Cocktails & Karaoke At The Kabannas Relaunch Liverpool

What's the first thing you look for when you step into a new bar? Maybe it's a good vibe and upbeat music, dreamy cocktails and delicious food, or maybe it's somewhere to have a chilled evening and catch up with the girls. Well what if I told you that I've found the perfect place to do all that and so much more. 

Oh and want to hear the best bit? It's right in the heart of Liverpool!

Introducing Kabin at Kabannas

Brought to you by hybrid hotel brand Kabannas, the Kabin is one of Liverpool's most exciting new venues bringing something special to the famous Cavern Quarter. Aside from unique accommodation, guests can also enjoy a feel-good social experience over two floors, bringing an impressive Asian inspired menu, interactive bar, retro games and a private karaoke room. 

There's nothing I love more than trying out new bars and restaurants, so I was delighted to be invited to the relaunch of Kabannas Kabin Bar last week for an evening of cocktails and fun. On our arrival the place was bustling, the drinks were flowing, and we could already sense that the party was in full swing. I just knew we were destined for a fabulous evening! 

What's so different about Kabannas? Well, let me tell you.

If you're looking for a quiet, chilled space to enjoy your evening then head upstairs to the Highball Bar. With its large open windows, warm atmosphere and sophisticated vibe, it's the perfect place for a date night or to enjoy an evening drinking cocktails with the girls (and trust me when I say, the cocktails are absolute perfection!).

Right next to the bar you'll find the interactive 'self-pour wall' where you can help yourself to a selection of organic cocktails, draught beer or cider. Simply select your drink, pull the pump and you're good to go! So if waiting at the bar isn't your style or if you just fancy taking on the role of cocktail pourer then I just know you're going to absolutely love this as much as I did. 

However, if your vibe is sitting at the bar and watching someone else pour your cocktail then you can also find an extensive menu of sustainable wines, classic cocktails and non-alcoholic options there too. We were drinking the Limoncello Spritz for most of the night and oh my goodness, I can't even begin to tell you how dreamy it was. I've never really had limoncello before but I've definitely found a new favourite drink, it was refreshingly sweet. The team at Kabin very kindly gifted us our cocktails and food, and I can confirm that they're strong contenders for the best cocktails in Liverpool. 

In order to offer an exciting food element, Kabannas have teamed up with renowned Asian eatery Little Bao Boy to serve a variety of fluffy homemade bao buns, flavoursome rice bowls and a range of tasty sides including crispy cauliflower bites, gyozas and loaded fries. 

I'm quite fussy when it comes to trying new food but I was really pleased with the variety they had on offer. There was literally something for everyone, including veggie options too. We had the Char Siu Pulled Pork Fries and they were absolutely divine. A bowl of salted fries, loaded with char siu pulled pork, chilli mayo, spring onions and toasted sesame seeds...my mouth is watering just thinking about them! 

One thing I noted, and loved, is that all the food and drink is very affordable. Plus some of the cocktails are 2 for £12 so that's a win win situation if you ask me. 

If you're in a sociable mood and fancy more of a party atmosphere, you can head downstairs where you'll find a large games and events space. Complete with colourful lighting, wooden benches, retro arcade games, a smart darts lane and a dedicated karaoke room available for private hire, there's something to keep everyone entertained. There will also be DJs and live music from Thursday to Saturday, a perfect place to go and start your night out or let your hair down after a week at work.

We absolutely loved being in this space, if we weren't dancing to the absolute tunes coming from the DJ booth then we were in the karaoke room belting out an absolute classic. I'm also pleased to report that the karaoke room is in fact soundproof so no one could hear me singing Shania Twain at the top of my voice, probably a blessing when I think about it.

Why is it that when you enter a karaoke room you just forget every song you've ever known and can't decide what to sing!?

We spent the rest of our evening drinking cocktails, dancing and singing a song or two in the karaoke room. I really do love the whole vibe of the place, they've succeeded on their mission to create a space that welcomes everyone no matter who you are, how old you are or what you look for in a venue. 

There's nothing quite as unique as Kabannas Kabin Bar in Liverpool. Whether you're a student looking for somewhere to socialise, a couple looking for a new date night idea or a group of friends looking for a place to have a cocktail and a catch up, Kabannas is the place to be! 

Thanks for having us Kabannas, you're one of my new favourite venues in the city, that's for sure.

Lots of Love,

Meg x

Bottomless Brunch At Mason's Liverpool

Well, we can finally sit inside a restaurant again and my goodness, doesn’t it feel amazing!? Gone are the days of turning up to the beer garden (mid-summer, might I add) in your thickest coat and a pair of gloves, now we can happily sip on cocktails to our hearts content in the warmth of an aesthetically pleasing bar. 

As soon as it was announced that lockdown restrictions would be eased on May 17th, I was straight on my laptop and booked my first bottomless brunch. My lovely friend Liv was visiting home from London and we haven't seen each other for almost a year and a half, so we thought a bottomless brunch would be the perfect event for a reunion. 

We went to a bar called Mason's in Liverpool; the place of cocktails, dreams and perfect bottomless brunches. For £30 (£35 on a Saturday) you can enjoy any plate from the Mason's Brunch Menu as well as bottomless Mason's Mimosas, Frozen Daiquiris, Wine, Beer or Prosecco (and you can mix and match too!). Bottomless brunch lasts for 90-minutes but if they're not busy, they'll let you stay a little while longer. 

Let me tell you now, Mason's is my new favourite place to brunch in Liverpool! 

The minute we set foot in Mason's there was a real party atmosphere, regardless of the fact that it was half past one on a Friday afternoon. I don't know if it was the pink fluorescent signs or ABBA playing from the speakers, but it got me straight in the mood for a cocktail or two! 

As we were shown to our table and began browsing the menu, I couldn't help but notice how beautiful our surroundings were. The bar was incredibly spacious; with an open plan kitchen and greenery hanging from the walls. It's the perfect mix of classy yet relaxed; the vibe you need for a bottomless brunch with the girls! 

And then the drinks started to flow.

When I told people that I'd booked a bottomless brunch, a lot said that they weren't worth the money because they 'water your drinks down'. Well, that's not how they do things as Mason's! 

We decided to start on the rose wine and then moved on to cocktails later in the afternoon. The wine was gorgeous and I can fully confirm that the Mason's Mimosa is 100% worth the hype; it's the cocktail of dreams and I'm basically obsessed. Our glasses were never empty and the staff were incredibly attentive, always checking if we needed any more drinks and never shy to give recommendations - my wine glass was basically glued to my hand!

I can be really fussy when it comes to food but believe me when I say, there's something for everyone on the Mason's brunch menu. We chose the perfect time to brunch too, as Mason's have updated their menu to include a few new dishes. 

After much deliberation, I ordered the Mason's Benedict (a toasted English muffin with smoked streaky bacon, two free range poached eggs and hollandaise sauce) whilst Liv opted for the Flatbread. I can't actually remember what was on Liv's plate but it was recommended by our waitress, and Liv said that it was delicious! 

The food arrived quickly and was beautifully presented. I can't even begin to tell you how mouth-wateringly tasty my Mason's Benedict was; the egg was poached to perfection and the bagel was so softly toasted, just taking about it makes me want to go back for one. I thought the portions were on the smaller side, however we left Mason's feeling absolutely stuffed (although I don't know if that was because of the food or the cocktails!). 

The nicest thing about the afternoon, apart from the food and cocktails of course, was spending time with one of my best friends. We were way overdue a catch up and we spent the entire brunch laughing, drinking and singing along to every song we could. It was the welcome sense of normality we both needed and we've decided that bottomless brunch is going to be our new thing - thanks Mason's! 

We couldn't go to Mason's without having our photo taken underneath the stunning fluorescent signs; the Hello Gorgeous sign can be found in the girls bathroom and the Meet Me @ Mason's sign is in the outside the toilets. They really add something to the bar, helping to achieve that modern, chilled vibe which is one of the main things that attracted Liv and I to book in the first place. 

From the minute arrived, to the moment we left, the staff couldn't have been friendlier; from recommending their favourite dish on the menu to taking group photos underneath the illuminous signs - nothing was too much trouble! 

Okay, so Mason's is the bar of dreams, right!?  

You'll find Mason's on Seel Street in Liverpool, and if their Instagram isn't enough to convince you that it's the place to be, then let me tell you, you are seriously missing out! 

Bookings are recommended and can be made via their website, where you can book your table for breakfast, brunch and evening. As we were leaving, the Friday 'El Paradisco' party was just getting started which is all about disco and sparkle; so you can bet I'll be heading back for that! 

Whilst you're there you should also check out FIVE, a unique and exclusive rooftop bar with stunning views of the city, owned by Mason's. Unfortunately the weather had other ideas, so Liv and I were unable to visit FIVE but that's the next place on our list - it looks stunning and we can't wait!

Have you booked a bottomless brunch yet? 

Lots of love,

Meg x 

This Is Madre

Liverpool is wonderful for so many reasons; the friendliest people, the most picturesque settings and two amazing football teams. However, one of my favourite things is the variety of culture in the city; from bars and restaurants to museums and shops on the High Street, there really is a place for everyone. 

On Friday 6th December a new addition to Liverpool's bar and restaurant scene opened its doors on the Royal Albert Dock and I was very kindly invited along for an evening of tequila, tacos and late-night dancing.  

This Is Madre

Brought to the city from the talented team behind Belzan and London's renowned Breddos Tacos, MADRE is one of Liverpool’s most exciting new venues offering vibrant interiors, a stellar cocktail list, and a mouth-watering Mexican menu.

The bar is accessible via Atlantic Pavillion and Anchor Courtyard but don't worry if that means nothing to you, the bright pink neon signs illuminating the Royal Albert Dock are literally unmissable and entice you in straight away. 

As my friend and I approached, we could sense that the party was already in full swing; he was dancing before we even got into the place. It was set to be a fabulous night - a real fiesta, so to speak. 

Split over two floors with a 46-cover restaurant on the mezzanine level and casual dining area downstairs, MADRE serves lunch through to dinner and a late-night snack selection at the weekends when the restaurant is open until 2am. 

I'm quite fussy when it comes to trying new foods but let me tell you now, the food was absolutely divine. Throughout the evening samples of the menu were served, including Pork Al Pastor tacos; a tasty combination of spit-roast marinated pork with pineapple and salsa verde, deep fried mushroom tacos with chipotle aioli (my personal fave) and roasted pasilla chilli, along with crispy potatoes served with refried beans, garlic sour cream and chipotle salsa. 

If that isn't making your mouth water then I don't know what will.

A large feature bar takes centre stage downstairs which is where we spent most of the night sipping on flavoured Margaritas, chatting and dancing along to DJ Crazy P who took to the decks, playing tune after tune all night long. It really was impossible not to boogie along.

It was hard to choose just one cocktail from the menu as there was so much on offer. I eventually chose the La Pistola cocktail; a mix of Mezcal Verde Momento Espadin, lime, aguami, grapefruit and fizz, sounds good, right? It was. I didn't really know what to expect as I'm usually a Strawberry Daiquiri kind of girl but I was very very impressed. It was sweet but not too sweet - a bit like me.

Although I would class MADRE as a high-end bar, especially considering its beautiful surroundings of the Royal Albert Dock, all of the food and drink is reasonably priced and well worth it. Each cocktail is made right in front of your eyes by one of the friendly, skilled team members AND all of the food is prepared freshly on site.

We spent the rest of our evening dancing, drinking and having the best time. It was a pure party bubble that I was very reluctant to leave but sadly the night to come to an end at some point.

MADRE is one of the most unique bars in the city, there really is nothing quite like it; a classy fiesta. It's the perfect place to start your Liverpool night in style or if you want somewhere quirky to socialise with family and friends. No matter what the season, no matter what the time, it's always a party at MADRE.

I can't wait to be back!

Lots of Love,
Meg x

A Summer Soiree At Aether

Photography by Jason Roberts

What's the perfect way to spend a British Summer Evening?
If you're anything like me then your answer will include cocktails, a sunset and people who bring out the best in you. There's nothing I love more than a warm evening spent drinking, laughing and reminiscing with friends, to me that's what summer is all about AND I've found the perfect place to do it.

Introducing Aether

Situated in the heart of the city above Liverpool One, Aether is celebrated for its experimentally crafted cocktails and opulent interiors and is quickly becoming one of my favourite bars in the city. 

On Friday 9th August, I was lucky enough to be invited to the Aether Summer Soiree for an evening of cocktails, canapés and live music. On arrival we enjoyed a glass of Fiero Spritz, along with cocktails from their new Summer menu; including a zesty Chill Chocolate cocktail featuring Santa Teresa rum, and the Instagram worthy Tanqueray based Bee Sting cocktail. I can fully confirm Aether make the best cocktails in Liverpool. 

Photography by Jason Roberts

The bar has a very sophisticated vibe, with its chic décor, large open windows and wooden terrace decked with sofas and chairs for those warmer evenings (which we sadly weren't blessed with). It's the perfect place for a date night or an evening drinking cocktails with the girls, even spending time with the family. My Dad accompanied me to the event and even though he's not a cocktail drinker, he can't wait to go back (and believe me, if it's got my Dad's approval, it must be bloody good!).

We spent the evening chatting, sipping on a wide variety of cocktails and listening to the live band put some modern twists on classic tunes. Being in such a chilled environment with such positive lovely vibes put me in the best mood. It was the perfect way to end the working week and start the weekend off in style.

Photography by Jason Roberts

East River, a new restaurant based on Allerton Road which is inspired by the delis of Manhattan’s Lower East Side, provided canapés for the evening. We enjoyed succulent lamb skewers, bagel samples, fresh salmon bowls along with more light bites. I was very fond of the salmon bowl which we were able to eat with chopsticks (although I gave up half way through, far too twiddly for me). 

We stayed at Aether late into the evening as the live band was replaced by a DJ playing soul, jazz and modern classics which, as you can imagine, was right up my street. We even tried a Gin Fizz cocktail from the 'Seasonal Spritz' menu (a mix of Tanqueray, tonic, elderflower and violette soda) which was absolutely divine - definitely my favourite of the night.

Although I would class the bar as high-end, the cocktails are reasonably priced and well worth the money especially when you consider your beautiful surroundings and the skill of the bar staff who make, shake and prepare each drink in front of you.

Oh, I almost forgot to mention that each cocktail on the menu is inspired by the elements. I can't wait to go back and try 'Peaches and Bae Daiquiri' from the Earth menu. A blend of bay leaf ketel one, peaches, vanilla, citrus and creamy peach - now doesn't that sound dreamy? *inserts heart eyes*

It was a place that was full of so much love and calmness that we didn't want to leave but sadly, the night couldn't last forever. Upon leaving, we were given miniature bottles of flavoured liquor to take home, which when added to a mixer created the perfect summer cocktail. 

With its innovative cocktail menu, stylish interiors, and lively ambiance, often enhanced with live music, Aether is already a firm-favourite with cocktail aficionados and provides the perfect spot for socialising with family and friends this summer, or any season for that matter. 

I can't wait to visit Aether again, it's my go-to place for a date night, an evening with the girls, a birthday celebration, a quick drink after a shopping trip and any other opportunity I get to try a new cocktail from the menu. 

Thanks for a fabulous evening Aether, you're my new favourite bar in the city, that's for sure. 

Lots of Love,
Meg x

Liverpool Christmas Ice Festival

We're officially on the countdown to Christmas; the Christmas Markets have opened, the John Lewis advert is on the telly and I'm A Celeb has started. It really is the most wonderful time of the year!

On Sunday I was very kindly invited to the launch of the Liverpool Christmas Ice Festival and it was the perfect way to kick off the festive season. Situated on the Pier Head, just in front of the famous Liver Building, the Ice Festival transports you into a frozen Winter Wonderland.

Returning for the third year, the Ice Festival is home to a spectacular covered Ice Rink, the UK's largest Ice Slide, an array of attractions (including the Ice Jet) and pop-up food and drink stalls selling everything from chocolate covered waffles to hot mulled wine.

Seriously, what's not to love?

We started our evening with a complimentary skate around the all-weather ice rink. Accompanied by the best music from Capital, it costs £12 for 45 minutes on the rink which is decent, if you ask me. As we tightened our skates, I watched people effortlessly glide around, making skating look so easy and graceful. How hard could it be?

It's hard, really really hard. 

Let's just say that ice skating and I don't go very well together. I was clinging onto the sides for dear life, much to the enjoyment of Caroline who found the whole thing hilarious as she skated around with no help at all. Thanks to her helping hand, I made it around the rink twice and let go of the side for a whole thirty seconds. I don't think we've ever laughed so much!

Although ice skating wasn't my favourite experience, the 45 minutes flew by and before we knew it, our time was up. The ice rink is suitable for all ages and abilities, with penguin skate aids available to rent for the kids (and some adults). However, if you're not too keen on the idea of putting your skates on, there's a viewing area for spectators to enjoy the view of novice skaters (like myself) falling over for your entertainment.

After my skating disaster, we wandered around the Christmas markets and watched as people braved the famous Ice Jet ride, the only one of its kind in the UK. We weren't brave enough to take the challenge, so we stood with some hot chocolate and watched as people were flipped upside down and spun around. Maybe I'll brave it next year.

If you're not a thrill-seeker, you'll be able to enjoy some family-friendly funfair rides or sit and listen to your favourite Christmas hits with a glass of mulled wine. I know I'd rather be spinning on the teacups, thank you very much.

The beautiful Liver Buildings are the perfect backdrop for this twinkling, ice spectacular. We walked up and down the small wooden huts, browsing the cute handmade gifts and taking in the scent of Nutella covered crepes. There's a wide variety of food on offer including traditional German Bratwurst, waffles, hot roast rolls, mulled wine and hot chocolate. It all looked delicious and I couldn't resist a chocolate and marshmallow waffle. I can fully confirm that it tasted as good as it looks.

If you're planning on seeing what the Ice Festival has to offer, I'd highly recommend visiting in the evening as it looks incredibly festive and magical with all the lights. Just make sure you wrap up warm as it's chilly down at the docks (we found that out the hard way).

The Ice Festival launched on the 10th November and will be running throughout Christmas and New Year until January 6th. It's the perfect event to get the whole family in the festive spirit. A HUGE thank you to the Ice Festival for inviting us to spend the day with them, we really had the best time. You can find out more information here.

Lots of love,
Meg
xxx

The Staple Summer Dress

Hasn't the summer been amazing?

England may have missed out on the World Cup Final and the government may still be a shambles, but there's no denying that the weather has been glorious. I've finally been able to dig out my pretty summer dresses and style some cute outfits that I'd only dream of wearing abroad. 

Summer fashion is fun and easy. I love all the bright colours, glittery sandals and floaty dresses. I don't have to think about being too cold, everything looks great with a denim jacket and a simple summer dress will see me right for a shopping trip with the girls followed by a night in the beer garden. What's not to love?

I don't know about you but I seem to spend most of my time scrolling through ASOS. It was on one of these scrolling sessions that I came across this Frill Detail Mini Sundress. Luckily for me, it was payday so I couldn't resist treating myself - it was too cute to leave!

Polka dot print has been a massive trend this summer and I am living for it. My wardrobe is polka dot heaven so the minute I saw this dress, I knew it would be the perfect addition. It's definitely a dress style that I would normally choose however, I was unsure about the low neck. As I'm petite, a low neck isn't something I can usually pull off so you can imagine how happy I was when I tried it on and it looked super cute! 

The dress is a little shorter than I expected but the pretty frills and cute print make for the perfect girly summer item. It has adjustable straps, so the low neck wasn't as much of an issue and the floaty style has been keeping me cool during these warm summer days we've been having. From the minute I tried the dress on, I fell in love. I just wanted to twirl around my room like a princess (no exaggeration). It's my favourite summer purchase this year and it was so much fun to style. 

Photos by Emma

Since I've finished Uni, I seem to spend more time in Liverpool than I ever did when I was a student. Emma and I met up in the city and strolled down to the Docks for a coffee. It was such a beautiful day. The carousel was playing hits by the Beatles, tourists flocked to have their photos taken in front of the Liver Buildings and I almost paid £3 for an ice cream. 

My outfit of choice was inspired by the legendary Audrey Hepburn. Her effortlessly chic style is something I try to reciprocate, even though no one could ever be as beautiful as she was. I styled my dress with a pair of black sandals and my little black backpack. You'd have thought that white sandals would have looked cute but they just didn't look right. The black was the perfect contrast and I think I pulled it off. 

I really hope the polka dot trend never dies! 

ASOS Dress

Wyndsors Sandals (Similar)

New Look Backpack

What's been your favourite summer trend?

Lots of Love,

Meg

xxx