10 reasons why you need to visit Smithdown Road

Most know Smithdown Road as a popular student area of the city with a wealth of shared housing, cheap ale pubs and many an off-license.

Foodies in the know also rate Smithdown Road as one of the most up and coming area to dine out with more restaurants and bars popping up in the last few years than ever before.

Did you know that Smithdown Road dates back to 1086 when it was in the Domesday Book? So it seems people have been partying down Smithdown for centuries! With that in mind, here’s 10 reasons why you need to pay a visit to this iconic Liverpool Street. 

Dafna’s Cheesecake Factory

Currently closed for refurbishment and opening again very soon, Dafna’s on Smithdown Road specialises in producing quality cakes, all made to non-commercial recipes. Their cheesecake, produced in ten flavours, is the most popular product.

They stock a range of wheat-free cakes, vegan cakes and dairy free cakes. In addition to over fifty cakes and desserts, Dafna’s sells quality confectionery and imported Belgian chocolates. 

For more info click here. 

Big Lola’s 

Big Lola’s Taqueria is a Mexican inspired taco shop based in Duke Street Market, and more recently they have opened their own store on Smithdown road. This concept has come from the guys behind Cahita in Duke Street Market. 

They have taken inspiration from San Francisco’s Latino Mission District and are serving up Mexican street food dishes. Their taco boxes are taking social media (and Uber Eats) by storm.

Check them out here.

The Midnight Delivery 

Midnight Delivery does exactly what it says on the (cake) tin! It delivers cakes, and sweets to your home. You can pop in and takeaway or use the delivery service if you’ve got a sweet tooth and find yourself hankering after a serious sugar hit out of hours. Their decadent desserts are absolutely are to die for!

For more info click here.

PICNIC

Since opening, PICNIC have always prided themselves on giving customers the best possible food with the best possible service. Healthy fast food is the idea behind their menu. 

Part of PICNIC’s mission has always been sustainability, and are always looking for ways to improve their carbon footprint. Having recently joined an innovation catalyst led by The University of Lancaster – the team are now encouraging other businesses to convert to reusable, recyclable or biodegradable packaging – like the ones they use in store. 

For more info click here. 

Épicerie Fine 

A new French inspired café and deli on Smithdown Road. Having opened summer 2022, the team have already made a name for themselves by delivering authentic specialities such as wines, pastries, and fresh produce. 

For more info click here.

Belzan 

A neighbourhood bistro and wine bar serving humble dishes and drinks they’re truly passionate about. Inspired by places they’ve travelled to, Belzan has legions of fans thanks to its gorgeous daytime brunch dishes and chilled atmosphere.

Their menu changes with the ebb and flow of the seasons. Some weeks nothing changes, other weeks 3 or 4 dishes might change, but what is always constant is the attention and care given to every ingredient and guest that graces the restaurant.

For more info click here. 

Defend Vinyl 

Defend Vinyl is a record shop on Smithdown Road, Liverpool selling all the best in new & used indie, emo, punk, soul, hip-hop & classics. 

From jazz to funk and soul records and specialising in indie and alternative American punk, the record shop has been around since 2016. All records sold in the shop are second hand – and if you need a vinyl that needs cleaning – they offer a a service to make them good as new again. 

For more info click here. 

Purple Carrot 

Purple Carrot was the first completely vegan shop to open in Liverpool in 2014. It was their aim to provide vegan alternatives to all the non-vegan everyday foods that you could find in the supermarket. 

All fruit and vegetables sold in the shop are completely organic, seasonally stocked and locally sourced. Since 2014 the small vegan shop has grown into a mini supermarket with a strong loyal customer base.

Recently they were awarded the prestigious Retailer of the Year Award in the Merseyside Independent Business Award 2022.

For more info click here.

Rise Fitness Studios 

Rise was founded in 2016, their goal was to help change the fitness scene in Liverpool and to help people become healthier both mentally and physically whilst having fun. Their team of world class instructors are there to encourage you, inspire you and make you sweat.

They offer four amazing workouts – Ride, Trilogy, Reformer and Yoga which are for all levels, from first timers, to hardened fitness enthusiasts looking for that extra motivation. With their high energy you will be swept into an immersive experience where the outside world will cease to exist and it will just be you, your goals, and at the end – your accomplishments.

For more info click here.

The Handyman

This former cinema and handyman supermarket is now a pub and microbrewery and every day of the week it’s buzzing. Stop in for a gin, Neighbourhood coffee, Handyman beer or a doggy treat if you’re out for a pint with the dog.

For more info click here.