A restaurant in the Independent Republic of Stirchley is the latest Birmingham addition to the Michelin Guide

An independent restaurant which opened in Birmingham less than four months ago has been listed in the Michelin Guide.

The venues is among the growing team of hospitality venues in the up-and-coming neighbourhood of Stirchley named the ‘best place to live in the Midlands’ in by The Sunday Times.

The district is renowned for its community spirit and champions its local businesses which has seen the area become known as the Independent Republic of Stirchley.

Which restaurant in Stirchley in Birmingham has been added to the Michelin Guide? 

The latest Birmingham restaurant to be added to the Michelin Guide is Riverine Rabbit at 1464 Pershore Road in Stirchley.

Spearheaded by Ash and Erin Valenzuela-Heeger, the enterprising venue opened its doors in January 2024 and combines South African roots and flavours with seasonal British produce. 

The name is inspired by the Karoo Desert where the elusive riverine rabbit lives with a nod to Ash and Erin’s ongoing endeavour to support sustainable farming practices.

What has the Michelin Guide said about Riverine Rabbit in Stirchley?

In addition to Michelin starred restaurants, the Michelin Guide lists quality restaurants across the UK, including Birmingham. There are currenty 26 venues in and around Birmingham that are listed, including Asha’s, Folium and Chakhana. These are featured alongside Birmingham’s four Michelin starred restaurants - Purnell’s, Adam’s, Simpsons and two-starred Opheem.

The Michelin Inspector’s Review of Riverine Rabbit said: “After generating a fair amount of buzz with their pop-ups, warm and welcoming couple Ash and Erin have found a permanent home in this Birmingham suburb. 

“Erin leads the friendly service, while Ash proudly delivers her dishes from behind a kitchen counter; if you get the chance, order the honey-cured beef, which epitomises the flavour-packed cooking.

“Influences from Ash's native South Africa occasionally make an appearance, as do those from Asia, ranging from Penang curry to furikake. That this all comes at wallet-friendly prices is a welcome bonus.”