Liverpool’s culinary scene is about to welcome a luxurious new addition as Elif Turkish Bar & Grill opens its doors this week. The renowned restaurant brand will take up residence in the historic Grade II-listed NatWest Bank building on Castle Street, bringing an elegant transformation to this iconic location.
Alan May, owner of Elif, expressed his excitement about the grand opening: “We are delighted to have brought new life to this incredible city centre building and to have taken Elif to a whole new level of luxury. The new restaurant is stunning. It has a sophisticated feel, and we know that guests are going to go ‘wow’ from the moment they step inside.”
The launch of Elif promises to deliver a destination dining experience, drawing both locals and visitors from afar. With competition like The Ivy set to open nearby, Elif is poised to make a significant mark on Liverpool’s upscale restaurant scene.
Situated at 22 Castle Street, the building has a rich history, having previously served as Parr’s Bank and later as NatWest until its closure in 2017. The site, now owned by JSM Company Group, will see the ground floor transformed into the new Elif venue, while plans are in place to convert the upper floors into a hotel.
Elif’s expansion into Castle Street adds to its existing locations on Bold Street, Lark Lane, and Childwall. Known for its authentic Turkish cuisine, Elif offers a diverse menu featuring hot and cold mezzes, grilled meats, fish, seafood dishes, and traditional favorites. Signature dishes include Guvec, a flavorful stew of chicken, lamb, or prawns with vegetables; Iskender, a sumptuous dish of grilled lamb or chicken with bread, yogurt, and tomato butter sauce; and Izgara Kofte, BBQ chargrilled meatballs in a rich tomato, pepper, and garlic sauce.
“The food is going to be just as delicious and of the most exceptional quality,” assures Alan. The new Elif will distinguish itself through a high-class concept and significant investment in its interior design. The lavish decor features velvet chairs around opulent marble tables, a central botanical feature, an ornate fountain, and a striking modern chandelier beneath a stained-glass dome.
“It looks amazing,” Alan adds. “The place and the design match our ethos of establishing a unique Elif in a beautiful and prestigious building. It will be a place where people can come and enjoy their food in a relaxed environment and superb surroundings.”
Elif Castle Street will also feature a private dining room accommodating 14-16 guests, offering an exclusive space for families or special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or business parties.
Beyond its culinary offerings, the new Elif will provide a significant boost to Liverpool’s economy and hospitality industry. Alan notes, “It will provide jobs, it will add to the economy, and it will bring people into the city. We are very excited for the opening.”
With its luxurious setting and exceptional cuisine, Elif Turkish Bar & Grill on Castle Street is set to become a premier dining destination in Liverpool. The restaurant will opening to the public on Monday, July 29.