It’s spritz season: We scouted out Liverpool’s best Aperol offerings so you don’t have to

With exam season over, dissertations handed in, and the sun being here to stay, it feels only right to talk about the drink of the summer: Aperol Spritz. Yes, it might have gained a bad rep as a social media star, or a drink people pretend to like for aesthetics, but nothing beats something sweet, crisp, a little bitter, and perfect for a warm day in a pub garden.

Luckily for us, Liverpool is absolutely full of places to enjoy this iconic cocktail. Whether you’re on a floating restaurant on the docks, playing board games in a cosy bar, or getting a little too into karaoke with some liquid courage in hand, this city has it all when it comes to the best spots for a spritz.

After what we can only describe as very extensive research (source: lots and lots of spritzes), we’ve rounded up the best spots in town where an Aperol Spritz is actually worth your time and yes, maybe even a bit of your student loan. Or a lot of it. We don’t make the decisions.

The Merchant

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If you love an alfresco atmosphere and good vibes, The Merchant should be top of your list. Sitting on the edge of Concert Square, it feels like you’ve wandered into a corner of Copenhagen, that is until you hear someone shout “ta-rah to you” from across the street. The Aperol Spritz in here is light and refreshing, and we can personally recommend pairing it with a slice of their wood-fired pizza. The hot honey pepperoni is life changing, and paired with a spritz? Incredible summer vibes.

Daffodil

Aperol Spritz on a boat? Say no more. Floating on the Albert Docks, Daffodil is a ship-turned-restaurant that is impossible to forget. With panoramic views of the water and historic buildings, the ambiance in this place is unmatched.

Whether you’re sipping a chilled Aperol Spritz on the deck, basking in golden-hour sunlight, or enjoying a cozy evening inside with soft maritime lighting, Daffodil wraps you in a seaside spell. The gentle cries of seagulls and the soft summer breeze is picture perfect. It’s not your everyday experience, but that’s what makes it so brilliant.

Vox Karaoke Cocktail Bar

This spot is something we can guarantee you won’t have thought of, but hear us out. There’s something surprisingly fun about sipping an Aperol Spritz while belting out a bit of Bruno Mars in a private karaoke room. Vox might not be your typical go-to bar for a cocktail or two, but it’s got a unique charm and a great experience to match. Bonus points if you organise a girls night and make the most of those microphones.

The Botanist

Classic, reliable, and effortlessly pretty, The Botanist is always a safe bet. It would be rude not to go for one every so often, right? A bit of live music and a cheeky spritz never hurt anyone. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it suits every kind of mood, and their picky bits make the perfect companion. It’s also conveniently, or dangerously, close to Liverpool ONE, so after you’ve shopped till you dropped, you can just head into The Botanist and reward yourself with a crisp Aperol Spritz.

St Peter’s Tavern

St Peter’s Tavern has become my unofficial backup plan for when the Heebie Jeebies’ queue gets far too long. There’s a reason why this place is going viral, because there’s something so irresistible about ducking into a little table in the corner to play some board games, sip on a spritz, and admire the church interior.

During the day, St Peter’s outdoor space becomes a sunbathing hotspot. Pair that with a crispy Aperol Spritz, and you’re sorted for the rest of the afternoon. It is a brilliant little hidden gem that’s right in the centre of everything if you’re a few drinks down and fancy a boogie.

Bombed Out Church

Despite its dramatic name, the beloved Bombed Out Church is one of the city’s most vibrant beer gardens in summer. With an outdoor bar and benches set up among the ruins, it’s a must-visit for atmosphere alone, let alone a few drinks. Their Aperol Spritz is exactly what you want on a hot day; cold, zesty, and dangerously easy to drink.

You might get into a bit of bubbly bother bumping into literally everyone you know in here, but it’s worth it. The student herd mentality really shines when a bit of sun comes out and those big old gates are open. You might not be original, but who cares? You’ve got some of the orange stuff in a warm plastic cup and that’s all that matters.

Duke Street Food Market

Now this one may be a crowd favourite. Duke Street Food Market is an ideal spot for everything from chilled out catch-ups to big nights out. With its varied street food and a super stylish vibe, it’s definitely one to stick on your list before you head home for the year. The bar, by the way, does a fantastic Aperol Spritz, and that’s all that really matters.

From boats to board games, karaoke to classic pubs, this city has an Aperol Spritz for every occasion.

Whether you’re a long-time lover or a curious first-timer, these spots prove there’s more to an Aperol Spritz than just pretty pictures – although it certainly helps that they look good too. If you’re just dipping your toes into the spritz scene for the first time, Liverpool’s range of venues makes exploring it a joy.