Browns at the Bullring has closed after 15 years of service, marking the end of a long-running dining spot in Birmingham's Spiceal Street. The venue, located near St Martin's Church, has been a fixture since the shopping centre's expansion, and its closure has left fans disappointed.
Browns Bullring closure confirmed
The Browns restaurant on Spiceal Street shut its doors, having operated for 15 years in the same location. The closure was confirmed in the latest Brum Food Club weekly round-up by Features Writer Kirsty Bosley, who noted that fans of the restaurant are "gutted" by the news. The exact reasons for the closure were not detailed, but the announcement has prompted reactions from regulars.
Browns was part of the dining scene at the Bullring since that section of the shopping centre opened, serving guests near St Martin's Church. The closure adds to a series of changes in Birmingham's hospitality sector, which has seen both openings and shutdowns in recent months.
Erdington restaurant gets a makeover
In more positive news, chef Shawky, who previously worked at Roundhouse restaurant La Galleria, has given his Erdington restaurant a makeover. Shawky is bringing a taste of Bologna to Birmingham, according to the round-up, though specific details of the menu or renovations were not provided.
The chef's move comes after he left the canalside La Galleria, and his new venture aims to introduce Bologna-inspired cooking to the Erdington area. This development is part of a broader trend of Italian culinary influences in the city's suburbs.
Joule's Brewery plans for old Bistrot Pierre
Joule's Brewery, which purchased the former Bistrot Pierre building on Gas Street last year, has announced that significant changes are imminent. The brewery had previously stated it would take time to familiarise itself with the location and the local community before making any alterations. Now, the round-up reveals that "big changes are nigh," with Sunday roasts being a highlight of the upcoming offering.
The announcement has generated excitement among food enthusiasts, as the Gas Street location is a prominent spot in Birmingham's canal-side dining area. Further specifics about the new concept have not yet been released.
Stirchley bakery Loaf faces uncertainty
The round-up also highlighted ongoing concerns about Loaf, the independent bakery in Stirchley. Bosley expressed worry about the lack of a permanent home for the bakery, describing it as a "mainstay" of the local food scene. She has been in contact with Green Square Accord, the housing association, to seek clarity on the future of the site, but only "little updates" have been provided so far.
Loaf has been a popular destination for bread and baked goods in Stirchley, and its uncertain status has raised questions among loyal customers. The situation remains unresolved, with no confirmed timeline for a permanent location.
LEGO-themed cafe opens in Harborne
In a lighter development, a new LEGO-themed cafe has opened in Harborne, offering visitors the chance to build with full sets or free-play boxes of bricks. The cafe has no age limit, making it suitable for both children and creative adults, unlike the LEGO Discovery Centre, which requires adult supervision for children.
Bosley described the cafe as "so much fun" and noted that it appeals to families and adults alike. The opening adds a novel dining and activity option to Harborne's high street.
City centre welcomes sixth new sushi restaurant
Finally, the round-up confirmed that another sushi restaurant is set to open in Birmingham city centre, bringing the total to six new sushi venues within walking distance of each other. The announcement was made with a note of exasperation, as Bosley likened the trend to "Groundhog Day."
The influx of sushi restaurants reflects a growing demand for Japanese cuisine in the city, though the concentration of similar offerings may raise questions about market saturation. Further details about the new restaurant's location or name were not provided in the round-up.
These developments underscore the dynamic nature of Birmingham's food and drink scene, with closures and openings occurring simultaneously across the city. The weekly Brum Food Club round-up continues to track these changes, offering readers a snapshot of the latest trends and shifts.
