Liverpool's dining scene is set for a significant enhancement as two prominent hospitality brands mark major milestones. The locally celebrated restaurant Barnacle has officially opened its new permanent venue in the Georgian Quarter, while the internationally recognized The Ivy Asia has confirmed a November launch date for its first Liverpool location.
These developments signal continued investment and growth in the city's food and drink sector, offering residents and visitors new high-end dining experiences. Barnacle brings a focus on hyper-local and seasonal produce, while The Ivy Asia introduces its signature opulent style and pan-Asian cuisine.
Key Takeaways
- Barnacle Opens Permanent Home: The restaurant, founded by Paul and Harry Askew, has moved from a pop-up to a permanent location on Hardman Street.
- Focus on Local Produce: Barnacle's menu is built around seasonal and organic ingredients sourced directly from regional farmers and producers.
- The Ivy Asia Announces Launch: The new restaurant will open on November 4th, located above The Ivy Liverpool Brasserie on Castle Street.
- Opulent Dining Experience: The Ivy Asia will feature luxurious interiors, 46 covers, and a menu of sushi, sashimi, and other Asian-inspired dishes.
Barnacle Establishes Roots in the Georgian Quarter
After gaining a loyal following since its 2021 debut as a pop-up, Barnacle has now transitioned to a permanent establishment. The restaurant, led by the father-son chef team of Paul and Harry Askew, is now welcoming guests at its new home on Hardman Street, a prime location in Liverpool's historic Georgian Quarter.
The move represents a new chapter for the brand, solidifying its place within the city's competitive culinary landscape. The venue includes a main dining area, an attractive bar, a cozy snug, and an outdoor terrace for drinks and snacks.
A Menu Driven by Seasonality
The core philosophy of Barnacle revolves around a deep connection to local suppliers. Chef Harry Askew emphasized that the restaurant's offerings are dictated by the best available produce from the region's farmers. This commitment to freshness and locality is a cornerstone of their culinary identity.
"The dishes will be hand-written on a menu to reflect what’s available to us that day, with meat and vegetarian options and plentiful trimmings," stated Harry Askew, highlighting the dynamic and ingredient-led approach.
This method ensures that the menu is constantly evolving, offering a unique experience with each visit. The restaurant will operate from Thursday to Sunday each week and will also feature a traditional Sunday roast service, a popular choice for diners in the city.
Nautical Heritage and Inspiration
The name and ethos of Barnacle are deeply personal. Paul Askew, who is also the chef patron of the acclaimed The Art School, shared the story behind the name. It pays homage to his father, Captain Barnacle Bill Askew, who traveled the world with the Blue Star shipping line.
"My father was Captain Barnacle Bill Askew and he sailed the world on the Blue Star lines – his travels always inspired me and set me on my course in hospitality," explained Paul Askew. "This formed the founding principles of Barnacle when we launched in 2021 and it remains the cherished narrative we have to take Barnacle forwards in our new chapter."
This narrative of global travel and local connection is woven into the restaurant's identity, aiming to tell stories through its food and drink offerings.
The Ivy Asia Confirms November Arrival
Just one year after the successful launch of The Ivy Liverpool Brasserie, its sister brand, The Ivy Asia, has announced it will open its doors in the city. The highly anticipated restaurant is scheduled to officially open on November 4th, bringing its unique blend of Asian-inspired cuisine and lavish decor to Merseyside.
To generate excitement for the launch, the brand recently held a promotional event on Castle Street. The spectacle featured a large cherry blossom tree installation and performances by traditional Japanese dragon dancers, creating a vibrant preview of the restaurant's aesthetic.
An Opulent Setting in a Historic Building
The Ivy Asia will be situated in the iconic former Bank of England building, occupying the space directly above The Ivy Liverpool Brasserie. The interior design is expected to be a major draw, characterized by opulent furnishings, vibrant colors, and intricate details that are hallmarks of the brand.
The new venue will offer an intimate dining experience with 46 seated covers, complemented by additional space at a central bar. This setup is designed to cater to everything from casual lunches to more elaborate evening meals in the heart of the city's commercial district.
Signature Dishes and Ambiance
The menu will feature a range of signature dishes that have become popular at other Ivy Asia locations. Diners can expect a selection of high-quality sushi and sashimi, along with flavorful small plates designed for sharing and substantial main courses. A curated list of show-stopping cocktails will also be a key part of the experience.
Laura Mills, Managing Director of The Ivy Group, expressed her enthusiasm for expanding the brand's presence in Liverpool.
"Since we opened The Ivy Liverpool Brasserie last November, it has been such a joy to welcome so many wonderful guests. We know how much Liverpool loves The Ivy Asia, and we’re thrilled that this vibrant city now has its very own," Mills commented.
Reservations for the new restaurant are already being accepted through its official website, indicating strong early interest ahead of the November opening. The launch is being managed by the public relations firm Propel PR, which also handled the successful opening of The Ivy Liverpool Brasserie.