I don’t quite remember when brunch became such an essential part of the millennial social calendar, all I know is that we can’t get enough. So much, in fact, that we’ll wait in queues come rain nor shine just for a sweet taste of fried food. One place that knows such love in Liverpool? LEAF on Bold Street.
Commanding a heaving queue on a Friday morning, the city centre hotspot was first up on my hit list. Having never stepped foot in Merseyside before, I knew that my Scouse day out had to start here. Swerving the outdoor terrace for a table inside, we were met with industrial boho decor, green chandeliers and the huge lanterns that give the place its instantly recognisable look.
Not just brunch: LEAF transitions to international plates and live music in the evening.
First up on the menu? It had to be a drink from the ‘good morning’ section. We skipped the enticing butter truffle old fashioned and cherry blossom Manhattan for something a little more hangover-friendly, in the form of a couple of red snappers (£6.50 each). Short and spicy, they were just what we needed. Even better? The fact that our waiter brought them over in record time considering how busy the place was.
When it came to the main event, my sweet tooth was craving cinnamon toast (£7.95). A stack of thick fried brioche so soft it melted in the mouth, it arrived smothered in banana mascarpone and toffee sauce, and matched with a granola-like pecan crumble. I wasn’t too sure about the crumble at first glance, but the crunch was just right and perfectly offset by the sweetness of caramelised banana.
Pancake stacks, French toast and oozing eggs are all on the menu.
LEAF has a range of bottled drinks created with specially selected teas and infusions. So I had to try one. My choice of the blood orange rooibos margarita (£7.25) didn’t go down quite as well, with tequila so heavy that the balance was off. For my dining date, a mimosa (£6) – the simple pick that I should have gone for. As for the main event, he opted for eggs royale (£8.75) which saw two English muffins layered with smoked salmon, plump poached eggs and a slathering of hollandaise sauce – the ideal pairing.
The DesignMyNight Digest
LEAF is a staple of the Liverpool dining scene and for good reason. With attentive service, a warm atmosphere and tasty dishes, it’s one for your Liverpool list. When it comes to drinks, stick to the classics - I’m already eyeing up a return for the old fashioned… And our top tip? Book ahead to skip the line for an indoor table (outside is still for walk-ins only).
Looking for more brunch inspiration? Check out our guide here.
