Dale Street is becoming a haven for Liverpool’s best new independent eateries and the latest exciting new venture can be found in the compact premises of 60 Dale Street. When we arrived the only indication a new restaurant was ready for business was a solitary blackboard outside declaring The Fat Budgie to be open.
It is still early days for the tiny venue; the owner informed us the drinks licence had just been secured and staff took delivery of a duo of plump decorative budgie toys to decorate the interior as we ate. But it seems to have found its feet remarkably quickly.
The restaurant itself is tucked away up a winding staircase that is sure to keep the staff fit. The compact dining area houses just seven rustic wooden tables, while local photography adorns the walls and gives the place a warming homely feel. This is where The Fat Budgie excels, everything feels like it is done with love and you instantly feel like a welcomed guest in somebody’s home.
The food itself is simple but delicious. A small evening menu still manages to provide plenty of variety. I opted for the soup of the day, which was carrot soup served with sourdough. The Fat Budgie peaked early – because the soup was easily the best I’ve had in the city. Thick and creamy, it was flavoursome and well seasoned. My dining partner chose the wild mushroom rarebit and poached egg on toast. With perfectly poached eggs and strong cheese topping, this would make a fantastic brunch or lunch option too.
I chose the fish pie with buttered peas and glazed carrots for a main. The classic dish didn’t need to offer any surprises or new twists because it was well presented, filling and packed full of high quality fish that wasn’t too overpowering. My partner induced plenty of jealousy with the braised beef cheek in roasting juices and celeriac mash. The hefty lump of beef melted in the mouth and while it could have done with more mash to complement the beautiful richness of the meat, it was more than enough to satisfy even the most ardent meat lover.
Finally, we shared the wonderfully tart burnt English custard complete with raspberries and blackberries. Choosing three courses at The Fat Budgie will ensure you struggle with dessert but it was worth making space. We washed our meal down with beers from the Liverpool Craft Beer Co, which also provides its excellent ales for use in the mussels and Scouse dishes for a nice local touch.
The Fat Budgie is a restaurant you warm to instantly. The friendly team, homely feel and some of the best food this side of Liverpool ONE means it should thrive in its quirky home on Dale Street. With a strong evening offer and a host of breakfast and lunch options, I’ll be sure to return to try the rest of the impressive menu in future.
