So on an unassuming side street near the Philharmonic in Liverpool, you will find the white archway to a culinary delight. Home to Chef Patron Paul Askew and being in the UK’s top 50 restaurants meant it had been on my foodie radar for a good while and so our 13th wedding anniversary seemed the opportune time to visit. As there was no show on at ‘The Phil’ we found parking nearby and after a quick drink in our old university haunts, we wandered over.

The interior was bright and airy, with skylights, contrasting red chairs and green umbrellas along the ceiling. Bad luck for some but I thought they were great fun. We had booked the tasting menu at £110 each (we always splash out on our anniversary) and were seated promptly by a very friendly waitress. Steve’s allergies were discussed and we ordered mocktails to enjoy with our Amuse Bouche.

Unfortunately very early on we were brought food that Steve couldn’t eat, but the situation was rectified quickly. As it was bread we could tell it wasn’t right and everyone was very apologetic. Once sorted, the course was very much enjoyed. And every other course was adapted perfectly.

So, here’s what I ate………..

🍾A glass of Charles Heidsieck champagne with a selection of Chef’s snacks

🍞Amuse bouche served with Art School breads with seaweed and oak-smoked butter

🥗A summer salad of Growing Field28 vegetables to include:Golden and candy beetroot, heirloom tomatoes, baby carrots, red peppers & olives d la Grecgue

🍏Pan fried scallop with hazelnut crumb, soubise, apple gel and truffle jus

🍗Breast of guinea fowl served with confit leg & cabbage parcel “vadouvan” sauce with stuffed morel

🥩Fillet of Black Angus beef and courgette flower stuffed with lobster mousse, baby gem lettuce, cauliflower purée, purple cauliflower and lobster bisque

🧁Pre Dessert

🍫(V, Vs) Tropical textures and flavours, Valrhona “Manjari’ chocolate, passion fruit & coconut

Steve’s food was very similar but with a few things removed, swapped etc.

Each dish was described at it was presented and we were ‘warned’ the truffle jus with the scallop was incredible. And boy oh boy was it incredible. I could have drank an entire jug of just that sauce. The Guinea fowl which I have never had before was delicious, as was my first ever courgette flower. But then it was stuffed with lobster.

Each dish was plated beautifully and on lovely crockery. Yes I’m at the age where I’m admiring the crockery haha. And it was all scraped clean, not a bite was left. There was nothing on any dish that I didn’t enjoy. Which in my book means that it was a very successful meal out.

We honestly believe that this intimate little restaurant with its modern menu and it’s Michelin Guide Listing, isn’t far off some of the Michelin starred places we have eaten at over the years. A proper little gem in Liverpool.