Korean street food brand Bunsik has confirmed it will open a new restaurant in Birmingham's Grand Central, taking over the unit previously occupied by Shokupan, which has been closed for nearly a year. The announcement comes as the Bullring branch of Nando's remains shut, and a new Maki and Ramen outlet draws long queues on New Street.
Bunsik to Replace Shokupan in Grand Central
Signs for Shokupan have finally been removed from the Grand Central unit above New Street Station, paving the way for Bunsik's arrival. The Korean street food chain, which already operates in Manchester, will move into the space next door to the Grand Central Nando's. According to Bunsik's confirmation, the new Birmingham branch will be located in Grand Central, though an exact opening date has not yet been announced.
The Shokupan unit had sat empty for nearly a year, and its replacement marks a significant change for the busy transport hub. Bunsik's menu typically features Korean-inspired street food, though specific offerings for the Birmingham site have not been detailed.
Bullring Nando's Shut, Maki and Ramen Opens
While the Grand Central Nando's remains open, its Bullring counterpart—which has been part of the shopping centre since the 'new' Bullring first opened—is currently closed. A spokesperson for Nando's was contacted for comment on when the unit might relaunch with a fresh look, but the brand has so far declined to provide details.
Elsewhere in the city centre, Maki and Ramen opened last Friday on New Street. This week, dozens of diners were seen queuing outside for their first taste of the new addition. The restaurant has continued to manage long lines of hungry customers since its debut, indicating strong early demand.
Cherry Reds Praised by Visiting Friends
During a break from the city, the author took visiting friends to Cherry Reds, a local establishment that had recently been listed locally. The group ate vegan pancakes and sausage in the sunshine, with prices that surprised the visitors from London. The friends reportedly loved the experience, describing the venue as a real gem.
The author also noted that a new expanded Pop Mart store is planned for New Street, though further details were not provided.
Next week's column promises news of a new city centre opening that the author suggests will not surprise readers. The Bullring Nando's closure and Bunsik's arrival are the latest in a series of changes to Birmingham's food and drink scene, with more updates expected in the coming weeks.
