How going Greek brought a bright new future to The Monro

The Monro, a Liverpool institution nestled on Duke Street, built a reputation over two decades as a classic British gastropub.

Serving up one of the most satisfying Sunday roasts the city and beyond had ever tasted, the fame of The Monro was widespread.’, and its customers loyal.

Yet, times have changed. And The Monro has changed with them.

In the face of a rapid increase in ingredient costs and energy prices, Will Lyons, The Monro’s owner, faced a daunting decision.

Should he persist with the old ways that had served the pub so well over the years, at the risk of becoming unaffordable for its customers?

Or should he embrace change and set The Monro on a new course?

Along with his team, Will opted for the latter. He announced that The Monro would no longer serve traditional gastropub grub.

Instead, they would take on a new direction and introduce a contemporary Greek kitchen with the same values and ethos as the old Monro.

This made naming the Greek kitchen easy – Ethos.

And the idea behind Ethos is simple. Cook from fresh and give excellent value whilst retaining the British pub feel.

Despite the change, The Monro remains warm and inviting, with its log fire crackling as patrons chat and enjoy their food. Steaks have been replaced with succulent Souvlaki, and pot pies have given way to delicious Spanakopita (spinach pasties).

Although some customers were initially hesitant about the switch and lamented the loss of their beloved Sunday roast, they quickly came around. They’ve fallen in love with the new Greek menu.

Ethos is now the talk of the town online, with ‘the best bottomless drinks in the city’, and is enjoying an impressive start to 2023, giving Will new hope and optimism for the future.

“We agonised over this decision for a long time before launching Ethos,” said Will. “The stress was unbearable. Yet, when we opened last summer, I remember looking out the window and seeing our new Greek beer garden filled with people laughing.

Mythos and cocktails were flowing as customers eagerly tucked into our new food. We were as shocked as anyone but also incredibly delighted. And relieved!”

Ethos is open from Wednesday to Sunday and offers a contemporary take on traditional Greek cuisine, which is served all day.

From meze to mains, there is something for everyone’s taste and, importantly, budget. “I’m not sure you’ll find food in many places that’s been cooked from scratch and available from £4.50!” added Will.

In a time when pubs across Britain are closing their doors at an alarming rate, it is refreshing to see how a bold change has led to renewed success for one of Liverpool’s most historic venues.

The Monro is an essential part of the city, and it is reassuring to know that it will be around for a long time to come.