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Welcome to Restaurant at Birmingham College of Food

The Restaurant at Birmingham College of Food is a culinary gem nestled within University College Birmingham. It stands as a unique training ground where students hone their culinary skills under expert guidance. The restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience, featuring an outstanding menu that showcases creative dishes like Pan-Seared Beef Fillet and Line-Caught Sea Bass, all at remarkable prices. The ambiance is inviting and tranquil, enhancing the enjoyment of each expertly crafted course. Guests rave about the exceptional service and quality, often likening the students' creations to those of seasoned chefs. Dining here is not just a meal; it's a delightful adventure in taste and artistry.

Restaurant at Birmingham College of Food: Reviews & Ratings

Eleanor
Eleanor

Brilliant experience, amazing food and great service. Such a good concept and an excellent way for students to gain skills in the industry. 3 course delicious meal (with 2 additional mini dishes) plus a cocktail for 40pp... bargain. Will be returning.

Honest Reviews
Honest Reviews

The restaurant is a little tricky to locate as there is no sign. Inside it is very spacious and a nice quiet sitting. On their website it states this is a world-class training restaurant and guests will get to experience award-winning, exceptional value food. The food was very impressive. The food is cooked by students but honestly if someone told me it was cooked by an experienced top end chef I would not be able to tell the difference. Service of a high standard is also provide by students. You can see certain people in the restaurant who are marking or monitoring these individuals and at times you are asked for feedback which is not intrusive at all. The price paid for such exquisite food is amazing, 3 courses for 30. Highly recommend.

Vern
Vern

As a relatively well established Google reviewer, I can quite confidently say that I have frequented some amazing restaurants and food outlets. However, this is the best dining experience for me to date. Not having heard of this venue before I drew my own conclusions prior to attending and thought "University, experimental perhaps, worth a try...". I was blown away by the whole evening. We arrived to be greeted like I have never been greeted before when going out to eat; there were multiple young waiting staff ready to take my coat, see me to the bar and attend to my pre-dining alcohol needs. (Lots of bar staff - and AMAZING prices!). We took our seats when all were in attendance and we were seated at suitably sized tables. Generous in size and a well thought out floor plan / layout. Great decor, perfect ambient temperature and genuinely helpful staff. I chose a starter of Cajun Salmon (mango salsa, cucumber, tempura squid), followed by a Guinea Fowl main, with bacon jam, gem lettuce and peas. We were provided with a complimentary goats cheese cracker with floral decoration (tasted amazing). The starter and mains were mind blowing. No other description for it. The meal was a taste sensation and one of the best I have ever had. Everything was cooked and presented to perfection. I opted for a whipped chocolate ganache dessert and this too was culinary heaven. We were even provided with complimentary birthday chocolate / lemon drizzle cakes to end the evening. Just absolute perfection! I will stop raving about this venue now, however I cannot recommend it enough!!!

Maria C
Maria C

Arranged a works meal for 20 colleagues, needed regular communication in the lead up as people dropped out, it was no problem. On arrival we had drinks by very polite bar staff before being shown to our seats. Everything was laid out immaculately and the food was outstanding. We had arrancini balls as a pre starter, which really set the expectations high, it was delicious! Around the table, from the cod, beef, lamb, duck and vegetarian options everyone loved the quality, taste and portion size...even the veg and roasted baby new potatoes were delicious! The desserts were also stunning in presentation, from mousse, trifle, baked Alaska, many of us were unable to finish as we were so full from previous courses! The overall costs was under 40 for 3 courses plus drinks - outstanding value for money! The staff were courteous and attentive and wish them all the best in their careers. Can't wait to go back!

Mei Mei
Mei Mei

Found this by chance when walked near the Victoria Town Hall. I saw good review on Google map and never regret with my decision to give a try and the influence of the good reviews. The lamb is super yummy, when I start eating I was doubting was I ordering a beef steak but it wasn’t, is lamb. I’m very impressed with the texture and the taste of the gravy. Excellent! The appetisers and snacks are all yummy and served in style. This is a place where you see the restaurant manager guiding the trainee students and they execute their role up to standard. I’m not sure who is the lady that guiding the trainees but I just very certain she is a great person to take care of the restaurant and the trainees. She oversees the overall services and the training. Impressive! And Appreciate!

Natasja Ackroyd
Natasja Ackroyd

Love this place! We’ve been a few times now and never had a bad experience. The food is absolutely exceptional, you really can’t fault it. On our most recent visit, I have to give special mention to the cheesecake, whoever tempered the white chocolate did an incredible job. It was delicate, crisp, and beautifully done. Everyone was friendly and welcoming as always. While the service can sometimes be a little slow or unsure, it’s completely understandable as they’re still learning and you can see the effort they’re putting in. If you’re in Birmingham, I would 100% recommend giving this place a try!!

Mark Taylor
Mark Taylor

We have eaten here lots of times over the last 5 years , great food and a lovely atmosphere with the service staff learning their trade with plenty of enthusiasm, the chefs are well on there way to providing 1st class food at the best restaurants I have eaten in. One thing I would say is...... lose the TV screens, it's not a sports bar and they detract from what the experience should be, its a minor thing and shouldn't stop anyone going, there's no sound involved, it just takes a bit away from a beautiful environment......for me.

Ameesha
Ameesha

Always a great night at the Restaurant with high-quality food, very attentive service from the students who are learning, and amazing value for money for AA Rosette food from the city’s future chefs. The 3-course meal also includes a free snack and a pre-dessert, making it 5 courses plus warm sourdough from their in-house bakery. Highly recommended.

Location

Welcome to the Restaurant at Birmingham College of Food, a remarkable culinary gem located at the heart of University College Birmingham. This innovative dining venue is not only an exceptional restaurant but also serves as a practical training ground for aspiring chefs and hospitality professionals. Here, delicious food meets passionate education, creating an experience that both delights the palate and nurtures talent.

Situated at Summer Row, Birmingham B3 1JB, United Kingdom, the restaurant is a hidden treasure, known primarily to those in the know. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a vibrant atmosphere where students and staff work harmoniously to provide a top-notch dining service. With a phone number of +44 121 604 1010, reservations can be easily arranged, and your gastronomic adventure awaits.

Exquisite Dining at Unbeatable Prices

The menu at the Restaurant offers an impressive selection of dishes, with a three-course dinner priced at just £30 and two courses for £26. Highlights include:

  • Blossom Honey and Lavender Glazed Gressingham Duck – Complimented by candied beets and blackberry cassis sauce (£18.00).
  • Guinea Fowl Choux Farci – Accompanied by girolles and shallot purée (£6.00).
  • Cheese Course – A selection of artisan cheeses with gelées de fruits (£6.00 as an additional course).

These dishes are a testament to the culinary prowess of the students, proving that exquisite food doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. The students receive guidance from experienced mentors, ensuring that the quality of food served is comparable to that found in high-end eateries.

Customer Experiences

The dining experience at the Restaurant has consistently received rave reviews from customers. Eleanor described her evening as a "brilliant experience" with "amazing food and great service." The value is undeniable; a three-course meal with drinks for under £40 is a remarkable deal.

Vern, an established food reviewer, expressed his astonishment at the level of service and quality presented, claiming it was “the best dining experience” he has had to date. Every detail, from the greeting upon arrival to the food presentation, left a lasting impression on him.

Maria C, who organized a works meal, praised the impeccable organization and mouthwatering variety on offer. She noted that every dish, from the arrancini balls to the beautiful desserts, exceeded expectations both in taste and presentation. The student staff's courteous service added a special touch to their gathering.

Mei Mei stumbled upon this hidden gem and was amazed by the outstanding lamb dish that left her questioning if it was beef. “Excellent!” she declared, admiring the texture and rich gravy that perfectly complemented the dish.

A Unique Concept with a Bright Future

The Restaurant at Birmingham College of Food stands out not just as a dining venue, but as a crucial part of culinary education. It offers an opportunity for students to hone their skills in a real-world environment while providing diners with exceptional meals filled with creativity and passion. With each visit, you’re not only enjoying delicious food but also supporting the future of the culinary arts.

In conclusion, if you're seeking an unforgettable dining experience that showcases both culinary talent and value, look no further than the Restaurant at Birmingham College of Food. It's a place where every dish tells a story, crafted by enthusiastic students eager to impress. Book your table today and become a part of this remarkable journey.