After a turbulent period for Birmingham's dining scene, 2025 has delivered a spectacular new opening that has captured the hearts and appetites of the city's food lovers. While the past year saw fewer brutal closures than 2024, the arrival of Saint Paul's Market in September has provided a truly exciting highlight.
A Collective of Culinary Talent
What makes this venue in the Jewellery Quarter so special is its foundation. It was created by and features people deeply embedded in Birmingham's independent food scene. This isn't a corporate chain, but a celebration of local flavour, bringing together some of the city's best-loved eateries under one roof at 4 Mary Ann Street, B3 1RL.
Among the standout founders is Sai Deethwa, a former MasterChef contestant renowned for creating what many consider Birmingham's finest massaman curry. Having risen through the city's street food scene with Buddha Belly, her restaurant Soi 1268 in Stirchley has earned a loyal following. Her stall at Saint Paul's Market serves as a perfect extension, offering the same exceptional quality.
The Vendors You Can't Stop Thinking About
The market is a curated collection of culinary excellence. One vendor that inspires particular obsession is Corner Shop, with its utterly decadent, deep-dish Detroit-style pizzas. Baked in individual pans to ensure everyone gets a coveted crispy corner, they are described as perfect in every way.
The line-up doesn't stop there. Guests can explore Persian delights from Edgbaston's Colbeh, indulgent fried chicken and beignets from Stirchley's Chancers, and fluffy bao from city centre legends Tiger Bites Pig. The offering is rounded out with Indian street food from Zindiya of Moseley and sweet treats from Edgbaston's LA-POP.
The Ultimate Casual Brummie Venue
With a mezzanine level overlooking the dining area and a bar under a giant disco ball serving local beers on tap, the venue has a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere. Whether you're dining solo, on a date night, or with a large group, the space feels authentically and brilliantly Brummie.
Patrons can order directly from the vendors or use an online system to have food and drink brought to their table. Its location also provides a perfect reason to explore the surrounding Jewellery Quarter, being just a stone's throw from the picturesque Georgian St Paul's Square.
Looking ahead, Birmingham's food scene shows no sign of slowing down, with a larger street food hall planned for Digbeth next year. While it's hard to imagine anything surpassing the magic of Saint Paul's Market, the future for the city's foodies looks incredibly bright.
