Sutton Coldfield, Japanese Restaurant Guide

This 15-strong London noodle chain (now with branches in Brighton, Birmingham and Bristol) is “a good stand-by” – perhaps it’s “not as good as some of its competitors”, but it is widely seen as “good value”: in particular “the lunch-time meal deal” is a winner.

“Brilliant sushi, always creative and beautifully served” is the attraction at this venue that is quite open about not being authentically Japanese – ‘gaijin’ means ‘foreigner’. A tiny 10-seat counter operation when it opened eight years ago, it took over the tattoo parlour next door to add additional table seating, and these days MasterChef: The Professionals 2021 champion Dan Lee (Brummie-born of English/Irish/Cantonese descent) offers what is billed as Birmingham’s first 15-course ‘omakase’ tasting menu.

“Just amazing in every way” is the overall verdict on Alex Claridge’s (of nearby Wilderness, see also) striking and “fun” yearling, which he opened in June 2024 in a space that was formerly ‘Atelier’ (RIP). “The setting in this beautiful old canalside Jewellery Quarter factory is itself a visual delight and the interior decor is exciting, very modern and centred around a gleaming, steel counter at which fourteen diners are served”. “The seating ensures a vibrant atmosphere, with previous strangers feeling comfortable to chat with each other and the service is relaxed but efficient”. He serves a “very adventurous” seafood and fish tasting menu “with a heavy Japanese bent (although they are quick to say they are not a Japanese restaurant)” and “revelatory” drinks pairings are “an impressive mix of wine and sake” alongside “marine-themed cocktails”. “The dozen or so courses are fresh, exciting, original, generally delicious and accurately and beautifully prepared”. “Alex has come up with an original concept in opening this restaurant and it is certainly a unique and rewarding experience for West Midlanders and those prepared to travel from further afield”.