Famous five on the menu

Jun 6 2007 By Poppy Brady, Birmingham Mail

AN impressive line-up of celebrity chefs will take to the stage to make sure Taste of Birmingham, the four-day summer al fresco festival, gets off to a delicious start.

Renowned master of the kitchen Antony Worrall Thompson will open the afternoon session at Cannon Hill Park, Edgbaston on Friday, July 6.

He will be followed by Aldo Zilli and Channel Four's Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall from River Cottage. The evening session will star Brian Turner and Jean Christophe.

And some of Birmingham's 20 participating restaurant's chefs will also be adding their own piquancy to the event.

Those taking part include Luke Tipping from Michelin-starred Simpsons, Stephen Woods from Bank, David Colcombe from Opus as well as chefs from Thai Edge, Fillini, Lasan and Deolali.

Taste of Birmingham has further delights to offer with wine tasting at The Wine Experience, sampling beers at the Speciality Beer Masterclass, enjoying summer drinks at the Citi Cafe, while indulging in Opus restaurant's delicious pastries.

Relaxing music and free pampering experiences are also planned while visitors put their senses to the test in the Lavazza Aroma Zone. There will also be a chance to buy local produce.

Jools Holland's The Jam House will be providing smooth tunes and entertainment throughout, alongside acts from the Birmingham Jazz Festival, including saxophonist Herb Geller.

Other confirmed restaurants so far include Al Faisals, Aria at the Hyatt, Brasserie Blanc, Cielo, Hotel du Vin, Jonathans, Lasan, Liaison, Malmaison, The Oriental, San Carlo, Turner's Grill and Wongs.

Tickets are limited. For details of how to book, see the panel below.

The second Taste of Birmingham food festival is presented by Channel 4, supported by the Birmingham Post and Mail.

It takes place at Cannon Hill Park from July 5-8. Tickets start at £12. For information ring 0870 060 3785.

Alternatively, visit the website www.channel4.com/tastefestivals or send an e-mail to tastefestivals@brand events.co.uk