Isaacs

1 Reviews on “Isaacs”

• Dine Birmingham

  Situated in the centre of Birmingham, Isaacs is named fondly after the proprietor Ifrans youngest son, which sets the scene for an establishment based on pride and care. After hearing a lot about Isaacs, I wanted to find out what makes it any different to the many up-and-coming eateries in Birmingham.AtmosphereThe high ceilings, neat aesthetics and cool colours are the perfect backdrop for the bold and prominent bar, well-stocked with beverages, including locally-sourced choices too. The glistening lights in this area contrast with the seating area, which is more intimate and sombre, showcasing the venues versatility.Set across two levels (upstairs for private functions), Isaacs, I hear, is a favourite with local celebrities as well as new visitors to the city. Isaacs definitely has its own character. The special feel and fine furnishings are perfect for a lovely date or a business meeting.FoodI started the meal with a mini platter consisting of malai murg kebabs, tandoori fish, jingha prawns and raita (yogurt, cucumber, cumin). The freshness was apparent, and the dish was beautifully presented, with each part delicately seasoned and flavoursome. For mains, I opted for a signature dish of Lime and Ginger Sea Bass served with spinach, fried onion and tomato gravy. The fish was light and tasty, and was seasoned with a fusion of aromatic and gentle spices.The dessert menu is an amalgamation of British and South Asian, boasting options like Cheesecake and Chocolate Brownies alongside Gulab Jaman (sweetened balls of syrup-based semolina) and Gajar Halwa (Indian carrot cake)The menu offers the authenticity of typical South Asian cuisine in a delicate palatable manner, which so many places cannot get right. The blend of richer dishes such as Paneer (cheese-based curry dish), Keema (spiced lamb mince) with light sauteed bases and side salads illustrated to me that Isaacs balances concepts very well. The variety of Asian cuisine – Pakistani, South Indian and Punjabi dishes – differentiates Isaacs as they do each of these justice.DrinksLike the food, the drinks menu is stylish, offering everything from colourful cocktails like the Bombay Bramble (Bombay Sapphire, fresh lemon juice, sugar syrup topped with Crme de Mure) to luxury staples like cognac and champagne. Its also refreshing to see interesting non-alcoholic options containing fusions of ginger, peach, lychee and fresh lime.PricingMini Platter (Malai Murgh Kebab, Tandoori Fish, Jingha Prawns, Raita) = 10.95Lime and Ginger Sea Bass = 14.95Bollywood cocktails = 5.95 eachThere is a 12.5% discretionary service charge added to the bill, something I think all diners should note and perhaps has become something to be expected of city centre high-end eateries. Debatable, perhaps?Total (meal for one) = 35.83 (including service charge)OverallPersonally, I think I have found a new favourite place to eat. The proprietors vision is clear and well-executed. Isaacs is contemporary, welcoming, well-presented and offers an intricate selection of food and drink. This relatively new eatery might currently be Colmore Business Districts underdog, but I believe has a very bright future ahead. dinebirmingham.co.uk

  September 4, 2014, 4:38 pm

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