Neighbourhood bar and restaurant on Liverpool’s increasingly bustling Castle Street has quickly become one of our favourite places to drink, dine and dance. Here, YBnews managing director Jennie Lewis lists some of the reasons why…
It’s just so pretty
I’m hard pushed to think of another bar or restaurant in the city that has quite the same impact on arrival as Neighbourhood.
It has long been one of my favourite spots, with its grand entranceway, iconic domed ceiling and characteristic carvings. I was always sad that incarnations since its Trials Hotel days never quite seemed to be able to stand the test of time.
Designed by architects Lucy and Littler in 1868, the Grade II-listed building was formerly the Alliance Bank. The space features a domed banking hall, Corinthian columns and a great number of beautiful and intricate period features giving this space a truly inimitable look and feel.
Many people remember the space as The Trials Hotel, as launched by Liverpool businessman Wayne Rose in 1986. It was a popular watering hole for lawyers, due to its close proximity to the Queen Elizabeth Law Courts and was long thought of as one of the city’s most upmarket places to stay, drink and dine.
And, whilst the space was always quite lovely, Neighbourhood have certainly put their own stylish stamp on the place to breath-taking effect. The marble tables and gold fixtures and fittings make the interior bang on-trend, whilst a smattering of neon gives a luxe party vibe.
The owner, I’m told, has an eye for detail and insists on importing in the most incredible looking flower arrangements each week.
A warm welcome
They’re a lovely bunch at Neighbourhood, too. From the moment you step foot inside, your well taken care of.
The staff are smiley, friendly and attentive and all have a relaxed way about them, which in turn puts you, the customer, completely at ease.
Chloe in particular goes out of her way to make sure your experience at Neighbourhood is everything it should be – nothing is too much trouble. I’ve taken groups to Neighbourhood on three separate occasions, from client lunches, to family brunches and hen parties – and have been delighted every time.
The best brunch
So let’s talk about that brunch. From steak and eggs (my personal favourite) to homely favourites like marmite crumpets, through to something a little more luxurious, lobster and eggs – everything is exquisite – I should know, I’ve been back time and again.
Neighbourhood also serve ever-popular bottomless brunch every Saturday and Sunday. Favourites from their extensive breakfast menu paired with an endless stream of prosecco, Bloody Mary’s or seasonal breakfast cocktails. Priced at £35 it is a real treat and a great way to start a shopping weekend with the girls. Fact.
Afternoon tea, alright by me
Afternoon tea at Neighbourhood is pretty special too. The scones are, by popular opinion amongst our group, some of the best we had ever tasted.
The mini cakes and desserts are baked fresh on the premises by a passionate pastry chef. The macarons were chewy and full of fruit flavour, the Battenberg deliciously moist and the lemon meringue tarts, which proved a favourite with my guests, was sharp, sweet with a crisp, crumbly, buttery pastry – just delicious.
And, whilst afternoon tea has become a popular choice in Liverpool and beyond, rarely is it served to the tune of live music. Neighbourhood has an extensive roster of set musicians and singers who perform regularly –something else that sets the restaurant aside from its competitors and makes it just that bit more special.
A nice spot for night owls
Though lovely by day, by night Neighbourhood really comes into its own and provides truly unique surroundings for those looking for something a bit different from an evening out.
Neighbourhood calls itself ‘cool and casual’ – but we’re not entirely sure we’d agree. Cool, yes. Casual, no so much. It’s true, there’s a relaxed vibe about the place – which is unusual given its grandiose appearance, soho-style menu and on-the-pricey-side drinks menu.
But that’s ok, because we’re looking to Neighbourhood to provide something a bit more special. We want Neighbourhood to be our go to when we’re looking to really treat ourselves, throw on our glad rags and soak up some East Coast atmosphere. And in that sense, it delivers every time.
And with its booths and soft seated areas, friendly staff and extensive cocktail menu, it’s certainly easy to make a night of it at Neighbourhood.
Indeed, we couldn’t not mention the cocktail menu because it is a-ma-zing!
From the classics like French 75, Mojitos and the ever-popular Pornstar Martini, to the reimagined like the Maple Popcorn Old Fashioned. There’s plenty for the sweet-toothed too, like the Salted Caramel Supreme – a blend of Havana rum, vanilla, condensed milk and salted caramel. And, fast becoming their signature cocktail, All The Fun Of The Fair offers strawberry and bubblegum liqueur topped with cranberry, prosecco and candyfloss. Yum!
And all of this to the tune of Neighbourhood’s resident saxophonist playing easy, breezy dance tunes making you feel like you really are in the heart of hip and happening New York.
New Menu
The food at Neighbourhood ain’t half bad either – in fact, it’s pretty darn delicious. Offering sushi and small plates like buttermilk chicken lollipops, lobster tacos and tasty little mini burgers – Neighbourhood provides the ideal place to snack or lunch with friends.
Similarly though, their grill and mains menu is quite a treat, offering some of the best steaks in the city, with fish and veggie options, all served with American-style sides, like mac and cheese and onion rings – delicious date night fodder right there.
Neighbourhood are set to launch their new menu next week, and to celebrate, they are offering 50% off food, available all day from Sunday 12 – Friday 30 June for any bookings made online. You can book your table now by visiting http://www.neighbourhoodrestaurant.co.uk