Liverpool is perhaps best known for its music, football, and rich history. But don’t be forgetting that this much loved city is also home to an awesome food scene.
The best restaurants in Liverpool take their own hold on what they’d consider to be a great place to eat – whether it’s a cosy bistro, streatery (my own spin on a street-eatery), fine dining, and everything in between.
I’ve tried loads of places across the city, so here’s a blog to help you discover some of the best restaurants Liverpool has to offer. Whether you’re after classic British dishes or want to try new flavours, I’m pretty sure you’ll be making a reservation by the end of this page.
1: Cowshed Liverpool
If you’re a fan of steak then Cowshed Liverpool on Seel Street is so good. Their menu focuses on different steak cuts, each cooked to order.
When I got here I was welcomed in to a lovely table and friendly waiter. The place was rather busy, and got even busier as the night went on – there was a really good atmosphere in here and it seemed everyone was enjoying their evening.
As I say, the star here is definitely the beef, and mine was cooked to perfection. It was so mouthwatering, and the sides were great, too – they were traditional but made creatively to really complement the succulent beef.
When it started getting busy I wondered if the staff would struggle, including the kitchen – but service was prompt, and food came out quickly and piping hot. Staff were very helpful throughout, including offering suggestions on steak options and wine pairings.
The atmosphere never felt too noisy, so I could actually enjoy my meal at a comfortable pace. Cowshed opens later on weekdays and starts serving lunch at midday on weekends – just make sure you book a table in advance if you can!
Location: 104 Seel St, Liverpool L1 4BL, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 151 708 7580
2: The Art School Restaurant
I was lucky enough to dine at The Art School Restaurant, and wow – there really isn’t anything I can report negatively on this wonderful place. It’s fine dining here, where you get to explore new flavours and creations that have clearly been very carefully thought through.
The interior is bright and full of natural light from a huge skylight, and although it’s fine dining there is absolutely nothing stiff or intimidating about it. Staff especially were so friendly, and each time a dish came out they’d tell us all about it – they were so knowledgable and it made the whole experience even more delightful.
The food leans heavily on local produce, and each plate is beautifully presented and tasted incredible. The wine flights are great, with a different glass for each course, to match it perfectly.
You can tell the team cares about the seasonal menus, changing things up depending on what’s fresh.
Chef Patron Paul Askew is very hands-on, clearly passionate, and his experience shows. Private dining and the cellar bar seemed popular for special nights. I’d 100% love to come back here knowing the quality is exceptional in all areas and the menu will never be dull!
Location: 1 Sugnall St, Liverpool L7 7EB, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 151 230 8600
Our Favourite Places To Stay In Liverpool
The Resident – chic warehouse-style rooms near Albert Docks ideal for families with suites accommodating 4
Titanic Hotel – a converted dockside warehouse with extremely spacious, luxurious rooms and stunning dock views
Hard Days Night Hotel – a Beatles themed boutique hotel in the Cavern Quarter of Liverpool
3: Salt House Tapas Liverpool
I absolutely love tapas. There is no better way to spend time with friends, sharing dishes and broadening your tastebuds (and sticking to your favourites). So I couldn’t wait to try out Salt House Tapas.
It was very busy when we got there, filled with diners of all ages. It’s a trendy place to be, yet still popular with the very young and also older age brackets, too – which is lovely. The restaurant sits inside a beautiful Grade 1 listed building which gives it a bit of character, and its big windows and contemporary décor lighten and modernise it perfectly.
I’d say the atmosphere is happily lively, which I loved – it set the scene for enjoying good food and company.
The menu is all about Spanish tapas and charcuterie, and there’s a good variety, so whether you just want a snack or a full meal, you’ll find something.
Staff were attentive and friendly but never pushy, and were so kind and caring. One of our friends has a nut allergy, and another gluten intolerant – both of which were catered for confidently, and my friends were over the moon.
Salt House offer a solid drinks selection, and you can easily relax here for hours. In fact, we did.
Location: Church House, 1 Hanover St, Liverpool L1 3DW, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 151 706 0092
4: Bacaro
Bacaro is tucked away on Castle Street, right in the city centre. The place has a comfortable, down-to-earth vibe, and a fantastic reputation.
Their menu has Italian and Spanish-inspired small plates – a little like Italian tapas – so again you’ve got that sociable, sharing dishes-type experience (or you can just order your own, like I did on this occasion!).
It’s also all at a very good price too, considering the quality and quantity of food you’re getting.
Campari drinks were a nice touch, adding something a little different. The service was prompt, and staff were happy to answer questions about the menu.
The pace here is relaxed. It’s a real people pleaser here, and I’d happily return for any reason – a quick bite, a family meal, a celebration or a gathering with friends.
Location: 47 Castle St, Liverpool L2 9UB, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 151 665 0047
5: Panoramic 34
Panoramic 34’s view is the first thing you’ll notice – it’s pretty much unbeatable. The dining room sits high above Liverpool, with floor-to-ceiling windows that look over the city and the river.
Being 300 feet up on the 34th floor, you can see for miles.
The bar area is perfect for a quiet drink. I enjoyed browsing the wine list while waiting for my table (I hadn’t managed to book in advance, but they assured me I’d be seated soon and were very friendly), and the selection really impressed me.
The menu covers modern European dishes like Cornish roasted monkfish, but we opted for Afternoon Tea with bubbles, and some platters – which were all divine.
Each course arrived without much wait, and the staff seemed genuinely happy to offer suggestions. If you want a memorable view with your meal, Panoramic 34 is definitely worth checking out.
Location: West Tower, Brook St, Liverpool L3 9PJ, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 151 236 5534
6: The Quarter
The Quarter is a very popular restaurant with an excellent reputation, so I was really looking forward to popping in.
Where it’s located is a huge plus – it’s on the outskirts of the city, tucked on a quiet street near the Georgian Quarter. It’s still in easy reach of everything, and very close by to the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic – it was nice to be somewhere away from the noisier parts of Liverpool for a moment. Very boho.
The menu leans Italian, but you’ll find Mediterranean touches too. My friend tried a stone-baked pizza with fresh toppings and a crisp base, and I went for for their toasted ciabatta with sliced beef tomato, smoked sea salt, and buffalo mozzarella. Both dishes were gorgeous.
There’s a good selection of deli boards, which is perfect if you’re looking to share. Their breakfasts look good too – classics as well as lighter options, and they have vegan and gluten free meals too.
Inside, the wooden benches and open layout give it an airy and welcoming feel in the summer, and cosy in the winter. Being seated outside is popular, but I found you’re not able to book these tables.
Service was wonderful here, we had a lovely conversation with our waitress, though she also left us to enjoy our meal too, and was very helpful. Overall, a very pleasant visit!
Location: 7 Falkner St, Liverpool L8 7PU, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 151 707 1965
7: Turtle Bay Liverpool Victoria St
I do love a Turtle Bay, but this was my first experience of their Liverpool branch. This one is on Victoria Street, which is a great spot close by to the Pier Head and the Cavern Quarter.
As expected, I walked into a lively Caribbean vibe with good music and warm décor. The place was very busy but didn’t seem a mess – just filled with diners who seemed to be having a great time. I’d booked a table and we were promptly seated and welcomed.
In busy places, seeing how long it takes to be asked what you’d like to drink is always a good test of what the service will be like (I walk out if they take too long – it’s a red flag, in my opinion). Here though, we didn’t have to wait long before we had a drink in hand.
Turtle Bay is generally very good if you’re looking for a Bottomless Brunch. I could see a table on the other side who were clearly enjoying themselves, and it seemed they were all being served promptly.
The menu is packed with tasty Caribbean dishes, and if you’re not into spicy foods, the staff are well trained to help you pick something you’d like.
I tried a few 2-for-1 cocktails during happy hour, which runs every day until 7pm and picks up again at 9pm. They’re lovely!
Late in the evening, the Beats and Eats deal is perfect if you want to hang out for snacks and more drinks with friends. Overall, this is a buzzing place to be, and great for socialising and celebrations.
Location: Produce Exchange, 6A Victoria St, Liverpool L2 6QE, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 151 236 7333
8: La Finca Eivissa
The La Finca Eivissa is absolutely gorgeous in every way. Tucked away on Back Colquitt Street, this unique building has an Ibizan finca theme spread across three floors. You’ve got a bar on the ground floor (which is always busy and a great option if you just want to stop by for a drink), the restaurant upstairs, and a bodega underground, basement level.
I’d booked into the restaurant, which is really comfortable and casual. They even allow dogs. There’s a real Balearic vibe with its upbeat music and warm lighting.
The menu offers a wide range of Spanish-inspired fusion tapas, all at very good value for money, actually – I’ve paid more elsewhere and it’s not been as good as it is here.
I tried several small plates and paired them with one of their signature Ibizan cocktails. The flavours were bold and fresh, and the portions generous.
The atmosphere shifts as the night goes on – chilled for lunch and dinner, then more upbeat as people stay for drinks and music into the early hours. The late-night cocktail bar is super trendy.
Service was friendly and quick each time I visited. I’d definitely recommend booking if you’re here for food.
Location: 14 Back Colquitt St, Liverpool
Contact: +44 151 709 0999
9: Mowgli Street Food Water Street
I love Mowgli Street Food, which has a number of restaurants – with the one on Water Street being my favourite. It’s absolutely stunning, with twinkling lights everywhere, a mix of trees and colonial-style fittings, and carefully placed rope swings to dine on. It’s grandeur that’s comfortable, earthy, and dazzling all at once. Love, love, love.
It’s set up well for any occasion – date night, small groups, and celebrations. They’ve made sure everyone feels welcome and in good company here.
The menu covers a variety of Indian street food classics with authentic flavours. Their Street Food Sharer Menu is amazing. £25pp and you get so much – the table was full and we were able to try all kinds of dishes and tastes. As they say, that’s how you’d eat in India, so it felt great to dine with culture!
They also support a local children’s charity, which is genuinely great to see from a busy city centre restaurant.
Events happen here often, and they cater for private gatherings too. It’s a solid option for groups, birthdays or work events if you want something a bit different.
Location: 3 Water St, Liverpool L2 0RD, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 151 236 6366
10: Etsu
Etsu is easily one of the best restaurants in Liverpool, serving authentic Japanese food. It’s tucked away in Beetham Plaza, just off The Strand in Liverpool. The restaurant feels warm and modern, with light wood accents and spotlights that pick out each table. Everything is spotless in here, and classy yet chilled at the same time.
It was busy when I arrived, yet this didn’t phase the staff – they seemed quite used to it and everything ran smoothly. It was a wonderful atmosphere and we wasn’t rushed nor abandoned.
Sushi is the main event here. Everything is so fresh and full of flavour. The fish was unbelievable, and the rice had just the right texture. There are also Japanese meat and fish dishes, all cooked with care and served beautifully.
Etsu is a popular spot for dinner, so I’d suggest booking ahead, especially if you’re thinking of going on the weekend.
Location: 25 The Strand, Liverpool L2 0XJ, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 151 236 7530
Our Favourite Places To Stay In Liverpool
The Resident – chic warehouse-style rooms near Albert Docks ideal for families with suites accommodating 4
Titanic Hotel – a converted dockside warehouse with extremely spacious, luxurious rooms and stunning dock views
Hard Days Night Hotel – a Beatles themed boutique hotel in the Cavern Quarter of Liverpool
Summary
Liverpool is one of the friendliest cities I’ve ever visited. There’s a sense of local pride here, as well as a deep-rooted mix of cultures that just feels different from other cities.
Restaurants reflect this. All the above options may differ in terms of cuisine, menus, locations and design; but they have the same thing in common – they’re excellent at their craft. Hospitality, a great atmosphere, and incredible food. Please do check them out, especially the independent ones. Just make sure you make a reservation if you can, especially for a Friday and Saturday night.