A prominent cocktail bar and restaurant in the heart of Birmingham has poured its last drink. Aluna at The Mailbox announced its immediate closure on Thursday, January 8, 2026, in a social media post that thanked patrons for nearly a decade of support.
A Sudden End for a Theatrical Venue
The venue, famed for its theatrical cocktail presentations and Pan Asian cuisine, shared the news on its Facebook page. Management expressed profound gratitude to staff, suppliers, and every guest who had visited since the bar first opened its doors in 2015. The statement confirmed that all existing bookings had been contacted via email.
Aluna had become a fixture of Birmingham's social scene, occupying a prime unit within The Mailbox complex. It took over the space previously held by The Oriental restaurant, establishing itself as a destination for celebrations and innovative drinks.
Wave of Devastation from Loyal Patrons
The announcement prompted an immediate and emotional response from the bar's loyal customer base. Comments on the post reflected widespread disappointment and fond memories.
One guest from Manchester noted it was a staple on their visit list, while another lamented it as a "big loss for Birmingham," having enjoyed fantastic cocktails there as recently as New Year's Eve. Personal stories emerged, with one commenter revealing they had met their husband at the venue, underscoring its role in the city's social fabric.
What the Closure Means for The Mailbox
The sudden departure of Aluna leaves a notable gap in the leisure offering at The Mailbox, a major retail and dining destination in the city centre. Its closure marks the end of an era for a venue that blended dining, drinking, and performance.
The full statement from Aluna's team read: "This isn’t a post we ever wanted to write, but Aluna at The Mailbox has closed with immediate effect. We’re incredibly proud of what we built and endlessly grateful to our team, our suppliers, and every single guest who came through our doors — whether it was for cocktails, celebrations, or just a good night out. Thank you for the memories, the energy, and the love you showed Aluna over the years."
There has been no immediate information regarding a future tenant for the unit or the specific reasons behind the abrupt shutdown.
