Credit: Regina’s
After somewhere with just the right amount of opulence and grandeur? Look no further than Regina’s. Birmingham’s newest Mediterranean eatery only opened on Newhall Street in March and was instantly celebrated for its “regal dining experience.” Now it’s a finalist among the world’s best food and beverage hotspots.
The Restaurant & Bar Design Awards has spent the last 17 years celebrating “the world’s most creative spaces”—from ultra-luxe fine dining to casual hangouts. This year, Regina’s finds itself shortlisted in Europe’s ‘Standalone’ category for a food and beverage space that’s not part of a chain.
Credit: Regina’s
All entries to The Restaurant & Bar Design Awards are automatically considered for the ‘Best Restaurant or Bar’ awards for their region, as well as for the ultimate global awards of Best Overall Restaurant and Best Overall Bar. The Restaurant & Bar Design Awards will take place on October 27, 2025. To learn more about the awards, head here.
What makes Regina’s so beautiful?
Designed by Tibbatts Abel, Regina’s (formerly Purnell’s Bistro and Ginger’s Bar) was completely stripped back to the shell to transform it into a royal dining destination. The aim was to create a “bold statement and rival the dining scene of the already established venues on the neighbouring Colemore Row.”
Credit: Regina’s
So that Regina’s more than lives up to its name, everything from ambient mood lighting to brass detailing, Crittal-style glazing and rich upholstery was used to “resemble an exclusive and luxurious experience.” There’s also a 3.5m-wide 3D flower sculpture, created by renowned artist David Begbie, adorning the bar that you won’t find anywhere else.
Meanwhile, layered ripples in the carved 3D ceiling and bespoke painted murals throughout reflect the Mediterranean cuisine on offer. It’s not why Regina’s is up for an award this time, but its authentic Mediterranean menu—offering everything from tapas, such as arancini, croquettes, and kofta, to freshly-made pasta—is just as important to its success.
“At Regina’s, we believe exceptional dining starts with the finest ingredients,” Jimmy Devollaj, co-director, said upon opening. “Every dish is crafted with precision, from our freshly made pasta to our expertly grilled prime cuts. We’re committed to delivering an unparalleled, high-end experience that blends Mediterranean warmth with sophisticated flavours.”
Dining and Cooking