The third venue to join the Opus family may have only been around for a short time in its One Snow Hill plot, but it's already made its mark on Birmingham's food and cocktail scene. So this week, I headed there to check out if Bar Opus lived up to the rave reviews.
The Venue
When we arrived we were greeted by the most wonderful, aromatic smells coming from the open kitchen. The modern, stylish decor was perfect in its simplicity, echoing the cosmopolitan charm that the Bar Opus group continue to insist upon. Whilst the venue was dotted with some standout features, like the large black clock on the wall behind the long, shiny bar, a scattering of geometric patterns and floor to ceiling windows that added to venue's clean-cut edge, this only added to its character and completed the look as diners had the chance to adopt bar stools, or low bearing tables.
Slick and simple, Bar Opus lets its atmosphere and top notch grub do the talking.
The Food and Drinks
With an extensive, hand-crafted menu of cocktails on offer, Bar Opus is giving Birmingham's cocktail bars some fresh competition. My Vanilla and Rhubarb Metropolitan blew me away - deliciously fruity and sweet, and one of the best cocktails I've had in a long time! Head there between 5 and 7pm to make the most of their £5 cocktail offer which is available on a small selection from the menu (including my favourite above).
To eat we chose from a selection of tempting bar plates, which were perfect to share over a few cocktails or to enjoy as a starter. Top tip - go for the delicious Brixham Salt and Pepper Crispy Squid at just £6, it's a seafood faring must and keeps crisp throughout dining. I'd then suggest moving onto one of their larger plates, with the likes of Crab Linguine and Slow Braised Pork Cheeks showcasing the level of high quality, delicious food coming out of the kitchen.
The Brixham crispy squid is a solid addition the small plates menu at Bar Opus.
The Atmosphere
The service was professional and slick, with a consistently friendly, attentive nature that only added to how welcome and looked after we felt all evening. It had a great atmosphere too, and we quickly felt relaxed here. While not one of the busiest bars on a Wednesday night, the gentle buzz is something that a lot of city diners hanker for come sundown, and I think that Bar Opus hits that note just right, especially for Birmingham's more mature dining crowd.
A bustle on launch night, Bbar Opus has since adopted a charming and subtle buzz.
Summary
I had an inkling that I'd like Bar Opus, and I'd been right as I loved it there. With a chilled atmosphere and simple, unfussy setting, perfectly executed cocktails and delicious food, it's an all round fantastic venue and a great addition to Birmingham.
