The first Ivy restaurant opened in 1917 in London and soon gained a reputation for excellent service and good food with a menu that offered diners something different from the norm. The restaurant became associated with celebrities who often frequented it. Just over 11 years ago, The Ivy, if you will pardon the pun, branched out from London by opening restaurants across the country. The latest restaurant to open is in Nottingham, which began serving customers in October. Housed in a standalone on Bridlesmith Gate in the city centre, the commanding and regal building was formerly the home of Hugo Boss in Nottingham.
Exemplary service
The Ivy prides itself on its superior service and attention to detail, though you might discover that you are paying for the privilege with a discretionary optional service charge of 12.5% added to your bill.
The friendly welcome we received when we visited began at the reception and then extended to the offer of hanging up our coats in their cloakroom. However, the two ladies at the reception forgot to offer us the festive menu; it was only when prompted that they handed it to us.
It was a busy Sunday late afternoon, and the restaurant was full. Our fellow diners were a mix of friends meeting up, pre-Christmas celebrations and people who, like us, were curious to see if The Ivy’s dining experience meets the high standards the restaurant prides itself on.
Service, style and a sense of occasion
A visit to The Ivy always feels special, offering crisp white linen tablecloths, attentive but not obstructive service, and waiters who actually take time for you to decide your choices from the menu – all done in a professional and friendly manner, and everyone makes eye contact. If you want to dine in luxurious surroundings where you feel valued, The Ivy will not disappoint.
The spacious restaurant has a large dining area as well as two smaller areas, which are more private and intimate. The long bar looks like it has come straight out of a restaurant from one of London’s five-star hotels. The hues of lime green, orange and brown create a relaxing environment, although some of the wall paintings might be a little too garish if you are not used to them.
Food for thought
The main menu is extensive, with a vegetarian and vegan menu available on request. Mains include a selection of steaks, a duck curry, shepherd’s pie, chicken bourguignon, lobster linguine, fish and chips and The Ivy Truffle burgers, among others, with dishes starting at £17.95.
We decided on the Festive Set Menu with two courses priced at £55.00 or three for £60.00 per person. The Ivy is not a cheap place to eat, but for a special occasion or a big treat there is no comparison in terms of a stylish dining experience.
My warming French onion soup was like a rich broth; hearty and wholesome, I could have been in Nantes instead of Nottingham! My partner’s winter beetroot and endive salad was presented like a work of art, with the sharp apple cider dressing bringing a feisty bite to the proceedings.
The main of Festive Turkey Ballotine came with a selection of sides – I decided upon the Brussels sprouts, which were crunchy yet not too undercooked, perfect for my palate. The rich red wine sauce was wholesome and probably the best I have ever tasted.
My partner’s flame-grilled sirloin steak (subject to a £6.00 supplementary charge) was cooked just to her liking – medium to well with a robust taste and a juicy and satisfying texture.
The Ivy Chocolate Bombe is also on the main menu and remains one of their signature desserts. Melted at the table with warm caramel sauce to reveal the vanilla ice cream and honeycomb within, you might just want to have your mobile to hand to record this guilty pleasure being melted right in front of your eyes as your server pours over the caramel sauce. This sweet and moreish treat ended a fine and exceptional dining experience.
The Ivy is in a league of its own
The restaurant is an exciting addition to the Nottingham dining scene. As with any new restaurant opening, there will be teething problems – some staff seemed more confident and experienced than others, which I observed on our visit. Given time, things will begin to settle down.
If you want to try somewhere new or for a special occasion, then The Ivy will tick all your boxes. We would return again.
The author dined at The Ivy as a guest of a review company.
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