When does Glynn Purnell have time to rest? Not only is he opening restaurants left, right and centre in the West Midlands. But every single one has his golden touch. His latest, Purnell’s Café and Bistro, has just been added to the Michelin Guide, another in a long list of accolades.
His Michelin-star restaurant Purnell’s has been one of Birmingham’s best restaurants since 2007 (achieving a Michelin star in 2009). But only last month was its neighbouring tapas, Plate’s by Purnell’s, added to the Michelin Guide. While The Mount in Henley-in-Arden, which provides a proper pub experience with Michelin expertise, is also on the Guide.
But this newest bistro is something for Coventry to celebrate, as it becomes the only Michelin Guide-approved restaurant in the city. The Yummy Brummie only opened Purnell’s Café and Bistro at Charterhouse back in April, so this is quite the turnaround! And it’s only 30 minutes from Birmingham, so well worth making a detour for!
The Michelin Guide said: “Another part of Glynn Purnell’s Midlands masterplan, this venture is housed inside a Grade I listed former 14C monastery with substantial gardens and grounds.
“There are actually two eateries here: a café offering lighter snacks and a bistro serving tapas, including dishes like butterbean cassoulet with Morteau sausage and sundried tomatoes. These small plates are full of authentic Spanish flavours that really pack a punch. It’s well worth having a look around the fine country house during your visit too.”
Charterhouse is one of Coventry’s most important heritage sites. A former monastery, the Grade I listed building offers three historic floors to explore, as well as the surrounding green space filled with wildlife. Back in March, it completed a £12 million restoration project partially funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. But the real win has to be the addition of Purnell’s Café & Bistro at Charterhouse.
With a “field-to-fork ethos”, the café and bistro make the most of the produce grown in the on-site garden. There is no need to book access to the cafe, simply pop in after a busy morning filling your head up with history. Where you can pick up a range of breakfast items, sandwiches and cakes, ranging between £3 – £8. Plus, grab yourself a coffee, tea, and juice. Whatever your poison.
We suggest you book if you plan on eating at the bistro, but walk-ins are still welcome. Here you’ll come across a spread of Spanish-influenced tapas-style small dishes. Ranging from butterbean cassoulet (£6) and cheese and leek croquettes (£5) to pan roast sea bream (£8) and cherry and fennel glazed pork belly (£7)
To learn more about Purnell’s Café and Bistro and Charterhouse head here.