Purnell's: A Modern British Culinary Icon in Birmingham
Experience inventive modern British cuisine with playful elegance at Birmingham’s Michelin-starred Purnell's, a city dining icon.
Located on Cornwall Street in Birmingham, Purnell's is a Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant renowned for its inventive modern British cuisine crafted by celebrated chef Glynn Purnell. The restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience featuring playful, detailed dishes that blend local pride with culinary creativity in a stylish, contemporary setting.
A brief summary to Purnells
- 55 Cornwall St, Birmingham, B3 2DH, GB
- +441212129799
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Luxury
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-1:30 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-1:30 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-1:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-1:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-1:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-1:30 pm
Local tips
- Reserve well in advance, as Purnell's was highly sought after during its operation.
- Explore the tasting menu for a full experience of Glynn Purnell’s inventive dishes.
- Enjoy the attentive and knowledgeable service, which complements the sophisticated atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Purnells location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Purnells
A Legacy of Culinary Innovation
Purnell's has been a cornerstone of Birmingham's fine dining scene since its launch in 2007 by Glynn Purnell, a chef celebrated for his inventiveness and deep connection to the city. Over 17 years, the restaurant built a reputation for delivering highly individual tasting menus that mix humor, nostalgia, and technical skill. Dishes often include playful nods to British culinary history, such as reinterpretations of classic party foods and desserts, all presented with meticulous detail and creativity.Atmosphere and Service Excellence
The restaurant’s interior is spacious and modern, reflecting a contemporary British aesthetic that complements its culinary style. The staff are known for being friendly, polite, and highly knowledgeable, providing pitch-perfect service that enhances the overall dining experience. The atmosphere balances refined elegance with a welcoming warmth, making it suitable for special occasions and discerning diners seeking a memorable meal.Signature Dishes and Menu Highlights
Purnell's offers a full tasting menu that is experimental yet accessible, featuring a range of dishes that showcase seasonal British ingredients with unexpected twists. Highlights have included truffle-themed pig sablés with cheese custard, roast sirloin of beef with girolles and pistachio, and inventive desserts like mint chocolate chip finales. The lunch menu is pared down but equally impressive, with perfectly seasoned fish dishes and crisply textured tart creations.Chef Glynn Purnell's Vision and Impact
Glynn Purnell’s approach combines a proud Brummie identity with a devotion to detail and a sense of humor that permeates the menu and dining experience. His refusal to adopt pretentious culinary terms in favor of more approachable language reflects his personality and philosophy. Purnell’s has influenced Birmingham’s dining culture by elevating local ingredients and flavors to a fine dining context, inspiring chefs and food lovers alike.The Closing Chapter and Lasting Influence
After a distinguished 17-year run, Purnell's closed its doors in October 2024, marking the end of an era for Birmingham’s gastronomic landscape. Despite its closure, the restaurant’s legacy endures through its contributions to modern British cuisine and the city’s culinary prestige. Glynn Purnell remains a celebrated figure, continuing to shape the region’s food scene with new ventures.Location and Setting
Situated in the heart of Birmingham on Cornwall Street, Purnell's was easily accessible within the city center, surrounded by the vibrant urban environment. Its location added to its appeal as a destination for both locals and visitors seeking an exceptional dining experience in a stylish setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Best of Birmingham Trail
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Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.
Workers Memorial
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A solemn landmark in Birmingham honoring workers lost to workplace tragedy and inspiring the fight for safer labor conditions.
The River
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Iconic bronze fountain sculpture in Birmingham’s Victoria Square, blending art, poetry, and urban life since 1994.
Chamberlain Memorial
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A striking neo-Gothic monument in Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square honoring Joseph Chamberlain’s legacy of public service and city transformation.
The Selfridges Building
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A shimmering silver landmark in Birmingham’s Bullring, where shopping meets futuristic architecture and luxury retail in a sculptural masterpiece.
Chamberlain Clock
0.9 km
An elegant Edwardian clock tower at the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, built in 1903 as a memorial to Joseph Chamberlain and recently restored to its former glory.
The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham
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Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
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Explore the National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham, a captivating aquarium experience featuring thousands of marine creatures and educational exhibits for all ages.
The Cube
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Discover The Cube in Birmingham – a unique blend of leisure, dining, and entertainment that creates unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
National Trust - Birmingham Back to Backs
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Experience Birmingham's rich history at the iconic Back to Backs, a unique museum showcasing 19th-century urban life through preserved homes.
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
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Unleash your curiosity at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, where science comes to life through interactive exhibits and engaging experiences for all ages.
Historic England
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Uncover Birmingham's rich history and heritage at Historic England, a cornerstone of cultural preservation and education in the heart of the city.
Millennium Point
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Explore Millennium Point, Birmingham's architectural marvel and vibrant venue for conferences, exhibitions, and community events.
The Jewellery Quarter
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Explore Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter, a vibrant district filled with artisan shops, exquisite craftsmanship, and rich heritage.
Kids' Park
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Discover Kids' Park in Birmingham, where adventure meets learning in a family-friendly environment filled with fun activities and lush greenery.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Old Joint Stock Pub & Theatre, Birmingham
0.2 km
Historic Victorian pub and vibrant studio theatre in Birmingham’s city centre, blending rich heritage with live entertainment and refined British dining.
Birmingham Cathedral
0.2 km
Discover Birmingham Cathedral, a stunning Baroque masterpiece and vibrant community hub in the heart of Birmingham, rich in history and artistry.
Clue HQ Birmingham - The Live Escape Game
0.3 km
Experience thrilling, immersive escape rooms in Birmingham’s iconic railway arches, blending puzzles, technology, and storytelling for unforgettable group adventures.
Great Western Arcade
0.3 km
Discover Birmingham’s elegant Victorian shopping arcade blending historic charm with boutique shops, fine foods, and cozy bars.
Chamberlain Square
0.3 km
Birmingham’s iconic public square blending Victorian grandeur with modern vibrancy and cultural celebration.
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
0.3 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage and world-class art in a stunning historic museum with free entry and family-friendly galleries.
Frankfurt Christmas Market Birmingham
0.3 km
Experience the largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany, alive with festive food, crafts, and music in Birmingham’s Victoria Square.
A guardian
0.4 km
Historic French Renaissance former Head Post Office now vibrant Grade A office space overlooking Birmingham’s civic heart.
St Chad's Catholic Cathedral
0.4 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece and spiritual heart of Birmingham, home to the relics of St Chad and a symbol of Catholic resurgence in England.
Victoria Square
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Victoria Square: Birmingham’s historic pedestrian plaza blending iconic architecture, lively fountains, and vibrant city culture in a central urban oasis.
Birmingham Town Hall
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Discover Birmingham Town Hall, a Roman Revival architectural gem and historic concert venue at the heart of Victoria Square.
St. Paul's Church
0.4 km
Explore St. Paul's Church, a Georgian architectural gem and historic spiritual heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Chamberlain Sq
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Where Victorian grandeur meets modern Birmingham – a lively civic square with museums, markets, and great architecture.
The Coffin Works
0.4 km
A Victorian coffin factory preserved as a time-capsule museum, revealing the craftsmanship behind royal funerals and industrial Birmingham.
House of Fraser
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Discover Birmingham’s iconic House of Fraser on Corporation Street, a historic department store offering diverse fashion, beauty, and homewares across six floors.
Essential places to dine
Purnells
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Experience Michelin-starred British innovation and exquisite flavors at Purnell's, Birmingham’s premier fine dining destination.
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Gusto Italian
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Cucina Rustica
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The Lost & Found Birmingham
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Locanta italian restaurant
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San Carlo - Birmingham
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Land Restaurant
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The Oyster Club
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Las Iguanas - Birmingham - Temple Street
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Designer Exchange
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Community Gift Shop
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The Alice Boutique
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Discover timeless vintage-inspired fashion in a charming boutique nestled within Birmingham’s historic Great Western Arcade.
La MC Vintage
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Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures in Birmingham’s charming North Western Arcade at La MC Vintage.
Urban Outfitters
0.5 km
Discover stylish apparel, unique homewares, and a vibrant shopping vibe at Urban Outfitters Birmingham in the city centre.
Funkybits4u Fair Trade - Birmingham
0.5 km
Discover ethically crafted gifts and inspiring interiors at Funkybits4u Fair Trade, a vibrant hub of sustainable artistry in Birmingham.
Obsidian
0.5 km
Discover mystical treasures and spiritual gifts at Obsidian, Birmingham’s premier metaphysical shop on vibrant Corporation Street.
The Oasis fashion store
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A vibrant hub for alternative fashion, vintage finds, and creative lifestyle services in the heart of Birmingham.
Simply Gifted
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Explore Simply Gifted in Birmingham for unique gifts and local treasures that reflect the vibrant spirit of the city.
The Works
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Discover affordable arts, crafts, books, and stationery in the heart of Birmingham’s vibrant New Street shopping district.
Miniso
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Bright, affordable design and collectable character goods — a family-friendly stop for pocket-money treats in Grand Central.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Discover quirky, affordable Scandinavian gifts and everyday essentials that bring joy and creativity to Birmingham’s city center.
Primark
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A huge, multi‑level flagship on Birmingham High Street offering fast, affordable fashion, homewares and themed in‑store concepts under one roof.
Wornwell Vintage Clothing
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Buff Jewellery
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Madeleine
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The Alchemist Colmore Row
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Dirty Martini - Birmingham
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Actress & Bishop
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Theatrix Birmingham
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Purecraft Bar & Kitchen
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The Head of Steam Birmingham
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Flight Club Birmingham
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The Cocktail Club - Birmingham
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The Trocadero
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Fox and Chance
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Be At One - Birmingham
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Bacchus Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
What do you mean
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Dive into Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at What Do You Mean, a premier nightclub known for electrifying music, creative cocktails, and an unforgettable party vibe.
Tunnel Club Birmingham
0.3 km
Dive under Birmingham's arches into Tunnel Club's seven-room warehouse wonderland, where house, techno, and hip-hop fuel all-night dances amid pounding bass and vivid lights.
King of clubs
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Compact late‑night Birmingham club for high‑energy R&B, hip‑hop and DJ nights, pulsing into the small hours with neon, bass and bar-driven parties.
Reflex - Birmingham
0.8 km
Spin into 80s-00s nostalgia at Reflex Birmingham: revolving dance floor, karaoke booths, neon vibes, and epic sing-alongs on Broad Street's party strip.
PAVO Birmingham
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Vibrant African fusion lounge and nightclub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where bold flavors meet electrifying beats until 4am on weekends.
Dreams Night club and Shisha
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Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem fusing aromatic shisha clouds with thumping club beats until 5am—pure late-night energy on Barr Street.
Rosies - Birmingham
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Birmingham's ultimate super club: five themed rooms, killer cocktails, and non-stop beats on Broad Street for epic nights out.
Bambu Nightclub
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101 Night Club
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Unleash your nightlife spirit at 101 Night Club, Birmingham's vibrant center for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Popworld - Birmingham
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Broad Street's ultimate pop party hub: 90s-00s hits, neon dance floors, cocktails, and celebration packages until 3am.
Sobar
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suki10c
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DIAMOND SPARKLEZ
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Mango Night Club
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Nightingale Club
1.2 km
Birmingham's legendary LGBTQIA+ superclub: three floors of pulsating beats, go-go glamour, and five decades of unapologetic queer joy in the Gay Village.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Senior Friendly