Simpsons

Simpsons is without doubt the grande dame of Birmingham’s restaurant scene. Behind an elegant listed exterior in the well-heeled suburb of Edgbaston lies a slick, top-drawer culinary operation. Indeed, ‘impeccable’ is the word that springs to mind to best describe this restaurant. They are proud of what they produce here – & in the conservatory-style dining room there are large windows into the kitchen so you can see the team at work. Quality ingredients are turned into masterful, modern-French creations by head chef Luke Tipping, whether it’s a torte of Salcombe crab, Loch Fyne salmon & guacamole with crab mayonnaise & red pepper jelly to start or perhaps a main course of roast Gressingham duck with couscous, parsley root puree & passion fruit sauce. Superb imagination & technique mean it all works brilliantly. Naturally, you’re in the upper reaches of the restaurant spectrum here, but Simpsons may be upmarket but it is not remotely stuffy or formal. There are even Brummie voices to be heard among the front of house staff – & quite right too. The lengthy wine list is in keeping with the overall seriousness of style, & features some extremely well-chosen bottles.