Step into Pushkar, and you’re immediately immersed in a feast for the senses. From lush tropical décor to daring ceiling installations, the restaurant’s new look is as striking as its cuisine. But beyond the visual spectacle, the food remains the true star, combining creativity, authenticity, and impeccable technique in every dish.
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A Birmingham Cornerstone
Pushkar has been a Birmingham fixture for 16 years. Proprietor Rai Singh, a well-known and respected businessman and restaurateur, has always aimed to deliver exceptional Indian fine dining to the city centre. With the rise of Instagrammable dining spaces, décor can often overshadow the food, but at Pushkar, Rai has now masterfully balanced both.
Rai Singh, Founder, Creative Director, and Proprietor of Pushkar Cocktail Bar & Dining in Birmingham.
The previous minimalist interior has been transformed into a maximalist haven: lush tropical palms, bamboo accents, and even white tiger sculptures suspended from the ceiling. The wow factor of the space now perfectly complements the cuisine, satisfying diners seeking not just a meal but a fully immersive experience.
Our meal began with a medley of starters including momos; beautifully steamed dumplings that struck the perfect balance between their delicate wrappers and aromatic, flavourful filling. Light yet satisfying, they made for the ideal start to the evening.
A medley of Pushkar’s starters featuring succulent lamb and chicken chops grilled to perfection, the rich and earthy methi chicken curry, and a decadent finale of crisp chocolate samosas served atop charred banana.
The scallops, served with a smoky sauce that enhanced their natural sweetness, immediately setting a high bar for the courses to come.
The lamb chops were a standout: succulent, tender, and charred just enough to bring out a smoky richness without overpowering the spices. The chicken chops were equally impressive, juicy with a crisp exterior and seasoned with a subtle blend of spices that kept every bite lively and addictive.
Among the curries, the methi chicken curry shone with its deep, earthy fenugreek notes. Paired with rumali roti, the dish demonstrated the kitchen’s skill in balancing complex flavours.
Dessert arrived in the form of chocolate samosas, a playful twist on tradition. Crisp pastry gave way to warm, gooey chocolate, served atop a charred banana, providing a decadent finale..
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Verdict: A Must-Visit Destination
Pushkar’s new menu is both innovative and rooted in tradition, with thoughtful dishes that showcase creativity without compromising authenticity. Coupled with the striking, immersive décor, it’s the kind of dining experience that makes you want to return and try everything all over again, a true gem in Birmingham’s culinary scene.
