Chakana, Birmingham Travel Guide

Set in a converted Lloyds bank building on Alcester Road, Chakana brings the rich culinary traditions of Peru to Birmingham’s Moseley district. The restaurant’s spacious, airy interior features stripped wood floors and rustic wooden tables, creating a warm yet contemporary environment that balances comfort with style. This setting provides the perfect backdrop for the vibrant and colorful dishes crafted by chef Robert Ortiz, whose Michelin-starred expertise elevates each plate.

Chakana’s menu showcases a creative fusion of traditional Peruvian ingredients and modern cooking techniques. Signature dishes include a variety of ceviches, such as sea bass and tuna nikkei, served with vivid tiger’s milk sauces and accompanied by native Peruvian elements like canchita corn and sweet potato purée. Other highlights are the hot scallop causa, braised squid with Andean potato stew, and the 24-hour confit suckling pig with crispy crackling. The menu balances seafood, meat, and vegetarian options, often featuring complex sauces and textures that deliver an explosion of flavor.

Every dish at Chakana is presented with artistic flair, making the dining experience visually captivating as well as delicious. The restaurant’s ambiance is relaxed yet lively, attracting a diverse clientele including families, couples, and groups of friends. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate, often sharing insights about the ingredients and origins of the dishes, enhancing guests’ appreciation of the cuisine. The former bank’s architectural features, such as the original safe room now used for private dining, add a unique character to the venue.

Complementing the food is an extensive cocktail menu, with a strong emphasis on pisco-based drinks, a hallmark of Peruvian culture. The cocktails are inventive and expertly crafted, making them a perfect accompaniment to the tasting menus or à la carte selections. The wine list includes South American and European options, thoughtfully curated to pair well with the diverse flavors found in the dishes.

Chakana offers tasting menus that provide a comprehensive journey through Peruvian gastronomy, ideal for special occasions or those seeking a deeper exploration of the cuisine. The restaurant also hosts private events in its distinctive spaces, where guests can enjoy live music and personalized menus. Sunday lunches blend Peruvian ingredients with British traditions, offering a unique twist on a classic meal.

While rooted in Peruvian tradition, Chakana incorporates local British produce and seasonal ingredients, ensuring freshness and sustainability. The kitchen’s attention to detail and dedication to flavor balance result in dishes that are both authentic and innovative. Chakana stands out as a beacon of cultural heritage and culinary artistry in Birmingham’s vibrant food scene.