When it comes to the best restaurants in Birmingham, there are plenty to choose from. Birmingham has three Michelin-starred restaurants (and four if you include Solihull), while also holding plenty of cheap eats too. But if you’re on the lookout for something in between, what are the cheapest Michelin Guide restaurants in Birmingham? Offering a bit of luxury that doesn’t break the bank, these Michelin Guide-approved restaurants are described as ‘a moderate spend’ and tick both boxes – many of which have a Bib Gourmand distinction for their great value cooking.
1. Plates by Purnell’s
The Yummy Burmmie’s Michelin Star restaurant isn’t around any longer, but you can still try out his cooking at Plates. Glynn Purnell shows off his love for northern Spain and tapas, serving “small plates, great wine and cocktails.” It’s ideal for all, whether you want to stop in for a quick bite and a glass of wine or after a full evening experience of high-quality dining.
Michelin Guide says: “Choose your selection of small plates from a seasonally informed menu filled with tapas favourites like gambas, croquetas and patatas bravas. Quality cooking runs throughout, with the well-executed dishes showcasing excellent flavour combinations and seasonings. The added bonuses of welcoming service and good value for money could help to make this your new neighbourhood go-to.”
Plates by Purnell’s, 119 Edmund St, Birmingham B3 2HJ
2. Chakana
Birmingham’s first Peruvian restaurant, Chakana provides dishes designed for sharing in a relaxed environment. So it’s not only one of the cheapest Michelin Guide restaurants in Birmingham, but it’s also a one-of-a-kind experience. Chakana is also home to one of the largest ranges of pisco (a Peruvian spirit) in the country. So expect a meal that packs a punch with plenty of flavour and colour.
Michelin Guide says: “This former bank has all the ingredients for a fun night out with friends: a lively laid-back vibe, great modern Peruvian food and one of the largest ranges of pisco in the UK. Cooking is punchy, vibrant and colourful, and dishes such as ceviches, tiraditos and causas are perfect for sharing.”
Chakana, 140 Alcester Rd, Moseley, Birmingham B13 8HT
3. Cuubo
What started life as a fine-dining takeout is now a Jay Rayner favourite. The Kickstarter-funded Cuubo describes itself as “Modern British with an Italian accent” – with everything from tomato risotto to sea breams and braised beef. It’s a simple and seasonal menu, yet full of bold European cooking from owner/chef Dan Sweet.
Michelin Guide says: “The space is small and stylish, with the feel of a contemporary bistro, while the contented diners and lively soundtrack combine to bring a pleasant buzz to the atmosphere. The menu is proudly British and fiercely seasonal, coming across in well-crafted dishes like a wonderful frozen rhubarb dessert with peanut brittle and vanilla ice cream. The cooking is all the better for its absence of unnecessary frippery.”
Cuubo, 49 High Street, Harborne, Birmingham, B17 9NT, United Kingdom
4. Tropea
Heavily influenced by Italian street food, Tropea uses only the finest, seasonal ingredients, either from Milanese markets or local suppliers. While each plate is designed around a star ingredient, be it braised octopus or aubergine parmigiana. Expect plenty of fresh pasta, seafood and regional specialities, from fresh day-boat fish to venison. As of 2025, it now holds a Bib Gourmand distinction too.
Michelin Guide says: “A bright, modern neighbourhood restaurant serving flavourful, fuss-free Italian sharing plates. Let the staff guide you when it comes to ordering – but make sure to include some of the homemade pasta, which is a highlight. There’s a concise list of well-priced Italian wines to accompany your meal, and the buzzing atmosphere and friendly service add to the appeal.”
Tropea, 27 Lordswood Rd, Harborne, Birmingham B17 9RP
5. Riverine Rabbit
Riverine Rabbit’s Ash Valenzuela-Heeger won ‘Young Chef Award’ for her “vibrant cooking” at this year’s MICHELIN Guide Ceremony for Great Britain & Ireland. After several exciting pop-up kitchens around Birmingham, the South African chef opened her first restaurant in Stirchley, with a focus on wild game, seafood, and sustainability-sourced ingredients. Riverine Rabbit also holds a Bib Gourmand distinction.
Michelin Guide says: “After generating a fair amount of buzz with their pop-ups, warm and welcoming couple Ash and Erin have found a permanent home in this Birmingham suburb. Erin leads the friendly service, while Ash proudly delivers her dishes from behind a kitchen counter; if you get the chance, order the honey-cured beef, which epitomises the flavour-packed cooking. Influences from Ash’s native South Africa occasionally make an appearance, as do those from Asia, ranging from tom yum to furikake. That this all comes at wallet-friendly prices is a welcome bonus.”
Riverine Rabbit, 1464 Pershore Road, Stirchley, Birmingham, B30 2NT
The cheapest Michelin Guide restaurants in Birmingham are all classified as ‘a moderate spend’, to learn more head here.