Nestled in the vibrant heart of Birmingham, Six by Nico brings a fresh, innovative concept to the city’s culinary scene. This unique dining experience has quickly captured the attention of food lovers with its ever-changing six-course tasting menu that reinvents itself every six weeks. Each new menu revolves around a creative theme, often telling a story or drawing inspiration from cities, memories, or childhood nostalgia. With high-quality ingredients, inventive flavor combinations, and a carefully curated atmosphere, Six by Nico Birmingham offers fine dining with an approachable and modern twist.
Concept Behind Six by Nico
Six by Nico was founded by Scottish-Italian chef Nico Simeone, and it first opened in Glasgow before expanding to other cities in the UK. The Birmingham location continues the legacy of offering an exciting and dynamic menu structure that evolves regularly. Unlike traditional restaurants where the menu remains static, here it’s all about change and anticipation. Guests can expect a new culinary theme every six weeks, making each visit feel like an entirely new experience.
Rotating Menus with a Story
What sets Six by Nico apart is its dedication to storytelling through food. Each themed menu reflects a different concept from classic British dishes to international journeys or reimagined comfort food. Previous themes have included Once Upon a Time, The Chippie, Childhood, and Bangkok Street Food. These curated themes guide every course, from starters to desserts, providing not just flavor but also a narrative arc that diners can follow.
Dining Experience at Six by Nico Birmingham
Located on Colmore Row, one of Birmingham’s central dining districts, Six by Nico stands out with its contemporary yet welcoming interior. The design combines modern aesthetics with intimate seating and an open kitchen that gives diners a glimpse into the culinary artistry behind each dish.
Atmosphere and Setting
The space is designed for comfort and sophistication, with sleek tables, low lighting, and subtle décor. Whether you’re visiting for a special celebration or a casual evening with friends, the ambiance caters to various occasions. The buzz of conversations, the rhythmic hum of the kitchen, and the attentive service create a polished but relaxed environment.
Service and Presentation
Service at Six by Nico Birmingham is friendly and informative. Staff members introduce each course with a brief explanation of the ingredients and concept, enhancing the dining experience. Attention to detail is evident not only in the flavors but also in the presentation dishes are plated artistically, often resembling mini works of art.
Structure of the Tasting Menu
Each six-course tasting menu is designed to offer a balanced progression of flavors, from lighter, refreshing dishes to richer and more indulgent courses. Guests have the option to add a snack or an aperitif at the beginning, and a wine pairing or vegetarian alternative is usually available.
Common Structure of a Six by Nico Menu
- Course 1: A light and creative opener, often incorporating seasonal vegetables or seafood
- Course 2: A more intricate appetizer with deeper flavors or bold sauces
- Course 3: A fish or poultry-based dish introducing more complexity
- Course 4: A transition plate that prepares the palate for heavier meats or grains
- Course 5: The main course, often featuring red meat or a robust vegetarian option
- Course 6: Dessert, designed to reflect the menu’s theme with surprising textures and sweet elements
This structure allows each dish to shine while building anticipation throughout the meal. Even though the portions are small, they are thoughtfully constructed, and the full menu is usually satisfying by the end.
Value for Money
One of the most praised aspects of Six by Nico Birmingham is its affordability. Fine dining in the UK can often be an expensive endeavor, but this restaurant offers high-end dishes at a more accessible price. The six-course menu typically comes at a fixed cost, which is significantly lower than what one might expect from similar venues offering tasting experiences.
This balance between cost and quality makes Six by Nico a popular choice among students, professionals, and food enthusiasts alike. It opens the door for people to explore new cuisines and fine dining without straining their budget.
Menu Examples
While the menus are constantly changing, it’s helpful to highlight a few examples to give a sense of the culinary creativity involved.
‘The Chippie’ Menu
- Course 1: Mini chip shop croquette with curry emulsion
- Course 2: Scampi with pea puree and brown butter
- Course 3: Pickled mussels with sea herbs
- Course 4: Fish supper-style cod with crispy batter
- Course 5: Beef shin with potato terrine and gravy foam
- Course 6: Deep-fried Mars bar-inspired dessert
‘Once Upon a Time’ Menu
- Course 1: ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ green bean salad with whipped feta
- Course 2: ‘Peter Pan’ croquette with wild mushroom filling
- Course 3: ‘Hansel & Gretel’ duck breast with gingerbread crumb
- Course 4: ‘Cinderella’ roasted pumpkin ravioli
- Course 5: ‘The Wolf and the Lamb’ lamb rump with black garlic
- Course 6: ‘Snow White’ apple mousse with caramel and hazelnut
These menus show how Six by Nico blends imagination with gastronomy, providing more than just food it’s a fully immersive experience.
Booking and Availability
Given the restaurant’s growing popularity, especially in Birmingham’s dynamic food scene, reservations are highly recommended. Each new menu attracts regulars and first-timers alike, so tables tend to fill up quickly once a new theme is announced. Booking is usually done online, and diners can choose from lunch or dinner slots depending on availability.
Why Six by Nico Stands Out
In a city with plenty of fine dining options, Six by Nico Birmingham has carved a niche for itself with its consistency, creativity, and affordability. It appeals to a wide audience from curious foodies and adventurous eaters to couples looking for a special night out. The rotating menus keep the concept fresh, ensuring that repeat visits never feel repetitive.
Highlights of the Experience
- Creative, themed tasting menus that rotate every six weeks
- Affordable pricing for high-end cuisine
- Central Birmingham location with modern, stylish interiors
- Attentive service and detailed explanations of each course
- Option to add wine pairings and extra snacks for a complete meal
Six by Nico Birmingham isn’t just a place to eat it’s a place to experience food in a whole new way. The ever-evolving menu means there’s always something new to discover, whether it’s a memory-themed journey or a globe-trotting culinary adventure. With its focus on creativity, accessibility, and storytelling, Six by Nico is redefining modern dining in Birmingham. For those seeking something more than a traditional dinner out, this restaurant offers a thoughtful, flavorful escape that keeps people coming back for the next chapter in its culinary story.