Birmingham is home to a handful of Michelin Starred restaurants. Purnells was one of the very first to achieve a star back in 2009 and has continued to hold it ever since. We headed along for lunch, our first Michelin lunch in The Midlands. Glynn Purnell is known for his slightly odd combinations of flavour. A starter of cornflakes with smoked haddock doesn’t exactly prompt you to order it at first glance. Similar dishes were exhibited on the television show ‘Great British Menu’ on which Glynn regularly featured for The Central Region.
Comfortable restaurant with interesting food and good service.
Ingredients well sourced some dishes fairly simple others reley on gimmicks. Good wine and beverage list.
Blame it all on Purnell. My food obsession. This blog. It all stems from him. Some thirteen years back I was a slender twenty-year-old with a food knowledge that amounted to knowing what should be ordered at Nando’s (I now know the real answer; nothing). Good food was yet to find a way into my life, along with humility and fitted jeans. It took a girl and a Jay Rayner write-up for me to book a table at Jessica’s in Edgbaston that would alter my view forever. Behind the stove was a young Glynn Purnell, a talented chef with what I now understand to be considerable experience in some very serious kitchens. A main of chicken with gamborini prawn would instantly convert me and slowly lead me on a path that had accumulated in four extra inches on my waistband, forty or so Michelin starred restaurants and, more recently, this restaurant blog.
From the moment the door was opened for us we felt special.
Coats taken and guided to a seat we were treated with care and plenty of smiles. After drinks we took our places at the table, more smiles from the staff.
The Tapas was very interesting, my first time trying, there seemed to be course after course each fascinating in the way they were served in all shapes and sizes of plates dishes platers etc. All the time we were treated with smiles and lots of interesting information about the food and people that prepared it and served it to us.
The bread served with butter and salt was the best we have ever tasted. Too many good and varied tastes to single out any special item but the Lamb, Trout on sea herbs were memorable. All in all a very fine first fine dining experience for myself if not for others in our group.
Would ask anyone to give the experience a try, special mention to all the staff that seemed to enjoy working at their jobs, great atmosphere and well done folks.
This was a gift bought for me, we had the 9 course taster menu & the wine flight to match. The service excellent, atmosphere calm, comfortable, relaxed & informal. Then came the food which was not a disappointment. Tasty, some unusual flavours and a treat to try. Presentation adds to the experience, we came away with something good to talk about.
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Purnell's cooking comes from a place of huge experience and love. Accomplished, sophisticated, delicate delights are presented with detail, flourish and flavours which surprise and challenge without moving too far from the jokes and nostalgia of my youth. I loved Purnell's. I wish I could have met the man himself and possibly spent the evening watching the service perched on a high stool out of the thoroughfare of kitchen traffic, but perhaps I'll have to return again, and be even cheekier in my foodie requests! This is well worth the money, the food and wine a very palatable nod to the last four decades of British food and I look forward to another visit soon.
Birmingham has come a long way in terms of fine dining restaurants. Whilst Manchester still eagerly awaits their first Michelin starred restaurant, the 2nd biggest city in England has a total of 5 restaurants with a Michelin star, not to mention some other high-end places without one. With a short weekend trip up to Birmingham to attend a friend’s wedding, we decided to sneak in a couple of meals in between. I have been to Purnell’s previously but with the restaurant receiving a make-over I was very keen to revisit. Getting a booking here can be tricky particularly during weekends ever since Glynn started appearing on Great British Menu and successfully got not one but two dishes to the banquet. We booked almost 2 months in advance.
Excellent. This place is consistently superb. Gary does a fabulous job and always seems to find time to interact with his customers about the food and his aspirations for the restaurant. I unreservedly recommend that you try Purnells.
Fantastic! We went for the 8 course menu with accompanying wine and the remarkable array if flavours and combinations were complemented perfectly by the choice of wine. Highly recommended if you want to push the boat out.
Amazing! The flavours and combinations are really excellent. Fabulous service and lots of extra "twiddles" that go with a total gastronomic experience like this.
Went as a group of four and had the tasting menu with wine. Everything put in front of us was fabulous. I went to Turners a few weeks later and was much less impressed. I will certainly visit this restaurant again at the earliest opportunity, but you do need to book well in advance. Keep up the good work!
Went for the first time for a special occasion. Lived upto it's great reputation. Atmosphere and service were superb, and food has to be the best in Birmingham at the moment. We'll be keeping it for those special times.
Justine Michelle Harris
+4.5
Been there twice - for our wedding anniversary & for my birthday. The food was fantastic both times - would definitely recommend it :-)
I went here for my 30th and it was cracking, a real treat! And unlike slot of tv chef he actually cooks your food and pops out to say hi!!!
There are some restaurants you want to go to for ages. Elusive places, you build them up in your head but due to a combination of business, coordination or their own popularity, you never manage to go. For many years Purnell's in my hometown of Birmingham was one such place.
Organic Salmon, Pickled Cucumber, Wasabi Crumble, Watercress – a delightful dish of subtle curry cured salmon, sharp pickled cucumbers, watercress leaves and puree with a delicious wasabi crumble, featuring a powder and crushed wasabi peas.
I first came into contact with Glynn Purnell's playful cooking while watching the third season of Great British Menu, where he sailed to the final with a quirky pud of Burnt English Cream served in hollowed-out eggshells. Being a huge fan of prawn cocktai
I WAS delighted to read that Brummie chef Glynn Purnell has just been awarded three AA rosettes for his inventive British cooking (Birmingham Post, January 16). I think he'll also win a Michelin star when this year's edition of the famous gastro guide is
I took my good friend here to celebrate his 40th birthday. I've not indulged in a tasting menu in a long time, so I thought I'd be a nice thing to do.
We went for the "10 years in the making" menu and the matching wine flight.
To break down each of the 9 courses would take too long, but I can say if you're free from allergies and dietary restrictions, this is some of the best food I've ever had the pleasure of consuming.
The staff were attentive, honest and passionate about service. It was never rushed or slow, they have their pace worked out to a tee.
The fish dish contained one of the best scallops that I have eaten to date, and the soy cured mackerel was utterly amazing.
Wine was perfectly matched as you'd imagine, and the dishes showed so much culinary flair whilst still remaining strong in flavour. Always seemed in the balance at previous places, Glynn has proven that it doesn't have to be that way.
An utter pleasure.
I am so happy to have had the opportunity to dine here and for LUNCH. Extraordinary. I am a super picky eater and LUNCH blew me away. I chose the 3 course. Their wine collection is out of this world. Be prepared. You wont be disappointed. I ate vegetables here and I don't usually. I am the strangest pallet for a Michelin restauranter. Come here!!
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Glynn Purnell is a magician. A culinary genius. He creates things that light up a plate and delight even the most discerning of foodies. And when he's not there, his team smash it. This is the absolute pinnacle of lunches. It just doesn't get better. I went with my boss who is definitely not a foodie (he mentioned on more than one occasion that he's 'a meat and veg man') and he's as Black Country as they come. He's uncomfortable in such surroundings and doesn't really 'get it' (I'm trying not to sound like a pretentious arse and probably failing but this is what he said himself). He, and I, were blown away by the theatre, the artistry and the sheer deliciousness of the flavours.
The menu was creative, the flavours were stunning, the execution perfect.
As with all Michelin places, the service was at times a little too attentive. But this is an almost non existent gripe to be honest.
The amuse was a breaded, subtly spiced potato, with an excellent mayo for dipping.
First course was a frankly ridiculously tasty fish dish, full of complex flavours and ingredients. The octopus was a particular highlight, the tomato terrine was fresh and clean and the tomato mousse/quenelle was awesome.
Main course was a perfectly cooked, perfect tasting duck breast, with duck sauce, minted pea purée and a tarragon sauce. Mind blowing stuff and without doubt the highlight. Easily the best duck dish I've ever had.
Pud was cherries every way you can imagine. In a dark chocolate cake. Candied. Puréed. Frozen and quenelled. Completely delicious.
If you want a special lunch (or dinner come to that), just go. It's not cheap, obviously, but it's the best restaurant in Brum and Glynn and his team never let you down.
This place utterly deserves a 5 star review. The food, as is to be expected when Michelin stars are involved, is just exquisite. I'd definitely recommend the wine flight too as the pairings are just perfect. The staff are all attentive but actually pretty down to earth too which I liked.
I couldn't recommend this experience (because that's what it is really) more. The menu is fun, creative and just delicious.
Go with an empty stomach and a full wallet.
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It's Purnell's so it really cannot be less than 4 stars.
If you're not aware, Purnell's is one of 3 Michelin starred restaurants in Birmingham.
I've been here twice and yes you do have to book several weeks in advance for a weekend booking but you can get a mid week booking at shorter notice.
So yes, based on its star (which it kept again in 2012) something appalling has to happen to be less than 4 stars. However, is it the best restaurant in the city? No, I'd say there are 2-3 ahead of it. Is it the best in the country? Well I haven't been to everyone but I have been to better.
The first time I went here for a birthday treat, we had a private room, the food was excellent, the service 5 star. The second time, a year later, less so.
The problem with Michelins is two-fold; 1. The restaurants have to try so hard to retain the star each year and I've heard of chef's leaving because the pressure meant they lost their passion and creativity. And 2. The price goes up.
I feel if you live in Birmingham, love good service and of course food, you have to go at least once.
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Hopefully part of a long overdue need to get food in Brum up to standard. I went there on a wet winters evening, 17/12/09 and had an excellent meal.
The reception was warm & prompt, and we went to table after a few minutes relaxing with nibbles in the bar area studying the wine list. We asked for a glass each of German Riesling Kabinet, were warned it would be sweet (ish actually) and a good one was brought which started the evening very well.
Quite an expensive wine list in practice, some good & interesting bottles, but as I am only moderately loaded I chose a little known Jumilla wine from Spain, which was ok without being actually as good as I'd hoped.
The restaurant is relatively small, pleasnat in appearnce and quite modern looking. We were taken to the table by the servery, which is ok by me but was rather dimly lit despite there being plenty of lighting not in use. I asked the Matre 'd if he could improve the lighting, but despite apparently acknowleding the request, no other table was offered and much worse, no light, so we ate in a dim setting, which I feel does not show off the food. A spotlight on the table was needed.
We chose from the A la Carte and were well pleased with our choices, a fine standard for all items was achived and I will revisit.
Staff were clinically excellent in performance apart from the odd period of blinkered vision and a distinct lack of engagement. Perhaps they would be more welcoming if we were regulars. I hope so.
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Well booked Purnells as a belated birthday treat for me and the wife (had a more traditional British drink binge the previous week).For those who dont know the restaurant is owned and run by Glynn Purnell the Michelin starred tv chef,having opened in summer 2007,he has claimed that his plan is to get not one ,but three stars for his restaurant.We booked a table for three,taking along my mother as a treat(my dad died in May 2007 ,something we are all taking time to get over),this was a treat for everyone.The restaurant itself is quite small ,only having 45 covers ,but is light and chic ,all beautiful cutlery and spotless white linen ,it also has a small comfortable bar area and a room for private dining?
When we booked , the set lunch menu ,included ,cheese and pineapple on sticks and glazed pig cheeks,not really to our tastes however on the set menu there are three choices of starter ,mains and deserts. On arrival at the restaurant we found the menu had changed ,and were told this is done on a regular basis ,which is great ,and i must say at £18.95 for three courses for this standard of food ,could probably be said to be a bargain.We all chose different starters and all agreed they were delicious ,for mains we all had blade of beef-confit of tomatoes ,cracked wheat and feta cheese, and for desert while my mother had a cheese platter ,my wife and i had a trio of deserts raspberry delice,raspberry jelly, and raspberry sorbet with a florentine biscuit mmm.The food was fantastic and good value,however bar prices and the wine list are to say the least tasty ,with two bottles of rose(scarlebone 2006),a beer and a tip the bill came to £150 for three,yikes!
The restaurant itself was buzzing ,mainly with people on business lunches,and although i suppose this is a posh restaurant ,the staff were friendly and attentative,and the atmosphere is relaxed and not at all imtimidating.The staff are happy to answer your questions,without the need for you to feel embarrassed.We left having had a relaxed,delicious lunch,and all agreed for a special occassion would definetely return .Highly reccommended(oh and on top of this Mr Purnell is a fanatical Birmingham City supporter,that must be worth one Michelin star in itself !!)
This is the ultimate restaurant treat!
If you have seen Glynn Purnell on the Great British Menu then you will have an idea of the inventive and sometimes retro dishes he has created. Think pigs trotters with black pudding crumble or crab with smoked paprika honeycomb for starters, elegant but quirky mains such as melt in the mouth cornish lamb or surprise twists such as a fish dish with cornflakes! He has to have one of the most amazing desserts ever - Burnt English custard egg surprise. So delicious - my tastebuds will literally never be the same again!
Lunch menu is £20 for 3 courses. A la carte is £40 for 3 courses and then there's the experience menus from £55. Great choice of wine and excellent service. Go on treat yourself!
Absolute amazing dining experience!!!!!!! no more to say.Wish i could thank ?Mr purnell personally..
No words really for the food other than sublime, really beautiful and simple ingredients taken to another level. Asparagus will never be the same again for me. Wonderful. Lovely friendly staff loved our sommelier he was such a delight and his passion shone through and really made our meal.
Good, but slightly last decade!
Booked ahead and paid in advance - seems to be a trend these days! Very smart premises, welcoming reception, professional & attentive staff. Fairly classic tasting menu, not sure about the burnt offering from the kitchen, we prepared presented, etc. No apparent emphasis on regional or seasonal though. Slight issue with the wine but sorted out quickly by the manager. A pleasant evening but slightly reminiscent of dining out 10 or so years ago.
This was a wonderful culinary experience. The food was excellent coupled by excellent service by the whole front of house team. The flavours and presentation of the food was exceptional. It was truly one of the best experiences I have had. Well done to the chefs for making my birthday dinner very special for me.
Went to try tasting menu for wifes birthday. Great service, very attentive but not intrusive - and the food was amazing.
Wonderful staff and service. The food was excellent, and I highly recommend the taster menu.
We're fortunate to have such excellent restaurants in Birmingham. We chose the tasting menu as it's so special. Unfortunately, I wasn't feeling great and almost cancelled the booking. I'm glad we went as it being my birthday it made the day very special. I wasn't keen on a couple of courses but with such variety you're sure to like most. I love the theatre too with the dry ice vapour and the attention to detail of all courses. Who would think that Marmite and Honey butter could taste so good!
Staff were very attentive and friendly. We got the five course grazing lunch menu and loved every dish. Excellent flavours. Absolute star of the show was the raspberry dessert 6 different ways.
We enjoyed an exquisite tasting menu for lunch which didn’t disappoint.
As you’d expect the service was on point from the moment you enter and we really felt like we were being looked after in a friendly, efficient way and not overbearing or contrived.
Course timings were spot on - not too slow and not too quick, giving plenty of time to savour the last dish before enjoying the next.
As we were driving we can’t comment on the wine pairing… not this time anyway.
The restaurant had a really pleasant, relaxed and fairly informal feel about it, but the star for me was the Mint Choccy Chip.
Definitely thought the menu was priced appropriately and thoroughly enjoyed every mouthful. Highly recommend treating yourself.
Fantastic experience. We were on the chefs table, with the chefs coming to tell us about the different dishes and the stories behind them. The service was fantastic and the food was beautiful and delicious. The highlights were the creme brulee in an egg shell, edable "charcoal" which was black savoury meringue and potatoes, and a delightful monkfish dish.
Had a fantastic experience for our wedding anniversary meal at Purnells. Great food, nicely presented and friendly attentive service. We had the tasting menu and it was difficult to choose a favorite, each course equally delicious and bursting with flavours. We had a glass of champagne and a bottle of wine rather than the wine flight that were both also very nice.
Celebrated our wedding anniversary at Purnell's and had another great visit. The staff always give excellent service and this was no exception. The food was again delicious, and the atmosphere was special without being pretentious.
The veal sweetbread was a standout dish for me, and I adored the honey and marmite whipped butter that came with the bread. Mint Choccy Chip continues to have a very special place in our hearts too.
Thank you, Team Purnell's! Keep up the excellent work!
Wow! An incredible experience, with the best meal I have ever eaten. A wonderful dining room, with attentive and warm staff, not too over crowded, so a good atmosphere but privacy too. Each course was magnificent, some with brilliant theatre and all with incredible flavours. Well worth a visit, an experience you won't forget. Expensive, but worth every penny.
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Lunch
Chefs table.
A restaurant that's been on our list for a long time.
When we saw they had a last-minute cancellation for the chefs table, it was the ideal chance to push us to go.
The table was booked for 12 midday.
We arrived 5 minutes before and thought we'd be first in.
How wrong can you be.
We were the last to arrive as all the other guests were already seated, sipping on the complimentary champagne cocktail.
Once seated, you get the chance to see what delights are on the menu.
It's a combination of the current season and dishes in development.
If we could have designed our own menu,this would be it.
Snacks
Salmon tartlet & beef carpaccio roll.
Heritage tomato salad
Cornish lobster-tomato consume-burrata
Maybe the star of the show😋
Glazed BBQ chicken wing
Green celeriac - mushroom - truffle
Brixham cod
Basil emulsion-courgette tagliatelle- clams
Rack of pork
Mijote of beans-kale
Chocolate and cherry choux bun
All this for £60 was an absolute bargain.
The whole experience was amazing.
With it being a shared table, you can chat to fellow diners and swap stories of other places visited.
It was great to see Head chef Luke and his team come out of the kitchen and serve their dishes.
Who needs waiters?
Front of house team were lovely though.
We would highly recommend a visit here.
Can't believe it took us so long.
Oh, and they've got one of those ⭐️
We had an incredible lunch at Purnell’s. Everything was perfect from the moment we walked through the door. All of the staff were friendly and attentive. The food arrived in appropriate intervals and was not only exquisitely presented, but textures and flavours were beautifully paired to create an authentic Michelin star experience.
Absolutely stunning! We have been lucky enough to visit a few Michelin star restaurants and this was my favourite menu by far. The front of house staff were fantastic, Adrien sat with me and went through the tasting menu to substitute dishes that weren’t appropriate as I am 20 weeks pregnant, nothing was too much trouble. My bespoke dishes were amazing. Lovely to be able to see into the kitchen and see Glynn and the team. Would definitely recommend
Lovely food with just enough of an experimental twist. Great wine pairings and reasonable value for the class of dining. Chefs table area in bar at front of house, though, is a bit of an odd setting. Felt slightly tacked on, sitting seeing everyone coming and going. Would opt for main room dining next time, I think, though it was genuinely nice to have all the lovely kitchen staff explain each course.
Superb quality food and the service was of a high standard. The chefs and waiting staff gave us an unforgettable Birthday celebration meal. The staff even helped us with an issue with a gift card. We will be back, thank you!
Lovely restaurant and lovely staff. The food was nice, the wait time was a bit long apart from that I had a great experience. I ordered the tasting menu and a few drinks. Amazing birthday meal. Thank you.
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