Verdant, Allerton Road celebrates its first birthday with DJ Jemma Lucy taking to the decks

Reality star Jemma Lucy is set to get the party started at top Liverpool restaurant Verdant this week.

The celebrity DJ is getting on the decks for the popular Allerton Road venue as it throws its First Birthday Bash.

Jemma, 29, from Ex On The Beach and Celebrity Big Brother, is famed for her glamorous looks and heavily-inked assets – but she’ll be turning the spotlight on the Allerton venue on Thursday when it celebrates a fabulous first 12 months.

Owner of Verdant, Phil Melia, said: “It is a big celebration for us. “The first year seems to have flown by but it’s been such an exciting one, watching the restaurant and bar grow. The party is a chance to say thank you to all those who have made it so successful, and raise a glass to an even brighter, better future.”

The 30-year-old admitted he’d had a vision of owning a fine dining restaurant at the age of 16 and Verdant is everything he had dreamt of.

“It’s only right then that we celebrate its first anniversary in style.”

As well as music from Jemma, guests will be given a masterclass in gin, with the restaurant’s senior mixologist helping them to create their own bespoke blend from a collection of 18 gins, 130 mixers and 35 garnishes.

“Our gin tasting packages are among the most popular events at Verdant, with a choice of silver, gold and diamond offerings,” said Phil. “We all love our gin these days and we offer not just the chance to sample a freshly-created cocktail but a history of each gin, the best garnish and best serve.”

Hostesses will greet guests with champagne and canapes, and offer the opportunity to taste food from the new festive menu throughout the evening.

There will be live music from acoustic singer Clare Sophia and a chance to learn a little more about the Verdant brand.

Phil created Verdant with the aim of developing an upmarket bar and restaurant, either for people to enjoy a drink in fabulous surroundings on their way into town, or for those who wanted a taste of class and luxury on their doorstep.

“I wanted to develop something a little special, somewhere people could enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and a little luxury,” explained Phil.

“We have created a warm and welcoming, yet sophisticated environment, with exquisite food from award-winning chefs and a great selection of wines.

“I’m really proud of Verdant.”

Phil, whose previous businesses have included design and property development, now plans to build on Verdant’s success and has even hinted at the possibility of opening a second restaurant in the city.

“The success of Verdant has inspired me. I am considering a second restaurant, perhaps also in the Allerton area, possibly even in the city centre.

“The future is bright.”