With independent eateries popping up on every corner, Ropewalks is fast establishing itself as the food hub of Liverpool. So, when venturing to dine at the opposite end of town, I felt somewhat out of my comfort food zone.
But exquisite architecture sets Liverpool’s commercial district apart from Bold street bohemia and provides the perfect backdrop for fine dining.
Situated in the spectacular surroundings of the former Royal Insurance Building, NYL aims to bring the vibrancy of New York to Liverpool.
Although attached to the newly opened Aloft hotel, the restaurant has a separate entrance and the grandeur of the exterior definitely sets the tone for what’s inside.
My dinner date and I took our seats in the corner and admired the impressive interior.
After much deliberation and bargaining over who would sample which dishes, we were ready to order.
My friend enjoyed a starter of roast duck breast complemented by a fresh Asian salad, plum reduction and toasted seeds (£7). The friendly waitress was attentive to her dietary needs and ensured the meat was cooked thoroughly.
To start, I went for pan fried scallops with a smoked bacon crumb and cauliflower puree (£9). I was won over by its garnish of balsamic strawberries and thought the surf and turf combination worked well.
Whilst I’m anything but picky, I was concerned about the inclusion of black pudding as part of the dish. This was not detailed on the menu and therefore risks disappointing the many people who dislike it.
Continuing on my ocean quest, I chose a main of seafood linguini which tossed together shrimp, smoked haddock and clams (£17). Topped with a trio of crisp calamari and washed down with a dry Sauvignon Blanc, this dish really hit the spot.
My dinner date was equally as impressed with her main, playfully titled ‘Three Little Piggies’.
‘It looks like something from Masterchef!’ she exclaimed, as the beautifully presented dish arrived. The impressive plate combined three different cuts of pork and was dressed with a cute candied apple.
Now I have to admit: I’m not really a dessert kind of girl. I religiously choose a cheese board over a sweet. But on this occasion I was swayed by the dessert menu and could’ve happily ordered any of the choices on offer.
Inspired by the restaurant’s New York theme, I enjoyed the NY cheesecake accompanied by brownie bites and a berry compote (£6). With a twist on the classic, the cheesecake filling was encased in an Oreo base which ensured I ate every last bite.
My friend was intrigued by the ginger crème brûlée (£6). Presented in quaint tea cup, the flavoursome dessert came with a scoop of chilli ice cream which certainly packed a punch.
If you’re looking for somewhere to dine out in style, NYL is definitely a worthy contender.
The restaurant seems to get the balance right between offering a decidedly upmarket dining experience whilst remaining affordable and unpretentious.
