New independent Belgian beer bar and bistro, Belgica has officially opened its doors, offering a taste of Belgium in the heart of the city.
Transforming the premises on Wood Street which was previously Lucha Libre, Belgica is the place to go for the finest Belgian beers, authentic comfort food, and good vibes in a venue that’s proudly run by Belgian Scousers and Scouse Belgians.
Split across two levels with a relaxed Brussels beer bar atmosphere upstairs and a medieval Bruges vibe club downstairs called the ‘Monastery of Sound’, Belgica will transport visitors to the beer-loving nation from which the venue takes its inspiration, whether it’s for a relaxed weekend dinner with friends or to drop by after work for a chilled beer over a board game.
The ground floor level accommodates up to 90 covers, with teal green leather booths and marble topped tables, along with casual bar stool seating and an outside area. Belgium inspired interiors feature throughout with playful nods towards its culture wherever you turn, including a 1980 road cycle bike complete with Smurf village, bespoke cycling artwork with miniature peloton figures, and a striking medieval-style stained glass window feature above the bar.
Beer is the star of the show from the extensive drinks menu which offers a range of local beers and an impressive variety of Belgian beers including Leffe, Hoegaarden and Duvel to name a few, which are categorised by their ABV strengths ranging from +4% ABV Blonde and Amber beers, up to +11% ABV Quadruples. A selection of classic cocktails and wines are also on offer with a happy hour from Sunday-Thursday, along with Beer Tasting Paddles ideal for those wanting to sample a selection, with 4 draught beers for £10.
The full food menu will be available from mid-December, offering a variety of hearty comfort food dishes with small plates including Bitterballen; Belgian beef croquettes, a scouser’s favourite; Salt & Pepper Siu Mai, and a selection of loaded Belgian frites. Bigger dishes range from the classic French Onion Soup and Moules Frites with twice fried Belgian Frites & Sourdough, to the Vegan Bicky Burger and six hour slow-cooked Flemish Stew, along with six indulgent desserts including Biscoff Cheesecake and warm Belgian Waffles.
Striking artwork from a local graffiti artist leads the way downstairs to the Monastery of Sound, where visitors can soak up the medieval Bruges vibe complete with neon signs, modern pop art and atmospheric vault seating with a soundtrack of Hip Hop and R’n’B Funk.
www.cafebelgica.co.uk follow @belgicaliverpool
