Friends-inspired Central Perk coffee shop opens third UK site

The third UK branch of the coffee shop inspired by 1990s television series Friends is set to open in central Liverpool.

The café is the third of its kind to open in the UK, after the first in Hatton Garden, also in Liverpool, and the second in Chester.

Operated under UK and Ireland licence by American network company Warner Bros, the two-storey, 100-seat location works with local suppliers, and also uses the Central Perk coffee blend, created by Joe Black Coffee especially for the group.

As well as a menu of coffee blends and syrup mixes, it also offers breakfast, milkshakes and sandwiches, and broadcasts episodes of the famous series, alongside quiz nights, movie nights, and live music with open mic slots.

Based on the show's coffee shop set, the cafes' décor feature comfortable sofas and chairs, alongside a large bar area, plus neon decorations and vintage-style framed posters on the walls.

The latest site is part of the group's expansion drive, which it has estimated will see 300 new sites over the next 10 years. Locations currently under consideration include Southport, St. Helens and Manchester.

Group director Steven Hesketh said: "The appeal of the Friends brand continues to be strong, with customers travelling to specifically experience our unique coffee shops. Seeing the look on people's faces when they step through the door is priceless. They feel like they've just stepped onto the Friends' set.

"We were confident that Central Perk would prove popular, but it has exceeded our expectations. The demand is there, so we're excited and looking forward to introducing new customers to Central Perk."

Although the last ever episode was broadcast in 2004 - attracting 52.2 million American viewers for its final â€' Friends remains popular today, 20 years after it first began. It is still a regular on British screens via the satellite channel Comedy Central UK.