Asha's, Birmingham Review

In a city celebrated for its rich and diverse Indian food scene, it takes something truly exceptional to stand out. Birmingham is blessed with an abundance of outstanding Indian restaurants, each offering its own interpretation of classic and contemporary dishes. Yet, after dining at many of them over the years, I can confidently say that Asha’s, located in the very heart of the city, offers something quite special. This is not simply another excellent Indian restaurant. It is an experience that effortlessly combines exquisite cuisine, refined surroundings and impeccable service to create a truly memorable evening.

Having visited Asha’s several times, I can honestly say we have yet to be disappointed. Consistency at this level is rare. From the moment you step through the doors, you are welcomed warmly by staff who strike the perfect balance between professionalism and genuine hospitality. There is an immediate sense that you are somewhere special. The interiors are elegant and thoughtfully designed, blending contemporary luxury with subtle nods to Indian heritage. Soft lighting, plush seating and beautifully detailed finishes create an atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and inviting.

Asha’s also offers private dining rooms, ideal for celebrations or more intimate gatherings. These spaces enhance the overall experience, adding a sense of exclusivity without ever feeling pretentious. When you combine the welcoming staff, the carefully curated interiors and the buzz of a well-loved restaurant, it creates the perfect recipe for what is a highly recommended evening of fine Indian cuisine.

One charming feature that never fails to spark conversation is the wall of celebrity photographs. Asha’s has welcomed an impressive list of well-known visitors, including the likes of Ed Sheeran and Tom Cruise, both frequent guests when in the city. It is a testament to the restaurant’s reputation that global stars choose to dine here, yet despite this, the atmosphere remains relaxed and accessible.

"Asha’s is more than a restaurant. It is a celebration of fine Indian cuisine in a setting that feels both glamorous and welcoming."

As we browsed the menu and soaked in our surroundings, we decided to begin the evening with a fine bottle of Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé Brut. Its delicate pink hue and lively bubbles felt like the perfect accompaniment to the occasion. The champagne delivered bright red berry notes with a crisp, refreshing finish, cleansing the palate beautifully and setting the tone for the courses to follow.

After much debate, I opted for the Kerala Chilli Garlic Prawns to start. These char-grilled Kerala tiger prawns arrived beautifully presented, their vibrant colour hinting at the bold flavours to come. The prawns were plump, succulent and perfectly cooked, with a gentle char that added a subtle smokiness. The combination of garlic and chilli was confident yet balanced, delivering warmth without overpowering the natural sweetness of the seafood. Each bite was layered with flavour, the spices enhancing rather than masking the quality of the prawns.

My partner chose the Salmon Tikka, a fillet coated in a piquant marinade of curry leaves and coconut milk before being char-grilled in the tandoor. The result was exceptional. The salmon was tender and flaky, infused with a fragrant blend of spices that complemented its richness. The coconut milk lent a delicate creaminess, while the curry leaves added a distinctive aromatic note. The light charring from the tandoor gave the dish depth and complexity, making it both comforting and refined.

For the main event, we selected the Butter Chicken, a classic chicken tikka cooked in a rich, creamy tomato gravy with dry fenugreek leaves. Apparently a firm favourite of Ed Sheeran, it is easy to understand why this dish has earned such acclaim. The sauce was luxuriously smooth, with a harmonious balance of sweetness, gentle spice and buttery richness. The chicken itself was tender and flavourful, having absorbed the spices beautifully. The addition of fenugreek leaves provided a subtle, slightly earthy note that elevated the dish beyond the ordinary. It was indulgent without being heavy, a true masterclass in a beloved classic.

Alongside this, I chose the Palak Paneer. This comforting dish of cottage cheese in a fresh spinach gravy was executed with finesse. The spinach was vibrant and silky, its natural earthiness enhanced by delicate seasoning. The paneer was soft yet held its shape, absorbing the flavours of the sauce while maintaining its gentle creaminess. Together, it was a dish that felt both wholesome and deeply satisfying.

We completed our choices with steamed rice, simple yet essential. Light and fluffy, it provided the perfect canvas for the rich gravies, allowing every spoonful to be savoured fully.

Even after such a feast, dessert was simply too tempting to resist. I chose the Chocolate Cheesecake, a rich chocolate creation set on a bourbon biscuit base and intriguingly tempered with cumin. The cumin added a subtle warmth that cut through the sweetness, creating a beautifully balanced and surprisingly sophisticated dessert. It was decadent yet nuanced, a fittingly indulgent end to the meal.

My partner opted for the wonderfully authentic Rasmalai. Soft, delicate discs soaked in sweetened milk, infused with gentle hints of cardamom and saffron, it was light, fragrant and utterly delightful. The milk was creamy and aromatic, enveloping the tender rasmalai and providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the earlier courses.

Asha’s is more than a restaurant. It is a celebration of fine Indian cuisine in a setting that feels both glamorous and welcoming. With its exceptional food, attentive service and elegant surroundings, it consistently delivers an experience that lingers long after the final course. In a city renowned for its Indian dining, Asha’s truly stands out as one of Birmingham’s finest.