Irby, French Restaurant Guide

“Just watch the sunset over Liverpool from this 34th-floor restaurant”, say fans of this spectacular venue in the West Tower, the city’s tallest. Run by Cathy Frost, whose developer husband Hugh built the tower, the operation’s modern British cuisine has consistently impressed reporters, and new head chef Nathan Booth has settled in well following the departure of Elliot Hill to the Chester Grosvenor.

In the shadow of the Eastgate Clock, this glam pavement-side brasserie (the second restaurant in a fine old hotel in the city centre) makes a luxurious spot to break from retail therapy in this shopping-mad city. There’s a “varied menu”, and although results have been “up and down” over time, locals say that “of late it’s much improved”. Top Menu Tip – “always oysters” (served with a selection of Champagnes).

2021 Review: “A long-term favourite which has been going for decades” – in recent times now decamped to La Tasca's old digs from its original home in The Rows – it boasts “plush and trendy” décor; “the moules marinières are wonderful and there are nights dedicated to surf and turf or lobster”.