Sacha Townsend Appointed Head Chef at Birmingham’s 670 Grams

Birmingham’s forward-thinking restaurant 670 Grams has announced the appointment of Sacha Townsend as its new head chef. Sacha, who has played an integral role at the restaurant since its inception, will officially take up the position at the end of April, stepping into the role previously held by founder Kray Treadwell, who becomes executive chef.

Credit: Zamaniego Studio

Sacha brings a wealth of experience from some of the UK’s most innovative kitchens. She cut her teeth at Leeds' The Man Behind The Curtain and went on to work at The Rabbit in the Moon in Manchester. After the birth of her daughter in 2019, Sacha relocated to Birmingham, where she became sous chef at 670 Grams just as the restaurant opened its doors in early 2020.

Reflecting on her appointment, Sacha said:“I’m excited to be taking on my new role at 670 Grams, and I’m looking forward to continuing to build on what we’re about – showcasing the vibrant flavours of the city. We’re inspired by the cultural richness of Birmingham, and our aim is to deliver globally influenced menus using the highest quality ingredients.

“But alongside that, I’m passionate about encouraging young people, especially women, to consider careers in the kitchen. We’re creating opportunities through stagiaires and apprenticeships, which I believe are essential for developing the all-round skills needed in a modern, creative kitchen.”

Kray Treadwell, who will continue to work closely with Sacha on a daily basis, added:“Sacha is a real talent. From the day I first met her at The Man Behind The Curtain, I knew she had something special. I’m thrilled she’s stepping into the head chef role, and I’m excited to keep working together to strengthen our links with local producers and push the boundaries of what we serve at 670 Grams.”

Sacha’s path to this role has been shaped by a wide range of influences. Between 2015 and 2019, she worked across all sections at The Man Behind The Curtain, with stints in kitchens across Finland and Spain, as well as acclaimed UK restaurants such as The Star Inn at Harome and Midsummer House. In 2017, she was appointed sous chef at The Rabbit in the Moon before returning to Leeds in 2018 to work again with Kray. Following the birth of her daughter, she made the move to Birmingham, immersing herself in the city’s food scene through a series of pop-ups ahead of 670 Grams’ opening.

Already making her mark, Sacha recently launched a new menu that includes standout dishes such as cured cod loin cooked in beef fat, served with Goma Dare sauce, roasted cauliflower, BBQ bone oil, pickled herb stalks and a crispy steamed bun.

Credit: Zamaniego Studio

670 Grams offers three tasting experiences. The Signature Tasting Menu is available for dinner Wednesday to Saturday, and on the last Sunday of each month. The Lunch Tasting Menu is served Thursday to Saturday. For those looking for a shorter experience, the 5/50 Menu offers a pared-back five-course option on selected lunch and dinner services.

The restaurant draws inspiration from across Birmingham, with dishes that reflect its distinctive neighbourhoods – from Digbeth and Bournville to Chinatown and the Balti Triangle. Through food, 670 Grams explores the city’s industrial roots, multicultural identity and creative spirit.

To find out more about dining at 670 Grams, view menus or make a reservation, visit 670grams.com.