The Smugglers Cove

The Smugglers Cove is a themed bar and restaurant on Liverpool’s Albert Dock. There are maps, wooden apothecary cabinets and even tunnel-like interiors to recreate the thrill of evading Liverpool’s customs men. It’s not as naff as it sounds. In general, it’s quite tastefully done and there’s not as much smuggling tat as you might imagine.

Food and drink is of a reliably decent standard with hanging kebabs the big favourite as well as a cracking Sunday Roast. Burgers and classics like steak and chips also make an appearance.

Cocktails are well above what you might expect for a pubby-looking restaurant, and the team behind the place have form for fancy spritzes and the like.

The Smugglers Cove is one of New World Trading Company’s operations so it shares a lot of similarities with places like The Club House and The Botanist. It also means that staff are professional and service is usually seamless.

Families are well catered for; some of the items on the kids menu look downright delicious. It’s also a good place for live music with a busy, buzzy atmosphere and a convivial outdoor terrace.