The amount of excellent restaurants in Liverpool has increased tenfold over the last few years, offering endless flavors from across the world. No matter where you are in the city, you can find cheap eats at independent street food vendors, or more luxurious, upscale eateries with views of the city.
Liverpool is one of Britain’s most multicultural cities, meaning you’ll come across restaurants serving up dishes from across the world. Think Lebanese, Indian, Greek, Italian, Turkish, and more. Whatever you’re craving, you’re sure to find it in Liverpool.
I lived in Liverpool for many years, and some of my family members still live there now. I visit the city regularly, and I’m always scouting out new restaurants to try or returning to old favorites. So without further ado, here are the best places to eat in Liverpool:
15 Best Restaurants in Liverpool
I’m somewhat of a self-proclaimed foodie, so I love trying out new places. Seeing as I’m in Liverpool frequently, I’ve found it challenging to narrow it down to just 15 restaurants! This list of the best restaurants in Liverpool is based on the quality of the food, location, my personal opinion, and affordability. I’ve included a range of options to cater to all tastes, from cheap eats to fine dining.
1. The Art School Restaurant
(Best Restaurant in Liverpool Overall)
Nestled in Liverpool’s picturesque Georgian Quarter, The Art School is the passion project of acclaimed chef Paul Askew. Here, you can expect some of the best fine dining in Liverpool in a historic building dating back to Victorian times.
The dishes are curated with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and presented in the most beautiful way. I love that the dining room here is filled with light, yet by night it’s super romantic and cozy. They also have a range of menus to suit different tastes; choose from Prix Fixe, Excellence, Tasting, or Light Bites depending on what you’re hungry for.
The Art School Restaurant Information
Address: 1 Sugnall St, Liverpool L7 7EB
Phone: +441512308600
Operating Hours: 12 p.m.–2:15 p.m., 5 p.m.–9:15 p.m. Tue – Sat, closed Sun & Mon
Must-Try Meals: Dishes regularly change with the seasons, so dishes will vary from one visit to the next.
Average Cost: Costs can change based on the average market value of ingredients each week. However, you can expect to pay $134 per person for a tasting menu and $85 per person for an accompanying wine flight.
Website: https://theartschoolrestaurant.co.uk
2. Bacaro (Best for Italian Food)
Italian food in Liverpool doesn’t come much better than at Bacaro. Serving a mixture of Italian and Spanish tapas-style dishes in a relaxed environment, it’s my go-to recommendation whenever friends ask me where to eat in Liverpool.
It’s a great spot to visit with friends, as the small plates are ideal for sharing. Dig into dishes such as fried fish, pepperoni & nduja pizzette, and charcuterie with a jug of limoncello sangria or a signature spritz. Unpretentious, affordable, and delicious – this is one of my top restaurants in Liverpool, without a doubt.
Bacaro Information
Address: 47 Castle St, Liverpool L2 9UB
Phone: +441516650047
Operating Hours: 12 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Mon-Sun
Must-Try Meals: Fritto miso, seared lamb rump, carbonara pizzette
Average Cost: $11 for charcuterie plates, $10 for pizzettes, $10-15 for meat & fish dishes
Website: https://salthousebacaro.co.uk
3. Duke Street Food & Drink Market (Best for Street Food)
Try cuisines from across the world, all served in an industrial-style food hall on much-loved Duke Street. This is a great way to try global fare and some of the best street food in Liverpool all under one roof.
For Latin American-inspired delights, try Cahita, while those looking for flavorful Mexican dishes such as tacos and quesadillas should head to Big Lola’s Taqueria. My personal favorite is Ginger, whose menu is inspired by the owners’ travel around South East Asia. There are plenty of other vendors to try too, but I haven’t made my way around them all… yet!
Duke Street Food & Drink Market Information
Address: 46 Duke St, Liverpool L1 5AS
Phone: +441512455113
Operating Hours: Closed Mon, 12 p.m.-9 p.m. Tue-Thu, 12p.m.-10p.m. Fri, 10a.m.-10p.m. Sat, 10 a.m.-8p.m. Sun
Must-Try Meals: Cahita Cubano from Cahita, chicken ramen from Ginger, brisket taco from Big Lola’s Taqueria
Average Cost: $10-$20 per dish depending on the vendor
Website: https://www.dukestreetmarket.com
4. Spire (Best for Couples)
Couples looking for romantic restaurants in Liverpool, look no further than Spire. This small restaurant is perfect for a date night, with an ambient setting featuring exposed brick walls decorated with art.
I love this cozy eatery as they’ve put an upscale twist on modern British food, and their dishes are creatively presented. I recently had their pan-fried seabass with lobster ravioli and it was absolutely delightful – and such good value for money given the care and attention to each dish.
Spire Information
Address: 1 Church Rd, Liverpool L15 9EA
Phone: +441517345040
Operating Hours: Closed Mon & Tue, 12 p.m.-9 p.m. Wed-Fri, 3 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Sat, 12 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Sun
Must-Try Meals: Pan-fried seabass with lobster ravioli, Spire’s fish and chips, caramelized chocolate hazelnut torte
Average Cost: $33 for two courses, $43 for three courses
Website: https://spirerestaurant.co.uk
5. The Philharmonic Dining Rooms (Best for Pub Food)
Known locally as one of the most iconic pubs in Liverpool, the Philharmonic Dining Rooms is one of the best spots in the city for some traditional pub grub. This restaurant is housed in an old Victorian building and has the interiors of a quintessentially British pub.
Dine on flavorsome classics such as pie and mash, shepherd’s pie, and Sunday roasts while surrounded by history. Their collection of cask ales goes down a treat with their comforting main dishes too. The staff is super friendly and attentive and add to the welcoming atmosphere. Pubs are also a great option for cheap eats in Liverpool.
The Philharmonic Dining Rooms Information
Address: 36 Hope St, Liverpool L1 9BX
Phone: +441517072837
Operating Hours: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Mon-Thu, 11 a.m.-12 a.m. Fri & Sat, 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Sun
Must-Try Meals: Slow-cooked beef rib, shin & pulled brisket pie, salmon & dill fishcakes, hand-pulled lamb shank shepherd’s pie
Average Cost: $8-12 per starter, $13-20 per main, $14-20 for their ‘famous’ pies
Website: https://www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk/restaurants/northwest/thephilharmonicdiningroomsliverpool
6. Panoramic 34 (Best Restaurant in Liverpool with a View)
Panoramic 34, officially known as the highest fine-dining restaurant in Liverpool, is the place to go for exquisite cuisine and panoramic views (as the name might suggest). The floor-to-ceiling windows allow for sprawling sights of Liverpool and beyond come day or night, 300 feet above sea level.
Dine on an array of traditional and international dishes such as cod cheek and sirloin of beef; all menu items are beautifully presented and freshly prepared. This is a more indulgent restaurant option, and the price tag reflects it. It is, however, some of the best food in Liverpool and well worth every penny – it’s ideal for celebrating a special occasion in Liverpool.
Panoramic 34 Information
Address: West Tower, Brook St, Liverpool L3 9PJ
Phone: +441512365534
Operating Hours: Closed Mon, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Tue-Sun
Must-Try Meals: Venison croquette, stone bass, tandoori carrots
Average Cost: $190 per person for a tasting menu with wine
Website: https://www.panoramic34.com
7. The Brunch & Cocktail Club (Best for Brunch)
My favorite spot for the best brunch in Liverpool has to be The Brunch & Cocktail Club. This stylish exposed-brick eatery is where I head for hearty brunch meals and fantastic cocktails with friends.
Try their Brunch Fry Up – it doesn’t get much more classic than this – or their Eggs Oscar Benedict (with fresh crab – so good). It’s a great place to visit before or after a big shopping trip at the Liverpool ONE mall, and you can easily walk to St Luke’s Bombed Church from here.
The Brunch & Cocktail Club Information
Address: 37-41 Duke St, Liverpool L1 5AP
Phone: +441517926522
Operating Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon-Thu, 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri, 8 a.m.-12 a.m. Sat, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Sun
Must-Try Meals: Brunch Fry Up, Eggs Oscar Benedict, Pancake Stack
Average Cost: $10-$15 per brunch dish, $13-$15 per lunch dish, $10-$14 per cocktail
Website: https://brunchandcocktailclub.com
8. Hanover Street Social (Best Lunch in Liverpool)
This sizable brassier is modern, bright, and busy – a great ambient setting for lunch in the city. The food here is simple, combining fresh ingredients with seasonal favorites to create classic, comforting dishes.
Hanover Street Social cooks up one of the tastiest Sunday lunches in the city. I also love their Express Lunch Menu which is perfect for a quick pit stop while exploring the city’s nearby sites. The minute steak as a main course is excellent value.
Hanover Street Social Information
Address: 16-20 Hanover St, Liverpool L1 4AA
Phone: +441517098784
Operating Hours: 12 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Mon-Sat, 12 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Sun
Must-Try Meals: Goats cheese mousse on brioche, 4oz minute steak, chocolate brownie
Average Cost: Their Express Lunch Menu is $21 for two courses or $27 for three courses.
Website: https://hanoverstreetsocial.co.uk
9. Moose Coffee (Best Breakfast in Liverpool)
Moose Coffee is, without a doubt, a must-visit on your next trip to Liverpool. This restaurant has one of the most extensive all-day breakfast menus I’ve ever seen. No matter what you fancy, you’re sure to find it here.
I was delighted when Moose Coffee opened in my hometown of Manchester, and I’m so glad Liverpool now has a sister restaurant. They offer both sweet and savory North American breakfast items on the menu – I get the Lone Star Moose hash and a pancake stack every single time!
Moose Coffee Information
Address: 6 Dale St, Liverpool L2 4TQ
Phone: +441512274880
Operating Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon-Sun
Must-Try Meals: Lone Star Moose, Lula Puebla, Pancake Benedict
Average Cost: $11-15 per breakfast/brunch item, $3.50-$5 for drinks/coffee
Website: https://www.moosecoffee.co
10. Maray (Best Patio in Liverpool)
While there isn’t a restaurant in Liverpool with a sea view, you can enjoy wonderful waterfront views at restaurants in the Albert Dock area. Maray has a cute outdoor seating area overlooking the water and has delicious food to eat while watching the world go by.
You can expect a variety of Middle Eastern-inspired small plates at Maray, which are all produced with seasonal ingredients. Their butter beans & baby leeks dish is possibly one of my favorite meals ever! They also have an excellent wine list and bold cocktails.
Maray Information
Address: Unit 4, Britannia Pavilion, Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AD
Phone: +441513470214
Operating Hours: 12:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Sun-Thu, 12 p.m.-10 p.m. Fri & Sun
Must-Try Meals: Butter beans & baby leeks, whipped goat cheese, whole king prawns
Average Cost: $2.50-$8 for mezze, $7-11 for veg dishes, $11-17 for meat & fish dishes
Website: https://maray.co.uk
11. Down The Hatch (Best Vegetarian Restaurant)
Despite being favored among vegetarians, Down The Hatch is also suitable for vegans and, in my opinion, is the best vegan restaurant in Liverpool. I’m enamored with this little basement venue and have been back a few times; it’s super cozy thanks to the exposed brick walls and greenery hanging from the ceiling.
The range of vegan cheeses at this restaurant is amazing – you don’t feel like you’re missing out on anything as their alternatives are so good. I love their take on katsu curry and their loaded burgers – definitely give them a try should you visit.
Down The Hatch Information
Address: Basement, 62 Duke St, Liverpool L1 5AA
Phone: +441517080860
Operating Hours: 3 p.m.-9 p.m. Mon-Thu, 3 p.m.-12 a.m. Fri, 12 p.m.-12 p.m. Sat, 12 p.m.-9 p.m. Sun
Must-Try Meals: Mac & cheese, katsu curry, royale with cheese
Average Cost: $9 for starters, $17 for mains, $15 for loaded fries
Website: https://www.downthehatchliv.co.uk
12. Roski Restaurant (Best for Indulgence)
Roski Restaurant is owned and operated by Michelin-star chef Anton Piotrowski. Situated on Rodney Street, one of the most famous streets in Liverpool, you can expect creative cuisine and unrivaled service.
The restaurant is known for blending tradition with modern and innovative twists, making for beautiful dishes that look more like pieces of art than a meal! The ingredients are super fresh, so much so that their menus change regularly to adapt to the seasons. An exquisite experience in a lovely atmosphere awaits!
Roski Restaurant Information
Address: 16 Rodney St, Liverpool L1 2TE
Phone: +441517088698
Operating Hours: Closed Sun-Tue, 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Wed, 12 p.m.–2 p.m., 6 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Thu-Sat
Must-Try Meals: Tasting Menu, Express Tasting Menu
Average Cost: $80 for their Express Tasting Menu, $140 for their Tasting Menu
Website: https://www.roskirestaurant.com
13. Cowshed (Best for Steak)
Cozy up in a booth and enjoy one of the more traditional restaurants in Liverpool, with classic cuts of steak alongside creative side dishes. The restaurant’s location, set within a converted townhouse, paired with homely decor, creates a romantic, rustic ambiance that’s hard to beat. Dishes are hearty and comforting, yet reasonably priced.
If you’re a steak lover, Cowshed is one for you. The team here is dedicated to serving the finest quality steaks in Liverpool. Their ‘Greedy Cow’ option allows you to try three different types of steak with a selection of sauces and sides.
Cowshed Information
Address: 104 Seel St, Liverpool L1 4BL
Phone: +1517087580
Operating Hours: 4 p.m.-10 p.m. Mon-Fri, 12 p.m.-10 p.m. Sat & Sun
Must-Try Meals: Croquette special, The Greedy Cow(s), spiced cauliflower florets
Average Cost: $11 for starters, $15-$60 per steak dish, $5-6 per side
Website: https://www.cowshedliverpool.co.uk
14. Carpathia Bar & Restaurant (Best Rooftop Bar)
Wine, dine, and take in views of the city from Carpathia – a spectacular rooftop bar and restaurant in the heart of Liverpool City Center. Just minutes away from the waterfront, this unique restaurant has a professional mixologist for the best cocktails and a small yet diverse food menu.
The restaurant and bar are situated within 30 James Street Hotel, and you can look out at Albert Dock, The Strand, and the Three Graces from a different vantage point. This spot is particularly pretty during the summer months when you can enjoy warmer evenings on the outdoor terrace.
Carpathia Bar & Restaurant Information
Address: 30 James St, Liverpool L2 7PQ
Phone: +441512369659
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours Mon-Sun
Must-Try Meals: Poached salmon with asparagus, risotto al fungi, salted caramel baked Alaska
Average Cost: $11-12 per starter, $17-25 per main, $9-11 per dessert
Website: https://30jamesstreethotel.com/dining
15. 8 By Andrew Sheridan(Best for Progressive Dining)
Listed in the Michelin Guide, ‘8’ by Andrew Sheridan is an immersive dining experience in a dimly lit lounge. There are just two 8-seater counters in the restaurant, with a chef cooking for each table.
I love the concept of this restaurant; the chefs cook the food in front of the guests and talk them through the process. It makes for an engaging, memorable meal that encompasses the premise of fresh, bold produce. I’ve yet to visit ‘8’, but it is top of my must-try list!
8 By Andrew Sheridan Information
Address: 16 Cook St, Liverpool L2 9RF
Phone: +441515590397
Operating Hours: Closed Sun-Tue (Available for exclusive hire), 7:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. Wed-Fri, 1 p.m.-11:30 p.m. Sat
Must-Try Meals: Tasting menu; dishes vary based on the season
Average Cost: $140 per person, additional $105 per person for wine pairing
Website: https://restaurant8.co.uk/its-all-about-8
Must-Try Meals in Liverpool
Liverpool may be known for its culture and music scene, but it also has a rich culinary heritage. Here are some must-try dishes when visiting Liverpool:
Scouse
Any person growing up in Liverpool will have eaten Scouse. This traditional stew combines leftover meat and vegetables. Typically you’d include beef or lamb, plus the likes of potatoes, onions, and carrots. However, you can make it with whatever you have on hand. The end result is a warming dish perfect for winter nights!
Scallops with Black Pudding
You may see scallops with black pudding as a starter on the menu in the more traditional Liverpudlian restaurants. The dish, as the name suggests, combines scallops with black pudding to bring together the sea and land.
Gin Smoked Salmon
Liverpool loves gin, and the city has gone above and beyond to prove it by smoking salmon with gin produced in the region. You’ll likely find it served with salad or crusty bread, offering a unique take on a classic flavor.
Liverpool Restaurants: FAQs
Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about the best restaurants in Liverpool, England:
The best local restaurants in Liverpool are listed in this article. If I had to pick just three, I’d go for The Art School Restaurant for fine dining, Panoramic 34 for views, and Maray as the best outdoor restaurant in Liverpool.
This varies from person to person, but generally, dinner is served after 5 p.m. Families with younger children tend to eat earlier, while others eat later, from around 7 p.m.
You can expect to eat lunch any time between midday and 2 p.m. in Liverpool. Anything after that would be considered a late lunch.
Breakfast is generally around 7 a.m. – 10 a.m. in Liverpool. On weekends, you’ll find that restaurants open a little later and are more likely to serve brunch or all-day breakfast dishes.
Tipping isn’t customary in the UK. However, if you feel the service has been particularly good, you can tip 10%-15%.
Liverpool City Center has the highest concentration of great restaurants, mainly because it’s the most popular area. Neighborhoods such as Albert Dock, the Baltic Triangle, and Ropewalks also have nice restaurants in Liverpool.
The Philharmonic Dining Rooms offer some great pub grub. Pies are a staple part of British diets and theirs are amazing!
Panoramic 34 is, in my opinion, the best restaurant in Liverpool with a view. The restaurant is 300 feet above sea level and you can see far beyond Liverpool on a clear day.
Some of my favorite restaurants in Liverpool for takeout are Smoke & Dough, Maray, and Bakchich Lebanese. Most restaurants in the city have a takeout option, check their website or give them a call for more information.
Cowshed, The Art School, and Roski Restaurant are some of the most popular restaurants in Liverpool. You’ll find that many of the restaurants in this article are quite popular, as they’re all very highly rated by customers.
Scouse, (a meat stew), is one of the main dishes that Liverpool is known for. It’s traditionally made with leftover meat and any vegetables you have on hand. It’s usually served with bread and pickled beetroot.
Liverpool-based Restaurant 8 was named Restaurant of the Year 2023 at the British Restaurant Awards. The restaurant was relocated from Birmingham earlier this year.
Yes, though I haven’t mentioned them in this article, there are plenty of all-you-can-eat/buffet restaurants in Liverpool. Bon Liverpool serves over 150 Asian-inspired dishes, while Fogo Brazil is the place to go for buffet-style Brazilian food.
No. Unfortunately, there are no Michelin-star restaurants in Liverpool at present.
In Conclusion
Liverpool holds a special place in my heart – with some of my family living there, an abundance of things to do in the city, and so many great food options to choose from, I always find a reason to return.
Whether you’re seeking the perfect restaurant to celebrate a special occasion, or somewhere to cozy up and enjoy some traditional Liverpudlian grub, you’ll find a spot to suit your needs. From the best breakfast from Moose Coffee to the iconic rooftop views at Carpathia Bar & Restaurant, there’s a place to visit for every time of day and every taste.