Harborne is home to some of best independent food and drink businesses in Birmingham - and the whole of the UK!
Two restaurants in the neighbourhood have also been classed as 'exceptional' in the 2024 Good Food Guide, which names Britain's best restaurants each year. The south Birmingham suburb is also home to more of the most talked about independents in the city, so we've decided to list 14 of the very best restaurants, bars and cafes you can visit in the area.
Harborne has long had a reputation as one of Birmngham's most appealing locations to live. The neighbourhood's relaxed atmosphere gives residents sanctuary away from the busy city centre, while still being able to enjoy all that Britian's second biggest city after London has to offer.
Harborne has a thriving High Street with an independent spirit, so it's no wonder Muddy Stilettos named Harborne one of the best places to live in the UK in a recent guide. I recently paid a visit to the neighbourhood to speak to businesses about Harborne's thriving food scene.
Jacob, the manager of Harborne Kitchen, which opened its doors around seven years ago and has become one of Birmingham's most esteemed independent businesses, told me about the success of the neighbourhood's food scene. He said: "Harborne has a lot of good businesses and it has always been a more affluent area.
"It's home to many doctors from the Queen Elizabeth Hospital as well as barristers and things like that. Many more restaurants are now popping up like Tropea down the road, and there's really great independent restaurants so for me that really makes it an appealing destination for people to travel to from the surrounding areas."
Lee, one of the owners of the Bun and Barrel bar on the high street said Harborne's independent food scene separates it from other areas of the city. He said: "Harborne itself is a nice area with good shops and high street with plenty of independent businesses. I moved here with my family and they love it as well."
So, without further ado, let's take a look at some of our favourite food and drink establishment in Harborne.
1. Tropea, Lordswood Road
Tropea in Harborne has received rave reviews from customers since it opened its doors in 2022. The stylish Italian restaurant on Lordswood Road serves modern Italian dishes, inspired by the owners’ time in the country. I paid a visit to the restaurant last year and the food was delicious. It's actually the best Italian restaurant in Birmingham according to Google reviews
2. Harborne Kitchen, high street
Harborne Kitchen opened its doors around seven years ago and has become one of Birmingham's most esteemed independent businesses. The fine-dining venue serves modern British cuisine and offers a more relaxed fine-dining experience. Harborne Kitchen, which has frequently been tipped to win a Michelin Star, was even voted as one of the best restaurants in the UK by the Good Food Guide
3. Paul's at No 1
Paul's at No 1 is one of Harborne's best loved independent restaurants. The cosy counter-serve cafe serves light fare & coffee, plus pies, pastries & other sweet treats.
4. El Buen Gusto, Harborne High Street
El Buen Gusto is Harborne's only Spanish restaurant. It's run by Amy Morris and her Spanish partner Miguel. It's the place to visit if you fancy some authentic tapas. They also serve vegetarian dishes