Food
Liverpool’s dining out scene has stepped up a gear with thanks to top notch restaurants like the Hope Street Hotel’s London Carriage Works and 60 Hope Street. The good news for the budget conscious is that this high standard seems to have filtered through to all levels.
Two good choices for snacks and breakfasts are Kimos and Quick Chef. The Italian Club has the best coffee. For a tasty dinner, there’s Deli Fonseca on Stanley Street and on Falkner Street, the Quarter (sister restaurant to 60 Hope Street) does lovely stonebaked pizzas. For wholesome veggie options try The Egg Café on Newington
and The Green Fish on Lark Lane, where Stan the Harper often plays.
Drink
Most locals will steer clear of Cavern Club and Matthew Street in general as it gets a bit rough at night. You’ll find swanky, wag-friendly bars and clubs round Concert Square and Albert Dock but if you’re after something a little more chilled try Hardman Street. Magnet has comfy booths and good food; newly renovated Hannah’s Bar offers a great view of the city and The Fly in the Loaf is the place for ale.
For alternative late-night venues try indie club Le Bateau on Duke Street (the inspiration for The Wombats’ Lets Dance to Joy Division); La’Gos and Heebie Jeebies, both popular, Northern Soul bars on Seel Street. Also on this street is The Mulborough where aging musicians play Swing Jazz on Wednesdays.
Liverpool has its fair share of stylish bars, but if you like a bit of character with your ale then there are some fantastic pubs to choose from. Try the Philharmonic (or Phil as it’s known), an ornate Victorian pub opposite the Philharmonic Hall, and a favourite of John Lennon; Ye Cracke, on Rice street for a Wobbly Bob and Peter Kavanaghs on Egerton street where several bicycles hang from the ceiling.
