Head to Punch Tarmey’s & ArCains for grub, games and good times

LIKE many of our favourite places, there have been some changes at Punch Tarmey’s and its sister site ArCains in Liverpool – but one thing that hasn’t changed is the amazing atmosphere and the guarantee of a great time.

You can still head to each of them for food, music or gaming fun – or now you can combine the two for a fab family day out.

“You can play games at ArCains, then walk through to Punch Tarmey’s for food and a few drinks, or you can even do it the other way round,” says Kyle Dottie, general manager.

“It’s a great day out for everyone in the family, everything’s under one roof and it doesn’t matter what the weather’s like outside because rain won’t stop play here.”

While it offered food before, Punch Tarmey’s has re-branded over recent months, moving from a traditional pub to an Irish restaurant, and it’s celebrating that with a brand-new menu filled with all your favourites from ribs, burgers, steaks and, of course, dirty fries.

“We tell people to arrive hungry!” adds Kyle.

With its vast space, there’s plenty of room to distance inside and there are hand-sanitisers throughout, so you can be sure to stay safe.

It does mean though that, with numbers carefully restricted, it’s a good idea to book in advance – especially at weekends when Punch Tarmey’s is as popular as ever, or when there’s a big match on. “We’re still showing live sport and now you can enjoy a meal as you watch.” Result!

Music has always been a main feature at Punch Tarmey’s and there’s thankfully no change there with its newly-revamped courtyard providing centre stage for loads of local bands and artists who’ll perform live each week from Friday to Sunday.

“We’re really trying to support the live music industry,” says Kyle, “and we’re proud that we can continue to do that through these difficult times. And, just to add, while the courtyard is outside, we have got plans to make sure no-one’s left out in the cold as we head into winter!”

With food and music taken care of, it’s time to have fun – and that’s where ArCains comes in with gaming enjoyment, from the past, present – and future.

There are dance mats, shuffleboard, pinball and basketball, as well as PlayStation (with number 5 coming soon) and Xbox games and more, just waiting for the competition to begin.

“And while it’s a great family day out, it’s also a good idea for a date, no sitting in awkward silence at a restaurant table, you can have a laugh, grab a snack, and there’s plenty to get the conversation flowing. Although, depending on who wins, it could mean there might not be a second date,” says Kyle.

Admission into ArCains is simple with a single entrance fee and then all your gaming for free.

“It means you know exactly how much it’s going to cost you so it’s perfect for students or people on a budget and, once you’ve got your wristband on you can move from one venue, through to the other.”

So get it in your diary. Family day out, sorted!