Review on The Ivy
'A table at The Ivy is one of the most sought after pieces of furniture in London,' wrote critic AA Gill about this famous Covent Garden restaurant. Mere mortals often have to book their place months ahead - although it can be a little easier if you happen to be a star of stage or screen.
This re-born café designed by the critically acclaimed Martin Brudnizki Design Studio is now as much a fixture of the theatreland scene as its ever-enduring near neighbour The Mousetrap and – like the show – it just runs and runs. Original wood panelling and harlequin stained glass windows are reminders of the old days, but most eyes now focus on the famous faces dotted around the dining room.
There are some very British dishes on the menu, including potted shrimps, kedgeree, mixed grill with bubble 'n' squeak and steamed chocolate and orange sponge pudding, but global specialities add to the cosmopolitan feel of it all. Mixed Asian hors d'oeuvres and bang-bang chicken might appear among the starters, fish could include Thai-baked sea bass or cod with arroncina beans, chorizo and tomatoes, and the Ivy Hamburger with dill pickle and club sauce is legendary.
In case you were wondering, the name comes from a chance remark and a line from a popular song: 'We will cling together like the ivy'.
The Ivy is also featured in: Michelin Guide, Good Food Guide, Hardens, AA Guide
Rate this RestaurantCuisine
Modern British / Eclectic
Chef
Gary Lee
Restaurant Opening Times
Lunch: 12.00 through until
Dinner: 11.30pm (10.30pm Sun)
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card, American Express
