Akshaya is a restaurant situated at 286 Kensington, Liverpool L7 2RN, United Kingdom, offering Indian and Sri Lankan cuisine. The establishment is housed in a historic cinema hall, providing a unique dining experience with vintage decor. The menu features a variety of traditional dishes, including curries, biryanis, and street food options. The restaurant is spacious, with modern contemporary fittings, seating for 60 guests, fully air-conditioned, and offers free car parking at the rear. The name 'Akshaya' is derived from 'Akshayapatra,' meaning 'inexhaustible vessel' in Hindu mythology, symbolizing a never-failing supply of food.
What each source says
- Google Places 4.5 2,474
- Tripadvisor 4.0 216
Bar length is review volume, so you can see how much weight sits behind each score. Captured 2026-08-25.
What visitors single out
Liked
- Convenient Parking The restaurant offers its own parking spaces, making it easier for customers to visit, especially compared to other restaurants in the area. This is a particularly valuable feature.
- Delicious, Authentic Food The restaurant is known for its high-quality, flavorful South Indian and Sri Lankan cuisine, with unique and well-spiced dishes. Diners appreciate the authentic taste and presentation.
- Excellent and Attentive Service Many reviewers praise the friendly, professional, and attentive staff who go the extra mile to ensure a pleasant dining experience. Servers are helpful with recommendations and special requests.
- Good Vegetarian Options Vegetarian diners are pleased with the variety and quality of vegetarian dishes available, including custom preparations. The chilli paneer is a customer favourite.
- Stunning Interior Decor The restaurant boasts a luxurious and beautifully maintained interior, creating a visually appealing and comfortable dining atmosphere. The decor is often described as a 'hidden gem' and 'instagramable'.
Criticised
- Inconsistent Food Quality While many rave about the food, some reviewers found certain dishes, such as the mutton biryani, to be disappointing. This suggests some inconsistency in the quality or taste of certain menu items.
- Limited Parking Although parking is available, it can be limited, leading to difficulties finding a spot, especially during busy times. Customers may have to resort to side street parking with permit restrictions.
- Location in a Run-Down Area The restaurant is located in an area that some consider less desirable, which may deter some potential customers. The external appearance contrasts with the luxurious interior.
- Service Can Be Slow Some reviewers have experienced slow service, particularly when the restaurant is busy or due to system failures. This can lead to longer wait times for food and a less enjoyable dining experience.
- Small Portion Sizes Some customers have found the portion sizes to be small relative to the price, particularly for starters and curries. This can lead to feeling that the meal is not as satisfying or good value.
The longer read
Akshaya Restaurant receives high praise for its authentic South Indian and Sri Lankan cuisine, with several reviewers noting the presence of Indian and Sri Lankan diners, suggesting authenticity. Many reviewers highlight the beautifully decorated interior, describing it as luxurious, spacious, modern, and clean. The restaurant is considered a hidden gem, offering a surprising ambiance given its location in Kensington, Liverpool, a neighborhood described by some as run-down or not particularly nice. The restaurant also features a bar area, making it suitable for both dining and drinks. Service is frequently commended, with staff described as friendly, attentive, polite, and professional. Several reviewers mentioned specific staff members by name, praising their helpfulness and attentiveness. The menu offers a wide selection of dishes, including vegetarian options, with reviewers recommending the masala dosa, chilli gobi, butter chicken, lamb dishes, and various biryanis. Several reviewers appreciated the generous portion sizes and reasonable prices, considering the quality of the food and service. Some reviewers specifically mentioned the freshness and quality of the ingredients. The restaurant is noted for being family-friendly and suitable for large groups or parties. Parking is available, though some reviewers mention that it can be limited, with additional parking on a side street. A few reviewers mentioned slow service or delays in food arrival, but most found the service to be efficient. A few reviewers noted the location is not the most desirable in Liverpool, but the quality of the restaurant makes it worth visiting. One reviewer mentioned that the restaurant had undergone recent renovations and expansion, resulting in an improved experience. Many reviewers expressed their intention to return, indicating a high level of satisfaction. A few reviewers mentioned specific dishes they enjoyed, such as the devilled fish, squid curry, and various South Indian specialties. Some reviewers also appreciated the availability of alcohol and cocktails. Overall, Akshaya is highly recommended for its authentic cuisine, beautiful ambiance, friendly service, and reasonable prices, making it a standout dining destination in Liverpool.
A synthesis of published third-party reviews. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
- Phone
- +44 151 261 0001
- Website
- thepicturedromeakshaya.co.uk
| Mon | 13:00 - 22:30 |
|---|---|
| Tue | 13:00 - 22:30 |
| Wed | 13:00 - 22:30 |
| Thu | 13:00 - 22:30 |
| Fri | 13:00 - 22:30 |
| Sat | 13:00 - 22:30 |
| Sun | 13:00 - 22:30 |
Against the neighbourhood
Rated 4.5 against a median of 4.5 across the 1 places to eat we hold for Fairfield, and the most-reviewed of them.
Still deciding?
- What is the ambiance like inside the historic cinema hall, and how does the vintage decor influence the dining experience?
- Which dishes on Akshaya’s menu are considered signature items, and what flavors do they showcase from Indian and Sri Lankan cuisine?
- Is free car parking at the rear of Akshaya available for all guests, and are there any time restrictions or size limits?
- Can Akshaya accommodate large groups of up to 60 diners, and do they offer any set menus or private dining options for events?
- What is the typical price range for main courses and street‑food items at Akshaya, and are there affordable options for budget‑conscious diners?
What this page cannot tell you
- Descriptions and review summaries are supplied by the source index and are reproduced as published; they are not independently verified by Breaks.
- Ratings and review counts are point-in-time snapshots and drift constantly. Check the venue's own site or the rating provider for the current figure.
- Opening hours change seasonally and at short notice. Confirm with the venue before travelling.
- Category labels come from the source index and are occasionally wrong — a venue may be filed under a type that does not match how it trades.
- Straight-line distances understate real walking distance, especially where a river or railway sits between two points.