The Asquith will close on 1 September, before being re-opened as Purnell’s Bistro on 5 September. The new-look venue will offer ‘honest portions of food’ featuring simplistic, classic dishes with an eclectic twist.
A new restaurant team will also be put in place at Purnell’s Bistro, replacing manager Julie Tonsgaard and head chef Jason Eaves, who opened the Asquith with Purnell almost two years ago.
Purnell, who is also a mentor on BBC's Great British Menu, said: “After such positive feedback on the food served at The Asquith, now is the time to embrace a new challenge under the Purnell’s brand and after identifying a gap in the market and from listening to my customers, Purnell’s Bistro is to open in Birmingham.”
“I want the new bistro to encompass much more than just my name. I am an extremely hands-on chef and I will continue to support the new team at the bistro, whilst cooking my fine dining menu at Purnell’s Restaurant on a daily basis.
'Aspire to greater things'
“I know questions will arise from the closure of The Asquith, especially since relocated from the original address in Edgbaston. The answer is simple, in this life we meet challenges and it is how we face them. I have met this challenge head on and want to aspire to greater things. I want to also stress that Ginger’s Bar will remain at the same venue and will operate alongside the new bistro.
“I opened The Asquith to give a younger management team the opportunity to grow the business and make their mark. For a variety of reasons, people chose different paths in life and I wish the original duo only the best in what they do, one heading off to travel the world and the other to start a family.”
Rebecca Dowling, acting as restaurant manager at The Asquith since June, will step up to the role of restaurant manager at Purnell's Bistro when it opens, while Michael Dipple will work as head chef.