A stunning new venue has arrived on the Liverpool restaurant scene as Everton opens Domingo's Bar & Grill, a premium steakhouse with unparalleled views across the Mersey, to the public on selected non-matchdays this summer.
Launch Event
Although the great British weather ensured outdoor conditions were somewhat overcast for the launch on Thursday evening, diners could still enjoy a magnificent vista along the waterfront from the interior of the West Stand at the Blues' Hill Dickinson Stadium. The vibrant menu and live musical entertainment added to the ambiance.
Former Everton stars Mark Higgins, Barry Horne, Ian Snodin, Graham Stuart and Alan Stubbs were among the guests, along with this correspondent. Small plate versions of the food were served against the backdrop of the opening game of the World Cup finals between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa at the Azteca Stadium.
Restaurant Details
Paying homage to St Domingo's FC, the original name of the club when it was founded in 1878, the restaurant is open to all with no membership required. Diners can access on foot or by vehicle via Gate E on Regent Road, with dedicated parking available within the stadium footprint.
Open on Saturday evenings and Sundays throughout the rest of June and July (excluding major events such as rugby league's Magic Weekend on July 4/5 and the rugby union international between Fiji and England on July 11), guests can enjoy a Saturday evening grill house dinner or a traditional Sunday lunch featuring a classic roast with all the trimmings.
Chef's Vision
Adam Bateman, culinary director at Hill Dickinson Stadium, said: 'Domingo's Bar & Grill is all about delivering a premium dining experience that matches the ambition and quality of Hill Dickinson Stadium. We've created a menu that celebrates the very best of grill cooking – from high-quality steak cuts to carefully curated seasonal chicken, fish and vegetarian dishes – all designed to be enjoyed in a truly unique setting overlooking the River Mersey.'
'This is more than just a restaurant opening – it's an opportunity for people across the city to experience the stadium in a completely different way, and we're excited to welcome guests through the doors this summer.'
Club's Perspective
Aaron Duckmanton, Everton's chief revenue officer, added: 'Opening Domingo's Bar & Grill to the public is an important step in showcasing Hill Dickinson Stadium as a year-round destination. A key part of our vision for the stadium is how it can be used beyond matchdays – creating opportunities for people to experience it in different ways, whether that's through food, events, sport, music or other activities.'
'Liverpool has a fantastic food scene, and we believe Domingo's will offer something genuinely distinctive, combining exceptional food with an iconic waterfront setting and a unique environment.'
Dining Experience
Having experienced it myself, this refined dining is worth a visit for the views alone. As a long-time New Brighton resident, it was great to look across and see 'The Dome of Home' of St Peter and St Paul's Church plus Fort Perch Rock and the lighthouse from 'across the water' in such a refined setting.
The taste test was crucial, and as a committed carnivore, it gets the thumbs up. The Lake District Dirty Burgers – which Mrs Beesley said were the best she had ever tasted – were available in small 'slider' form, but future visitors can enjoy the full-size version: a 5oz grilled patty topped with Applewood cheddar, sticky bacon jam, pickled red onions and garlic aioli plus rosemary salted fries for £21.
For a special occasion, the Domingo's signature dish is the tomahawk steak for two, cooked slowly on the bone and served with beef dripping seasoned fries, grilled mushrooms and tomato; truffle mac and cheese; beer battered onion rings and a duo of classic steak sauces for £150. The medium rare version I sampled was full of flavour.
A limited number of walk-ins may be available, but advance booking is strongly recommended due to limited capacity.
