The Ivy chain of restaurants all have their own charm and ethereal elegance. The latest instalment of this quintessentially British establishment was in the corporate heartland of Canary Wharf. Was it any good? Time to find out…
Ideal for:
Date nights in the summer on the terrace with a glass of wine
Dinner and drinks with corporate colleagues and friends
The Ivy enthusiasts wanting to try the latest branch
Ambience & Décor
The Ivy’s décor has always been stuck in the past; a reminder of how the upper class once dined. The outside seating area and Terrace however, were the antithesis; contemporary and classy, with the iconic Ivy branches covering the walls. Both areas perfect for a Summer’s eve but sadly it was a cold Autumn.
The unmistakably dated interior of The Ivy felt peculiar in such a modern, architecturally aesthetic designed building with a glass façade. However, it was tradition, and British people love tradition. White patterned ceilings with matching patterned white columns; a long mirror covered the four faces, reflecting whatever light came through the retro octagonal, transparent lampshades. The walls were covered with a plethora of artwork that had a glass cover that reflected the light. The beige coloured ruched leather booths enhanced the passé interior design. If this is your thing, you will love it. Sombre ambiences are synonymous with The Ivy and this was no different. Traditional British dining ambience and décor.
Service
The service was impeccable despite the restaurant being at capacity. Such service was expected of a classy establishment, but it was still nice to see it being executed.
Food
Started with the Truffle Arancini (left). These are fried Arborio rice balls with a bountiful helping of truffle cheese. This was a delightful starter as there was copious amounts of truffle cheese that dominated, and in my opinion, elevated, the dish. The portion was decent and ideal for truffle or cheese lovers.
The Fillet of beef (left) was succulent and cooked to perfection, but it could have done with more seasoning and marbling.
200g was the right amount to allow for sides and another course. The Thick cut chips and Sweet Potato were a great complement but not out of the ordinary. The Hollandaise added much needed wetness, rich flavour and smooth texture. For the price, the mains lacked the necessary ‘wow’ factor but I was fully sated.
Decent and well-made plates of food without a USP, and for the price, diners may want more from the experience. However, the extensive menu meant I will come back to find the diamond in the rough. The décor polarised me. If I was in the outside seating area in the peak of Summer having a delicious brunch, then this establishment might have got a solid A, but for now The Ivy in the Park gets a solid B rating.
Photos of The Ivy in the Park and more can be found on Instagram here.
Final grade: B
Final comment: Great fusion of modern and classic, but the food needs to up its game.
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