The former Madre restaurant site at Liverpool's Royal Albert Dock will become a new venue called The Hartley, run by the team behind the dock's cocktail bar The Long Shot. The restaurant is expected to open by the end of this year.
Former Madre site finds new occupier
Madre, a Mexican restaurant, first opened in November 2019 and was launched by the team behind Belzan and Volip. It occupied two floors of the Grade I-listed Atlantic Pavilion, with seating for 100 guests, a dedicated bar area and an outdoor courtyard.
The ECHO reported in March that Madre had closed after six years of trading. At the time, the team said they would focus on the sister venue, Salon Madre, on Hanover Street. Salon Madre has since also closed, with its future remaining unclear.
The Hartley's plans for the Albert Dock
The new venue will be called The Hartley. Co-owner and director Michael Griffiths said the team had been looking for a larger, more flexible space for weddings, private parties and corporate events. He described the opportunity, located a couple of doors down from The Long Shot, as a natural next step for the business.
The venue's large outdoor courtyard and indoor space will allow it to offer something different at the Albert Dock. The Hartley aims to fill a gap in the Royal Albert Dock's offering, hosting bottomless brunches, wedding receptions, corporate events, birthday celebrations, hen parties and private hire. Its design will feature exposed brickwork, floral displays and a spacious outdoor courtyard.
Food and opening hours
Food will be served throughout the day, with a brunch-led menu focused on keeping the offering short and well executed. Full brunch service will run from 11am to 3pm, while coffee will be available from 8am on weekdays and 9am at weekends.
