Cocktail Bars Liverpool | A Guide to the Best in the City

It’s a city famous for amazing landmarks, stunning architecture and friendly locals – but Liverpool has another trick up its sleeve. Venture into the city centre at dusk and you’ll find that the cocktail bars Liverpool plays host to are some of the very best in the country.

Trying to find a decent Martini can be tricky, but this city is filled with an eclectic selection of hidden hideaways which definitely know their Mojitos from their Manhattans. From high-class haunts in the business district, to decadent dives in the lively Ropewalks area of the city, whatever your style of drinking, you’ll find a cocktail bar to suit your tastes.

Whether you’re a Santa Chupitos fan or prefer the sunny climates of the Baltic’s Botanical Gardens, we’ve created the ultimate guide to the very best cocktail bars Liverpool has to offer…

Cocktail Bars Liverpool

Santa Chupitos

The home of the Five Dollar shake, Santa Chupitos isn’t for the faint-hearted.

Billed as a ‘cocktail emporium’, this intimate candlelit venue is the home of some of the most talented mixologists in the business. Paired with an eclectic atmosphere and a small, but outstanding drinks menu, you’ll find plenty of rum, copious amounts of tequila and more fire than any other bar in the city.

Situated off the beaten track on Slater Street, Santa Chupitos brings the pure enjoyment of drinking back to life and is one of the best cocktail bars Liverpool is home to.

Aloha

Firmly set in Hawaiian culture, this mesmerising tiki bar is all you’ll ever need to escape the dull crutches of working life.

Head to this magical island-themed bar for showstopping Zombies, tropical Piña Coladas and Aloha’s notorious fishbowls, served in anything from an exploding volcano to a Deadman’s Chest.

The Underground Gin Society

A hidden gem on Castle Street, descend into the basement of The Underground Gin Society and enjoy some of the best gin-based cocktails in Liverpool.

Combining the most delicious world gins with unbelievable garnishes and flavours, this cocktail bar is a favourite with the local workers. With a relaxed ‘after work feel’ before 8pm and an upbeat and vibrant vibe past 9pm.

A big gin fan? Alongside all of these cocktail bars Liverpool plays host to, there are also some special gin bars. Check out our gin lovers guide to Liverpool.

El Bandito

Next up in our guide to the best cocktail bars Liverpool has to offer is the sister-venue to Santa Chupitos. You’ll find El Bandito hidden away under the main venue, accessed by a small set of basement steps.

Dimly lit and reminiscent of a desert saloon, this tequila bar serves up moody vibes, candlelit corners and plenty of hard-hitting tequila treats into the early hours.

Serving up strong but utterly delicious cocktails you’ll soon find yourself immersed in tequila heaven, struggling to climb to the exit and explore the rest of the cocktail bars Liverpool hosts.

The Bastion Bar & Restaurant

Following on in our guide to the best cocktail bars Liverpool offers is the perfect bar for football fans. The Bastion Bar & Restaurant offers a unique experience, blending the history of Liverpool FC and its most famous manager with an elegant drinking experience in the centre of Liverpool.

Situated in The Shankly Hotel on Victoria Street, you can enjoy exclusive memorabilia from the footballing legend, Bill Shankly, while indulging in delectable drinks from master cocktail makers.

Make sure you take a look at the telegram sent by The Beatles to Shankly, wishing the Reds good luck for an FA Cup final and Bill’s very own typewriter, perfectly preserved for years to come.

From classic cocktails, to eclectic teapot sharers (including Gin Flings, Autumn Tennessee and Berry Nice), The Bastion’s cocktail menu is varied and comprehensive.

We recommend you try The Liverpool Legend, a local twist on a whisky classic: Woodford Reserve, Flaming Cherries, Orange Bitters, Sugar and Zest.

Some Place

Follow the green light of this secretive bar to find Liverpool’s only absinthe and cognac establishment. There’s no door to this concealed cocktail bar – just a staircase with a singular green light at the top.

Some Place means serious business. The dimly-lit space serves up dangerously decadent cocktails. Stay authentic by opting for sugar cubes laced with the green stuff or get involved with their unique water fountains and absinthe pipes. Who knows, you might be visited by the green fairy herself!

Chamber 36 

A beautiful restaurant and bar in the heart of Liverpool, Chamber 36 serves Pan-Asian cuisine alongside expertly crafted cocktails.

Sitting in the shadow of the magnificent Chinese Arch, this relaxing cocktail bar takes inspiration from the story of the Shaolin monk who would pass through 35 chambers in search of total unity for the body, mind and soul before reaching the 36th chamber: a point of inner harmony and peace.

Offering an extensive and ever changing menu of delicious tipples, Chamber 36 is one of the most stylish cocktail bars Liverpool has to offer.

Maya

A true testament to the Mexican spirit, boasts an unrivalled atmosphere of all the cocktail bars Liverpool offers, with caged booths, religious iconography and plenty of Day of the Dead fiesta feelings.

Situated below Lucha Libre, Maya offers handcrafted cocktails by expert mixologists. Try exciting twists on some old classics: Mango & Jalapeno Margarita, Bloody Maria and El Zombre (this one is lethal).

 

Jenny’s Bar

Jenny’s Bar is a testament to what a true speakeasy bar should be.

Situated within the legendary Jenny’s Seafood Restaurant on Fenwick Street, this 1920s-inspired establishment is a dastardly den of debauchery reminiscent of Gatsby-era New York.

Velvet curtains, palm leaf ceiling design, stained glass windows and eccentrically-dressed barman make Jenny’s a surreal cross between a flapper’s hideout and a disco dive.

And the drinks are as eclectic as the decor, with the menu changing every month, so you’ll never be sure what you’re getting when you enter.

Berry & Rye

Still one of the best-kept secrets in Liverpool, Berry & Rye takes you way back to prohibition days. Situated on Berry Street, this unique bar isn’t just another drinking hole – it’s an experience.

Look out for an unmarked, black door subtly situated somewhere along the road and knock if you dare.

Berry & Rye don’t do queues, so if there isn’t enough room for you, you’ll have to come back later. But once in, you’re seated and given a leather clad menu where you’ll find an astonishing collection of whisky, old classics and intriguing concoctions you’ve never even heard of.

Stepping back in time, the dark leather, exposed brick and rough wood all ensure you won’t leave here in a hurry. It’s one of our favourite cocktail bars Liverpool has to offer.

Bar Signature

Take a trip down Liverpool’s notorious Mathew Street to find this stylish establishment. Bar Signature takes cocktails seriously, so you know you’re in good hands when you enter the doors.

Book a cocktail masterclass at this two-story cocktail bar to learn the secrets behind making premium drinks with Signature’s skilled mixologists or head down one night for a sophisticated night-out with award-winning DJs and spectacular live entertainment.

Situated within the Signature Living Hotel, it’s a must-visit venue for a night out in Liverpool.

Red Door

Another of Berry Street’s sumptuous cocktail bar offers, Red Door, a late night drinks establishment that’s helped kick-start the road’s redevelopment.

Perfectly placed near to many of the city’s best restaurants, it’s the ideal cocktail bar to head to for a digestif with your other half.

Handcrafted cocktails include Bakewell Sour, Rise and Shine, an incredible French Martini but for a new tipple to try, order one of their signatures. We recommend the Mrs Jones with Tanqueray, Aperol, St Germain, grapefruit, a little lemon juice and a sugar rim.

Carpathia Champagne Bar & Restaurant

For a cocktail with a view, this stunning rooftop champagne bar & terrace offers the best seat in the city with a delectable selection of Titanic-themed drinks.

Head up to the 7th floor of the historic 30 James Street Hotel and step into the elegant restaurant & bar, which pays tribute to the RMS Carpathia – The Cunard Line vessel which rescued over 700 survivors on the notorious night the Titanic sunk.

With phenomenal panoramic views of Liverpool’s famous waterfront and its iconic skyline, you can enjoy delicious concoctions named after the ship’s most famous passengers including The Thomas Andrew Manhattan and the Ismay Negroni.

This stunning cocktail bar in Liverpool also features a brand new outdoor terrace, boasting spectacular views of Liverpool’s waterfront and the Three Graces.

Filter + Fox

Head to this tranquil café bar to taste uniquely chosen delights from its ever-changing cocktail menu.

Featuring delicately crafted drinks inspired by the world’s influence on Britain through the centuries, you can indulge in a selection of small plates, salads and sandwiches to accompany your cocktail, making this intimate bar the perfect after work getaway or early evening retreat.

Enjoy the Commonwealth Gimlet (basmati, lephant gin and wasted citrus cordial), the Kookaburra (eucalyptus cordial, tequila altos blanco, lillet blanc and chamomile) or Hokkai The Noo (longmorn whisky and miso caramel) for a world-wide trip in a tiny bar.

Alma de Cuba

Get ready to fiesta at Alma de Cuba – Liverpool’s only Cuban-inspired cocktail bar.

Set within the former St. Peters Catholic Church, this bar and restaurant brings the spice of Latin America to Liverpool with fiery cocktails, samba-sounds and incredible Friday and Saturday night surprises.

Head down before midnight to enjoy a carnival spectacular featuring authentic samba girls and a stunning petal drop, before the darkness moves in for Alma’s bewitching Voodoo late night club experience, complete with fire performers and dangerous dancers.

Their expansive cocktail menu is split into themes such as Alma De Latino, El Clasico and Alma Creaciones to ensure you really are spoilt for choice.

Birdies Bar & BBQ

Head to this outdoor cocktail bar in the Baltic Triangle for colourful cocktails inspired by the beautiful British blue tit. Serving Apocalypse Cow BBQ food alongside delicious drinks, it’s the perfect cocktail bar to head to for pre-drinks before a game of Ghetto Golf or to hide-in when the Baltic Market gets too busy.

And don’t worry if it rains – there’s a covered area as well.

Gusto

‘Con Amici’ – that’s the motto of Gusto Liverpool and it takes the message to heart. The ultimate cocktail bar for large parties, Gusto at the Albert Dock is happy to seat parties as large as 40 at a single table, ensuring you won’t be having cocktails alone ever again.

With beautiful views of the Albert Dock and a small but smart cocktail menu that includes gin & tonic concoctions as well as a number of delicious aperitivo, Gusto is the sophisticated choice for a cocktail in one of Liverpool’s most iconic landmarks.

The Peacock

A destination for original drinks, this offers creative takes on classic drinks. Try one of their alternative martini cocktails, such as the Cherry Cross the Mersey or enjoy a signature concoction. Our favourite is the Mexican Sloe Dance – Plymouth sloe gin mixed with the seductive tastes of Mexico. The Peacock is one of the most lively cocktail bars Liverpool is home to.

Ex-Directory

You might struggle to find this cocktail bar – situated in an unknown location in the city centre, look out for a bright red telephone box somewhere in the business district for a chance of entering the secret establishment.

Enter a unique telephone number and you’ll gain access to this top secret underground establishment

Once you’ve cracked the code and found the right phone box, you’re transported to a dimly lit speakeasy with an impressive cocktail list. Ex-Directory is all about performance, so enjoy ordering frivolous drinks such as the Catwalk Bellini (which comes in a stiletto), the Golden Kiss (a golden glittery mess) and Smoke in the City, which is served smouldering in front of your eyes.

Frederiks

Hope Street’s neighbourhood bar offers beautiful cocktails and sophisticated interiors on one of Liverpool’s most historic and bohemian streets. Head down to Frederiks on Wednesdays for an evening of jazz with a side-helping of cocktails – perfect for a glamorous date night to treat your other half.

23 Fleet Street

Get ready for tequila hour at this warehouse bar in the centre of Liverpool’s beating nightlife district. Describing itself as an oasis in the middle of madness, 23 Fleet Street offers a (marginal) moment of rest bite from city life.

With 115 different types of tequila on the back bar, this Mexican-inspired bar is mixing up a whole range of delicious cocktails. Why not try some Jalapeño Margaritas to get you going before you head out to enjoy the best of the city’s nightlife?

Motel 

A quirky dive bar on Fleet Street, Motel combines the spirit of American graphic novels with a post-punk edge to create a trendy establishment that is the perfect destination for any Ropewalk’s night out.

Broody and intimate, inside you’ll find hipster-esque exposed brick work and a raw, industrial feel. The walls are covered in original artwork by illustrator Dave Baddeley and bold neon signs willing you to forego sleep.

The cocktails are delicious and they have a great selection of lagers and craft ales, what more could you want!

Furnivals Well

Recently opened,  was launched by the people behind Berry & Rye, so you can guarantee you’re in good hands if you visit. Located within one of Liverpool’s old Victorian prison, this cocktail bar is jam-packed with heritage and history and serves some five star drinks as well. Try out their sharing fish bowls, served in elegant glass trifle bowls, if you’re heading for a night out with a group.

Rox

Rox is a contemporary cocktail bar on Castle Street that’s small but streetwise. Enjoy classic cocktails alongside especially mixed signatures such as their Fairytale of New York whiskey concoction, or their Lemon Cheesecake of vodka citron, limoncello and lemon juice. This is one of the most underrated cocktail bars Liverpool offers.

Looking for more delights on Castle Street? Check out our guide to where to spend a night out on Castle Street.

The Vincent

Describing itself as the place for the first bite and the last cocktail, The Vincent is your one-stop establishment for a luxurious night out in Liverpool.

This elegant café and cocktail bar is situated in the picturesque Exchange Flags just behind the Town Hall on Castle Street. Offering everything from sushi to fine British cuisine with a fine-tuned collection of all your favourite classic cocktails, the stylish bar is known to be frequented by some of Merseyside’s most famous faces including a number of LFC players…

Revolution Albert Dock

If you’re looking for a picturesque first date cocktail bar, Revolution at the Albert Dock boasts, waterside views of the iconic Liverpool landmark and an excellent cocktail collection as well.

Cocktails always taste much better when enjoyed in the sun and with stunning views of Liverpool’s pride and joy, the Albert Dock, you’ll easily find yourself losing a few hours here.

Goodness Gracious @ Oh Me Oh My

Liverpool’s favourite sunshine cocktail spot is this stunning rooftop terrace bar which looks over the iconic Liver Building and Liverpool’s heritage waterfront. Open seasonally from March-October, this magical rooftop space is perfect for special occasions and celebratory drinks.

The rooftop garden is situated on the 8th floor of West Africa House and has a whole host of tea and berry infused Liverpool Gins, as well as delightfully fruity cocktail concoctions. Of all the cocktail bars Liverpool has to offer, this one is a must-visit.

Panoramic34

Incredible cocktails and even better views, Panoramic34 is Liverpool’s high flying cocktail bar that everyone should visit at least once.

With an extensive cocktail list, you’ll be spoilt for choice as you ponder over an Apple Pie Martini, L’Orange Bakewell, Frozen Watermelon Margarita or an Orange Brûlée to name a few.

One of the highest restaurants in the UK, this extravagant establishment is situated within Liverpool’s West Tower, boasting panoramic views of the city that you won’t forget in a hurry.

Botanical Garden

A gin garden located on New Bird Street in the Baltic Triangle area of the city, head to for your hit of Vitamin D and plenty of pickling from some delicious gin-based cocktails in one of the best outdoor cocktail bars Liverpool hosts.

This outdoor establishment offers plenty of mixes with mother’s ruin, with past favourites including the New Bird Warmer (cherry-infused fin with hot ginger ale and all the fruit), plus the chance to taste some of Liverpool’s very own alcohols from local distilleries, such as Liverpool Gin and Turncoat.

Mulholland 

The UK’s first singing diner, Mulholland brings a sprinkle of stardust to the Ropewalks area of Liverpool. Capturing the sparkling spirit of Broadway, you can enjoy a range of boozy cocktail shakes that are the perfect mix of your favourite dessert and your most desired tipple.

Alongside this tasty menu of cocktails, Mulholland also offers a unique musical experience with talented singing waiters performing classic hits and musical numbers as they serve you!

The Smuggler’s Cove

Head down to the Albert Docks for a nautical night of all things rum. The Smuggler’s Cove is a pirate’s delight, with cocktails inspired by the deep, dark sea.

For a night out you’ll never forget with friends, order the Barrel of Death – a giant Smugglers twist on the classic Zombie, torched with Gosling’s 151.

If you’re a sucker for a tot of rum and only venture out for the golden nectar, our guide to the best rum bars in Liverpool could be perfect for you.

The Alchemist

Famous for its molecular mixology, The Alchemist’s arrival in Liverpool was met with excitement from fans of eccentric cocktail creations.

These sensational cocktails look incredible on your Instagram feed, with smoking teapots, colour changing concoctions and other mystical delights.

Located within a stunning building that used to be an old bank, this aesthetically pleasing bar is a popular choice for evening drinks with Liverpool’s business district workers.

Be at One

One of the UK’s favourite cocktail stops, Be at One serves superstar cocktails in Liverpool’s central nightlife district.

Placed at the end of Seel Street, pick from over 130 different cocktails, with everything from the sweet to the sour and even some strangely spicy ones.

Sometimes the classics are the best, though, so if you want to play it safe, go for their Pornstar Martini.

Santa Maluco

Cocktails and pizza…need we say more? Enjoy as much rodizio pizza as you can handle and wash it all down with a deliciously crafted rum cocktail at this Castle Street establishment that brings the buzz of Brazil’s nightlife to the streets of Liverpool.

Serving its sister-establishments classic £5 Dollar Shake (vodka milkshake anyone?), along with exciting flavours including the bacon & Maple Old Fashioned (yes, really) you’re in for a taste-bud explosion if you stop for drinks at Santa Malucos. Our favourite? Hurray for Hugo – Diplomatico Rum, a little bit of sugar and chocolate bitters. It’s the perfect dessert after your meal…

Salt Dog Slims

Renowned as being the greatest American style bar in Liverpool, Salt Dogs may be known for their Steins and Brines, but they also have a cracking cocktail menu.

Cocktail lovers are encouraged to pay Sat Dog Slims a visit, and in particular summer cocktail lovers are encouraged to sample the St Tropez Sour. A blend of Finlandia Vodka raspberry and rhubarb liqueur, raspberry jam, cranberry juice, lemon juice and whites, it’s delicious.

With quirky interiors including a bath, hot dogs on tap and a little sun trap beer garden, what more could you need?

79 Seel St, L1 4BB

The Merchant

The Merchant’s speciality is Liverpool’s favourite: a gin & tonic.

Pick from a mix of flavours and garnishes to make your night at The Merchant one of the best. The Merchant isn’t only a one of the most fabulous cocktail bars Liverpool offers, but it is also home to some of the best events and quiz nights in the city.

They also serve Nightcrawler pizza, so if you’re feeling like you’ve had one G&T cocktail too many, pop through to their dough bar for a slice of something nice to line your stomach.

Neighbourhood

Experience the sophistication of New York in the centre of Liverpool at Neighbourhood. This vibrant bar and restaurant offers divine cocktails that are as beautiful as they are delicious.

From Salted Caramel Supreme to a classic Zombie and a Cucumber Martini, their extensive cocktail menu brings up more than a few surprises as you’re browsing through. If you’re out with friends, why not enjoy an indulgent sharer cocktail of Pornstar Punch or a Royal Mojito to help you celebrate in style, whatever the occasion.

Castle St Townhouse

Head to Townhouse for classic cocktails with a Castle Street twist – whether you fancy sipping on an authentic Mojito or trying an elegant Bow Tie, this business district hangout is the perfect bar for night owls who want their cocktail in a glass, without the added rubber duck.

Man’s Ruin

Rum lovers rejoice – amongst all the cocktail bars Liverpool offers, this one’s for you. Nestled below the cobbles of Stanley Street, Man’s Ruin is a secret hideaway that serves up everything rum.

The pirate-themed rum bar is a fun alternative to your regular, with barrel-shaped booths and plenty of rum-based cocktails which will have you hoisting the Jolly Roger by the stroke of midnight.

Brass Monkey

Hidden away on School Lane behind Liverpool One, isn’t much to look at from the front. But step inside this eccentric cocktail bar for a night of fantastical cocktail and magical concoctions.

One of the more exotic cocktail bars Liverpool offers, Brass Monkey’s ith swinging chairs, exotic tiling and hanging umbrellas make it hard to know where to look when entering, but keep your eyes firmly on the menu for some delightfully delicate drinks showered in edible flowers and elegant garnishes.

Cosy Club

Situated in the heart of Liverpool One, Cosy Club’s Liverpool branch offers teatime tipples for thirsty shoppers. Enjoy a boozy afternoon tea with cocktails including Earl’s Breakfast (vodka, Earl Grey tea and citrus fruits), Rhubarb & Ginger bramble  or watermelon and basil iced tea.

Carlisi Liverpool

The newest cocktail bar on the block, this is making a name for itself with elegant aperitifs, delicious Italian food and knock-out cocktails. Look out for its aqua-marine frontage and duck inside on a rainy day for a work-day lunch with a side of Aperol Spritz. Carlisi look set to become one of the best cocktail bars Liverpool offers.

The Florist

Flirty, frivolous and utterly delightful. That’s the only way to describe the cocktail offers from Hardman Street’s latest establishment. Inspired by the three key styles of floristry, The Florist’s extensive drinks menu will take you on a sensory journey to charm the senses.

Sit down amongst the hundreds of beautiful blooms that fill his historic old building, and enjoy delectable drinks such as Lavender Thistle, Rhubarb in Bloom and Hibiscus Margarita.

Aether

The latest venture from the Alchemist, Aether is located right at the head of Liverpool’s shopping district. Inspired by the four elements, enjoy bewitching concoctions from four drinks menus, such as the Easter Island on the Earth list (Appleton Signature, Tiki peach foam and citrus) or  Hot Grog from the Water menu (Union 55 rum, maple, citrus, Amaro and ginger). Aether is one of the newest cocktail bars Liverpool is home to and brings our guide to the best cocktail bars Liverpool offers to a close.

The No.9 Bar and Restaurant

What is being hailed as the best new bar in Liverpool, The No.9 Bar and Restaurant, which is set within the spectacular Dixie Dean Hotel on Victoria Street, is sure to get taste buds tingling.

With phenomenal drinks and incredible, Everton-themed cocktails, The No.9 Bar and Restaurant is, without a doubt, one of the most exciting cocktail bars in Liverpool.

Other cocktail bars Liverpool has to offer…

Alongside all these incredible cocktails bars Liverpool has many more establishments across the city. Head to Bold Street for night time delights from Leaf and Rope & Twine, or take yourself down to South Liverpool’s Smithdown Road for Mexican-inspired concoctions from Evil Eye. In Aigburth, the beautiful Lark Lane also hosts Diamonds & Rust, a dog-friendly establishment for pooch-loving cocktail drinkers and South American bar Que Pasa. Check out our Lark Lane guide for more delightful drinking spots.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our guide to the best cocktail bars Liverpool has to offer. If you’re not feeling the sweet stuff and would prefer a plain old beer, why not check out the best beer gardens in the city?

If all this alcohol is making you hungry, take a look at our updated guide to all the best places to grab a pizza in the city. 

Looking for some things to do in Liverpool this spring/summer? We’ve got you covered with our guide to 40 free things to do in Merseyside this spring/summer.