Liverpool’s got no shortage of incredible places to eat — but while the crowds queue for the usual favourites, we’ve got our eyes (and stomachs) on the city’s best-kept secrets. From tucked-away cafés to neighbourhood favourites serving up world-class dishes, this guide celebrates the most underrated food spots in Liverpool. These are the local gems recommended by our mates, food lovers and a few well-fed insiders.
1. The Legacy Thai – Aigburth Road
Once you try The Legacy Thai you’ll immediately start telling everyone you know about it. It’s family-run, super friendly, and packed with all the vibrant flavours and aromas you’d expect from a proper Thai kitchen. The space itself is small but beautifully done — think warm lighting, lush décor, and that instantly comforting smell of lemongrass and spice as soon as you walk in.
The menu goes way beyond your usual green curries and pad Thai (though those are spot-on too). You’ll find dishes you don’t often see elsewhere — like Chiang Mai-style sausages, betel leaf prawns, and their famous Legacy Thai Chicken made with the owner’s mum’s secret sauce. It’s the kind of food that feels fresh, homemade and full of care, with generous portions and just the right level of heat.
To top it all off, the drinks menu is brilliant — think cocktails infused with Thai herbs and fruit, milk teas, and their deliciously cooling coconut desserts. The service is always warm and genuine too, making it one of the most welcoming spots in South Liverpool. If you haven’t been yet, you’re seriously missing out.
Address: The Legacy Thai, 58 Aigburth Rd, Dingle, Liverpool L17 7BN
Website: thelegacythaifood.co.uk
Instagram: @thelegacythai
Contact: +44 151 319 7498
Google Reviews
2. Doux Chaton
Doux Chaton is one of those places that makes you feel instantly at home. This spot is full of bold Vietnamese flavour and good vibes. As soon as you walk in, you’re hit with the aroma of slow-simmered pho broth, the sizzle of banh xèo on the griddle, fresh herbs around every corner and a warm “hello” from staff who clearly love what they do. The spot is pretty compact, cosy and unpretentious — you come here for the food, not the frills.
What we love: the bowls are generous (seriously generous), the banh mi sandwiches are crispy and loaded with flavour and there are plenty of vegan/vegetarian options so it’s not just “nudged in as an after-thought”. Plus the drink game is strong — Vietnamese coffee, bubble tea, fruit teas… it doesn’t stop at the food. The staff are super helpful if you’re a bit unsure of the menu, and the prices are fair for the quality you’re getting. Whether it’s a solo lunch, a date night or a casual catch-up with mates, Doux Chaton hits the spot.
Address: Doux Chaton, Unit 1, 89 Renshaw St, Liverpool L1 2SP
Website: douxchaton.com
Instagram: @douxchatonviet
Contact Number: +44 151 709 0338
Google Reviews
3. Fritto
Fritto specialises in true Italian street food and bakery treats—think fried pizza pockets, arancini with melty cheese centres, focaccia sandwiches that actually feel like something special, and loads of fresh bread & baked goods made on site.
The vibe’s unpretentious and warm — you walk in, smell something amazing, and you’re greeted by a team of folks who clearly care a lot about what they’re doing.
What makes it stand out? For starters, their menu is full of choices you don’t often see around town. From panzerotti filled with smoked provola & aubergine to vegan options that genuinely hit the mark. The portions are generous, the flavours bold, the ingredients fresh.
Address: Fritto, 149 Smithdown Rd, Liverpool L7 4JF
Website: fritto.org
Instagram: @fritto_uk
Contact Number: +44 151 733 8495
Google Reviews
4. Jomsom
Jomsom Nepalese Restaurant is one of those places that really punches above its weight when it comes to flavour and atmosphere. The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by friendly faces, cosy décor and that unmistakable aroma of Himalayan spices doing their magic. If you’ve ever wondered what genuine Nepali food tastes like — not the usual Indian-curry-house reinterpretation — this is your spot.
Where to begin? The momos (dumplings) here are legendary — perfectly steamed or fried, full of flavour and totally shareable. Then there’s dishes like the slow-cooked lamb curry infused with Himalayan herbs, or the Thakali potato wedges (“Mustang aalu”) cooked in ghee with proper spice. Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free-friendly options are also solid, so everyone’s covered. Reviews rave about the generous portions, the depth of flavour and the staff’s willingness to walk you through menu items if you’re unsure.
Definitely pick a dish you haven’t heard of and just go for it — you might find a new favourite.
Address: Jomsom, 33 Dovedale Rd, Liverpool L18 5EP
Website: jomsoms.co.uk
Instagram: @jomsomliverpool
Contact Number: +44 151 394 0227
Google Reviews
5. Namma Ooru Dosa
If you’re craving something a little different and full of flavour, Namma Ooru Dosa is a gem in Old Swan that deserves your attention. From the moment you walk in you can sense the vibe — it’s casual, friendly, and all about seriously good South Indian fare rather than trying too hard to be flashy.
Their dosas (that crisp, savoury crepe made from fermented lentils and rice) are a star attraction, but don’t stop there — we’re talking rich biryanis, shredded parotta dishes (hello Kothu Parotta), and plenty of bold spices. One reviewer said the Chicken Biryani was “so flavourful and aromatic” and the portions generous enough that you definitely won’t be leaving hungry.
Whether you’re already a South Indian cuisine fan or just keen to try something new outside the usual curry-house loop, Namma Ooru Dosa hits the spot.
Address: Namma Ooru Dosa, 138 Mill Ln, Old Swan, Liverpool L13 4AH
Website: nammaoorudosaliverpool.co.uk
Instagram: @nod_liverpool
Contact Number: +44 151 245 2698
Google Reviews
What do you think of our 5 most underrated food spots in Liverpool? What’s your favourite underrated spot? Let is know in the comments.
