The Riveria, Leverhulme Hotel

The ‘Riviera’ restaurant is located within the luxury Leverhulme Hotel in Port Sunlight and offers a modern yet relaxed culinary experience with influences of the Côte d’Azur. The unique dining concept combines the very finest produce and service, presented in an informal yet stylish dining environment.

On arrival at the hotel, we were greeted and seated in the beautiful bar area by Front of House Manager ‘Sherry’ and offered nibbles (olives and nuts) whilst we perused the extensive wine menu.

Taking Sherry’s recommendation, we opted for the ‘Miravel’, a Grenache Rose. Beautifully pale pink in colour, with a nose of wild strawberry and stone fruit, accompanied by delicate floral touches; a delicious and highly recommended wine! It’s also from Brad Pitt’s vineyard.

Relaxed and feeling very ‘at home’, we were shown to our table in the beautifully decorated and appointed restaurant. Our complimentary amuse bouche arrived consisting of a selection of home-made brioche, white and wholemeal breads served with fresh tomatoes, lemon, the finest rapeseed oil and sea salt. Delicious.

To begin, we chose from the small plates menu. Brillat-Savarin au Pesto, Marmelade d’Oignon et Brioche, priced at £6.50. This dish was presented charmingly. Poulpe Finement Tranché à l’Huile de Citron (£8.00) – thinly sliced Octopus in Lemon Oil. Divine and refreshing on the palate. Crevettes Tièdes à l’Huile d’Olive (£8.00) – warm prawns with olive oil. Beautifully succulent. Carpaccio de Thon à Nageoires Jaunes (£8.00) – Carpaccio of yellowfin tuna – delicate in texture but packed with flavour.

From the large plates menu, we ordered Ballotins de Poulet (£14.00) – Chicken Ballotines with Serrano ham, olives, artichokes and tomatoes – wonderful. Risotto de Champignons et Truffe Sauvage (£14.00) – the best wild mushroom and truffle risotto we have ever tasted. The Côlelettes d’Agneau (£20.00) – a Roasted Rack of Lamb served with a mint jelly, was cooked to perfection, exquisite and very satisfying. The home-made mint jelly was a flavour sensation.

To finish, we opted for the Pain Perdu avec Glacée à la cannelle et des épices (£7.00). Fried Brioche with Cinnamon and Spiced Ice Cream – absolutely delicious and very festive! Plus the Sorbet de Citron avec Vodka Glacée (£6.00) – Lemon Sorbet with Iced Vodka… Wow!

Overall, the ‘Riveria’ provides an outstanding dining experience; luxury surroundings, outstanding customer service, exquisite, beautifully prepared and presented food. The restaurant is perfect for couples, families and children… in a relaxed environment.

We would highly recommend a visit anytime of the week or weekend. Five stars.

To book, call 0151 644 6655.

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