Breakfast in Liverpool has evolved beyond the traditional fry-up, now boasting a diverse array of options such as eggs benedict, shakshuka, and the ubiquitous avocado on toast.
With such a vast selection, Liverpool could easily be considered the breakfast capital of the north.
Whether you prefer a cosy café atmosphere or a classic greasy spoon, or if you support local bakeries over chains, we’ve compiled the definitive list.
From sausage barms to flaky croissants and towering pancake stacks, Liverpool has it all.
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Bamboo Brunch and Cocktails, Bold Street
Recommended by Ryan Paton:
Despite only opening in summer last year, Bamboo has immediately earned its place on the city centre’s foodie haven of Bold Street.
My first trip to the stylish spot came on my birthday and it is an ideal way to start any special occasion. Breakfast and brunch are my favourite meal to go out for and Bamboo managed to surprise me with some of the original items on the menu.
The menu is chock full of inventive savoury and sweet items and the hearty offerings mean you get value for money as the food is perfect to fuel any busy day.
I was unsure whether short rib shakshuka would pair well together but was happy to be proved wrong as the incredible dish was a taste sensation. The meal came with a shot of chilli honey that was an interesting novelty that you could drizzle over the main. For those with a sweeter taste, you can opt for a fluffy pancake stack or decadent French toast.
The venue is an Instagrammer’s paradise as the presentation of the food is top notch and there is also a flowery ceiling that is the cherry on top of a vibrant interior. Any food item can be washed down with a delightful cocktail with the grapefruit margarita a particular recommendation.
Moose Coffee, Dale Street
Recommended by Lottie Gibbons:
Moose Coffee on Dale Street is always bustling, and it’s easy to see why. With generous portions leaving you thoroughly fed, it’s perfect for catching up with friends or colleagues in its relaxed atmosphere, adorned with moose antler chandeliers and vintage lamps. Their North American menu features top-notch bacon, eggs, and sausages, along with a variety of eggs benedict options.
I highly recommend the ‘Lula Puebla’ for £10 – smashed avocado on toasted sourdough with chipotle chilli jam, poached eggs, pico de gallo, feta, chilli flakes, coriander, and a lemon wedge. Moose also offers sweet options like homemade pancakes and Belgian waffles. If you want a satisfying meal that will tide you over until the late afternoon, Moose is the place to go.
Our Coffee Shop, Spital
Recommended by Emily Sleight:
Smack bang in the middle of some shops in the Lancelyn Precinct in Spital, I’d definitely describe Our Coffee Shop as a hidden gem. It has a ‘vintage’ feel to it, with loads of character.
Its classic decor really adds to the cosy aesthetic, and although it seems a little ‘old school’ in terms of furniture, the menu has a real modern twist to it.
From courgette pancake stacks with warm homemade berry compote to a vegan breakfast with falafel and sautéed spinach, their menu is really quite unique. The eggs benedict is my all-time favourite, with a thick hollandaise sauce, salty bacon, golden yolk and a soft muffin – all made from local ingredients.
The coffee shop recently won the Good Food Award for 2023/2024, and is the only coffee shop on the Wirral to have done so. If that doesn’t suggest how good it is, I don’t know what will.
Chatwins, Allerton Road
Recommended by Jamie Greer:
You’re spoilt for choice for food on Allerton Road but there’s nowhere better for breakfast than Chatwins in my opinion. As soon as you walk through the door, you’re drawn to the range of scintillating hot food displayed on the counter.
It has all the classic breakfast butty options, with bacon, sausages and fried eggs available on a barm. These are also available as a toastie and you can buy a fully cooked breakfast too. Alternatively, if it’s more of a hot lunch you’re after, you enjoy its hot turkey, beef and pork or pick out one of its hot pies.
Chatwins took over from Ray’s Craft Bakery in 2022 and has established itself as a firm favourite on Allerton Road since. This, combined with it being a relatively small space, often means it’s a struggle to get a seat inside. But this minor inconvenience is more than worth it for one of the best breakfasts you can get in the city.
No.6 Coffee & Kitchen, Formby
Recommended by Kate Lally:
Formby offers some great places for brunch and breakfast but No.6 Coffee & Kitchen has to be my favourite, as it is an absolute delight. A stone’s throw from Freshfield station, it couldn’t be easier to get to and once you step inside you’ll be very glad you came.
There’s always a warm welcome and everything is made using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. You’ll find all the usual breakfast staples, with plenty of veggie and vegan options, but the best thing on the menu for me is the Turkish-style eggs.
A garlicky yoghurt and dill-topped wedge of toasted sourdough sit underneath crispy fried eggs that have been drizzled with homemade spicy butter. It is a treat.
There’s also a hearty breakfast burger which deserves a mention too.
Despite having only been in business for a couple of years, No.6 has quickly established itself as a local favourite, and it’s dog-friendly too. Breakfast is served until 1pm.
Claremont Farm, Bebington
Recommended by Cheryl Mullin:
When it comes to eating breakfast out, there’s one café that sits at the top of my list. Claremont Farm is tucked away off Old Clatterbridge Road, in Bebington, boasting not just a fantastic café, but a farm shop brimming with delicious produce.
Breakfast is only served until 11.30am, after which the lunch menu is served, so you have to make sure you get there with plenty of time to spare. The breakfast menu is fairly extensive, offering everything from simple jam on toast, or muesli, to eggs benedict and homemade beans on toast – with the option to add halloumi.
But I’m a big fan of Claremont’s pick-your-own breakfast, which starts with two Raby Woodland eggs (which you can have poached, scrambled or fried) with two pieces of white or granary toast – priced at £4.90. From there you add items to the plate, with options like beans, bacon, sausage, black pudding, salmon, avocado, kimchi, and mushrooms all priced separately.
I usually opt for poached eggs on white toast, adding a ramekin of baked beans at 80p, and two hash browns at £2.40. If you do go a little later, and are there after breakfast has finished serving, be sure to leave room for a slice of cake – you will not be disappointed.
Albert’s Schloss, Bold Street
Recommended by Ellen Kirwin:
Albert’s Schloss might be your go-to place for a good time on a Friday or Saturday night out with friends, but it’s also a great place for a bite to eat. I was recommended breakfast at the Bold Street restaurant by a friend and couldn’t believe the variety on offer.
From early morning full breakfasts, served at 9am, to brunch dishes, there’s something for anyone, as long as you’re awake before 11.30am. The menu includes both sweet and savoury options including Turkish eggs and fully loaded pancakes.
If you’re feeling adventurous, I’d recommend the Kroissant, which is a croissant-style pastry sandwich, packed with slow-cooked onions, gouda, Burford Brown fried egg, crispy shallots, chives, curry ketchup – with your choice of bacon, sausage or vegan sausage.
Café Tabac, Bold Street
Recommended by Maria Breslin:
It’s been serving breakfast to its loyal Bold Street clientele for an impressive 50 years now. It is Liverpool’s original cool cafe and, in my opinion, still one of the best.
So, full disclosure, back in the day I used to work at Cafe Tabac and may be a little bit biased. Though, the fact both my daughter and I are now regular customers is surely testimony to Tabac’s enduring and ageless appeal.
During my waitressing days, the late and great Rita Lawrence was at the helm – a straight-talking, no-nonsense matriarch with a heart of gold. As the menu states “her breakfasts were as legendary as her choice of headwear”.
So in tribute to my former boss, I always go for a Rita’s Small English – toasted buttered bloomer, free-range fried egg, back bacon, sausage, vine tomatoes, mushroom, Tabac hash and baked beans.
It’s a trip down memory lane and £11.45 well spent.
Rhubarb, Lark Lane
Recommended by Liam Thorp:
In recent years Lark Lane has seen a growth of new bars and restaurants, adding to the south Liverpool street’s reputation as a centre of food, drink and good times.
But one venue that has been in situ in the famous lane for many years now is Rhubarb – and it has stood the test of time.
In the evenings, Rhubarb is a lively pub but in the daytime, it is a great spot for a cheap, tasty and hearty breakfast or brunch.
At weekends, people pack into the narrow space to enjoy the quality and reasonably priced fayre on offer. Generous full English breakfasts and veggie breakfasts come along with a hot drink for a price that will give you change from a tenner. The cumin-spiced fried potatoes are a particular highlight.
There are smaller options as well including pancakes, different types of eggs or healthier items like porridge and granola. Cheap and cheerful describes this place perfectly and if you give it a try you won’t leave hungry or out of pocket.
Marino Lounge, New Brighton
Recommended by Rebecca Koncienzcy:
It’s no secret that I love New Brighton and any chance I get to give it a shout-out or direct people to give it a visit, I will. Luckily, there is also a wonderful little place to stop for breakfast should you want to enjoy some eggs and bacon with a view.
Marino Lounge at Marine Point in New Brighton always has a wonderful atmosphere. It is dog-friendly and you will often see people who have stopped in on an early morning bike ride for a latte.
While I am guilty of skipping breakfast in the week, at the weekend it is a real treat to enjoy a big breakfast and Marino Lounge is the perfect place to do just that. And don’t worry if you enjoy a lie-in on a Saturday and Sunday, breakfast is served all day and it comes with all the trimming you would expect. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside hash browns, herby sausage, crispy bacon, eggs over easy.
They also put the beans in a little dish so you can choose if you want to mix them on your plate. And I always add black pudding, because the menu allows you to make adjustments so you can have the breakfast you want.
They also have great veggie options and every meal comes with your choice of toast. It’s the best way to start your day, even if that is at 1pm because you were still in your pyjamas till midday.
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Robert Johnson is a UK-based business writer specializing in finance and entrepreneurship. With an eye for market trends and a keen interest in the corporate world, he offers readers valuable insights into business developments.
