When it comes to independent shops, bars and cafes in Liverpool city centre, Bold Street’s vibrant offering tends to steal the limelight.

However, just around the corner Renshaw Street has long been a hive of hidden gems, quirky curiosity shops and an Aladdin’s cave of vintage wares. It’s no wonder then that its latest arrival, 81 Renshaw, fits in perfectly.

The arts cafe and venue recently opened up without a fuss, but is already pulling in crowds looking for a creative and laid back environment. As my dinner date and I paid an early Friday evening visit, 81 Renshaw was busy and buzzing with chatting diners, as well as those simply popping in for a relaxed drink. Meanwhile an acoustic live music performance was taking place, providing entertainment and adding to the atmosphere but not overpowering the small space.

On Friday and Saturday nights 81 Renshaw serves a mouth-watering selection of homemade tapas with all dishes priced at £3.50 each, or a very reasonable three for £10 including bread and oil.

At a quick glance, every dish sounded as delicious as the next and I was relieved when the ladies behind the new venture offered to pick out a selection for us. All that was left for us to do was grab a drink from the choice of beers, wines and spirits, and wait patiently for our platter to arrive.

As we perched by the window – a perfect spot to watch the world go by – we spent our short wait for food browsing the collection of art for sale on the walls, as well as the mismatching vintage furniture and eye catching trinkets on display. A bowl of seasoned and still warm popcorn also tickled our taste buds before the main feast.

When our tapas dishes arrived, they were clearly homemade and fresh. A portion of olives – a staple of any tapas evening – was accompanied by delicious, sizzling chorizo cooked in sherry. A highlight of the meal, the chorizo was tender and came with a spicy kick, meanwhile slices of halloumi in olive oil and chilli were also cooked to perfection.

As we eagerly tucked in to try a bit of everything on the plate, whilst cautiously trying not to fill up too soon, we couldn’t help but quickly mop up the beautifully textured dollop of houmous, which was sweetened with caramelised onion and was a perfect match for the selection of breads.

Small but hearty dishes of Albondigas – pork meatballs in tomato sauce – and goats cheese with walnut and honey were also full of flavour, and the baba ganoush aubergine dip was a refreshing way to round off our selection.

We left feeling satisfyingly full and ready for Friday night drinks around town, although with such a warm and welcoming atmosphere you could happily see the night through at 81 Renshaw.

Alternatively its delicious sounding breakfasts, lunch time sandwiches and homemade soups, including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options, make it a perfect pit stop at any time of the day.

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