Simply Heathcotes - Liverpool

Simply Heathcotes arrived in Liverpool and by all accounts has taken the town by storm, as in some of their other places in with this chain the style is fairly minimalist and very design conscious; whilst the cuisine is largely to match, it is not at the cost of ignoring the local culinary culture. This compliment is clearly appreciated by Liverpudlians who flock to it in large numbers, probably encouraged by its convenient proximity to the centre of activity in the city.

Situated on Beetham Plaza, the spectacular glass and granite building symbolises Liverpool's successful Capital of Culture award. Modern marble floors, black and white 'cool' colours retain a warmth enhanced by the front of house team headed up by Heathcote's Sarah McKercher, who runs a well organised front of house.

This is also a restaurant that sees its fair share of celebrity watching, whilst business deals of the city are acted out at lunch; be sure to make a reservation for dinner, busy, bustling, friendly and ably supported by James Holden accomplished cooking, a mixture of British and European dishes are well seasoned and executed, and a Michelin Bib Gourmand to boot. A place to see and to be seen.

As with their other restaurants, the food shows inventive flair but does not ignore popular favourites, dishes might include warm black pudding and soft boiled egg with celery salt, gems and salad cream; pan fried Goosnargh chicken livers on toast, wild garlic, grapes and apple brandy or risotto of tender stem broccoli and English parmesan with walnut pesto to commence a meal with.

Then you might be tempted by a choice of poached organic salmon, herb mayonnaise, celeriac coleslaw or mustard and horseradish crusted tuna steak, red onion marmalade, fondant potato and red wine among an excellent selection of fish dishes, while carnivores are not neglected with grilled chicken breast, sweet corn fritter and English asparagus, tarragon crème fraiche or char grilled Curwen Hill rump steak, grilled Portobello mushroom and balsamic roasted tomatoes.

Vegetarians are also well catered for with sweet onion and potato omelette, rocket salad and tarragon crème fraiche or char grilled organic vegetables with rustic houmous, rosemary focaccia and green olive tapenade.

There is a wine list that is as good as most and better than many, with house wine at £13.95. The menus and any special offers change seasonally - 3 times a year - for Spring in February, June for Summer and Autumn/Winter in October. More information can be obtained from their extremely informative Website, including their latest menus and any special offers, as well as details on private dining and catering for your kids.