Liverpool’s only dry bar The Brink has announced its reopened

The UK’s first dry bar and café The Brink has reopened its doors in the heart of Liverpool two years after having to close.

The Parr Street venue made the difficult decision to stop operating the café once lockdown restrictions were lifted back in 2020, due to the considerable financial impact of the pandemic.

Now in the hands of national charity The Forward Trust and with a brand-new look, the space will serve an imaginative array of non-alcoholic beverages, as well as locally sourced fresh food in its popular menu once again, opening each day between 10am and 3pm, with the hope that it will be able to host its renowned calendar of events and activities in the near future.

All of the profits generated from food and drink sales will be given back to the Merseyside recovery community with The Brink providing vital support for those in recovery from all forms of addiction in a safe, stigma-free environment.

General Manager at The Brink Lucy McLachlan said: “The Brink is back, and we’re excited to welcome people from all walks of life through our doors once again. As a dry bar, our aim is to steer the focus away from alcohol by promoting a healthier lifestyle and to invite the recovery community, students, families, and the general public alike to return to our thriving social hub.

“Covid-19 presented many challenges for us, like so many others, so we want to celebrate the achievements of people who have overcome addiction, as well as helping those who have been affected by the pandemic and providing them with a safe space to receive support.”

Established in 2011, the venue is staffed by people who have themselves struggled with alcohol or addiction in the past, presenting them with an opportunity to re-enter the workforce and give something back.

David Humphreys Services Manager at The Forward Trust said: “The reopening of The Brink marks a new chapter for us. Known to many as a retreat for the recovering, we’ve also built up a reputation as a place to enjoy great food, great drink and a great atmosphere for anyone that visits us. Capturing what this city does best – being part of a thriving community.

“We can only continue though with the support from the general public and the businesses that are located right here on our doorstep so we hope that everyone will come and see us and welcome us back with open arms.”