Review on Opheem
Occupying the former premises of the Mechu night club on Summer Row in the heart of Birmingham city centre, Indian restaurant Opheem opened its doors in May 2018. It's the first solo project from talented chef Aktar Islam since he left the critically acclaimed Lasan restaurant in Birmingham, where he was Chef Director.
Inside it's a rather swanky restaurant, with the décor created by award-winning interior designer and architectural consultancy practice, Tibbatts Abel. On entering the restaurant you are greeted by a chic bar and lounge area, perfect for pre or post dinner drinks. The restaurant has been decked out in a palette of neutral and earthy tones, with smart leather seats set against bespoke hand finished dark wood tables and an eye-catching brass lighting installation overhead. Interesting artwork is strategically placed and there's the added bonus of a viewing window through to the kitchen, where you can watch the chefs at work.
Aktar described his food as progressive Indian cuisine and it showcases both traditional and modern techniques, resulting in boldly contemporary dishes that will delight the palate. To begin there's samudrapheni maharashtra, octopus, tandoori spices, pickled mooli and citrus or Dorset Cross hoggat cutlet, date and sultana puree, green cardamom. When it comes to main courses you might opt for laal maans rajasthan, Herdwick lamb loin, tongue beignet, Punjabi aubergine caviar, barley, smoked Mathania chilli and bone marrow, sauce, which was inspired by Aktar's winning course on Gordon Ramsay's programme the Fword. Also on the menu are some of the chef's favourite traditional home cooking from his mother such as khatta jingha, fresh water King prawns cooked with semi-ripe mango and coconut milk. Desserts conjure up the likes of saune Punjab, dark Manjari chocolate fennel and blood orange or firni Bengal, Bengali rice pudding, Yorkshire rhubarb and basil.
The comprehensive wine list is an international slate designed to complement the flavours of the dishes, there's options available by the glass, together with a classic cocktail menu. The restaurant was the proud recipient of a Michelin star in the 2020 edition of the Guide.
Opheem is also featured in: Michelin Guide
Rate this RestaurantCuisine
Modern Indian
Chef
Aktar Islam
Restaurant Opening Times
Lunch: 12.00 - 2.30pm Tue-Sat (12.00 - 7.30pm Sun)
Dinner: 5.30 - 10.30pm Tue-Sat
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card