A landmark Birmingham pub that had stood empty for a decade is about to begin a vibrant new chapter as a premium Nigerian restaurant.
From Boozer to Fine Dining
The Dogpool Hotel on Pershore Road in Stirchley, a once-popular local, had its licence revoked after years of recurring problems, following two decades of changing ownership. The 1920s building has been vacant ever since, a silent relic on the bustling street.
That all changes on Saturday, November 22, when the doors swing open at 3pm for Empress, a bold new venture promising to bring the refined tastes of Nigeria to the heart of Birmingham.
A Culinary and Cultural Vision
The restaurant's menu is a celebration of traditional Nigerian cuisine, featuring signature dishes designed to impress. Guests can look forward to Smokey Jollof Rice, Deluxe Fried Rice, Abula, Assorted Meat Pepper soup, the Empress Royale Platter, and VIP Seafood Okro.
The experience will be complemented by a creative cocktail list, featuring craft mixes inspired by African ingredients and unique palm-wine blends.
Oyetola Akande, the co-founder and Head Chef of Empress, explained the philosophy driving the project. "This project is about more than food — it’s about renewal," she said. "My philosophy is that every dish should evoke a sense of home, pride, and discovery, inviting both Africans and the wider community to experience the richness of Nigerian cuisine in a refined yet welcoming atmosphere."
Breathing New Life into a Local Landmark
The transformation began when Ms Akande's husband, Olusegun Akande, first spotted the potential in the derelict Dogpool Hotel earlier this year.
"We saw potential in this historic site not just as a building, but as a space to revive with life, flavour, and purpose," Ms Akande shared. "Our goal was to create a place where Birmingham can experience the best of modern African hospitality in one location."
She expressed pride in giving the beloved local building a fresh start, stating, "It’s incredibly fulfilling to see our restaurant come to life in this building. The Dogpool Hotel meant a lot to many locals, and we’re proud to give it a fresh chapter filled with positivity, creativity, and culture."
The couple's primary mission is to "transport" every guest to Nigeria through authentic food while ensuring they receive "first class service."
Beyond the main restaurant, the site will also host Samis Express for African and Caribbean grocery pick-ups, and the Samis Food Truck, which will serve a street-style menu featuring Nigerian classics like Suya, Shawarma, and Afro-fusion burgers.
