Great craft beer and an amazing choice of burgers you say? Sign me up right now! The SF is basically a giant modern pub/bar with loads of room to make any part of it your own, I was meeting a friend and enjoyed sitting at the bar chatting with the friendly staff while he made his way there and from looking at the menu I knew exactly what I wanted to eat the moment I lay eyes on it - 'Monster Munch' burger - yep that's right, a delicious tasty patty with a stack of my favourite childhood crisps on it (I pimped it up even further by adding guacamole to the mix) - served with great chips for a tenner, it really did hit the spot! Throw in a good selection of lagers, ales and guests like Ilkley brewery this place ticked all the boxes for me :-) Supposedly the DJ's they have in here regularly are pretty good too! I'll be back next time I'm in Liverpool. read more

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Liverpool's latest drinking haven docked recently in May just in time for the city's Sound City extravaganza and got stuck in by hosting an array of top DJs and announcing loads of DJs and bands to follow in the coming months. Anyone who is familiar with the excellent Bungalows and Bears of Sheffield will not be surprised with The Shipping Forecast as the same group has brought their stripped down ethos of good beer, good music and comfy surroundings to Liverpool. The music is as eclectic as the shabby chic interior and can give Mello Mello a run for its money. The guys here have torn away any reminder of the venues Flares past to reveal lovely bare brick walls and wooden floors giving the place a very natural feel. Ale drinkers will be pleased too - which might come in handy situated on Slater Street - as there is a good selection of beers on draught. Me and me mate got some food here too, and while I do not wish to say anything bad about somewhere so new, when I order Fish n Chips, I expect chips not fries - it's just not cricket. Danny on the other hand was very pleased with his steak and ale pie - once he battled through the crust. It's good pub grub, with a good choice of burgers and sandwiches all reasonably priced under 7 with chips. It could be a very brave move to set up camp on Slater Street but hopefully it is a sign of things to come. With Santa Chupito and Mello down the road we could be seeing a new scene emerging but first TSF must hold its own against Slater's more traditional elements. read more

The Shipping Forecast - Music Venues Near Me - Liverpool, XMS

I was checking out what gigs were coming to town, and noticed The Shipping Forecast had a great schedule of upcoming shows. In addition to that, our friends raved about the delicious beer, so this was a place I definitely wanted to check out. After an afternoon of shopping, we headed there for a bite to eat. The ambiance is pretty fun. It kinda feels like your friends' living room with mood lighting. There was a nook where people were playing old school Nintendo games, and another spot with some board games, and a DJ was setup in the back. The decor is kitschy, but cool. I like the different seating options. You could sit on the couches, or at the bar, or the booths. There were big tables and little tables, and all sorts of options for your mood and group. We took a table by the DJ. We didn't head upstairs, but that's where they host gigs. Downstairs are the bathrooms. The beers were yummy. They have a delicious Strawberry beer. The food was pretty good too. And the place hosts itself to a diverse crowd. read more

I wasn't expecting much from the Shipping Forecast. Occupying the spot that was once desecrated by the unholy naffness of Flares seemed to automatically doom it. Some new signs and maybe a wipe-down with a Kleenex, that's all they would've done as renovation, surely? I was very mistaken. Any trace of Flares has now been scorched away to reveal a charismatically modest bar of rich dark wood and relishable food. The exposed brick walls are now adorned with maps and old radios, enhancing the shipping forecast theme. It's a little-used theme, I'll give them that. In the toilets, you're treated to sounds of waves and gulls, although this is interspersed with a comedy recording of the famous broadcast. Yes, somebody actually recorded that. The Shipping Forecast is the kind of place that deserves to stand the test of time. It's unique without being overly gimmicky and will fit in nicely once its reputation gets known. read more

Heading into Liverpool before our night at the airport Premier Inn prior to flying to France, we thought we should get something proper to eat. With the other half's brother having lived in Liverpool for a year and after our visit last December, we had a solid knowledge of where to go between us - and The Shipping Forecast came out on top. Cider and beers all round, we were excited by the menu; not huge but also not restrictive, there were some simple options but plenty of added extras for those who felt the need to build their own burger and the like. I went for the chilli cheese burger which, despite being slightly sloppy, really hit the spot. We shared some onion rings and chicken wings, which were just as tasty (though the chicken wings definitely pushed me to my limit!) The boyfriend's fried chicken was the real stand out - perfectly crispy breadcrumbs, moist chicken and a kick of spice right at the end. A great, relaxed atmosphere to enjoy some solid food which would set us up for a great weekend. read more

These days I think it's very easy to tar every bar that's put a bit of elbow grease and character into its soft furnishings and a considerate effort into menu sourcing (craft beer AHOY!) with the hipster brush. But in my book, if you can order a latte after 11pm on a Saturday night without being sneered at by the bar staff, then the place is deserving of praise. That being said - as delightful as the shabby-chic furniture is - small tables are at a premium and the set up lends itself more to larger groups, with big booths, large tables and a fair share of floor space. The music was good and they seem to have a great events schedule, so I'm sure I'll be back to indulge in something a little bit stronger very soon. read more

I went up to Liverpool this Sunday to meet some friends and see a band play. Upon arrival I was promptly whisked away to the Shipping Forecast, which is in a very central location, literally around the corner from the main shopping streets of L1. The first thing to strike me is the decor and layout of the place, which is charmingly reminiscent of an old manor house, at least to me anyway. The next thing I notice is the atmosphere...is it too pretentious to use the word 'ambiance'? Whatever it is, it's swell: soft lighting that's not too dark and everything just seems utterly chilled out. I think it has something to do with space. It feels spacious there, like you have space to breathe and it's not cluttered. I was there on a Sunday night, so I'm not sure if this sensation would change on busier nights, but there was definitely something relaxing about the aura (more pretentious words for you) of this place when I was there. Beyond that, there are three main points I would like to comment on that I was super impressed with: 1. The Toilets! HURRAH! Finally some pub toilets worth raving about. There is a quaint little staircase that descends directly to the Ladies where they play really quaint music, it's actually quite pleasant. 2. So I seem to have a bit of a thing with how helpful the staff are at different places. All the different bar staff I spoke to here were so chatty and friendly, it was really welcoming. 3. One word: Fruli. It's a strawberry flavoured beer. Ok I know that sounds disgusting on first impression, but actually, it ain't half bad. My companion described it to me as 'a dessert in a glass' which is pretty damn true. I recommend having a pint of your average lager first, and then following it up with a pint of fruli...it's like a mini meal! However, the Shipping Forecast doesn't just thrown down the anchor at being a standard pub bar. Oh no, they sail way past that. On the first Thursday of every month they have late night vintage shopping stalls from 5pm - I'm definitely going to go back to have a look at that in the near future. Furthermore it's acquiring a name for itself as a gig venue for up and coming alternative artists, with dj sets of the calibre of Mark Ronson, DJ Yoda and Delphic and live performances from the likes of James Blake, Slow Club and James Yuill. Definitely worth keeping an eye out for. If I lived in Liverpool, this is the kind of place I'd be making my regular water hole. read more

Every time I find myself in Liverpool, I make sure to pop into the SF. The decor is 90s teen drama - it looks like a set from Dawson's Creek, Buffy the Vampireslayer. Bare brick walls, wooden floorboards, beaten leather sofas and wooden benches. It just exudes comfy and relaxed. Service is always friendly, and the range of drinks is pretty standard but decent enough (the mulled blueberry cider for winter is great and makes a change from all the mulled wine). The food is pub grub done well - nothing too exciting, but sometimes you need a decent burger! When it comes to bars, its all about the atmosphere, and SF has it down to a tee. Perfect for breaks in Xmas shopping. read more

Great bar, great prices and an atmosphere that has its own Gravitational pull. Quiz nights and music nights are found here and the pub itself is a mix between student style watering hole and classic British pub. Best of both worlds The food here is fairly nice as are the beers and liquors. Hidden away in the side streets off bold street this bar is frequented by locals, students and tourists alike. Worth a visit any time of the day or night as there is something afoot at any time. read more

The Shipping Forecast on Slater Street is a unique, fun place to have a meal. They offer a relaxed, cozy atmosphere with very tasty food. Just one of the tasty things available on the menu is "the hippie burger" which is made from lentils, spinach, and hummus and served with a generous portion of chips. One of the yummiest desserts are their freshly baked, enormous chocolate chip cookies. They also offer a great drinks menu including some fun cocktails (many featuring ginger beer) and some fantastic beverages on tap like strawberry beer, pear cider, etc. Prices are a good value for your money. Oh, and they play the shipping forecast over the speakers down in the toilets. ;) read more

The Shipping Forecast - Music Venues Near Me - Liverpool, XMS

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If various hushed voices in Liverpool are to be believed, The Shipping Forecast is 'the new Korova'. Seeing Korova's propensity to burn down every six months or so, I'm really hoping that this isn't the case, because after one night in The Shipping Forecast, I must admit that I'm rather hooked on its charms. I have to admit that I wasn't expecting much when I walked through its doors. Located on the site of the old 'Flares', I wasn't sure I could cope with yet another ironically themed retro pub. Thankfully it appears that all traces of the buildings rather ignominious past have been thoroughly scrubbed away and replaced by rich dark wood interiors, big comfy sofas, and a wide range of artfully fashionable magazines for you to peruse whilst sipping on your craft beer. Because yes, 'The Shipping Forecast' is a little bit hipster, and frankly wouldn't look out of place if it were picked up and plonked down in the middle of Dalston. But then again, maybe that's what the Liverpool nightlife scene needs to kick it out of its rut. Plus, with the sad demise of Korova on Hope Street, lord knows that the hip young things of Merseyside need somewhere to congregate. With its wide range of gigs, DJ nights and indie club nights - as well as its toilets that actually pipe old broadcasts of The Shipping Forecast into your ears whilst you're having a wee - this is one bar which appears to have all the key elements to become one of Liverpool's most unique and best loved bars. Here's hoping it doesn't go too far up its own arse before it shows all the Scousers just what it's capable of. read more

I tried this new-ish bar early on a Saturday night. I was very disappointed and would be unlikely to go back. There was no draft bitter on at all, and it took me about ten minutes to get served even though there was hardly anyone in there. It looks great but they need to get the staff and the dinks sorted out before I'd try it again. read more

Stopped in here because it was near my hotel. Atmosphere was great (quiet, young crowd - no show or event at the time), and the staff was friendly. It gets 5 stars for the fantastic food and drink however. They have a decent selection of really good local ales and ciders on cask. The food was perfect both before and after a few beers. As an American, I really feel that they got the best of American food spot-on. Some of the best fried chicken I've ever had, and I'm from Virginia, I've had my fill of fried chicken. Locals should enjoy this treat! read more

A place that serves primarily burgers and fries was out of burgers and fries when I came. No fries, no sweet potato fries, no onion rings. I won't be back. read more

There are plenty of reasons to visit The Shipping Forecast, particularly if you fancy a burger; a relaxed atmosphere, good music, friendly service and a decent variety of appetising burgers at a (relatively) fair price. If you're willing to pay a little extra, TSF is certainly preferred to somewhere like Weatherspoons in virtually every facet. If you're after a reccomendation, try the Stable Friends or Katsu burger. read more

It's a great place for eat!! But they need something new in the menu!! And attend in the table !!! After that the burgers for me are the best in Liverpool!! read more

its a great place to spend the night out with friends, expecially on Monday where they have a regular quiz night which is really fun. Although the food is in a way more expensive then what it seems to worth, but other then that I would recommend this place. read more

We called in for a drink with our daughter and two granddaughters who really loved the atmosphere, surroundings and music etc. although the upholstered seats needed a bit of t.l.c. My husband bought two rounds of alcoholic drinks and was pleasantly surprised at how reasonably priced, they were and also served with a smile. We weren't able to stay to eat but the girls said that they would love to have a celebration party there in the future so will definitely return. read more

This summer sees the arrival of a fantastic new destination in Liverpool's social scene in the form of The Shipping Forecast, an eatery during the day and a music venue and alehouse by night. Housed in a former industrial docking building on Slater Street, the venue has all the makings of a true classic, with exposed brick walls, ambient lighting provided by vintage table lamps and retro seafaring paraphernalia in every nook and cranny. Anyone who witnessed the reincarnation of dodgy Sheffield bar the Fire Station into the cooler-than-now Bungalows and Bears will not be surprised to learn that the same people are behind the transformation of Liverpool's Flares into the trendy Shipping Forecast. Plush sofas, benches, tables and comfy armchairs are dotted throughout the ground floor, creating the perfect atmosphere for a lazy afternoon spent chatting with friends and chomping on delicious food. Speaking of which, the menu offers a fine selection of tasty home-cooked food including a range of 'proper pies' and 'roasts to shame your mother' - pub grub it is, but this is no box standard eatery, and the food is tasty, honest and satisfying down to the last crumb of freshly-baked burger bap. When day turns into night at The Shipping Forecast, it's clear that any last trace of Flares has decidedly taken leave. The basement bar and dance floor, once filled with garish neon lighting, has been transformed into something much edgier and cooler - and hip enough to attract the likes of Radio 1 DJ Giles Peterson, who played a crowd-pleasing, if somewhat eclectic, set back in June. read more

Having had a good day at the races we decided to go see some live music in the shipping. Unfortunately, to my disbelief, the place has a dress code policy - we were to smart!!!! Wanting to keep their image for something else the manager explained that as we had suits on we were not dressed appropriately for the venue!!! Inexplicable. Please, do not visit on these discriminatory grounds!!! read more

A sign outside was inviting good lads to come in for roast dinner, which we did! Food was really nice for pub food, especially the gravy and the York! Lovely staff, good music, laid back atmosphere. Try the sayonara Bloody Mary, really nice take on the classic cocktail! read more

Ahh, a sanctuary in the madness of Slater Street... this is a great place to hole up for the evening, away from the tottering crowds. The discrete entrance helps minimise the wrong type of passing trade (I'm not a snob, honest!) and once you get inside you won't really feel very inclined to leave. Lots of comfy sofas, dark wood and a retro vibe. read more

Nice beer, lovely staff, comfy and relaxed atmosphere, good music that's quiet enough to have a conversation.

With so many awful cheesy bars and clubs, finally a solution has arrived for those seeking a better quality place with good drinks, music a never a hen party in sight. The side entrance helps keep the wrong people out, such as scally types and fancy dress. Although a bit hipster inside, I prefer it to a night of concert square or matthew street. My place of choice on any night out! read more

I have to say that although this is a lovely bar in the heart of Liverpool with a lovely atmosphere and decor, that was tarnished within an instant. I have never in my life been as angry as I was when faced with the rude, ill mannered, jumped up member of the bar staff. She was dressed as if she hadn't washed in weeks and had a stinking manner to match. I ordered 1 beer for myself and paid with a £20 note, the only cash I had taken out with me, yet was given just over £2.50 in change. I had asked the girl about my change, stating that there had been a mistake and my note was in the till, i had folded it a certain way and asked for her to check. I was rudely told it was my own mistake as I had apparently given in a £5 note. What upset me was that she laughed and proceeded to serve the gentleman beside me, he too was shocked. I asked for help from the management but was told to come back at the end of the night (what, 2am???) to see if it was in the till then!! I will not be returning to this establishment again, manners cost nothing. Bad service. Simple as. read more