Great Cocktail Bars in Liverpool
It's safe to say that Liverpool's bar scene is mighty impressive. It's the reason it has hen and stag groups from all over the UK flocking to it. So we decided to compose a list of some outstanding bars we think deliver the greatest cocktails the city has to offer. With the end of lockdown in sight, we've all had enough of trying to make our own espresso martinis, it's just not the same! The following cocktail bars are all passionate about what they do and we know they'll be dying to sling some cocktails your way.
East River
103 Allerton Rd, Liverpool L18 2DD
This neighbourhood deli inspired by Manhattan’s lower East side has you covered from AM to PM, with breakfast, bagels, brunch and cocktails the pastel pink decor will have you swooning. They have an ‘uptown’, and ‘downtown’ themed cocktail menu with drinks masterly created to appease the eyes and dance with your tastebuds. 'The Mile High Clover Club' being a fave to many includes, Pink gin, Cocchi Rosa, Violette, Raspberry, Lemon Juice & Whites or maybe your tastebuds call out for something a little bit stronger, try the 'Lucky Pierre'-Wild Turkey bitters, Lemon Zest, Absinthe Rinse.
Polidor 68
89 Lark Ln, Liverpool L17 8UP
Wine bar, cocktail bar and bistro, this picturesque bar has the same name as the Parisian restaurant which featured in Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris. Oh, so chic! The '68' reflects a year in Paris when the underground bar scene was in full flow. It can be found in the most quintessential location on Lark Lane. This is where you will end up after that stroll around Sefton Park. You’ll find your classic French 75s or Pornstar Martinis but we encourage you to go on an exploration of the House Cocktails such as the Forest Fruits Mai Tai or Dirty Margarita. Parisian chic cafe on the inside with intimate lighting, exposed brick to create an industrial theme and a full-length bar with stools to position yourself on for the evening ahead.
Berry & Rye
48 Berry St, Liverpool L1 4JQ
A 1920s prohibition themed cocktail bar. Half the fun is in trying to find the entrance as there is no sign outside and you're just hoping you knocked on the right door. You're customarily greeted by a gentleman at the entrance and this is all part of the journey. You'll be holding your breath until the gentleman lets you in. Once you walk through the curtain it's like you've entered a Coen Brothers' movie. Rustic feels with low-level lighting in accompaniment with old school blues and jazz. The cocktail menu is hidden inside novels and the drinks are craftily contrived by passionate bartenders. You'll discover some house classics amongst a range of house specials. Manhattans are a must try and you'll find the best goddamn Bloody Mary you'll ever drink. Olives, cheeseboards and nuts are all available to keep you going.
The Oracle
92 Duke St, Liverpool L1 5AG
A secret society practising both mixology and magic. There is nothing ordinary about this speakeasy. It is both elegant and charismatic with a touch of mystery. It boasts vintage decor with a snug fireplace. Their extensive cocktail menu has plenty to entice every palate from sweet & sour to fruity or refreshing. You start to suspect the mixologists are telepathic as they quickly align the right drink to your aura. Throughout this occult experience, you are also entertained by a personal magician with every round of drinks.
81 LTD.
81 Seel St, Liverpool L1 4BB
Liverpool’s premier speakeasy cocktail bar. Invitation only or use the pre-booking system. You can only access this second-floor bar via a coded door that is revealed to you on the night. This exclusive bar is located on the notorious Seel street above the hustling Salt Dog Slims. Glamorous and seductive on the inside with majestic leathered booths and a slick polished wooden bar that runs the entire length of the room. 81 Ltd. is both luxury and sophistication personified. Their ‘Poisons & Tonics’ menu has plenty of cocktails to choose from, but we highly recommend an Old Fashioned.
Jenny's Bar
Fenwick St, Liverpool L2 7NT
Jenny’s cocktail lounge has that Saturday Night Fever with its disco beats and colourful plush interiors. This disco drinking den follows the speakeasy theme with a sign out front saying ' Jenny's Seafood Restaurant'. You venture down some stairs into a basement making it feel secretive and hidden from the outside world. The cocktails are electric and you are guaranteed to have those hips swinging with a watermelon margarita in hand.
One Percent Forest
42 Allerton Rd, Liverpool L25 7RG
Icelandic inspired coffee shop and cocktail bar in the idyllic setting of Woolton Village. Cosy on the inside with welcoming staff, One Percent Forest presents heavenly tasting cocktails. A sanctuary for the locals to curl up with a good book and an even better cocktail. Our favourite cocktails are 'Flowers Under the Pillow' with Reyka Vodka, Elderflower Liqueur, Lemon, Chamomile & Cardamon Syrup, Soda or 'Tequila, Tequila, Tequila, Tequila' with Dill-Infused Tequila, Blood Orange, Mango, Avocado Syrup, Vegan Foam.
Ex Directory
8 Vernon St, Liverpool L2 2AY
You enter the bar through a telephone box!! Need I say anymore? The menu has a full list of classics but then they have their own page of signatures like the 'Catwalk Bellini' which is served in a 'stiletto'. Exposed white brick walls, panelled wall mirrors to people watch and a rotating disco ball hangs from the ceiling. You'll have lots of content here for the 'gram from the telephone box entrance to drinking from a shoe.
Present Company
37-39 School Ln, Liverpool L1 3DA
A friendly city centre cocktail bar serving world-class cocktails. The Duster is the winner in our eyes, Havana 7 Yr Old Rum, Brown Butter, Amontillado Sherry, Pecan Caramel. Stylish interior with bold colours helps set the scene at this hip local hang out. They also have a thing for crumpets! Now we do too! Throughout lockdown they've been selling pre-batched cocktails to the masses. Biscoff Old Fashioned. Going to leave that there.
