Birmingham’s Food Scene Celebrated - Highlights from the 2025 Michelin Guide Awards

Birmingham was alive with excitement last night following the announcements from the Micheline Guide Awards - and what a night it was for the city's food scene!

Tropea in Harborne stole the spotlight by being awarded a Bib Gourmand, for its “uncluttered, straightforwardly delicious” Italian cooking. A fantastic recognition that celebrates eateries serving up delicious dishes at budget friendly prices.

Tropea, the brainchild of the talented duo Kasia Piatkowska and Ben Robinson Young, showcases their culinary training right here in Birmingham. Their vision was to create a welcoming space where everyone can enjoy great food without breaking the bank. The Bib Gourmand is a testament to their hard work and dedication, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy high-quality cuisine.

The evening also celebrated Chef Ash Valenzuela-Heeger from Riverine Rabbit in Stirchley, who was named Young Chef of the Year for her “vibrant cooking.” Hailing from South Africa, Chef Ash has been making waves with her innovative approach and commitment to using local ingredients. Her small plates menu shines with a focus on wild game and seafood, while also offering substantial vegetarian options for those who prefer plant-based dishes. The Inspectors have recognised Ash as an exciting young talent, and it’s easy to see why.

The 2025 Michelin Guide Awards have shown that Birmingham is a culinary powerhouse. The recognition of places like Tropea and Chef Ash Valenzuela-Heeger, showcases the incredible diversity and quality of food available in the city. 

With passionate chefs and a range of welcoming restaurants leading the way, Birmingham is becoming a must-visit destination for food lovers everywhere. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, make sure to check out these award-winning spots and experience the flavours that Birmingham has to offer. 

For a full list of Birmingham Michelin starred restaurants who retained their star see below.

Opheem, Summer Row, City Centre

Adam's Restaurant, City Centre

Simpsons, Highfield Road, Edgbaston

Grace & Savour, Hampton in Arden

Adam's Restaurant

New Oxford House, 16 Waterloo St, Birmingham B2 5UG

Adam’s Restaurant on Waterloo Street in the city centre is a beautiful venue, serving modern dishes with a world class wine list. Owner and Chef Adam Stokes heads up the award-winning restaurant alongside wife Natasha. 

Adam's holds a string of accolades including a Michelin Star, three AA Rosettes and a score of 7 in the Good Food Guide. In 2021 Adam’s was rated Number 4 Restaurant in the UK and 18 in Europe on TripAdvisor. 

Opheem - Indian Michelin Star Restaurant

65 Summer Row, Birmingham B3 1JJ

Aktar Islam's restaurant Opheem attained its first star in 2019, making it the first and only Michelin starred Indian restaurant in the UK outside of London.  In 2024 it landed two!

Opheem is making bold statements in style and substance, pushing the expectations of Indian cuisine using traditional techniques with a modern outlook. The modern and suave interior of Opheem sets it apart from other restaurants in the city; there's even a window into the kitchen where diners can enjoy watching Aktar and his team working their magic!

Grace & Savour

Shadowbrook Lane, Hampton in Arden, Solihull B92 0EN

Grace & Savour is a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Hampton Manor, a luxurious hotel located in the countryside near Birmingham. Led by Head Chef Rob Palmer, the restaurant offers a unique and intimate dining experience, with a focus on locally-sourced and seasonal ingredients. From the elegant decor to the impeccable service, Grace & Savour exudes a sense of understated sophistication. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner or a special occasion, Grace & Savour is sure to impress.

Simpsons Restaurant

20 Highfield Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 3DU

All in all, Simpsons is a very special place to dine. You couldn’t fault the elegant setting, nor the attentive service or the fantastically presented food.

Run by chef-patron Andreas Antona in a gorgeous Grade II-listed Georgian villa, this will always be the original Michelin star for many Brummies, having held the accolade since 1999. Andreas was even honoured with a doctorate by University College Birmingham in 2013 in recognition of his dedication and contribution to the hospitality industry.

Sadly we say good bye to Purnell's Restaurant

55 Cornwall Street  Birmingham B3 2DH

Sadly we had to say goodbye to Purnell's this year. The Yummy Brummy chef and TV favourite Glynn Purnell opened his namesake restaurant in 2007, and was always one of Birmingham’s finest dining destinations.

We wish Glynn all the best, and he still runs Plates by Purnell's on Edmund Street and The Mount in Henley In Arden.