An absolute titan of the London restaurant scene, The Original Ivy in the West End dates back to 1917. It's situated in the heart of theatreland and renowned for hosting celebrities, decked out in stained glass windows and an interior filled with artwork. We visited this iconic spot to see if the magic is still alive more than 100 years on.
DesignMyNight’s Review Of The Ivy West End
This is one of London's most famous restaurants.
Need To Know:
- Address: 1-5 West Street, Covent Garden, WC2H 9NQ
- Area: West End
- Cuisine: modern British
Ambience & We Think Perfect For
- Atmosphere: this is a high-end restaurant that was packed full of diners, even on a Wednesday night. We were greeted by a doorman and friendly hosts, who seated us in a plush green velvet booth - perfect for soaking up the historic, luxurious atmosphere around us.
- Perfect For: there aren't many occasions that The Ivy doesn't suit in our opinion. The stylish setting and elevated British fare is great for a celebration, and it's one that people of all ages will appreciate - suited to family meals.
Service & Price
- Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Value For Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Cost: £144 for two, including three courses and two drinks each
Sample modern British plates at this historic restaurant.
Menu Highlights
Food: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Drink: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Butternut squash soup (£9.95) - this was the perfect starter, a warming, orange soup that was served over a bad of wild mushrooms, truffle mascarpone and Greek cress - adding some texture to the autumnal dish.
- Gratinated wild mushroom ravioli (£21.25) - my favourite dish of the night. The pasta was cooked to perfection, filled with a flavourful blend of mushrooms and roasted butternut squash. The sauce was the real highlight though, an indulgently cheesy concoction with notes of truffle that was unbelievably moreish.
- Deep-fried haddock and chips (£22.95) - an example of the classics done right, with a flaky, battered cut of fish that was absolutely enormous, served with thick-cut chips, mushy peas and tartare sauce.
- The Ivy chocolate bombe (£12.95) - this is one of the most famous desserts out there, and for good reason. The thick dome of chocolate was melted by the waiter, using a honeycomb and hot caramel sauce, served on a bed of cream - great for anyone with a sweet tooth.
- Jardin Des Spritz (£14) - our cocktail of choice for the evening: a light, refreshing tipple featuring St Germain, cucumber, elderflower, sparkling wine and mint - their twist on a Hugo spritz.
Our Overall Experience At The Ivy Covent Garden
DesignMyNight Review Out Of 5: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Original Ivy most definitely lives up to its reputation, still a beloved restaurant among Londoners and tourists alike. Each dish was packed full of flavour while still retaining its elegant charm, and I'd especially recommend trying the wild mushroom ravioli. From cocktails and chocolate desserts through to a Sunday roast at the end of the week, The Ivy menu champions modern British flavours in a sophisticated setting.
