Sitting by the window of the soon-to-open Blacklock Chophouse on Cathedral Square, I was treated to one of Birmingham’s most striking views while waiting to chat with restaurant owner Gordon Ker. For years, only the former vicar who once lived in this building had the privilege of enjoying this ground-floor panorama of St Philip’s Place.
When Blacklock officially opens on Monday, April 20, it will serve generous sharing platters, Sunday roasts, and “say when” pudding portions in a space carefully designed to evoke old-world charm. The Victorian vicarage, with wood panelling salvaged from a museum and décor that echoes the building’s storied past, feels less like a new restaurant and more like a treasured heritage pub. Although freshly painted, the venue looks as if it has always belonged.
As staff moved swiftly learning their new surroundings, Gordon settled into a leather bench and explained the journey. “We searched for a Birmingham restaurant site for a long time, even before Covid,” he said. “We take great care to find the right space.”
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This will be Blacklock’s seventh restaurant, joining five spots in London and one in Manchester. Each venue is unique—a former brothel, a merchant’s warehouse, and a meat market—chosen for its heritage and character. “We don’t want a glass box,” Gordon said. “We want places with history and stories we can bring to life.”
The vicarage, nestled near The Old Joint Stock and overlooking Pigeon Park and this summer’s big wheel, was a perfect fit. “Birmingham has many historic buildings, but finding a suitable restaurant space is very challenging,” Gordon noted. “The landlord called me to say it was available—detached, not in a row of venues, perfect for a destination restaurant. The building’s story sealed the deal; there’s even said to be a tunnel linking it to the cathedral, traveled by candlelight.”
The building’s transformation was no small feat. Originally derelict and never before a restaurant, the space required a complete refit. The opening, originally planned for last autumn, was delayed by unforeseen complications. A thick wall once dividing the front room from the rest of the house had to be removed—a more complex task than anticipated.
“We always design each restaurant to reflect the building’s history and environment,” said Gordon. “While every Blacklock feels like one of us, each is unique.”
The team worked closely with Birmingham’s Heritage Department to ensure that the restoration respected the venue’s significance. Gordon praised the city’s support and the fantastic new staff who embody Blacklock’s warm hospitality.
True to their reputation, Blacklock promises hearty portions and a welcoming, family vibe. “Our food is about sharing,” said Gordon. “It’s like home cooking — plates in the centre of the table for everyone to enjoy. We also offer vegetarian options, and the ‘say when’ puddings are a real treat.”
Before leaving, it was clear Blacklock had accomplished its mission: instead of imposing a London style on Birmingham, they have embraced the city’s rich heritage and breathed new life into a forgotten Victorian gem.
“This is a Victorian heritage building,” Gordon reflected. “We leaned into that.”
Stepping back onto Pigeon Park, I looked up at the cathedral’s stained glass windows facing this newly revived, beautifully historic spot. Amen to that, Gordon.