As the Birmingham Christmas Market welcomes millions of visitors, the city's culinary landscape continues to evolve with exciting new additions. While 2025 hasn't seen a flood of new openings, a select few standout venues have arrived, cementing Birmingham's reputation as one of the UK's most dynamic food and drink destinations.
Global Flavours Hit the City Centre
Dave's Hot Chicken made its dramatic entrance in July, transforming from an LA car park concept into a global phenomenon backed by celebrities like Drake and Samuel L Jackson. Located at 56 New Street in the Chicken Quarter, this viral hotspot consistently draws queues of customers willing to sign waivers for their super-spicy options. The venue features an unforgettable giant UFO interior and specialises in wings, tenders, burgers and sides, though vegetarian options are limited.
Another international arrival, Pizza Pilgrims, opened in Grand Central at the beginning of November, taking over the space previously occupied by Tapas Revolution above Ozzy the Bull at New Street Station. Their Neapolitan-style pizzas feature 72-hour double-fermented dough and authentic Italian toppings, ranging from classic cheese and tomato to more adventurous options like carbonara spaghetti and an eight-cheese masterpiece.
Sophisticated Dining and Lively Pubs
Cylla brought Greek fine dining to 43 Newhall Street in July, replacing the former All Bar One. The restaurant offers traditional Greek sharing plates alongside premium items like lobster, all served in an elegantly designed space with warm, sophisticated service and quality cocktails.
For those seeking vibrant pub atmosphere rather than fine dining, Katie O'Briens opened on Temple Street in August, taking over The Botanist's former location. The Irish pub made an immediate impact, selling 2,000 pints of stout on its opening weekend and establishing itself as a destination for live music and good craic rather than quiet dinners.
Established Favourites Expand and New Concepts Arrive
Indian Cafe Racer, already a customer favourite through its presence in the Duke of Wellington Pub, expanded with a standalone location at 88–90 Bristol Street in September. The restaurant continues to serve what many consider some of Birmingham's finest Indian food with exceptional service.
March saw the arrival of Regina's Bar and Restaurant at 11 Newhall Street, occupying the space that previously housed Glynn Purnell's Bistro and Ginger's Bar. The stunning dining room provides the setting for Mediterranean-inspired dishes including arancini, croquettes, kofta and indulgent specialties like caviar.
The fast-food scene expanded with Popeye's opening a new branch at New Street Station, offering Louisiana-style chicken with views of the Rotunda. While it didn't generate the overnight queues seen at other city locations, it provides convenient options for commuters.
Completing the new arrivals, Insomnia Cookies began serving late-night baked goods on Bennetts Hill in August, though reviews suggest it might not top everyone's recommendation list despite strong Google ratings.
These eight establishments demonstrate Birmingham's continuing evolution as a culinary destination, offering everything from quick bites to sophisticated dining experiences that enhance the city's already impressive food scene.
