If you’re planning a trip to Liverpool, there’s one thing you can’t miss out on – the food! This vibrant city in the northwest of England is home to a diverse culinary scene, with everything from traditional British cuisine to international flavors. Whether you’re a foodie looking to explore new tastes, or a local looking for a new spot to try, Liverpool has something for everyone. With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top 10 must-try restaurants in the city. From fine dining to casual eats, these restaurants are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So, get ready to embark on a culinary journey and discover the best of Liverpool’s dining scene.
Criteria for choosing the top 10 restaurants
When selecting the top 10 restaurants in Liverpool, we considered a range of factors. Firstly, the quality and creativity of the food were paramount. We looked for restaurants that offered something unique, whether it was a twist on a classic dish or a completely new flavor experience. We also considered the atmosphere and ambiance of each restaurant. A great dining experience is not just about the food but also the setting and service. Finally, we took into account the overall value for money. While some of the restaurants on this list may be a bit more expensive than others, we believe that they offer an experience that is worth the price.
#10: The London Carriage Works
Located in the heart of Liverpool’s bustling city center, The London Carriage Works is a stylish and sophisticated restaurant that offers a menu of modern British cuisine. The restaurant’s sleek decor and chic ambiance make it a popular spot for special occasions or a romantic night out. The menu boasts an array of inventive dishes, including the popular pan-fried duck breast with braised red cabbage and blackberry jus. The London Carriage Works also offers an extensive wine list, with over 200 wines from around the world.
#9: Maray
If you’re looking for a taste of the Middle East in Liverpool, Maray is the place to go. This hip and trendy restaurant serves up a menu of small plates that are perfect for sharing. The menu is influenced by the flavors of Lebanon, Israel, and Palestine, and includes dishes such as halloumi fries with pomegranate molasses and za’atar, and falafel with tahini and pickled turnips. Maray also offers a great selection of cocktails and craft beers, making it the perfect spot for a casual night out with friends.
#8: Mowgli Street Food
Mowgli Street Food is a popular Indian street food restaurant that has become a firm favorite among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant’s vibrant and colorful decor is inspired by the bustling streets of India, and the menu offers a range of small plates and curries that are bursting with flavor. The must-try dish at Mowgli is the yoghurt chat bombs – crispy pastry balls filled with spiced yoghurt and tamarind chutney. Mowgli also offers a range of vegan and gluten-free options, making it an inclusive choice for all diners.
#7: The Art School Restaurant
For a fine dining experience in Liverpool, The Art School Restaurant is the place to go. This elegant restaurant is housed in a stunning Victorian building and offers a menu of modern British cuisine with a creative twist. The dishes are beautifully presented, and the flavors are expertly crafted to create a truly memorable dining experience. The Art School also offers an extensive wine list, with over 200 wines from around the world.
#6: Belzan
Belzan is a cozy and intimate restaurant that offers a menu of seasonal British cuisine. The restaurant’s decor is simple and understated, allowing the food to take center stage. The dishes at Belzan are made using locally sourced ingredients, and the menu changes regularly to reflect the seasons. The standout dish at Belzan is the slow-cooked lamb shoulder with spiced lentils and mint yogurt – a true comfort food classic.
#5: The Pen Factory
The Pen Factory is a popular gastropub that offers a menu of hearty British cuisine. The restaurant is housed in a converted warehouse and features an industrial-chic decor. The menu includes classic dishes such as fish and chips and steak and ale pie, as well as more inventive options like the black pudding scotch egg. The Pen Factory also offers a great selection of craft beers and ciders, making it a popular spot for a casual night out.
#4: Wreckfish
Wreckfish is a contemporary British restaurant that offers a menu of inventive dishes made using locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s decor is sleek and modern, with an open kitchen that allows diners to watch the chefs at work. The standout dish at Wreckfish is the pan-fried seabass with cauliflower puree and brown butter – a delicious and flavorful combination. Wreckfish also offers a great selection of cocktails and wines, making it a great spot for a night out with friends.
#3: Röski
Röski is a fine dining restaurant that offers a menu of modern European cuisine. The restaurant’s decor is elegant and sophisticated, with a warm and inviting ambiance. The dishes are expertly crafted, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The standout dish at Röski is the salt-aged duck with beetroot, hazelnut, and black garlic – a dish that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Röski also offers an extensive wine list, with over 300 wines from around the world.
#2: The Quarter
The Quarter is a popular restaurant that offers a menu of modern British cuisine. The restaurant’s decor is stylish and contemporary, with a warm and welcoming ambiance. The menu includes dishes such as roasted lamb rump with minted peas and broad beans and pan-fried hake with saffron potatoes and chorizo. The Quarter also offers a great selection of wines and cocktails, making it a popular spot for a night out with friends.
#1: The Philharmonic Dining Rooms
The Philharmonic Dining Rooms is a Liverpool institution that offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant is housed in a stunning Victorian building that is adorned with ornate carvings and stained glass windows. The menu offers a range of classic British dishes, including the famous Philharmonic pie – a hearty pie filled with steak, kidney, and oysters. The Philharmonic Dining Rooms also offers a great selection of real ales, making it a popular spot for a pint with friends.
Honorable mentions
While these are our top 10 must-try restaurants in Liverpool, there are plenty of other great options to explore. Some honorable mentions include Lunya, a Spanish restaurant that offers a menu of tapas and paella, and The Italian Club Fish, a seafood restaurant that serves up fresh and flavorful dishes.
Conclusion and final thoughts
Liverpool is a city that is full of culinary delights, and these top 10 must-try restaurants are just the beginning. From fine dining to casual eats, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re a local looking to discover a new spot or a visitor looking to explore the food scene, these restaurants are sure to leave you satisfied and wanting more. So, grab your fork and get ready to taste the best that Liverpool has to offer.