2015 was a great year for food & drink PR, showcasing everything from Pot Noodle and Marmite Easter eggs (what do you mean, you didn't try one?!), to limited-edition Pringles scented candles and a Carlsberg-dispensing Christmas tree.
Single campaigns aside, one of the biggest PR coups of 2015 was arguably scored by the manpower behind Birmingham's rapid rise to top dog – a transformation which saw major redevelopment at the Mailbox and Grand Central and a whole heap of restaurants open up in the UK's 'second city'.
With all things considered, it's not surprising that Brum was named as the top city in Western Europe to invest in – and things aren't about to 'paws' anytime soon.
The popular Italian mini-chain already has 12 sites and is set to open its 13th in Birmingham very soon. Gusto prides itself on delivering 'everyday decadence' in 'timeless, classic surroundings', which explains why you'll find the new restaurant housed in one of Birmingham's beautiful listed buildings, 'The Grand'.
Previously known as 'Butcher's Social', the original brainchild of local chefs Jamie Desogus and Mike Bullard is set to open very soon. But panic not! The Butcher's Social pop up restaurant was such a resounding success that they're already scouting out new locations.
The Soul Food Project already has an independent foot firmly in the door with the Church Inn and Peel & Stone bakery – and they're set to expand even further with this new venture in Harborne. We predict more great things to come.
One for the meat lovers, this Buenos Aires inspired restaurant will be serving up a selection of the finest steaks and ribs (although the vegetarian options look pretty tempting too!) Find it housed at 3 Brindley Place, as part of the new development.
The Five ways area is due a revamp and it looks like the £50 million renovation at Park Regis Hotel will be taking the lead. The new build will boast the largest outdoor space of any hotel in Brum and serve up an exciting al a carte menu alongside an impressive cocktail selection.
With established sites in London and Cardiff, it was only a matter of time before this vibrant cocktail bar made its way to the bright lights of Birmingham. The new bar will be located in Piccadilly Arcade, just off New Street.