Belzan
Liverpool, Merseyside
Entry
An abidingly popular neighbourhood spot in the Wavertree district of Liverpool, Belzan is the very image of a modern bistro, with its comfortable banquettes against whitewashed bare brick and high shelves crowded with empty bottles. The voluble, friendly staff come in for universal praise. In the context, it would be churlish not to start by snacking on some Gordal olives or a salt cod croquette or two, before cruising into the menu of soundly constructed seasonal dishes. To start, you might plump for the now-ubiquitous Isle of Wight tomatoes tricked out with crab, pangrattato and elderflower – unless the barbecued courgette with romesco, sheep's-milk yoghurt and honey has already got your name on it. Combinations are more enterprising than the standard bistro cookbook might furnish, so expect smoked gazpacho, roasted grapes and rouille with the sea trout, or braised rainbow chard, pancetta and gremolata with roast pork belly. Desserts are as simple as can be, with coffee ice cream and hazelnuts or strawberries and whipped mascarpone among the summer offerings, although we are reliably tempted by a serving of Cashel Blue and parkin, whatever the weather. The prix-fixe of three courses and a glass of wine for £32 is worth a full-throated cheer, while Sunday lunches bring in the local crowds.
Dining Information:
Separate bar, Wheelchair access, Family friendly, Dog friendly, Credit card required
371 Smithdown Road, Liverpool, Merseyside L15 3JJ
0151 733 8595
