Purnell's - Birmingham

This is hard to write because we had a fabulous evening and exceptional food apart from the ‘main’ course. Unfortunately this was not rare but raw and when chal... read more This is hard to write because we had a fabulous evening and exceptional food apart from the ‘main’ course. Unfortunately this was not rare but raw and when challenged we were offered sharper knives since it wasn’t possible to cut through with the ones provided. It’s such a shame because we were having a great time and truthfully if they had just said sorry we probably would have omitted the course without issue. A little thing ! I would however hope that there is learning from this review and I would still have no issue recommending this restaurant as one of the best I have eaten in.

Warm greeting on arrival, coats take and shown to a sofa. Some time for drinks order to be taken and then arrival of very pleasant maitre d’ (we assume) who too... read more Warm greeting on arrival, coats take and shown to a sofa. Some time for drinks order to be taken and then arrival of very pleasant maitre d’ (we assume) who took our order and that was the last interaction we had with him. Three course lunch served very promptly but with not oodles of passion. Had to ask for more water, then had to ask if we had any wine left. The staff were pleasant but no one seemed to be conducting the flow and checking in. It was quite a perfunctory experience…bring the food, go back for the sauce, explain the dish, clear the dish….don’t get me wrong, the food was lovely, but just felt a bit disappointed by the dining experience.

Having eaten at purnells before, we decided to arrange a surprise engagement, working with the whole team made the evening so special, Adrien was just amazing a... read more Having eaten at purnells before, we decided to arrange a surprise engagement, working with the whole team made the evening so special, Adrien was just amazing and Glyn himself produced the stunning ring to the lucky lady in truly magical performance, of course she said yes. The tasting menu was off the scale and a massive thank you to everyone involved the whole team, you smashed it.

According to bbc website done a runner with customers money from vouchers they can longer use at another restaurant he owns that has gone bust. Classy guy Servi... read more According to bbc website done a runner with customers money from vouchers they can longer use at another restaurant he owns that has gone bust. Classy guy Service: Delivery Price per person: £1–10 Food: 1 Service: 1 Atmosphere: 1

Absolutely fantastic tasting menu. The evening is one we will never forget, really memorable dishes. We thought it deserves more than one Michelin star comparin... read more Absolutely fantastic tasting menu. The evening is one we will never forget, really memorable dishes. We thought it deserves more than one Michelin star comparing it to other restaurants we’ve visited with more than one. We will definitely be back to Purnells. Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 4