One of Liverpool’s most celebrated independent culinary institutions is officially heading into the heart of the city centre. The team behind the multi-award-winning The Tavern Co on Smithdown Road has announced it will open a vibrant new concept, Tavern Social, this September.
The new venue will take over the prominent ground-floor site inside the historic New Zealand House on Water Street, filling the space left vacant by the former Hooters sports bar.
For over three decades, The Tavern Co has been a cornerstone of Liverpool’s independent food scene, twice being named the home of the “UK’s Best Breakfast” for its legendary full English and American-style morning spreads. Now, the brand is bringing its community-focused ethos, massive reputation and famous flavours to a wider city-centre audience.
Tavern Social promises to blend the nostalgic, welcoming charm of the original Wavertree landmark with a high-energy, modern social space. Diners can expect the iconic, massive breakfast and brunch menus that built the brand’s cult following by day, transitioning into a lively social hub by evening, featuring around 200 covers, craft beers, hearty dishes, and a dedicated environment for live sports fans.
The expansion marks a massive milestone for the brand under its new ownership group, which has invested heavily in modernising and securing the future of the flagship South Liverpool Smithdown Road site since 2023. This second location represents a major vote of confidence in Liverpool’s bustling commercial district and its daytime hospitality market.
A spokesperson for Tavern Social said:
“For over three decades, The Tavern Co has been a staple of Liverpool’s food scene on Smithdown Road, famous for bringing people together. Expanding into Liverpool city centre this summer is a massive milestone for us. We’ve been looking for the perfect spot to bring that unique Tavern magic closer to the heart of the city, and we can’t wait to welcome both our loyal regulars and a whole new crowd of city centre diners.”
An official opening date for September will be announced soon on Tavern Social socials , alongside sneak peeks of the newly redesigned interior.
Tavern Social, New Zealand House, 18 Water Street, Liverpool, L2 8TA.
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