Restaurant Folium: A Modern British Culinary Gem in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter
An intimate fine dining experience in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, showcasing modern British tasting menus crafted with exceptional precision and warmth.
Restaurant Folium is an intimate fine dining venue in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, renowned for its modern British tasting menus crafted by chef Ben Tesh. With a pared-back, minimalistic interior and warm, attentive service led by Lucy Hanlon, Folium offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. Guests can choose between short and long tasting menus featuring seasonal, ingredient-led dishes, complemented by an extensive wine list. The restaurant is celebrated for its creativity, exquisite presentation, and subtle yet adventurous flavors.
A brief summary to Restaurant Folium
- 8 Caroline St, Birmingham, B3 1TW, GB
- +441216380100
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3.5 hours
- Luxury
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Thursday 5:30 pm-12 am
- Friday 12 pm-4 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Book well in advance as Folium offers limited seating and is popular for its tasting menus.
- Choose the long tasting menu to experience the full range of chef Ben Tesh’s seasonal creations.
- Consider the wine pairing option to complement and enhance the flavors of each course.
- Arrive with an appetite and prepare for a multi-course journey that emphasizes subtlety and balance.
- Engage with the staff for detailed explanations of the dishes and their inspirations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Restaurant Folium location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Restaurant Folium
An Intimate Dining Experience in the Heart of Birmingham
Tucked away on Caroline Street in the vibrant Jewellery Quarter, Restaurant Folium presents a quietly confident and understated setting. The interior is minimalistic and elegant, combining greige and wood tones that create a calm, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant’s compact size enhances the intimate feel, with a single dining room that fosters a relaxed yet refined experience. A central bar and an open kitchen with a large glass window allow diners to glimpse the meticulous culinary craft at work.Chef Ben Tesh’s Ingredient-Led Vision
At the heart of Folium is chef Ben Tesh, whose culinary style is a masterclass in ingredient-led cooking. Drawing from his experience at Noma in Copenhagen, Ben crafts tasting menus that showcase prime, often luxurious ingredients with precision and subtlety. The menus come in short (around 8 courses) and long (up to 15 courses) versions, each designed to highlight harmony and balance without unnecessary complexity. Signature dishes include delicate burnt onion wafers filled with chicken liver parfait, pillowy croquettes topped with smoked cod roe, and the exquisite A5 wagyu beef served simply with grilled chicory and a rich sauce.Seasonal Menus and Thoughtful Pairings
Folium’s tasting menus evolve with the seasons, reflecting the freshest local produce and innovative flavor combinations. The culinary journey is often enhanced by expertly curated wine pairings that complement each course. Desserts provide a light but memorable finish, with creations such as toasted hay caramel confections and rye custard accompanied by sourdough cake. The option to add a cheese course featuring British cheeses, homemade crackers, and preserves offers an additional layer of indulgence.Warm Hospitality and Professional Service
Front of house is managed by Lucy Hanlon, whose charm and attentiveness contribute significantly to the welcoming atmosphere. The service strikes a perfect balance between professionalism and friendliness, ensuring guests feel comfortable and well cared for throughout their meal. The small team approach means personalized attention, with explanations of each dish delivered in an informal and engaging manner.Recognition and Culinary Standing
Though Folium does not currently hold a Michelin star, it is listed in the Michelin Guide and has earned 3 AA Rosettes, reflecting its high culinary standards. It is widely regarded as one of Birmingham’s finest restaurants, standing out in a competitive dining scene. The restaurant’s focus on subtlety, originality, and technical skill places it among the top modern British dining destinations in the region.Unique Features and Dining Ambience
Folium’s blend of a minimalist aesthetic, open kitchen concept, and ingredient-driven menus creates a unique dining experience that appeals to food enthusiasts seeking both creativity and refinement. The atmosphere is relaxed yet sophisticated, making it suitable for special occasions or an indulgent night out. While some find the ambiance slightly sterile, the overall experience is elevated by the quality of food and the warmth of the service team.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham
0.4 km
Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
Chamberlain Clock
0.4 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 Best of Birmingham Trail
0.6 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.
Chamberlain Memorial
0.7 km
A striking neo-Gothic monument in Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square honoring Joseph Chamberlain’s legacy of public service and city transformation.
The River
0.8 km
Iconic bronze fountain sculpture in Birmingham’s Victoria Square, blending art, poetry, and urban life since 1994.
Gem Buildings
0.8 km
Historic Gem Buildings on Key Hill showcase Birmingham's rich jewelry industry heritage and early 20th-century industrial architecture.
Workers Memorial
0.8 km
A solemn landmark in Birmingham honoring workers lost to workplace tragedy and inspiring the fight for safer labor conditions.
Historic England
1.2 km
Uncover Birmingham's rich history and heritage at Historic England, a cornerstone of cultural preservation and education in the heart of the city.
Bullring & Grand Central
1.3 km
Explore Birmingham's Bullring & Grand Central: a shopping and dining paradise that blends modern architecture with an unforgettable experience.
The Selfridges Building
1.4 km
A shimmering silver landmark in Birmingham’s Bullring, where shopping meets futuristic architecture and luxury retail in a sculptural masterpiece.
St. Martin's
1.4 km
Explore St. Martin's Church, a serene Anglican landmark in Birmingham, where architectural beauty and rich history await every visitor.
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
1.4 km
Unleash your curiosity at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, where science comes to life through interactive exhibits and engaging experiences for all ages.
Millennium Point
1.4 km
Explore Millennium Point, Birmingham's architectural marvel and vibrant venue for conferences, exhibitions, and community events.
National Trust - Birmingham Back to Backs
1.5 km
Experience Birmingham's rich history at the iconic Back to Backs, a unique museum showcasing 19th-century urban life through preserved homes.
Kids' Park
1.5 km
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
St. Paul's Church
0.1 km
Explore St. Paul's Church, a Georgian architectural gem and historic spiritual heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Jewellery Quarter
0.3 km
Discover Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, a historic and creative hub where centuries-old craftsmanship meets vibrant culture and modern design.
Pen Museum
0.3 km
Discover where 75% of the world's pen nibs were made in a beautifully restored Victorian factory.
Clue HQ Birmingham - The Live Escape Game
0.4 km
Experience thrilling, immersive escape rooms in Birmingham’s iconic railway arches, blending puzzles, technology, and storytelling for unforgettable group adventures.
Newhall Hill
0.4 km
Discover Newhall Hill’s scenic views and historic charm in Birmingham’s vibrant Soho & Jewellery Quarter district.
J. W. Evans Silver Factory
0.4 km
Step into Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter to explore the remarkably preserved J. W. Evans Silver Factory, a century-old industrial treasure of silversmithing heritage.
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.
New hall Hill - Historical Signature!
0.5 km
Explore the historical charm of New Hall Hill in Birmingham, a captivating tourist attraction rich in heritage and local culture.
The Jewellery Quarter
0.5 km
Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter: a vibrant hub of craftsmanship, culture, and creativity since the 18th century.
Lock 3, Farmers Bridge Locks
0.6 km
Discover the historic Lock 3 within Birmingham’s iconic Farmers Bridge Locks, a captivating canal engineering marvel in the city centre.
Birmingham & Midland Institute
0.6 km
Historic cultural landmark fostering education, arts, and science in Birmingham since 1854, with a renowned library and vibrant programs.
St Chad's Catholic Cathedral
0.6 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.
Museum of the Jewellery Quarter
0.6 km
Explore a time capsule jewellery workshop and discover Birmingham’s rich 200-year heritage of craftsmanship in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter.
Chamberlain Square
0.6 km
Birmingham’s iconic public square blending Victorian grandeur with modern vibrancy and cultural celebration.
Lock 1, Farmers Bridge Locks
0.7 km
Historic flight of 13 canal locks showcasing Birmingham’s industrial heritage and vibrant urban waterways.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Folium
0.0 km
Intimate modern British fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
Lasan Indian Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
0.1 km
Experience Birmingham’s premier fine dining Indian restaurant blending authentic flavors with modern culinary artistry in the stylish Jewellery Quarter.
Pasta Di Piazza
0.1 km
Authentic Italian dining with generous portions and warm service in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
Somewhere in Brum
0.2 km
A vibrant bar and brunch spot in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, blending diverse cuisine with a lively social atmosphere.
Locanta italian restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Italian dining in a historic Victorian setting with fresh seafood, handmade pasta, fine wines, and live music in Birmingham’s city centre.
Decorum Restaurant Birmingham
0.2 km
Elegant steakhouse in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending refined dining with stylish ambiance and cultural charm.
The Rolling Mill
0.2 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending traditional British charm with modern culinary delights and lively atmosphere.
Cucina Rustica
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors crafted with passion in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter at Cucina Rustica.
24 Carat Bistro
0.3 km
Hidden gem serving slow-cooked goat curry and Punjabi fusion in Birmingham's historic Jewelry Quarter.
The Wilderness
0.3 km
Experience bold British fine dining with innovative tasting menus in a moody, industrial-chic setting at Birmingham’s Wilderness.
The Button Factory
0.3 km
A stylish blend of industrial heritage and modern dining, The Button Factory offers vibrant food, drinks, and rooftop vibes in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Kopitiam
0.4 km
Discover authentic Malaysian street food and warm family hospitality in Birmingham’s vibrant Jewellery Quarter at Kopitiam.
Cappadocia Restaurant
0.4 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality await you in Birmingham’s Cappadocia Restaurant on Frederick Street.
Opheem
0.5 km
Experience Michelin-starred Indian cuisine reimagined with British seasonal flair in Birmingham’s elegant Opheem.
Purnells
0.5 km
Experience Michelin-starred British innovation and exquisite flavors at Purnell's, Birmingham’s premier fine dining destination.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Buff Jewellery
0.2 km
Timeless minimalist jewellery handcrafted in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—personalised birthstone designs blending sentiment, subtlety, and modern British elegance for everyday sparkle.
Ivy and Rose Gift Shop
0.2 km
Discover handmade UK treasures at Ivy and Rose, Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter boutique for unique jewelry, candles, and artisanal gifts from local makers. (162 characters)
Artfull Expression
0.3 km
Discover independent jewelry artistry in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Artfull Expression, where unique handcrafted designs blend historic craft with modern flair.
Quarter Jewellery
0.3 km
Independent jeweller on Warstone Lane offering commissions, valuations and attentive, workshop‑minded service in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
SACET
0.3 km
Ethical elegance awaits at SACET, Birmingham's sustainable jewellery gem in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter—where timeless craft meets modern conscience.
Adamas Antique Jewellery
0.3 km
A boutique Jewellery Quarter shop offering curated antique and estate jewels with specialist appraisal and bespoke care.
Top Jewellery UK
0.3 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Top Jewellery, where family expertise crafts diamonds, gold, and silver into timeless treasures.
Fine Jewellery Collections & Bespoke Design Service
0.3 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where custom gems and fine collections craft heirlooms with personal stories etched in gold.
Arnett Creations - Unique Quality Jewellery
0.4 km
Discover bespoke Sterling Silver and hallmarked gold jewellery in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where expert craftsmanship meets personalized service at Arnett Creations.
A&N Jewellery
0.4 km
Discover family-crafted silver treasures and bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's legendary Jewellery Quarter, where 50 years of expertise meets timeless elegance.
Design Centre
0.4 km
Family-crafted diamonds and luxury watches in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter since 1977—timeless elegance for life's milestones.
Gingermegs Vintage
0.6 km
Discover timeless style and impeccable vintage finds at Gingermegs Vintage, Birmingham’s boutique for authentic retro fashion and antiques.
Designer Exchange
0.8 km
Discover authenticated preloved luxury fashion in Birmingham’s elegant Victorian Great Western Arcade.
Community Gift Shop
0.8 km
Discover unique products and support diverse entrepreneurs at Birmingham’s Black Pounds Project Community Gift Shop in the historic Great Western Arcade.
The Alice Boutique
0.8 km
Discover timeless vintage-inspired fashion in a charming boutique nestled within Birmingham’s historic Great Western Arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
40 St Paul's
0.1 km
Discover Birmingham's hidden gin speakeasy: 100+ global varieties, intimate vibes, and masterful cocktails in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter.
Actress & Bishop
0.2 km
Two floors, live music every night and a split personality — cosy downstairs, sweaty upstairs — in the Jewellery Quarter.
Queen's Arms birmingham
0.3 km
Traditional Jewellery Quarter pub pouring fine ales in a quirky, welcoming space with games, books, and hearty grub amid Birmingham's historic heart. (162 characters)
1000 Trades
0.3 km
A vibrant neighbourhood bar celebrating Birmingham’s industrial heritage with craft beers, local food, and a quirky artistic vibe.
Lucky7
0.3 km
Precision mixology meets playful vibes in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—a relaxed haven for cocktail lovers seeking crafted perfection.
The Rose Villa Tavern
0.4 km
Classic British pub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, serving hearty meals, diverse drinks, and warm hospitality amid historic streets.
The Jewellers Arms
0.5 km
Traditional Birmingham boozer in the Jewellery Quarter: exceptional real ales, hearty pies, and cosy fireside chats since the 1830s.
The Pig & Tail
0.5 km
Victorian charm with a punchy, colourful gastropub vibe — British small plates, rotating craft beer and lively evenings in the Jewellery Quarter.
The Red Lion
0.6 km
Traditional Hockley pub fusing heritage, modern art, and hearty British fare in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem on lively Warstone Lane.
Madeleine
0.7 km
An elegant, salon‑style cocktail bar in The Grand Hotel — famed for refined afternoon tea and meticulous cocktails in a dramatic, over‑sized parlour.
The Alchemist Colmore Row
0.7 km
Experience Birmingham’s iconic Grand building transformed into a theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular magic with vibrant city nightlife.
Theatrix Birmingham
0.7 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Theatrix Birmingham, a stylish multi-floor bar and entertainment venue in the city centre.
Purecraft Bar & Kitchen
0.8 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham blending craft beer culture with modern British cuisine in a spacious, welcoming setting.
Dirty Martini - Birmingham
0.8 km
Trendy cocktail bar in Birmingham’s city center, known for stylish decor, expertly crafted drinks, and a lively party atmosphere.
Revolución de Cuba Birmingham
0.8 km
Experience authentic Cuban vibes, vibrant cocktails, and lively salsa music in the heart of Birmingham’s city centre.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
PAVO Birmingham
0.3 km
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
0.4 km
Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem fusing aromatic shisha clouds with thumping club beats until 5am—pure late-night energy on Barr Street.
DIAMOND SPARKLEZ
0.7 km
Ignite your night in Birmingham's diamond district at this glittering nightclub, where top DJs, stunning lights, and electric crowds create pure nightlife magic.
What do you mean
0.8 km
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.
Reflex - Birmingham
0.9 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.
Rosies - Birmingham
1.0 km
Birmingham's ultimate super club: five themed rooms, killer cocktails, and non-stop beats on Broad Street for epic nights out.
Popworld - Birmingham
1.0 km
Broad Street's ultimate pop party hub: 90s-00s hits, neon dance floors, cocktails, and celebration packages until 3am.
King of clubs
1.1 km
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.
Snobs
1.3 km
Birmingham's 40-year indie-retro nightclub legend: cheap drinks, themed dance floors, and non-stop beats on Broad Street.
Bambu Nightclub
1.4 km
Experience Birmingham’s chic nightlife hotspot with stylish vibes, eclectic music, and late-night dancing at Bambu Nightclub.
101 Night Club
1.4 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at 101 Night Club, Birmingham's vibrant center for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Sobar
1.4 km
Dive into Birmingham's electric nightlife at Sobar, where R&B beats, masterful cocktails, and inclusive vibes fuel unforgettable weekend revelry in the heart of the Arcadian.
suki10c
1.5 km
Quirky Digbeth nightclub with local art, sustainable vibes, and eclectic beats in an intimate 180-capacity space powered by wind energy.
Mango Night Club
1.6 km
A high‑energy Bristol Street nightclub serving Afrobeats, hip‑hop and R&B for late‑night dancers and party crowds in central Birmingham.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
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
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Senior Friendly
