and peeved.

The Last Word
What Modern China offers is affordable Chinese buffet for family or friends that's served with professionalism and a friendly smile.