Why Liverpool's Business District is a must visit for foodies

Dining at some of the city’s most majestic buildings isn’t just for the suits you know!

Liverpool has been busy establishing itself as a real foodie hub in the North for a number of years. We’ve become huge fans of the indie, street food and casual dining vibe around the Baltic and Bold Street but there’s also another almost un-tapped source of phenomenal food, Liverpool’s Business District.

Populated by workers and tourists alike, Castle Street, Water Street, James St, Exchange Flags and the surrounding areas are littered with fabulous restaurants serving up first class world cuisine. From Indian to Italian, Japanese to British classics done well, these are the top Liverpool Business Quarter restaurants serving up quality breakfast, lunch and dinner menus oh and of course, the best cocktails!

1 – The Vincent Café & Cocktail Bar

Across the cobbles of the imposing Exchange Flags, you’ll find The Vincent Café & Cocktail Bar. With an air of exclusivity, The Vincent’s sophisticated interior, seasonal and specialist sashimi and sushi menus attract breakfast, lunch and dinner guests throughout the day. Coffee, cocktails or a bite to eat, you’ll find it with added finesse here.

2 – The Old Bank

As the name suggests, the former bank has been transformed into a stylish dining room which offers up great value meals with a bit of flair. Pub grub done really well is what you can expect with small plates, sandwiches, posh pies and classic British dishes. An ideal location for a quick lunch or post work bite to eat.

3 – Fazenda

Calling all meat overs! Nestled in the historic Exchange Flags (just behind Liverpool Town Hall) lies Fazenda. On offer you’ll find a selection of the finest quality meats, all of which are carved at your table, as and when you want them. This brand new dining concept has gone down a storm in Liverpool as has the vast array of gourmet sides including salads, meats, cheese and breads. Bring your appetite!

4 – Castle Street Townhouse

Castle Street is a hive of activity morning, noon and night and to complement your all-day dining needs, Castle Street Townhouse offers seasonal menus with something for everyone. From premium bacon butties (or bottomless brunch) to get you started and the likes of Rib Eye Steak, Pan Fried Salmon and more.

5 – The Alchemist

We know and love The Alchemist for its theatrical cocktails and mixology but not a lot of people know that the same innovation and creativity is continued in its kitchen. Serving up a varied, tantalising menu of world cuisine you can pair your Zombie cocktail with the likes of cod dahl, jerk chicken, crispy belly pork and more.

6 – Manhattan Bar & Grill

Fancy a taste of the big apple? Manhattan Bar & Grill is the place for big taste burgers, hearty pasts dishes, pizzas, fresh leafy salads and meaty main courses such as the chicken and rib combo which is served with fries and grilled tomatoes. Don’t forget to check out the cocktail list, it’s a winner.

7 – Silk Rd

Alder Hey awards 2018.
Images by Gareth Jones

When it comes to impressive venues, few can compete with unparalleled views of the Three Graces from Silk Rd at Beetham Plaza. Serving up mouth watering dishes from the Med to the Pacific, Silk Rd is the place to go for tasty tapas, sharing meze and world beers.

8 – The Underground Gin Society

Friday night drinks never looked so good than at The Underground Gin Society on Castle Street. When it comes to cocktails, these guys will have you watching that office clock til 5pm hits and you’re sipping a classic Negroni. This independent gin & cocktail bar is the place to unwind after work.

9 – Piccolino

The essence of Italian dining is getting everyone together for a big old feast and Piccolino, Cook Street shares that traditional sentiment. The intimate restaurant invites you to arrive early, soak up the atmosphere with a drink at the bar before settling into a stylish booth to enjoy a wide range of Italian dishes made with authentic, seasonal produce. We can’t get enough of the ravioli granchio!

10 – Mowgli

The indian street food jewel of Castle Street (technically Water St but we’re claiming it) has to be Mowgli. Owner Nisha Katona MBE has shared her families recipes with the world and we can’t get enough. From chaat bombs to Bunny Chow curry, Himalayan Cheese Toast and the instantly impressive Office Worker’s Tiffin. Prepare to taste the rainbow at Mowgli.

11 – The Liverpool Gin Distillery

When it comes to breathing new life in to the city’s oldest buildings, none have been more successful than the £1m Liverpool Gin Distillery. The Grade II listed building on Castle St opened its doors just a few months ago and is already considered a food and drink hot spot. With distillery tours, gin making classes in the lab, tasting (of course) and two fully stocked bars and food offering including pizza, tapas, flatbreads and nibbles, the Liverpool Gin Distillery is a must on any visit to the Business District.

Where will you dine next? You can access Quandoo online at Quandoo.co.uk or you can download the free app to your phone or tablet by visiting the App Store or Google Play. Good food at your fingertips.