Petit Cafe Du Coin
Ian Jones, Food and Drink Editor
Take a few steps around the corner from Liverpool’s world-famous (if it isn’t yet, it should be) Bold Street, and you’ll find Petit Cafe Du Coin, right on the edge of Liverpool’s almost-as-legendary Chinatown district. In fact, head in any direction in the city centre and you’ll find something fascinating – has any major other city achieved quite as much in such a small surface area? Doubtful.
But we’re here to have a few drinks in the delightful Petit Cafe Du Coin. It’s a small intimate cafe, with a suitably laid-back and disarmingly friendly atmosphere. The staff are happy to chat, or leave you be, there’s no sense of pressure that you might find in some of more well-known chain coffeeshops. It’s a place to bob into, sit back, watch the world go by, and have a great time while doing so.
The soundtrack is suitably eclectic, veering all over the genres, always fitting the vibe. Staff from nearby bars often pop in for a chat, sticking around for a laugh and a drink – and if that’s not the sign of a truly excellent venue, I don’t know what is.
There’s a nice range of teas to choose from, and an even wider selection of alcoholic drinks, with a strong focus on cocktails. It’s not heavily food-based but the peckish among you can dive into a choice of cakes or a charcuterie board. Unsurprisingly, considering the name, the place has a Parisian feel, filtered through that unbeatable sense of scouse eccentricity and friendliness. You won’t find any snooty poodle owners in here, but you will find a charmingly dishevelled bar worker or three who’ll happily spend their day chattering about anything under the sun for a few hours.
Petit Cafe Du Coin is just another jewel in Liverpool’s crown. It’s the perfect summation of the city, in one small but excellent bar and well worth spending a lazy afternoon at (with the more-than-likely potential of spilling over into a raucous evening).
