If you haven’t heard, Birmingham has loudly become one of the most exciting food destinations in the UK. Stirchley, in particular, has more quietly been collecting some of the city’s most interesting restaurants. Be it the pizzeria Alicia’s Micro Bakehouse, umami-packed Eat Vietnam, or beautiful brunch spot Caneat, the area is a must for all foodies.
It’s so beloved that Riverine Rabbit has relocated from South Africa to the Birmingham neighbourhood. Now we’re suggesting the former Cape Town restaurant 6,000 miles just to be in Stirchley, but sitting firmly in such an established hotspot for eateries isn’t a terrible idea. (And it’s worked too, as it’s already been listed in the Michelin Guide after only four months open.)
As said, The Rabbit was started in Cape Town, by Ash and her sister, Mandy – but is now spearheaded by Ash and Erin when it opens on Pershore Road in 2024. The restaurant – named after the elusive riverine rabbit from the Karoo Desert, and a nod to its ongoing support of sustainable farming practices – will combine South African flavours with seasonal British produce.
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 Penang curry to furikake. That this all comes at wallet-friendly prices is a welcome bonus.”
The menu is made up of no less than 12 small plates, with a heavy focus on wild game, as well as seafood and a substantial vegetarian offering for plant-based guests. Firm favourites from Riverine Rabbit’s recent summer pop-ups often return, including the Crab Muffin. Head chef Ash – who has worked at The Test Kitchen in South Africa and Carters of Moseley – also ensures ingredients are sourced with sustainability in mind.
Ash and Erin, said, “It’s taken a lot of hard work to get here, to say we’re keen to open our doors is an understatement. We’ve worked hard to create an informal space for our guests to enjoy our ethos and food. There’s no pressure or restrictions, we want our guests to order as many or as few dishes as they fancy, and to just come along and enjoy The Rabbit.”
The Rabbit is only open in the week – so make sure to book to ensure a seat. On Tuesdays to Fridays, you’re welcome to order as many or as few small plate dishes as you fancy, from an almost daily changing menu – although expect certain favourites to be kept in circulation. On Mondays, however, an affordable Prix Fixe menu of four courses for £30 (with optional add-ons) will be available. The wine list is predominantly South African in origin.
To learn more about The Rabbit head here.