Firstly, we need to ‘fess up. His & Hers has form with the Bridewell. We held events there, that many of our readership will remember. Great atmosphere; very well stocked bar, and all entertainingly good fun. Bridewell was classified as a prison, back in the day. It is a beautiful venue, with a classic courtyard, vaulted bricked ceilings within, and exquisitely tiled grand fireplace and intimate seating in booths. All steeped in history.
Words: Jean Hill
Bitter Social is located on the first floor. An inviting space, enlivened by a cocktail bar that lightens and brightens the spirit, even at first glance. Victoria and David, hospitable hosts, were there to guide us through the dining experience. We chose comfortable booth seating.
It is a tasting menu. Victoria and David wanted to combine their own brand of cuisine with classic and some rather original cocktails. We trusted them to match the cocktail to the dish, and that turned out to be a really good call.
Confit chicken usually involves wrapping the chicken in cheesecloth, first adding brown sugar, fresh thyme, bay leaf, star anise and Kosher salt. This is usually weighted down and left in the refrigerator for a day or two, prior to cooking. We do not have the exact recipe used at Bitter Social, though we can confirm it is the best we have ever tasted.
As accompaniments, we chose charred leeks with sherry Ricotta; delicious. The heritage tomato tart with basil had a totally fresh, wide awake taste, packed full of flavour. The creamy potatoes, were exactly as described, decorated with mushrooms and rosemary. The mix and match worked perfectly. The oyster shell gin and vermouth gave the charred leeks an extra kick. The gin, samphire, lemon and maraschino cherry cocktail was our personal favourite that was matched to the tomato tart. You might want to sample the rum and aubergine with the creamy potatoes though, just to be sure.
Bitter Social is operating as a pop up currently. They are not going away. Their plan is to establish roots, in Liverpool, and spread the word about their quite inspired, original venture. People seem to love the venue, and the tasting menu. Rumour has it that they do a delicious Sunday roast too. Plenty of reasons to go back.
Website: www.bittersocial.co.uk
You may also enjoy our Albert Dock restaurant review.