WITH a menu based on classic dishes across Alpine Europe and more than 20 biers on tap, it is great to have Albert's Schenke in Merseyside.
Based on the corner of Hanover Street, Liverpool in the Grade II listed Casartelli Building, Albert's Schenke is the latest restaurant from Mission Mars who are also behind the likes of Albert's Schloss, The Viking Pub in West Kirby and Rudy's Neapolitan Pizza.
Named after Prince Albert, the new Bier Halle and Cook Haus is an exciting addition to the city.
We were invited to dine at the restaurant on Saturday, August 10.
The bustling bar area was packed with people sampling some of the many drinks available from classic cocktails to local craft beers.
As soon as we walked through the door we were welcomed by a host who showed us to our table.
We were then handed a bottle of ice cold water for as we perused the extensive drinks menu.
For my partner it had to be a pint of Pilsner Urquell and for me, the rhubarb spritz - a crisp mix of Warner Edwards rhubarb gin, St Germain elderflower, supasawa, William Fox Hibiscus and Durello.
Drinks ordered, we turned our attention to the food.
All over social media I had seen people trying out the famous Sformato - a baked truffled mashed potato with melting nuggets of alpine cheese - so I had already made up my mind that I definitely had to give this a go.
My partner chose the 8oz rump steak served with tarragon garlic butter and - I am told - delicious triple cooked chips.
Charred cauliflower flatbread
For my main, I opted for the charred cauliflower served on flatbread with pomegranate, hummus, toasted almonds and fresh mint - lathered in bier chilli sauce (which added a definite kick).
We took in the bustling surroundings while sipping on our drinks and awaiting our meal.
Around 20 minutes after ordering, our food arrived.
Piping hot, I thoroughly enjoyed my meal. The bier chilli sauce was a little hot in some places, so definitely not one for those who don't like spice but all the same it was thoroughly enjoyable and provided a nice kick to the meal.
I couldn't finish both the charred cauliflower dish and the Sformato but I definitely gave them a good go.
The Sformato was deliciously creamy and topped with a thin crisp layer of cheese. I would tell anyone to go to Albert's Schenke just to try this dish.
My partner's steak was cooked just how he liked it, medium to well done and the chips were crisp and tasty - I would've tried one myself, but they were gone before I could nab one!
Fit to burst, our plates were cleared and we sat and talked about the day. The team were attentive and although the restaurant was busy, they were in no rush for us to leave.
After a comfort break we decided we had to try a dessert.
Classic apple strudel
For me, I tried the classic apple strudel which consisted with a thin crispy layer of filo pastry which encased bramley and granny smith apple compote, drenched in cinnamon and complete with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
My partner opted for the wild strawberry and vanilla bean ice cream. The ice cream was definitely a highlight for both of us!
While sat down we noticed that Albert's Schenke offer a slightly smaller menu on a Sunday but offer huge 'Sunday Haus Roast'.
Served with roast potatoes, root veg, mash, broccoli, savoy cabbage and 'proper' gravy, there's options for everyone - Porchetta, topside of Lancashire beef, roast Cheshire chicken and sweet potato strudel.
We will definitely be back soon to try this.
I would recommend anyone wanting to sample Albert's Schenke's Cook Haus should book a table in advance via https://www.albertsschenke.co.uk/
Wunderbar! Four Stars
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