Best places to eat and drink in Liverpool
Liverpool has always been cool – it even rhymes with cool. But now things are heating up up north – and we just don’t mean the weather. Over the last few years there has been a bubbling foodie scene in Liverpool which has finally exploded and our taste buds couldn’t be happier. If you need inspiration for easy day trips in the UK, this should wet your appetite. Eat, drink, shop, snack, rest and even get a spot of exercise (of the taste buds) in luscious Liverpool.
EAT: Maray
Maray is loosely inspired by the Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean food with a fantastic selection of small sharing plates and a brilliantly innovative cocktail menu. You can’t leave with out trying the famous falafels, crispy kale and the addictive Marais fries whilst sipping a delicious ‘The Last Word’ cocktail (Gin, Green Chartreuse, Maraschino and Lime). If around don’t miss out on their tasty weekend specials.
Maray, 91 Bold Street, Liverpool L1 4HF (0151 709 5820)
DRINK: Berry and Rye
This speakeasy has no sign and is hidden behind a blacked-out shop. Knock on the door before entering through a heavy velvet curtain into the small eccentric bar and don’t be surprised to find it bursting with people and someone playing tunes at the vintage piano. This hidden gem specialises in classic cocktails which are detailed in the heart of large red dictionaries – but don’t be afraid to ask the talented barmen fro recommendations. With vintage records on the stereo this table service bar is definitely the place to relax and order a perfectly made Old fashioned.
(It’s so secret there’s no website… but knock on 48 Berry Street, Liverpool, Merseyside L1 4JQ, United Kingdom and someone might let you in)
SHOP: Lunya
This multi-award winning Catalan deli is definitely worth a visit. Filled with Catalan and Spanish food from across the UK and beyond. The shop is filled with ready made snacks and also interesting ingredients for the the most adventurous and obsessed foodie. Choose from Morcilla, speciality hams and even a whole suckling pig for a special occasion. If you have time, grab a bite to eat in the restaurant – the Pluma Iberica and Iberico Bellota Sobrasada are definitely worth a try.
Lunya, Liverpool One, 18-20 College Lane, Liverpool, Merseyside L1 3DS, United Kingdom
+44 151 706 9770
EXERCISE (kind of): Belvedere Arms
This Grade two listed building in Liverpool’s Georgian Quarter serves local craft ales with four hand pulls and regularly features the best of local microbrewers.This tiny old fashioned pub also claims to have a “GinNasium”. A shelf full of the finest gins from around the world. If you visit make sure you try an Organic Liverpool Gin and tonic (when in Rome and all that!) which is being produced by Belvedere pub landlord John O’Dowd in a joint venture with Liverpool Organic Brewery. Perfect for a warm weather refreshment, this is a tonic with a twist filled with fresh mint, orange and juniper berries. If feeling peckish try some Liverpool Nuts or a hand raised pork pie.
Belvedere Arms, 5 Sugnall Street, Liverpool, Merseyside L7 7EB, United Kingdom
+44 151 709 0303
REST STOP: The Philharmonic Dining Rooms
One of the most lavish and ornate pubs in the country, this Grade II listed building is most well known for the high quality of the gentleman’s toilets which are covered in ornate tiles and mosaics. Men can have a regal wee in urinals constructed in roseate marble. However, if you just fancy a drink the bar stocks a great range of real ales wines and spirits which can be enjoyed in one of the small rooms off the bar. Great for groups.
Philharmonic Dining Rooms, 36 Hope Street, Liverpool, Merseyside L1 9BX, United Kingdom
+44 151 707 2837
