Eating out in Solihull doesn’t mean having to traipse into the centre of Birmingham thanks to its own local thriving culinary scene. It is one that continues to evolve with a wave of new restaurants bringing mixing local and global flavours, inventive menus, and charming dining experiences to this West Midlands gem.

Whether you’re looking for a meal after a game of golf or a walk in the park, or a fun time out in the centre of Solihull, there are plenty of options for local foodies or visitors on the hunt for something fresh and interesting. Solihull restaurants reveal a dynamic mix of restaurants that reflect Solihull’s growing reputation as a destination demanding the best food.

Going Asian in Solihull

Such is Solihull’s growing reputation that Kibou picked the town as one of the first new restaurants, having launched in Cheltenham. Located on the High Street, in the former Cafe Rouge location,  KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar offers modern Japanese food, served in a modern space that blends Tokyo-style aesthetics with bold culinary ambition.

Rated as Exceptional on OpenTable, KIBOU features the finest Japanese flavours across sushi, ramen, and small plates that balance authenticity with the flair this upstart chain is becoming well known for. Signatures like the Volcano Roll with pieces of futomaki, salmon, avocado & tobiko, dipped in tempura batter, fried and drizzled with sriracha mayo, sweet chilli & unagi sauce, are local favourites.

With bottomless Sushi, a fun Taste of Tokyo set menu and seasonal menus, there’s also a great cocktail list—infused with yuzu, sake, and matcha to add to the dining experience.

Bringing Thai flavours to Solihull, Sabai Sabai Solihull is a winner of the Best East Asian Restaurant 2024/5 at the Birmingham Food & Drink Awards. Its brand-new lunch menu balances bold spices with delicate presentation.

Highlights include the Bangkok Katsu, crispy duck salad, and Pad Thai, all served in a chic setting that’s perfect for both casual lunches, sharing meals with friends and family and evening or seasonal  celebrations.

Enjoy Mediterranean Flavours in Solihull

A little closer to our usual culinary fare, Eros Restaurant just down the road in Knowle offers a Mediterranean escape if you can’t grab a holiday package from Birmingham or Coventry airports. A stylish venue, known for its warm hospitality and refined yet approachable menu, there’s plenty to put you on an Italian or Greek beach without the cost.

Dishes that delight include traditional Italian and Greek menus, from pizzas to grilled halloumi, seafood linguine, and lamb kofta, all crafted with fresh ingredients and a touch of finesse. Eros is proof that Mediterranean cuisine can be both comforting and sophisticated, with a vegetarian and vegan menu on offer, and a charming, refined atmosphere to enjoy your food at a Mediterranean pace.

Edging around the Med, Porto Douro, is a Portuguese-inspired eatery on Warwick Road, bringing the rustic nature of Portugal to the West Midlands. A haven for lovers of grilled meats, fresh seafood, hearty stews, and sticky sweets.

The space is bright and welcoming, with floor-to-ceiling windows and a compact bar that adds to the convivial atmosphere. It’s a great spot for relaxed dinners, family gatherings, or a quiet lunch with a glass of vinho verde. Check out the new set menu offering chicken and mushroom pasta, salmon fish cakes or halloumi skewers and much more.

Finally, there’s Carluccio’s, a long-time favourite in Solihull, opening in 2017. Based on the foodie delights of legendary chef Antonio and his wife Priscilla. It may have changed hands in 2020 but still offers fine but simple Italian fare at very reasonable prices, with an all-day set menu providing two Courses for £21.00 or three for £24.00.

There’s breakfast, pizza, kids, desert and drinks menus to cater for all ages and types of visitors, with Pappardelle Braised Beef Ragu among the lasagne, linguine, ravioli and other traditional dishes.

Summary

Whatever the weather, Solihull’s restaurant renaissance provides a great way to warm up, or celebrate with friends and family. From award-winning places like Lavang, a globally recognised hidden gem, and those with long-standing friendly staff and managers to new restaurants aiming to offer something a little different. Whether you’re booking through OpenTable for a spontaneous night out or planning a culinary tour, Solihull’s growing scene can provide many memorable meals and evenings out.

Article by Geoff Spick.