Bacaro

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Liverpool at 47 Castle St, Bacaro has quietly made a name for itself as one of the city’s go-to spots for anyone craving small plates with big personality. Inspired by the bacari of Venice-those intimate wine bars serving up shareable bites and lively conversations-Bacaro delivers that same magic, but with its own Merseyside twist. Whether you're popping in for a quick bite or planning a long evening with friends, this spot caters to just about every dining mood.

What hits first when you walk into Bacaro is the vibe-warm lighting, a rustic-modern interior, and that low hum of conversation and clinking glasses that lets you know you’re in the right place. The informal, cosy atmosphere makes it perfect for solo diners looking for a quiet seat by the window, couples on a laid-back date night, or groups who love to share and sample their way through a meal. And with wheelchair-accessible seating, entrance, and toilets, it’s designed to be welcoming to all.

Now let’s talk about the food. The tapas-style menu is built for sharing (though you may not want to). One minute you’re diving into crispy Fritto Misto, the next, your fork’s heading for the silky Beef Tagliatelle or the rich Lasagne Al Forno. Seafood lovers tend to gravitate toward the Grilled King Scallop served in shell, or the Pan Fried Sea Bass, a dish that regularly earns repeat visits. There’s also a lovely surprise in the form of Blue Cheese and Mushroom Pizzette, which packs a punch of umami in every bite. If you lean vegetarian, the Goats Cheese Crostini and Olives are simple, flavourful, and just the right amount of indulgent.

For those who enjoy the drink as much as the dish, Bacaro shines here too. The wine list is extensive, with both local and imported gems, but it’s the cocktails that truly steal the show. A Bellini to start the evening, a Negroni with your mains, and maybe even a Limoncello or Affogato to round it all off. The Aperol Spritz and Prosecco remain crowd favourites, especially when paired with one of the lighter tapas or seafood plates. And yes, there’s great beer and excellent coffee on the menu too, for those leaning more casual or caffeine-fuelled.

The best part? Despite being in a central location, Bacaro doesn’t feel overly touristy or flashy. It’s the kind of place locals recommend to visitors and where regulars return for consistency and comfort. Service is swift without being pushy, and the staff have a knack for recommending exactly what you didn’t know you needed. Ask for tips on wine pairings or lesser-known plates-they’ve got you.

As for the extras, Bacaro’s outdoor seating is a lovely bonus when the Liverpool weather decides to cooperate. It’s popular for both lunch and dinner, offering quick, satisfying bites during the workday, and more leisurely, lingering meals after hours. With no delivery or takeaway options, this is truly a dine-in destination, encouraging guests to stay a while, savour the experience, and maybe order just one more plate.

The menu also leans into healthy options for those who want to keep things light, and the late-night bites ensure even the night owls leave satisfied. Whether you're craving pork belly with a zesty chimichurri, or tempted by a well-executed Squid plate, Bacaro delivers on flavour, quality, and that little spark that makes dining out feel special.

If you’re wandering through Liverpool’s Castle Street and find yourself torn between the many options-trust me, Bacaro is one you won’t regret stepping into.