Another blooming city centre bar opens next week (23 April)

THE FLORIST, a contemporary new bar and restaurant on the site of the former Old Blind School on Hardman Street will open to the public on Monday 23 April.

The garden themed venue, which also has a branch in Bristol, is an offshoot of the New World Trading Company, the group behind The Botanist chain and The Clubhouse by Chavasse Park.

The Florist promises to breathe new life into the stunning Grade II listed building, which once housed the Royal School for the Blind. It has stood empty since former owners The New Moon Pub Company went into administration in 2016. 

20180418 Blind School Liverpool
The Old Blind School in 2015 DV8

An abundance of floral installations will transform the venue into a horticultural wonderland: from two full-size, in-bloom trees standing sentry in the entrance hall, to a floral photo-wall taking centre stage at the top of the grand staircase.

Predicted to be the most photographed bar in Liverpool, owners promise that the unique venue will be a complete transformation, almost unrecognisable from its previous self. 

Contemporary and graffiti artists Gemma Compton and Jody Thomas were commissioned to create bespoke pieces for the new Liverpool site, in harmony with The Florist brand.

The Florist is an all day and night hang out, offering customers a spectacular menu of ‘instagrammable’ cocktails, nightly DJs and live music as well as a food menu of ‘culinary delights and fragrant delicacies’ from the deli, rotisserie and grill. 

20180418 The Florist Cocktails
Florist cocktails

General Manager of The Florist, Joel Lee said, “The Florist needs be seen to be believed how pretty and light the site has now become. We know it is going to become the place to be in Liverpool and we can’t wait to open.

 “We have so much to offer, from the extensive cocktail menu inspired by the three key styles of floristry: English Summer Garden, Ikebana and Modern Contemporary, with herbal twists taken fresh from the garden. 60 hand-picked beers and a vibrant food menu, consisting of mouth-watering deli, rotisserie and grill-inspired dishes, with plenty of gluten free, dairy free and vegan options to cater for all. We will also be open for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 9.30am.

The Florist will also have a schedule of special hands-on events including cocktail making master classes, workshops on floristry as well as gin and ale tastings.

The Florist treated the folk at Liverpool One to a sample of their cocktails last week.

The Florist, 24 Hardman St, Liverpool L1 9AX