A music venue described as one of the 'coolest hangouts on Wirral' is celebrating its first birthday. 

Located on the corner of Victoria Road in New Brighton, Tallulah's Emporium has become a favourite amongst music afficionados and lovers of all things artisan, vintage and chic.

Chester and District Standard: Inside Tallulah's Emporium Inside Tallulah's Emporium (Image: Justin Hopper)It features a retro record player, live soul and jazz, DJ nights, gypsy jazz showcases, cheese and charcuterie boards, fine wine, speciality cocktails, a dedicated Old Fashioned menu and artisan products for sale.

Chester and District Standard: Entertainment at Tallulah's EmporiumEntertainment at Tallulah's Emporium (Image: Justin Hopper)On Wednesdays there is music from Abby Fairchild and Robin, who promise soul and Motown classics from Ella Fitzgerald to Etta James.

Chester and District Standard: Inside Tallulah's Emporium Inside Tallulah's Emporium (Image: Justin Hopper)

Chester and District Standard: Entertainment at Tallulah's Emporium Entertainment at Tallulah's Emporium (Image: Justin Hopper)On Thursday nights you’ll experience some of the finest jazz musicians in the region doing their thing, whilst on Fridays and Saturdays you can expect DJs spinning funk, soul, disco, sca and more.

On Sundays from 6pm, you will often find gypsy jazz courtesy of local legends Modjango and whenever there isn’t live music on at Tallulah’s you’ll hear the crackle of the vinyl playing vintage sounds from the likes of Gill Scott Heron.

Whenever you visit, there is also a chance to indulge in their artisan delights such as cheese and charcuterie, pies, gins, cocktails and a speciality Old Fashioned.

Co-owner Wayne Saunders said: "It’s been a fantastic first year and we’ve certainly brought something different to Victoria Road.

Chester and District Standard: Wayne Saunders, co-owner of Tallulah's Emporium in New BrightonWayne Saunders, co-owner of Tallulah's Emporium in New Brighton (Image: Justin Hopper)"It’s a cracking little area now, with wonderful street art and great places to eat and drink — we’ve fitted in really well and people have loved what we offer. It’s a little bit retro, chic and unique — it’s like stepping into another world."

Wayne opened Tallulah’s Emporium in December 2022 alongside Claire Davies, several years after the old Tallulah’s closed down.

The pair have a wealth of experience between them — with Wayne having ran the legendary Prince Of Wales in Brixton and Claire having managed Garlands, The 051, The State and The Pleasuredrome. It’s safe to say they know how to run a venue.

Wayne explained: “I moved to London for university in 1991 and ended up putting on raves, running the Comedy Cafe in Shoreditch, starting Brixton Disco Festival and then of course The Prince Of Wales.

"It was all amazing and I got to work with the likes of Micky Flanagan, Greg Wilson, Giles Peterson, Norman Jay and Craig Charles.

"Then Covid happened and ruined everything so I decided to return home with my family.”

Wayne’s decision to move back to Wirral resulted in him teaming up with Claire — a legend of the local music scene who has done it all in clubland.

The pair have revived Tallulah’s — a charismatic old venue — and created a new version that’s become a go-to destination for those searching for a quality and alternative experience.

Wayne summarised: “We definitely fill a gap and do things differently. There’s always such a great vibe in here and people love our decor and music.

"We work with some incredible local musicians to host free events and quality local suppliers — it all comes together really nicely to create a really unique venue.

"It’s been an amazing first year of Tallulah’s and we’re looking forward to many more.”