Pan Am

A trip to Liverpool’s popular Albert Dock is usually an excuse to dress up, have a few drinks & go WAG-spotting, but not necessarily to enjoy a good meal. Pan Am (formerly the Pan American Club) is a sign that this may be changing. The thriving bar has a rather fabulous dining room upstairs, complete with comfy banquettes, huge tables & exposed brick walls. There’s no mistaking its clubby vibe (a pop soundtrack, black-clad waiters & an impressive cocktail list), but that doesn’t stop the kitchen aiming high. The menu promises simple grilled steaks as well as fancier dishes such as spiced monkfish with creamy curried lentils or a parcel of lemon sole (filled with smoked salmon, crab meat & spinach) served with lobster broth.