During my present (but soon to be past) occupation as a student, I rarely have a chance to dine anywhere more sophisticated than the local kebab/pizza place, meaning my jaunts to 'real' restaurants i.e. places where you sit down and eat for longer than it takes you to stuff your food in your mouth and swallow, were usually reserved for special occasions.
On a couple of these special occasions (a birthday and an anniversary) I decided to venture to Bistro Jacques on Hardman Street. This quaint little restaurant is situated just a stone's throw from the Liverpool Philharmonic, meaning it is often packed with theatregoers eager to dine before heading to a show. With this in mind, Bistro Jacques offers a "Pre-Theatre" three course dinner for just over ten pounds as well as daily offers at both lunchtime and dinnertime.
Offering authentic French cuisine, I found the food to be excellent in quality and presentation on both occasions as well as offering good value for money. On one occasion I opted for the steak (a typical male choice) and was not disappointed as the chef cooked it to perfection. My girlfriend's choice of salmon was also met with similar approval. The meals also came with generous helpings of vegetables and potatoes which left us struggling to finish, let alone contemplate dessert.
The service was good and prompt, which was particularly impressive considering how busy the restaurant was on both occasions; a good sign nonetheless. The atmosphere was relaxed, although at times it was a bit loud and rowdy but I think this was mainly due to the numerous Christmas parties that were surrounding us getting into the festive spirit (we went in December), so who am I to judge?
One negative point I would raise about Bistro Jacques is the noise and vibrations coming from Magnet, a bar next door which also has a basement that sits directly underneath the restaurant. On both visits, this created a fair bit of noise and disruption to the atmosphere, although this was generally drowned out by the conversations taking place around the restaurant.
Bistro Jacques has also begun offering a new French menu with which you can pick four or five smaller meals, much like a French tapas, which arrive at your table on top of rustic wooden platters. This offers an interesting alternative for lunch in Liverpool, a nice change from the usual fast-food favourites that dominate the city. read more