Team hails ‘exceptional project’ which transformed derelict Pizza Express into new Top Gun themed bar in Southport

A talented design team has hailed their “exceptional project” which saw them transform a derelict former Pizza Express restaurant in Southport into a stylish Top Gun themed bar – in just six weeks. 

Workers from Mikhail Contract Interiors were working around the clock to convert the site on the corner of Lord Street and Leicester Street in Southport town centre into the new Maverick’s American themed dive bar. 

The new venture, part of the thriving Northern Quarter’ on Lord Street, opened its doors to delighted customers on Friday, 26th May 2023. 

Features inside include a colourful replica of the Statue Of Liberty, an original Wurlitzer jukebox, vintage neon signs, an original American Flag, a pool table, 12 TV screens, and lots of Top Gun themed memorabilia. 

Mikhail Contract Interiors operates predominantly within the hospitality sector, offering a full scope of fit-out and furnishing services to clients wanting their expectations to be exceeded whilst budgets are conserved.

A Mikhail Contract Interiors spokesperson said: “We are thrilled to share the news of our latest project success – the remarkable transformation of Maverick’s, Southport! 

“In just six short weeks, Mikhail Contract Interiors has worked diligently to turn a derelict Pizza Express unit into a captivating American dive bar with a thrilling Top Gun twist. It’s been an exhilarating journey, and we couldn’t be more proud of the outcome! 

“This exceptional project marks another milestone achievement for the Mikhail Hotel & Leisure Group, showcasing our dedication to delivering exceptional spaces that captivate and inspire. “We strive to create experiences that exceed expectations, and Maverick’s is no exception! 

Mavericks bar on Lord Street in Southport. Photo by Mark Shirley

“We extend our gratitude once again to Bark Design Studios Ltd for their exceptional creativity, vision, and unwavering commitment throughout this project. Their expertise and collaborative spirit have been invaluable in bringing our bold concept to life. Thank you for being an essential part of this incredible journey! 

“We invite you all to visit Maverick’s and immerse yourself in an extraordinary ambiance that blends American charm with a thrilling Top Gun twist. 

“With carefully curated interiors and a menu that pays homage to classic American flavours, Maverick’s promises an unforgettable experience for all who walk through its doors. 

“At Mikhail Contract Interiors, we are fueled by passion, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. We are incredibly proud to have transformed Maverick’s into a vibrant social hub, adding yet another feather to our cap of successful projects.” 

Southport’s new Top Gun themed bar, Maverick’s, includes a replica Statue Of Liberty

Visitors have been enjoying hanging out, drinking down pints priced from £2.95, eating authentic American food, playing pool, and watching the Superbowl and other sports on TV.

It is the latest venture brought to Southport by the Mikhail Hotel and Leisure Group, which already operates other venues on Lord Street that include The Grand, Lord Street Hotel, The Bold Hotel, Lord Street Sports Bar, and Punch Tarmey’s Irish themed bar. 

The firm also operates the centre bar inside Southport Market. 

Mikhail Hotel and Leisure Group Chairman Andrew Mikhail said:  

“We wanted to create a venue that people could enjoy socially with friends. We developed the idea of an ‘American style’ bar which focuses on the social aspect of enjoying the company of friends and strangers, bringing something different to Southport. 

“Top Gun is my favourite film of all time and so the bar just had to have a nod to the iconic Tom Cruise film.

“There’s one thing that holds true for all American dive bars: If you visit one, you’re always going to have a story to tell later, and that is what we want to achieve with Maverick’s.”

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