The new space in Liverpool will open its doors in a few weeks time
The new space in Liverpool will open its doors in a few weeks time
An iconic building in Liverpool is set for a new lease of life. The former bank at 20 Smithdown Place, off Penny Lane, will soon reopen as Twenty, featuring a coffee shop, wine bar, floristry and small plates concept. The famous building, immortalised by the “banker on the corner” lyrics in The Beatles’ “Penny Lane”, was a TSB branch until 2021.
Laura McCumiskey, 37, and Anna Forster, 37, who are behind Liverpool businesses Laura’s Deli and Wine in Allerton and Mary Mary Florals in the city centre respectively, will breathe new life into the historic building.
Laura approached Anna with the idea of working on a project together after they bonded over chats about business life. Anna told the ECHO: “This was an excellent opportunity. It was never an option for me to say no, I didn’t want to. I was over the moon.”
Now, Twenty is set to open its doors on Saturday, May 16, after almost a year of work on the building.
Laura said: “The reaction has been incredible. We have had so much support. I still can’t quite believe that we got it, but I am so pleased it is two independent, female businesses coming to this iconic building.
“We’ll bring a charm and a valuable addition to the area and I think that is recognised by the community.
“Everyone is so excited for us. When we’re in there, after ten minutes people come in like, ‘What’s this going to be?'”
The venue will have a day to night food and drink offering, with an Italian-inspired wine window doubling up as a coffee window for commuters.
Visitors can expect breakfast, before moving on to an “Ottolenghi-style” lunch which focuses on fresh and seasonal produce.
Bar snacks and small plates, which are designed to share, will be on offer from the afternoon into evening. Its wine selection will be natural and organic, chosen to compliment its food offering.
Laura and Anna also have plans to run workshops and a variety of talks, as well as a dedicated pop-up space where Liverpool traders can sell their products, while receiving support from Twenty and becoming part of a network of local businesses.
Anna added: “The overriding feeling is just pure excitement.”
More information on Twenty can be found on its social media pages and website.
