San Carlo - Birmingham: Elegant Italian Dining in the City Centre
Classic Italian elegance and seafood delights in Birmingham’s stylish city centre dining destination.
San Carlo Birmingham is a renowned Italian restaurant located on Temple Street in the city centre, known for its upscale classic Italian cuisine, stylish mirrored interiors, and a vibrant dining atmosphere. It offers a menu featuring seafood, pasta, and grilled meats, complemented by an extensive wine list. The restaurant combines traditional Italian flavors with modern presentation, making it a popular choice for intimate dinners and special occasions.
A brief summary to San Carlo - Birmingham
- 4 Temple St, Birmingham, B2 5BN, GB
- +441216330251
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Luxury
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-10 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-10 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-10 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-10 pm
- Friday 12 pm-10:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-10:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-10 pm
Local tips
- Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a table in this popular city centre restaurant.
- Try the signature Tagliolini Lobster pasta, a standout dish that showcases San Carlo’s Italian culinary expertise.
- The wine list offers a wide range of options; ask staff for pairing recommendations to enhance your meal.
- Dress smart-casual to match the restaurant’s elegant and romantic ambiance.
- Be prepared for a formal service style that reflects authentic Italian dining traditions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
San Carlo - Birmingham location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about San Carlo - Birmingham
Heritage and Culinary Roots
San Carlo Birmingham is part of the acclaimed San Carlo group, founded by Sicilian-born Carlo Distefano over three decades ago. This flagship venue embodies the founder’s vision of classic Italian dining elevated by impeccable professionalism and a romantic ambiance. The restaurant has established itself as a city centre staple, blending authentic Italian culinary traditions with a modern flair. Its menu showcases regional Italian specialties, with a particular emphasis on seafood, pasta, and grilled dishes, reflecting the rich diversity of Italy’s gastronomic heritage.Atmosphere and Interior Design
The restaurant’s interior is striking, featuring a large, mirrored dining room that exudes grandeur and elegance reminiscent of a bygone era. The spacious, square layout is designed to create an immersive and theatrical dining experience, where well-groomed staff perform with precise choreography, enhancing the sophisticated atmosphere. This setting makes San Carlo a favored venue for romantic dinners and celebrations, offering a stylish yet comfortable environment that balances formality with warmth.Signature Dishes and Menu Highlights
San Carlo’s menu is celebrated for its quality ingredients and classic Italian preparations. Signature dishes include the Tagliolini Lobster pasta, a delicate ribboned pasta with lobster, brandy, tomato, peas, and cream, and the Beef Carpaccio served with mustard dressing, parmesan, and rocket. Starters such as Chicken livers sautéed with Marsala, chestnuts, and grapes offer a rich and textured introduction to the meal. The restaurant also features a well-curated wine list catering to various budgets, complementing the flavors of the dishes perfectly.Service and Dining Experience
The staff at San Carlo are known for their professionalism and efficiency, often communicating in Italian among themselves to maintain authenticity. While this can sometimes come across as formal or brisk, it is part of the restaurant’s charm and dedication to an authentic Italian dining experience. Service is generally attentive and well-paced, aiming to provide guests with a seamless and memorable meal.Location and Accessibility
Situated at 4 Temple Street, San Carlo benefits from a prime location in Birmingham’s bustling city centre, close to shopping districts and financial areas. Its central position makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors seeking an elegant dining option. The restaurant operates daily from noon until late evening, accommodating both lunch and dinner guests with extended hours on weekends.Balancing Tradition with Contemporary Expectations
While San Carlo maintains a strong reputation for classic Italian cuisine and a luxurious setting, the Birmingham branch faces increasing competition from newer establishments in the city’s evolving food scene. Some diners note that while the food quality remains high, the experience can sometimes feel less innovative compared to emerging Italian venues. Nonetheless, San Carlo continues to attract patrons who appreciate its consistent culinary standards and refined atmosphere.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Workers Memorial
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The River
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The Best of Birmingham Trail
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Chamberlain Memorial
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The Selfridges Building
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Birmingham Walk of Stars
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Millennium Point
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Historic England
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Pen Museum
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National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
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Eastside City Park
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Unmissable attractions to see
Birmingham Cathedral
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Discover Birmingham Cathedral, a stunning Baroque masterpiece and vibrant community hub in the heart of Birmingham, rich in history and artistry.
New Street & Burlington Arcade
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A vibrant crossroads in Birmingham city centre blending historic elegance and dynamic shopping at New Street and Burlington Arcade.
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.
Great Western Arcade
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Frankfurt Christmas Market Birmingham
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Experience the largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany, alive with festive food, crafts, and music in Birmingham’s Victoria Square.
Martineau Place
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A guardian
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Historic French Renaissance former Head Post Office now vibrant Grade A office space overlooking Birmingham’s civic heart.
The Grand Central Bull
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Grand Central Shopping Centre
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A stunning, modern shopping centre integrated with Birmingham’s New Street Station, offering diverse retail and dining in a light-filled, accessible space.
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 Museum & Art Gallery
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Ozzy the Bull
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Birmingham Town Hall
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Birmingham & Midland Institute
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Chamberlain Square
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Essential places to dine
San Carlo - Birmingham
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Classic Italian elegance and seafood delights in Birmingham’s stylish city centre dining destination.
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The Botanist Birmingham
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Orelle
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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The Alice Boutique
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Designer Exchange
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The Works
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Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Miniso
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Obsidian
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The Oasis fashion store
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Simply Gifted
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Primark
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
