Birmingham welcomed its first ever two star Michelin restaurant at the prestigious Michelin Guide ceremony on Monday evening (February 5).
The Michelin Guide Ceremony was held at The Midland Hotel in Manchester announcing the latest restaurant distinctions for UK and Ireland, including the globally renowned Michelin Stars. The best chefs in the country gathered for the event where the verdict of the inspectors was revealed.
During the ceremony, the Michelin Guide named its first ever two star Indian restaurants in Birmingham’s Opheem and Gymkhana in London. Chef-Owner Aktar Islam owns the fine dining Indian restaurant Opheem, which is located on Summer Row. Opheem has also become Birmingham's first ever two Michelin star restaurant.
Speaking about the Indian restaurant, a statement from the Michelin Guide, read: "Locally born and bred chef-owner Aktar Islam has fashioned a wonderful dining experience at this ever-developing restaurant. A spacious bar and sitting room are cleverly used as a space in which to enjoy snacks and a drink before heading to the dining room and its open kitchen.
"The series of flavoursome, excellently spiced and carefully balanced dishes are creative, modern takes on Indian recipes. Well-chosen wines from the excellent sommelier are on-hand to accompany."
Three Birmingham restaurants maintained their prestigious one stars at the 2024 ceremony, with Opheem winning two stars. Carters of Moseley, which previously had a Michelin star, wasn't included in this year's list as it closed and moved to Evesham last year, before relocating to Colmore Row in Birmingham. Chef's aren't able to take their Michelin star with them to different restaurants which is why Carters wasn't included in this year's list.
Let's take a look at the updated list of Birmingham's Michelin star restaurants in 2024.
5. The Cross, Kenilworth
Located in the historic town of Kenilworth in the heart of Warwickshire, The Cross is an award-winning pub that combines Michelin-starred food with a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. The Cross’s respected and renowned chef-patron Andreas Antona also owns Simpsons in Brum | Google
6. The Royal Oak, Whatcote
Michelin starred pub in Warwickshire near Stratford Upon Avon on the edge of the Cotswolds offering real ales, craft beer and seasonal food | Google