It’s fairly well known among the people of Liverpool that the Baltic Triangle is a hub of good food. However, it is most likely new information, it certainly was to me, that on the cusp of the triangle, where China Town merges into the city centre, that there is fantastic food to be found in the vault of the Wedding House – The Vault Liverpool.
Down the stairs of this beautiful Grade II listed building you can expect to find a snug café which also functions as an event space. The vintage inspired décor also incorporates the original features of the space, which was once a bank vault, but the atmosphere is anything but cold. It’s ideal for family and friends to relax over coffee and food or in the night time enjoy the bar atmosphere. The staff are friendly and are on hand to cater to any dietary requirements one may have which is reflected in the menus offering of vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options. The menu is reasonably priced and leaving with full stomachs verified a good value for money. There is also a courtyard space decorated in an equally as thoughtful manner, which I will return to see again since Storm Dennis kept us indoors.
Shak Shuka- £7.90
Admittedly when it comes to brunch, I’m not the most experimental in my choices. I cling to a full English or in recent years moved tentatively to avocado on toast, but today I found myself intrigued by such a continental option on the menu. The dish is comprised of oven baked chickpeas, tomatoes and spinach and topped with two fried eggs. While it may not be intensely spicy, it does add a kick to brunch and its thick soup type consistency makes for a hearty and warming winter dish. The sourdough toast served on the side is perfect to dip in and the fried eggs were runny just as I’d like. As a whole, the meal worked, and I was glad to have stepped out my comfort zone. The vegetarian dish was filling so much so that we left with our deserts in brown paper bags.
Vault Pancakes- £6.90
These American style pancakes were absolutely perfect. They were a little bigger than we expected but with their fluffy texture they were impossible to refuse. Served with a berry compote and maple syrup, the dish struck up the perfect balance of sweet and savoury which was an absolute delight for the taste buds.
Millionaire slice
Perfect with a cup of tea, this millionaire slice was rich in its chocolate topping and shortbread base which snapped perfectly. The caramel oozed from the middle and improved significantly when popped into the microwave after a walk home in the rain.
Scone
A classic component of afternoon tea, served with jam and cream, the Vault scone did not disappoint. It was a great size and packed with plenty of fruit. The texture was light and complimented perfectly by the strawberry jam and cream. There were also options of plain and cheese scones, if fruit isn’t quite to your liking.
Recommendation
The only downside to The Vault Liverpool, is its somewhat secret location but with great food, service and atmosphere it earns status as a hidden gem. I’d definitely visit again and hope next time to bask in the court yard with another one of their fantastic dishes.
The Vault Liverpool - Rating
Service: 10/10
Price: 8/10
Food: 9/10
