Global Major Cities Guide

Unique Liverpool culinary traditions and dishes visitors should try, such as Scouse stew and regional desserts.

What is it? Scouse is a hearty meat stew that is synonymous with Liverpool. The dish is so integral to the city’s identity that Liverpudlians are affectionately nicknamed "Scousers." It is traditionally made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and sometimes turnips, all slow-cooked to create a rich and comforting meal. A vegetarian version, known as "Blind Scouse," omits the meat.
Cultural Significance: Scouse has its roots in a Norwegian dish called "lapskaus," brought to Liverpool by sailors in the 19th century. It became a staple for the city’s working-class population due to its affordability and simplicity.
Where to Try It:
- The Baltic Fleet (Wapping, L1 8DQ): A historic pub serving traditional Scouse with crusty bread and pickled red cabbage.
- Maggie May’s Café (Bold Street, L1 4HR): Known for its authentic and affordable Scouse.
- Homebaked Anfield (Oakfield Road, L4 0UF): A community-run bakery near Anfield Stadium that serves Scouse pies.
Cost: A bowl of Scouse typically costs between £6 and £10, depending on the venue.
Tips for Enjoying: Pair Scouse with a pint of local ale for the full Liverpool experience. Don’t forget the pickled red cabbage—it adds a tangy contrast to the rich stew.

What is it? Wet Nelly is a traditional Liverpool dessert, essentially a moist bread pudding made with leftover bread, dried fruits, spices, and suet, often served with custard. The name "Wet Nelly" is a playful nod to its sticky texture.
Cultural Significance: This dessert reflects Liverpool’s frugal culinary traditions, where no food was wasted. It was a popular treat during times of economic hardship.
Where to Try It:
- Cuthbert’s Bakehouse (Mount Pleasant, L3 5TB): A charming café offering homemade Wet Nelly.
- The Quarter (Falkner Street, L8 7PB): Known for its desserts, including traditional puddings.
Cost: A slice of Wet Nelly costs around £3–£5.
Tips for Enjoying: Enjoy it warm with a generous serving of custard or cream for a comforting treat.

What is it? Liverpool Gin is a premium, locally distilled gin that has gained popularity in recent years. It is often infused with botanicals like juniper, coriander, and citrus, reflecting the city’s maritime connections.
Cultural Significance: Liverpool’s gin-making tradition dates back to the 18th century, when the city was a major port for importing exotic spices and botanicals.
Where to Try It:
- Liverpool Gin Distillery (Castle Street, L2 7LQ): Offers gin-tasting experiences and workshops.
- The Philharmonic Dining Rooms (Hope Street, L1 9BX): A historic pub with a great selection of local gins.
Cost: A gin and tonic featuring Liverpool Gin costs around £6–£8 in most bars.
Tips for Enjoying: Try a gin-tasting flight at the Liverpool Gin Distillery to sample different varieties and learn about the distillation process.

What is it? Everton Mints are black-and-white striped boiled sweets with a minty flavor and a toffee center. They are named after the Everton district of Liverpool.
Cultural Significance: These sweets were originally sold by a toffee shop near Everton Football Club’s stadium and have become a symbol of the area.
Where to Buy:
- Quiggins Attic (Grand Central Hall, L1 2SF): A quirky shop selling traditional sweets.
- Liverpool ONE (City Centre): Various confectionery stores stock Everton Mints.
Cost: A bag of Everton Mints costs around £2–£4.
Tips for Enjoying: These make a great souvenir or gift for football fans and sweet lovers alike.

What is it? Liverpool’s location on the River Mersey and its maritime history mean that fresh seafood is a key part of the local cuisine. Popular options include cockles, mussels, and fish and chips.
Cultural Significance: The city’s docks were once a hub for the fishing industry, and seafood remains a staple in many households.
Where to Try It:
- The Lobster Pot (Whitechapel, L1 6DS): A classic fish and chip shop.
- The Art School Restaurant (Sugnall Street, L7 7EB): A fine-dining venue offering exquisite seafood dishes.
- Liverpool Indoor Market (St. John’s Shopping Centre, L1 1LR): A great place to buy fresh seafood.
Cost: Fish and chips cost around £8–£12, while seafood platters at upscale restaurants can range from £20–£50.
Tips for Enjoying: For an authentic experience, enjoy fish and chips wrapped in paper with a sprinkle of salt and vinegar.

What is it? Potted shrimps are a traditional British delicacy made by preserving small brown shrimps in spiced butter. They are typically served with bread or crackers.
Cultural Significance: This dish is a nod to Liverpool’s maritime heritage and the abundance of seafood in the region.
Where to Try It:
- The London Carriage Works (Hope Street, L1 9DA): A contemporary restaurant serving potted shrimps as a starter.
- Matou Pan Asian Restaurant (Pier Head, L3 1BY): Offers a fusion of local and Asian flavors, including seafood.
Cost: A serving of potted shrimps costs around £6–£10.
Tips for Enjoying: Spread the shrimps on warm toast for a simple yet indulgent snack.

Baltic Market (Cains Brewery Village, L8 5XJ):
- Liverpool’s first street food market, offering a mix of local and international cuisines. Look out for vendors serving Scouse and other regional dishes.
- Cost: Dishes range from £5–£10.
Liverpool Food and Drink Festival (Sefton Park, L17 1AP):
- Held annually in spring and autumn, this festival showcases the best of Liverpool’s food scene, including local delicacies, craft beers, and artisan products.
St. John’s Market (St. John’s Shopping Centre, L1 1LR):
- A historic market with stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, and traditional snacks.

Timing: Many pubs and restaurants offer lunch specials, which are more affordable than dinner menus.
Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available, even for traditional dishes like Scouse.
Local Drinks: Pair your meals with local ales, ciders, or Liverpool Gin for an authentic experience.
Souvenirs: Pick up Everton Mints or locally made chutneys and jams as edible mementos of your trip.

Liverpool’s culinary scene is a delightful mix of tradition and innovation, offering something for every palate. Enjoy exploring the city’s flavors!

Liverpool