With a busy summer season ahead, the ever-buzzing Hope Street area is playing host to a brand new American-flavoured bar and restaurant. In a prime location opposite one of the city’s most prestigious hotels, and adjacent to the legendary Philharmonic Hall, this new place to socialise, relax and meet has a laid-back vibe with a first-class service ethos.

A welcoming addition to the Georgian Quarter, and based at 88 Hope Street, Smokey Joe’s bar, restaurant and grill is serving up stateside dishes with a unique twist. Its generous opening hours mean that guests can enjoy delicious Americana breakfasts including bacon and maple syrup-drenched pancakes. Lunch takes guests to new heights with towering sandwiches, signature burgers and delicious filled jacket potatoes. The dinner crowd can go to town with juicy steaks and ribs, Smokey Special platters followed by old school dessert favourites such as sundaes. Bespoke cocktails and an extensive drinks menu brings a refreshing accompaniment to any meal, or a treat on their own.

To add to the relaxed atmosphere, Smokey Joe’s is playing host to live music and is also the perfect home for sports fans, who can enjoy watching major live sporting events. Family-friendly and dog-friendly, it is all about being inclusive, wonderful value, with the type of warm welcome which American venues are famous for.

Bernie Stapleton, proprietor of Smokey Joe’s comments:

“We have already been so busy since our soft launch, and look forward to the summer months when we will be opening our doors to clients – no velvet rope required.

When 88 Hope Street became available I knew straight away I wanted to bring Smokey Joe’s to this historic location. I have already had a successful version in Spain, which was part of my successful portfolio of bars, restaurants and venues throughout Europe.

The area already has its own distinct identity and we know that Smokey Joe’s will add something unique to the mix. My experience has also shown that best-quality, great value menus always win with customers, and that is at the heart of what Smokey Joe’s is. Our live music events are all about promoting up-and-coming artists, from local bands to amazing talents based at the wonderful nearby Universities and LIPA.

Due to our location, we are really looking forward to welcoming graduation parties this summer – our informal approach will be much-welcomed by families toasting their children’s successes. Our extensive menu, including gluten-free, vegetarian and options for kids is wholesome and all about referencing American greats.

Music is such an important part of the city’s cultural identity, and we look forward to giving both new and experienced artists a platform – live bands are also a great way to bring in and celebrate an evening with us at Smokey Joe’s.

As for sport, we wouldn’t be based in Liverpool without providing fans with a chance to watch the very best events. With ‘Euro 2024’ taking place in June, and the Paris Olympics later on in the summer, sports devotees will find a laidback space here at Smokey Joe’s.

Ours is the perfect venue to enjoy our informal, American menu with friends, family and colleagues. I am really lucky that I have been able to assemble a first-rate team here on Hope Street, who will make everyone feel at home here from the minute they walk through our doors.

Then it’s all about delicious, fresh food, with an entirely relaxed vibe, where our guests can rest assured that while they are with us, good times and great dishes are guaranteed.”

Smokey Joe’s is located at 88 Hope Street Liverpool L1 9BQ

Opening times are:

Monday to Friday 8am – 11pm
Saturday and Sunday 9am – 11pm

Follow Smokey Joes here!