Japanese restaurant opens Birmingham site bringing jobs to the city

Maneki Ramen, a Japanese restaurant originally launched in Worcester, has opened a new site in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, bringing 20 new jobs to the city.

Part of the ART Hospitality group, Maneki has been serving Japanese cuisine since 2020 and was named Japanese Restaurant of the Year 2023 at the Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards.

The new 2,000 sq ft restaurant features 70 indoor covers, a 30-seat garden, and offers takeaway and delivery.

An expansion into the lower level is also being explored, with options including private dining or a market-style concept.

Popular menu items include Tebasaki Wings with ginger and furikake, Roast Duck Ramen, and Katsu Curry, alongside dishes created especially for the Birmingham launch.

The drinks list includes Japanese spirits like Suntory Haku Vodka, natural wines, and cocktails such as the signature ‘East & West’, made with gin, yuzu, hibiscus, lime, and orange.

Head chef Pete Dovaston, who has worked in Tokyo, New York, and China, leads the Birmingham kitchen.

He said: “We’re thrilled to finally be opening the doors to our first Birmingham site. We’ve poured a lot of love into the space, it’s got a real warmth to it, with details that reflect both traditional Japanese design and modern city energy. I’ve always been passionate about crafting dishes that are bold, balanced and full of heart, and I can’t wait for guests in Birmingham to experience that for themselves. See you soon.”