Dave Marsland is in Liverpool to run the rule over one of the city's new flagship bars.
The latest of Liverpool’s rich tradition in hidden bars is Slowpour on Wood Street – and true to type, if you blink you’ll miss the entrance. But persist – the debut bar of Carey Hanlon (Swift, Callooh Callay, Superlyan, Present Company, Sister Ray) and Caitlin Waugh (Present Company and Sister Ray) is one of the standout launches of 2025.
An arched basement spot underneath Ropes & Twines, Slowpour is a sanctuary of warm, slow-form hospitality. A small but well-appointed back bar offers plenty of options if you want to shoot from the hip, but the menu here is worthy of your attention.
Divided into Light and Dark, there are eight flavours to choose from, each with two contrasting expressions.
Serves such as Strawberry Dark involve cream cheese, Woodford Reserve, Jack Daniel’s Bonded and strawberry honey, while the Light comprises Belvedere, fresh strawberry, milk and Chandon. It’s a novel approach to drinks making – revealing the many ways flavours can be interpreted and showcased.
SCORE: 9/10
Basement, Ropes & Twines, 73 Wood St, Liverpool L1 4HR