I've been eating here, on and off, for decades, during which many other restaurants, some superb, have ascended spectacular heights only to eventually fade and disappear. Yet, San Carlo Birmingham persists. This got me thinking. How? I believe the answer is consistency. Yes, there are alternatives, with hot chefs creating amazing dishes, but they soon burn out. Or, if they continue their prices, along with their available tables become inaccessible. Yet San Carlo is still here. Reasonably priced well prepared food in a great atmosphere, and usually a table can be found if you walk up. Clearly they have a loyal following, this place seems to thrive, not only in the busy hours, but also during the quiet times of late afternoon and early evening. Underpinning everything here is the first class service, delivered by a cohort of professional and friendly staff. 'I'll be back' and may the years smile with favour on this venerable eatery.

***Review 1*** So I'm giving San Carlo a 3 out of 5 rating, which I feel is very reasonable. Let's start with the positive! The food was actually DELICIOUS!!!! The steak and oysters were to die for! The reason I'm only giving 3 stars is for the service. Now, let me say that the staff were very apologetic but it still ruined the experience slightly. Our reservation was for 7.30pm, we arrived on time as we were already in the area. The table wasn't ready so we were asked to wait at the bar. At 8.05pm we were still waiting for our table. At around 8.15pm we were seated and our order was taken. At 8.45pm we still hadn't even had any drinks. I know this seems a little harsh, but 3 out of my 4 plates were cold/raw and didn't even require cooking. There was no option to remove the service which I didn't feel was deserved. Was the food worth it, ABSOLUTELY! ***Review 2*** After having a horrendous experience at The Oyster Club we decided to walk over the road to San Carlo. I have to say against all odds, we were able to be seated immediately. The food was served waaaaay quicker this time and the restaurant itself seem to be running a lot smoother!!! Again, the food was very nice quality. The Chablis wine is delicious!!!! They've definitely redeemed themselves, which has made me edit and improve my Review. Thank you for saving my birthday meal!!!!

we had pre booked our table of six for the afternoon- we arrived to a wonderful air conditioned room... which we appreciated as it was quite muggy outside The staff were curtious and helpful. And we were quickly seated at our table - drinks service was quick. The Menu offered a good selection. Again Service was good and polite. Food arrived quickly, hot and well presented. By the time we left it was very busy. Would definitely recommend

Absolutely beautiful and amazing service. Worth every penny and will definitely be back soon !

I've always believed that having great food alone doesn't make a restaurant exceptional. What truly sets a place apart is the combination of perfect cuisine, outstanding customer service, and a kind soul at the helm. Gea, the manager at San Carlo, embodies all of these qualities. Her dedication to ensuring a flawless dining experience, coupled with her warm and welcoming nature, makes every visit to San Carlo a delight. It’s this rare blend of excellence that turns a good restaurant into an extraordinary one. Thank you, Gea, for making every meal memorable.