Botanic Road Kitchen

Southport, Merseyside

Rating: Good

Modern European | Restaurant

Overall Rating: Good

Uniqueness: Very Good

Deliciousness: Good

Warmth: Very Good

Strength of recommendation: Good

At one end of a terrace in Southport's venerable Churchtown district, not far from the Botanic Gardens, the handsome-looking eatery is a small-plates venue run with appreciable gusto and charm. To judge by the number of walk-ins being turned ruefully away on our midweek visit, the place already has quite the following. Among the on-trend dishes have been crisply tempura-coated tenderstem broccoli dressed effulgently in lime juice, maple syrup, sesame oil and soy. Crunchy textures are a favourite device, as with the cauliflower beignets that deliver plenty of snap. Pizzetta topped with chèvre and caramelised onions is a moreish morsel, while contemporary classics such as roasted scallops on pea purée, black pudding fritters with truffled hazelnut pesto or dreamy burrata with crisp-fried shallots, fennel and basil offer forthright, satisfying flavours. Desserts go more mainstream for creditable versions of Eton mess and crème brûlée. The wine list is a short and practical selection that copes well with the food.

Rating: Good

Modern European | Restaurant

Overall Rating: Good

Uniqueness: Very Good

Deliciousness: Good

Warmth: Very Good

Strength of recommendation: Good

Dining Information:

Private dining room, Outdoor dining, Parking, Electric car charging, Family friendly

98 Botanic Road, Churchtown, Southport, Merseyside PR9 7NE

01704 214141