First look at the new African restaurant Empress that has opened in a historic south Birmingham hotel
A historic hotel in south Birmingham is being reborn as a Nigerian fine dining restaurant called Empress and we went along to take a look and try out the food
It’s a landmark site in south Birmingham which has lain empty for a decade.
The Dogpool Hotel was first opened in the 1920s on the Pershore Road, just outside the up-and-coming, community minded and bustling independent business hotspot of Stirchley.
It’s mainly been The Dogpool, but was also an Irish pub called The Hibernian at one stage - and now it’s begun a new era once more, as a Nigerian fine dining restaurant called Empress.
With promises of bringing a taste of regal Africa to the heart of Birmingham, Empress had a lot to live up to as we visited on a cold winter night - days ahead of the official opening to the public on Saturday, November 22.
The venue blends Birmingham’s industrious spirit with the rich flavours and warmth of Nigerian hospitality.
Beautiful murals of African art emblazon the walls, there’s an eye-catching floral design on the roof and around one of the tables and thoughtful designs and ornamentation throughout the dining area and bar.
Former Dogpool regulars would struggle to recognise the place inside, it has to be said - white the exterior has retained its original heritage design.
There’s also an African-Caribbean food and drinks mini mart and off-licence called Samis express outside and fast food truck. It’s a must visit for African food fans.
The restaurant, grocery store and fast food truck are all run by husband and wife team Olusegun Akande and Oyetola Isola whose passion and dedication is evident across the offering.
Authentic Nigerian cuisine deeply rooted in tradition is served with love and an elegant, contemporary touch.
Signature dishes include Smokey Jollof Rice, Deluxe Fried Rice, Abula, Assorted Meat Peppersoup, Empress Coconut Rice, VIP Seafood Okro Soup and Lamb Chops.
Dishes are paired with craft cocktails inspired by African ingredients and palm-wine blends.
