August launch confirmed for El Gato Negro, Liverpool

Simon Shaw, Chef Patron and Creative Director, has confirmed he will open the doors to his new restaurant in Liverpool this August.

The acclaimed tapas restaurant which, under the tutelage of Shaw has garnered widespread critical acclaim and a succession of accolades, will occupy the former Vincent site, in historic Exchange Flags.

Work on the beautiful heritage building is well underway, with a refurbishment programme injecting new life into the impressive space.

Set across the one open floor, El Gato Negro Liverpool will provide dining space for 240 guests and feature a striking charcuterie bar, where guests can enjoy a wide range of delicacies, in addition to an impressive island bar, serving classic cocktails, premium local produce and a select range of Spanish wines and sherry.

A private dining room will provide privacy for celebratory and business dinners, with an outdoor terrace providing additional dining space for 40 people, with views across the square.

Tapas selection

Speaking on the announcement, Shaw said: “I’m really looking forward to opening El Gato Negro in Liverpool.  For me it’s one of the most exciting cities right now, up there with Manchester, Leeds and London.  It’s got an incredible mix of operators, not just food and drink but retail too, and a brilliant, independent identity; the architecture is something else.

“Call me biased but Exchange Flags is really special, when we were introduced to the site, we knew it was for us.  It’s a beautiful building steeped in history and has the most incredible features; whilst El Gato Negro restaurants will be consistent in great quality food and service, it’s essential to me that every restaurant has its own identity, its own story to tell.  Finding the right heritage building in the right location is key to that and in Liverpool we’ve found both.”

El Gato Negro is renowned for providing seasonally inspired dishes reflecting a mix of modern and traditional Spanish flavours and techniques, with influences from closer to home.  The restaurant has received recognition from Hardens, Michelin, The Times and The Good Food Guide, and this year, was awarded a prestigious Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand for the third year running.