Al Fresco Dining in Liverpool

The sun is finally shining! With the unpredictability of the UK weather, it seems wrong not to make the most of it and dine outside.

Whether its spontaneous afterwork drinks, a brunch catch-up with your friends or a meal with the family, there are loads of places that offer the combination of great food and outdoor seating areas. From small independent cafes to rooftop bars overlooking beautiful views, the options are endless.  

We have picked the top al fresco spots all around the Liverpool City Region, and what’s even better is you don’t have to worry about traffic or parking, as all are just a short walk from a Merseyrail station.  

Read on for the full list and plan your journey with Merseyrail here.

 

Royal Albert Dock (James Street or Liverpool Central station)

Madre

No need to hop on a plane, you can transport yourself to Mexico by enjoying incredible Mexican dishes and drinks in the sun. All food and drink are inspired by the Madre family’s dining experiences in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Oaxaca, so this is as good as it gets.

Maray

If you want delicious food with the flavours of the Middle East, look no further. Meals can be paired wine and bold, delicious cocktails like Le Marais Martini, Spelling Bee and Small Town Chase. You may never want to leave Maray!

Lunyalita

With a ground floor sun terrace with seating for 30 guests and an upstairs champagne balcony overlooking the dock, this must be on your list for outdoor dining. Head there any time of day, they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner.

 

Bold Street (Liverpool Central station)

 

Bombed out Church 

Make the most of the sunshine at the Garden Bar & Café whilst taking in the beautiful setting of world-famous St Luke’s bombed out Church. Open until late, you can enjoy the high-quality drinks as the sun goes down.

Image Credit: David Munn

LEAF

LEAF is a popular choice amongst locals, and there is no doubt why. The independent restaurant serves delicious breakfast and brunch food until 3pm and its outdoor area is perfect if you love the vibrant atmosphere of Bold Street.

Fat Hippo

Boasting ‘Liverpool’s best burgers’, it would be rude to deny yourself. Their BurgerLab is introducing new dishes just in time for summer, Mexican style. This includes the Waco Taco Burger and loaded nachos. Plus, even if it’s a little chilly, the outdoor area is covered and heated!

 

Hope Street (Liverpool Central)

Free State Kitchen 

Theres a reason why everyone raves about the food at Free State Kitchen. The mouth-watering American classic burgers are sourced locally and have a contemporary twist that make it like no other. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options are always available too. The menu is best enjoyed in their outdoor area, which has been described as one of Liverpool’s best!

The Quarter

You can’t go wrong with The Quarter. The charming restaurant caters to your every dining need, whether you want breakfast, brunch or dinner. Alternatively, if you just want a quick cake and coffee on a gorgeous sunny morning before errands, The Quarter and its outdoor area will not disappoint.

Buyers Club

If ‘summer vibes’ could be a place, Buyers Club would be up there. With loads of tables, umbrellas and fairy lights, the neighbourhood bar and fresh pasta kitchen is guaranteed to be a hit for everybody. FYI, walk ins are available but booking is recommended to make sure you get a table.

 

Crosby (Waterloo or Blundellsands and Crosby station)

The Lake House 

The definition of a ‘hidden gem’, the shoreside restaurant allows diners to overlook the stunning views of the marine lake in Crosby. After your delicious meal, take advantage of the sunny weather and take a walk on across the dunes.

Inside No4

Definitely consider Inside No4 for your next meal or drinks out. The restaurant offers a fresh British menu, and a range of cocktails and wines, all enjoyed within a relaxing yet upbeat atmosphere. There is even a DJ on certain days, bringing the holiday to you.

The Bus Yard

A bar in a bus? You heard it right. As strange as it sounds, nothing makes more sense than going to the Bus Yard on Crosby Beach to enjoy a cocktail whilst listening to live music in the warm weather. If you get a bit peckish, the street food made by local suppliers will make you want to come back for more.

 

Southport (Southport station)

Lord Street Hotel

You can’t go wrong with Lord Street Hotel. Situated in Southport’s town centre, this has everything you need to really soak in the sun – there is the beautiful Terrace Bar and Prosecco Lounge upstairs, or if you want to watch the match there is the Sports Bar downstairs with a 4 metre big screen. Result!

The Bold

The Bold has plenty of tables outside the iconic hotel for you and your loved ones to have a meal or drink just before/just after you have finished shopping for your summer wardrobe at the shops. A special shout-out to their roast dinner, it’s unbelievable!

The Grand

This is one to keep you eye on…The Sky Bar is coming soon to The Grand, and promises to provide the perfect mix of drinks, views, and friends. Sipping cocktails whilst taking in the Southport skyline on a rooftop bar? Yes please!

 

Lark Lane (St Michaels station)

Old School House

Located on the edge of Sefton Park, there is nothing better than grabbing a bite to eat after a summer’s walk or picnic. The pub restaurant offers you the chance to experience its yummy small plates, pizza, lunch or brunch menu on its lovely spacious patio area.

Love and Rockets 

Love and Rockets is a solid shout on a busy sunny day as although there’s always a chance of it being full, there are loads of tables and benches available so you might want to try your luck. The chill atmosphere, food and cocktails and even the board games make this a no brainer for your next al fresco plans.

Marantos

There is something for everyone on Maranto’s Balcony Bar. The bar, which highlights the rich architectural heritage of Liverpool, is the ideal location for a couple of drinks, watching the football or even playing pool or shuffleboard!  

 

Chester (Chester station)

The Boathouse

Dining at The Boathouse’s scenic floating beer garden whilst taking in the picturesque view of the River Dee is as blissful as it gets, and makes the hustle and bustle of Chester city centre a distant memory. There is a variety of choice on the menu, as well as award-winning cask ales.

Hickory’s Smokehouse

Say yes to Hickory’s authentic South American-style menu al fresco and be transported into what feels like a barbeque in Kansas or Texas. With comfy couches, stools, or large booths, this is the place to be in Chester.  

Popcorn Bar

Get the summer party started at Popcorn, where the fun and lively atmosphere have made this restaurant and bar the go-to place in Chester. Don’t miss out on the live music and DJ events in the garden full of benches for you and your friends.

 

Get there with Merseyrail

Plan your journey with Merseyrail via the Journey Planner here.

For more event and location inspiration, click here.