Pilgrim – Liverpool

Pilgrim is small plates that actually makes sense – food designed to share, drinks that pair with it, no forced tasting menu format. Bold Street location is decent; the room has character without being over-designed.

The menu changes regularly based on what’s available, which is how it should be. You’re looking at 4-6 plates per person usually, which gives you proper variety without overdoing it. Things like heritage grains, quality meat, properly prepared fish. They work with British suppliers and aren’t shy about it, but it never feels preachy.

Cooking is precise without being fiddly. A plate arrives and you can see why it was made that way – components matter, they’re seasoned right, they work together. Not trying to be clever for the sake of it.

Expect to spend £30-£45 per person for food depending on what you order. Drinks are separate and reasonably priced. Wine list has good depth, craft beers on tap, cocktails if you want them. Beer pairings with the menu are worth considering if you’re not a wine person.

The whole dynamic works better with friends because you’re sharing and tasting across the menu. Takes about two hours, which gives you time to actually talk to people.

They take bookings but do walk-ins if there’s space. Busier evenings obviously need reserving ahead. Lunch is quieter and a bit cheaper if you can manage it. Good for dates, group meals, or just wanting to eat really well without the formality of a set tasting menu.