THE Cunard Building is to be become a first class restaurant later this month.
Named the Aquitania, the fine dining operation will be open for just six days from May 21.
With a 1920s theme, it is being led by the City of Liverpool College’s award winning executive chef, Ian Jaundoo.
The occasion is, of course, sparked by the visit of Cunard’s three flagship Queens, Victoria, Elizabeth and Mary II over the Bank Holiday weekend, culminating in a historic meeting of the three cruise liners on the Mersey.
The blurb offers customers a “unique dining experience” in the palatial surroundings of the Cunard Building, one of the city's Three Graces and the original headquarters of the Cunard shipping company which is celebrating its 175th birthday this year.
Jaundoo, who will be assisted by the kitchen team at the Academy Restaurant, said: "The Aquitania is going to offer a gastronomic experience which will be second to none as regards such a truly stunning setting. The Cunard Building is a World Heritage site and the place where almost every cruise passenger passed in the 1920s on Transatlantic trips to a new world.
We will be offering afternoon teas and evening fine dining, along with music and entertainment to create a memorable experience for diners
“To reflect this wealth of heritage and history the whole look of the new restaurant, from furnishings to uniforms, will be 1920s themed. We will be offering afternoon teas and evening fine dining, along with music and entertainment to create a memorable experience for diners."
Liverpool City Council is working closely with the college to deliver the event which will see a four course dinner menu for £30.
Mayor Joe Anderson, who worked with the college and the Three Queens’ captains on the name for the posh pop up, said: "Seeing the Three Queens together on the river will live long in the memories of all who witness it and we wanted to enhance the experience by offering visitors the chance to see inside the world famous Cunard Building and enjoy examples of some of the best fine dining Liverpool has to offer. I've been working with the City of Liverpool College, and Cunard to create a truly unique visitor experience and I'm looking forward to when the doors of the Aquitania open on the 21st May."
Aquitania was the name of Cunard's third ship of their "grand trio" express liners in the 1900s. She was widely considered to be the most attractive ship of her time and earned the nickname "Ship Beautiful".
With strictly limited availability, Aquitania will be open from the 21st May – 26th May. Places can be booked here.
