Here, at His & Hers, we have had a love affair with Liverpool almost all of our lives. A magical Xmas Royal Albert Dock extravaganza beckoned. The trip around shops and restaurant hot-spots, was an opportunity too exciting to miss. We started at The Leather Satchel Company. The humble school satchel has been transformed into a designer tour de force. An investment piece to cherish is waiting with your name tagged into it. Our editor is now the proud possessor of a beautiful cerise, embossed leather note-book, that is bound to impress.
We started the dining adventure at Gusto on the Dock. It is venue for that special occasion, or an intimate lunch, or a fun party. It is classic Italian cuisine in a traditional vaulted brick arched setting, with gothic candelabra as table decorations. It is totally memorable with romantic views that thrill. Moonlight shimmering across the Dock.
No time to linger, though you probably should, over a favourite dessert. On to Revolución de Cuba. The atmosphere was electric. The décor and design are reminiscent of Cuba’s colonial history. Relax to the sound of lapping water, and spirited Cuban music. We took in the sweep of an intricate wrought iron staircase. The menu is packed full of ‘main plates’ and ‘little dishes’. The food is beautifully presented. Charred Halloumi comes with butternut squash and courgette, with chilli jam glaze with a selection of tapas plates. There are layers of flavour in all the dishes. The Halloumi has bite and delicious seared flavour and the jam is home-made, with a great chilli kick. The aubergine gratin was inspired. Sliced aubergine and chilli cheese are slowly baked in a spicy black bean Bravas sauce. It is described as food that feeds the soul: it certainly tasted that way.
Lunyalita was a natural progression. And the culinary delights go on and on. Lunyalita is the little sister to Lunya in Liverpool ONE. An investment in a rich heritage; this is deli food transported from across the world, prepared with love and care. Lunya characterises the Spanish/Catalan food culture. Everything is cooked from scratch. A strong relationship with Spanish suppliers ensures authenticity. We supped warm mulled wine; delicious. And we sampled the Spanish black pudding, which is subtly different, deeper, gentler, sweeter flavour than its English counterpart.
All good things must come to an end. We finished at Peaberry Coffee House on the Dock. If you haven’t been, there is still time before Christmas. The coffee is wonderful. It is an old-fashioned bakery, as far as quality goes, spacious, with welcoming, modern décor that is relaxing right down to your feet. The dessert, which involved a dark chocolate bombe, made to order, was spectacular. This is a venue where you can chill out and feel right at home.
The night ended at Smugglers Cove, a fun venue. If you venture a little further, you will discover the Liverpool Xmas Ice Festival, where you can skate under a clear canopy, and count the stars. This is located close to the Beatles statues, by the Pier Head. The magic of Christmas is all around.
House on the Dock: 0151 7097226 Gusto: 0151 7086969
Revolución de Cuba: 0151 2036101
Peaberry Coffee on the Dock: 0151 7097226
Lunyalita: 0151 3177199
You may also enjoy: Lunyalita lightens up the Albert Dock.
