The prestigious SquareMeal top 100 UK restaurants list for 2026 has been unveiled, highlighting exceptional dining establishments across the nation, with a particular focus on venues located outside the capital. In a notable achievement, Birmingham has emerged as a culinary hotspot, securing four coveted positions on this esteemed ranking.
Birmingham's Culinary Triumph
The West Midlands metropolis of Birmingham is celebrating a significant accomplishment, with four of its restaurants earning places on the 2026 SquareMeal list. This recognition underscores the city's vibrant and diverse food scene, which continues to gain national acclaim. The list, which assesses restaurants based on performance, value, and quality, aims to champion Britain's finest culinary offerings beyond London.
Birmingham's Top Four Restaurants
Here are the four Birmingham establishments that have made the cut, showcasing a range of innovative and high-quality dining experiences.
Opheem
Claiming the number 21 position nationally, Opheem stands as Birmingham's highest-rated restaurant on the list. Located at 65 Summer Row, Birmingham B3 1JJ, this Michelin-starred venue is operated by chef Aktar Islam. Described as a "modern, plush eatery", Opheem offers elevated, modern Indian plates alongside shaken cocktails and wine. The menu evolves with the seasons, being refreshed several times annually, and guests can choose between five or ten courses based on their preferred dining duration.
The Wilderness
Securing 51st position on the top 100 rankings, The Wilderness is the creation of Alex Claridge. Situated at 27 Warstone Ln, Birmingham B18 6JQ, this establishment presents "provocative, playful tasting menus" that showcase seasonal produce. Housed in a converted factory, the restaurant offers a distinctive culinary journey set to the soundtrack of rock, punk, and heavy metal. It holds Michelin Guide Recommended status and boasts three AA Rosettes.
Riverine Rabbit
Claiming the 87th spot nationally, Riverine Rabbit is located at 1464 Pershore Rd, Stirchley, Birmingham B30 2NT. Originally launched in Cape Town, South Africa, this restaurant represents the vision of Ash and her partner Erin, who prioritise building relationships with farmers and sourcing sustainable produce. Ash was awarded Michelin Young Chef of the Year in 2025, and the restaurant earned Michelin Guide recognition with a Bib Gourmand last year. Riverine Rabbit presents two daily menus that vary from day to day.
670 Grams
Completing Birmingham's remarkable selection is 670 Grams, also at number 87 on the list. Situated at 4 Gibb St, Deritend, Birmingham B9 4AA, in a former custard factory, the culinary team draws inspiration from "the diverse culture that's within the heart of the country". 670 Grams serves up a globally influenced tasting menu and aims to be "approachable to everyone".
National Winners and Challenges
Topping the 2026 SquareMeal list is Bristol's Wilsons, a one-Michelin-star restaurant operated by Mary Wilson and Jan Ostle, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. Runner-up honours went to Manchester's Skof, with Nottingham's Restaurant Sat Bains with Rooms securing third position.
The SquareMeal panel noted the formidable challenges facing the UK's restaurant sector but praised the dedication of hospitality professionals. "It's no secret that the UK's restaurant sector is facing formidable challenges. And yet, with each year that passes, hospitality pros continue to invest everything they have into projects for the love of what they do," they observed.
Full Top 10 List
Here is a snapshot of the top 10 restaurants from the SquareMeal 2026 rankings, highlighting the geographic diversity of Britain's culinary excellence.
- Wilsons (Bristol)
- Skof (Manchester)
- Restaurant Sat Bains with Rooms (Nottingham)
- Vraic (Guernsey)
- L'Enclume (Westmorland and Furness)
- Grace & Savour (Solihull)
- The Greyhound Beaconsfield (Buckinghamshire)
- JÖRO (Sheffield)
- Pine (Northumberland)
- Moor Hall Restaurant with Rooms (West Lancashire)
This list celebrates a wide array of establishments, from budget-friendly options to extraordinary dining experiences, reaffirming the UK's rich and resilient restaurant landscape.
