Italian · Liverpool
Tucked into Castle Street near the docks, this is a small, fast Italian spot that works well for a lunch with children — pasta arrives quickly, the staff are friendly and helpful, and there's a kids' menu, high chairs and buggy access. The catch is size: only a handful of tables inside, so at busy times you may wait, and one family waited around 40 minutes with a child in tow on a cold day. Go off-peak, or on a warm day when the outdoor tables come into their own — there are no heaters out there. Portions are generous for the price (carbonara around £9.45), the gnocchi with salmon gets particular praise, and the tiramisu is what people come back for. Quality can wobble — a few have found pasta undercooked or sitting too long — but most leave happy.
A little something creative for your next meal out. Filled with colouring, simple drawing prompts for cute animals, origami and conversation starters designed to bring more play, laughter and connection to the table. 3 free printable packs for toddlers, preschoolers and primary-aged children.
Fresh, generous Vietnamese bowls in the city centre, with a kids' menu, high chairs, buggy access and notably warm, patient staff.
Smart Castle Street Italian with high chairs, a kids' menu and famously good pizza — pricey, and loud on weekend evenings.
Lively Castle Street pizzeria with an open kitchen, kids' menu, high chairs and famously warm staff — book for bigger groups.