LUNYALITA ON THE ROYAL ALBERT DOCK: A PERFECT PLACE FOR AUTHENTIC CATALAN FOOD, AND BREATHTAKING VIEWS…
Words: Jean Hill
His & Hers takes us to some great destinations. Lunyalita is in a traditional setting, with the original arched ceilings, brickwork and flagstone floors from two centuries ago. Add to that a glorious sun terrace with an intimate, moody bar. Step upstairs into a dining room, with a Spanish vibe, overlooking the Albert Dock. The space is perfect for family gatherings, parties, weddings and corporate events.
Lunyalita is the little sister to Lunya in Liverpool ONE. There is an investment in a rich heritage, with deli food transported from across the world, and prepared with love and care. This characterises the Spanish/Catalan food culture. Everything is cooked from scratch. A strong relationship with Spanish suppliers ensures authenticity. Local suppliers provide fresh vegetables, meat and fish. Ward’s of Birkenhead supplies the fish and Edge’s of New Ferry the meat. The Baltic Bakery provides the bread.
We stepped out of the sunshine, into the sunshine. Lunyalita is light and bright, and looks out to spectacular views, and inside is a cosy inviting space. The cuisine is classic Catalan with one or two added influences. Paella, using Bomba rice from Sueca, can be made fresh to order and is worth the wait. There is a rich vegetarian version. On a previous visit, we discovered a dizzying range of both goats’ and cows’ Spanish cheeses that tasted divine. This time we are studying the lunch menu with serious intent.
I discovered scallops on the ‘specials’ menu. They were perfectly cooked, with that subtle flavour that translates into a smile on my face. One of my companions ordered pulled pork and found it spicy with great flavour. Another companion ordered a roasted vegetable and hummus sandwich which came with a satisfying crunch and deliciously smooth zesty hummus. Sandwiches come with home-made chips and side salad. The bread has great texture and taste: thought that was worth mentioning. Tapas is always an interesting option. We glanced at the dessert menu, and could not resist. The churros, fried dough pastries, made from choux pastry, come with hot thick chocolate sauce. That tells you all you need to know, except the churros have a biscuit like consistency, not remotely oily. The brownies looked spectacular: a work of culinary art. Happily they taste as good as they look: moist, rich chocolate and with that essential depth of flavour.
Peter and Elaine Kinsella (the owners) have an enviable reputation for delivering authentic fine dining. Their family of restaurants’ motto: ‘passion on a plate’ rings true.
Tel. 0151 3177199.
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