Fumo by San Carlo - Birmingham Selfridges is a italian restaurant in Digbeth, Birmingham. Rated 4.2 stars from 763 Google reviews. Known for staff who actually know what they're doing and food that arrives hot, fresh, and properly cooked. Best for date night and special occasions. Ranked #7 of 11 in Digbeth. Price range: €€€.
Rankings updated April 2026
Fumo by San Carlo - Birmingham Selfridges
Zone Ranking
Ranked weekly from live Google review data
in Digbeth
↓ Down 1 this week
Quick Verdict
If you want Italian food in Birmingham that doesn't cut corners on service or ingredients, and you're willing to pay Selfridges prices for it, you'll come back. Reviewers do, repeatedly.
You're planning a special occasion, a regular lunch with friends, or a date night where the service matters as much as the food.
About Fumo by San Carlo - Birmingham Selfridges
Fumo by San Carlo sits on Floor 4 of Selfridges in Digbeth, which means you're paying for the location and the polish. It's a proper Italian restaurant with a bar, cocktails that reviewers specifically praise, and a menu built around small plates and mains. The space reads upmarket but not stuffy — reviewers mention a welcoming atmosphere and staff who explain the concept clearly. Food arrives hot and fresh, portions are considered, and the wine list is substantial enough that people mention it by name. You're not here for a quick bite, though they do takeaway. You're here because the service is attentive without fussing, the lamb apparently converts non-lamb eaters, and the desserts are good enough that someone specifically called them out as a reason to return. Lunch is popular with regulars (one reviewer eats here monthly with friends), but dinner is where the room shines — it's full by 8pm on weekends, and they recommend booking. The crowd skews groups, couples, and solo diners who don't mind paying for competence.
What Stands Out
Staff who actually know what they're doing
Multiple reviewers name individual staff members (Jessica, Danilo, Riki, Aldo, Sabuj) and describe them as exceptional, friendly, and attentive. One reviewer notes the concept was 'really well explained' and another calls the service 'over and above.' Solo diners specifically praised for being made to feel at home.
Food that arrives hot, fresh, and properly cooked
Reviewers consistently describe food as 'brilliant,' 'outstanding,' and 'tasted fresh and still hot.' Specific mention of lamb converting a non-lamb eater. Desserts called out repeatedly as a reason to return.
Cocktails and wine that justify the price
Google attributes highlight 'Great cocktails' and 'Great wine list.' One reviewer specifically names the bar manager Aldo as making 'the best drinks in town.' Another reviewer notes the price is 'not very expensive for the area and the level of service.'
What Customers Say
The staff and food was great definitely will be coming back again.
The experience was very good, the staff were very polite, the food came out quickly, tasted fresh and still hot.
Upon arrival I was greeted by a welcoming atmosphere, the food is always brilliant and the staff are extremely attentive!
Real quotes from Google Reviews
Practical Information
Contact
Floor 4, Selfridges, Upper Mall East, Upper Dean St, Birmingham B5 4BP, United Kingdom
+44 121 600 6869Visit WebsiteView MenuFrequently Asked Questions about Fumo by San Carlo - Birmingham Selfridges
Yes. Dinner reservations are recommended, and the venue accepts them — full by 8pm on weekends. No online booking available, so call ahead or book in person.
Small plates and mains, Italian, cooked properly. Reviewers specifically praise the lamb, and desserts are worth ordering. Food arrives hot and fresh, and staff explain the menu clearly without being pushy.
Upmarket but welcoming. Reviewers describe it as cosy and romantic, good for groups or solo diners. Located in Selfridges, so it's polished without being cold. Full by 8pm on weekends.
Yes. Multiple reviewers mention spending special occasions here and describe the service as attentive and the experience as memorable. Staff go out of their way to make you feel looked after.
The bar manager Aldo is specifically praised for making 'the best drinks in town.' Cocktails and wine list are both highlighted as strengths. Worth ordering a cocktail before food.
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