A Taste of Italy in Birmingham: Riva Blu Delights the Senses

If you’re looking for a top-notch dining experience in Birmingham, Riva Blu is the place to be. Situated on the corner of Temple Row, this restaurant offers a taste of the Amalfi Coast that will leave you speechless. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with warm hospitality and a vibrant atmosphere that sets the stage for an unforgettable evening.

My partner and I, both vegetarians with specific allergies, were delighted by the attentive service and the wide array of menu options. Francesco, our charming host, made sure we felt like royalty throughout the evening, recommending exquisite dishes and ensuring that my partner’s dietary restrictions were well taken care of.

The cocktails at Riva Blu are a must-try. I opted for the Don’t Call Me French, a delightful blend of Absolut Vanilia vodka, nectarine apéritif, blackberry liqueur, pineapple, and lemon, while my partner enjoyed the perfect Old Fashioned. We couldn’t resist ordering more of these delightful concoctions throughout the night.

The Scarpetta, a sweet tomato and garlic sauce served with freshly baked bread, was a delightful start to our culinary journey. The volcanic soil-grown San Marzano tomatoes added a unique depth of flavour that left us craving for more.

For our mains, my partner savoured the Paccheri Ortolana, a mushroom and vegetable ragu with tomato and flat leaf parsley, while I indulged in the Fiorentina pizza. The rich, aromatic flavours of the pasta and the fluffy dough of the pizza were truly exceptional.

To complement our meal, we chose baby garlic spinach and truffle fries with pecorino cheese. While the garlic spinach had a spicy kick that wasn’t to my liking, the truffle fries were a heavenly delight that I could have indulged in all night.

Despite feeling full, we couldn’t resist the Neapolitan desserts recommended by Francesco. The Baba Napoletano, a rum-soaked sponge cake with Chantilly cream, and the Zeppola, a choux bun filled with vanilla cream and amarena cherries, were simply divine.

With impeccable service and divine food, Riva Blu has secured its place as our favourite restaurant in Birmingham. The experience was nothing short of exceptional, and we can’t wait to return for another unforgettable dining experience.