Black Cat Bar & Bottle Shop has opened its fourth venue in Liverpool. Village Cat, located in Woolton, has been in the works for more than a year, with the grand opening landing on Friday, July 31, at the hands of three friends still just "trying to do our best".
From Coast Café to Village Cat
In July 2024, the venue's former resident, Coast Café Bistro, announced its closure on Facebook, citing a "combination of higher costs and reduced income" that took too much of a toll on the business. Just short of two years later, the building was acquired by the Black Cat team – Andy Scott, Chris Welsh and Rich Midgley.
Serving a wide range of craft beer and real ales, Black Cat started on Smithdown Road and expanded onto Rose Lane in Mossley Hill in 2024. Black Cat opened its third location in October on Parr Street in Liverpool city centre, taking over the premises from pizzeria and bar Crazy Pedro's.
Co-owner's vision for the new venue
Co-owner Chris Welsh told the ECHO: "We saw the space over a year ago but only got the keys about six months ago. The original plan was a quick spruce up and get open but it became a much bigger job. Every venue we open we learn new stuff and try to reiterate what we know and make it the best we can."
He added: "Village Cat will have a similar vibe to Rose Lane – slower and not student heavy. It's pretty crazy three lads from Liverpool are opening their fourth bar. Hopefully, everyone can see the hard work paying off because we're just trying to do the best we can. We're very excited to open and hope everyone enjoys it."
A look at the venue
Guests can enjoy a spacious beer garden, perfect for unwinding during warmer months. The launch day went down a storm, with the team aiming for a warm and cosy interior and a relaxed feel.
