As 2026 approaches, BirminghamLive proudly continues its annual tradition of curating the definitive list of restaurants to try in the coming year. This selection celebrates both exciting new arrivals and beloved stalwarts that have consistently delivered exceptional food and warm service, proving their worth through every hospitality challenge.
Birmingham's Culinary Crown Jewels
The list is a vibrant tapestry of the city's dining scene, meticulously compiled by Features Writer Kirsty Bosley. It promises to evolve throughout 2026, with new gems added and others rotated out. To stay updated, readers can join the free weekly Brum Food Club newsletter, delivered every Thursday.
Here are the 26 standout recommendations, presented in no particular order—though some establishments simply demand special attention.
Fine Dining and Special Occasion Spots
For unparalleled luxury, Opheem on Summer Row stands peerless. Chef Aktar Islam's two-Michelin-starred restaurant offers an experience of regal treatment and spectacular modern Indian cuisine. Similarly, Adams on Waterloo Street provides impeccable service and world-class seasonal menus, making it perfect for impressing a client or a loved one.
In Edgbaston, the fine dining OG Simpsons continues to shine from its mansion house setting. It remains a bucket-list destination for Brummies, with notably accessible lunchtime prices. Meanwhile, the intimate Folium in the Jewellery Quarter is a critically adored gem many believe is overdue for major recognition, focusing purely on exquisite food and service.
Neighbourhood Heroes and Casual Favourites
Birmingham's strength lies in its diverse neighbourhood gems. In Sparkbrook, Shababs on Ladypool Road remains a bastion of the Balti Quadrangle, serving sensational, heart-warming spice since 1987. For Italian warmth, head to Harborne's Tropea, a neighbourhood venue run by former food students, celebrated for its mind-blowing pasta and salads.
Stirchley is home to several independents like Eat Vietnam on Pershore Road, which redefines Vietnamese cuisine with flavour-packed dishes, and the tiny but mighty Cork and Cage, a beer bar that improbably serves imaginative small plates from a miniature kitchen.
Other local legends include Wok Chi in Harborne for exceptional, family-run Chinese food, and Otto Pizza in the Jewellery Quarter for creatively topped Neapolitan-style pizzas.
Brunch, Bakeries and Everyday Excellence
For the perfect start to the day, Early Bird Bakery in Kings Heath is the city's loveliest bakery, offering elite brunch and next-level pastries. The family-run Morridge in the Great Western Arcade provides snug comfort with splendid coffee and oats, with a sister site, The Courtyard, on War Lane.
In Stirchley, Caneat attracts queues for its ever-changing, exciting brunch menu served in a family-friendly space. For a botanical haven, Medicine Bakery in Selfridges offers an ideal meeting spot with a massive counter of savouries and sweets.
Global Flavours and Community Hubs
The city's international palate is well represented. Chakana in Moseley brings the magic of Peru to every plate, with ceviche praised by National Geographic. Indian Cafe Racer has expanded on Bristol Street, serving exquisite street food and fusion curries. The Indian Streatery on Bennetts Hill remains a superb and inexpensive city centre staple, while Chung Ying Cantonese Restaurant in Chinatown endures as a beloved institution.
For plant-based dining, Land in the Great Western Arcade offers vegan and vegan fine dining flair that impresses all diners. The community spirit shines at Saint Paul's Market in the Jewellery Quarter, the 2025 opening of the year, which truly is everything to everyone—from massaman curry to disco balls.
Pubs, Chippies and Unbeatable Value
Birmingham's pub scene is formidable. The stunning Old Joint Stock on Temple Row West offers hearty pies and pints in a breathtaking setting. For Desi pub brilliance, The Covered Wagon on Yardley Wood Road in Moseley delivers with sizzling mixed grills and exceptional service. The Wolf on Constitution Hill is arguably the best value eatery in town, with ludicrously inexpensive Tuesday meals and a stellar Sunday roast.
Finally, for a chip shop with heart, Hawthorn Fish Bar in Kingstanding not only made the top 40 in The National Fish and Chip Awards 2025 but also went above and beyond for its community with charitable giveaways and support.
This list is a testament to Birmingham's thriving, resilient, and endlessly exciting food scene as we head into 2026.
