The Ivy Covent Garden Restaurants - Innerplace

The Ivy - Covent Garden, London

Legendary fine-dining restaurant

Category

Restaurant | Cuisine:
Address

1-5 West Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2H 9NQ, UNITED KINGDOM

Opening Times

Mon-Sun: 12pm-11:30pm

What words can be used to describe The Ivy, a restaurant that has been synonymous with London's lustrous demimonde since it first arrived on the scene, just shy of a century ago, in 1917? Classic. Iconic. Landmark. All of these have been bandied about so often that one risks sounding hackneyed, or missing the point, when using them. At this point in time The Ivy has been woven in the warp and weft of this city, and with the sensitive relaunch it has been given, it promises to remain in London's cultural fabric for perpetuity. 

A well placed shot in the arm has made The Ivy the place to see and be seen once more. In January the restaurant was closed for the refurb and an array of signs, cutlery, glassware, artwork and other artefacts went on auction at Sotheby's, many of which were snatched up for surprisingly steep prices. In came Martin Brudnizki Design Studios, currently London's heaviest hitter in the industry, to spruce the dining room up. Needless to say, they did a bang up job. 

The entry has been broadened to create a larger sense of space, and the room has been given a focal point with a triangular shaped bar circumscribed with pink and mohair leather stools. Fresh artwork has been added to the already remarkable collection, with new pieces from Maggi Hambling, Damien Hirst and Ian Davenport. Many of the features have remained intact but have been enhanced by significant grace notes - the mullioned stained glass windows, for instance, have been improved with silver mirrored panels that add extra luminosity to the room during both day and evening. 

Chef Gary Lee remains captain of the kitchens and has rejuvenated the classic offerings of shepherd's pie, bang bang chicken and The Ivy burger with some more youthful international-inspired flavours. Starters of sea bass ceviche with zesty aji rocoto, lime, avo and plantain crisps put some fire in our mouths, while tempura rock shrimp and squid with togarashi and tofu mayo was simultaneously fresh and lashed with umami. They would have been accomplished exemplars of the form at respective Peruvian or Japanese restaurants. For mains we had to go with a classic fish and chips, the batter buoyant and golden and the opalescent haddock flaking off in thick chunks. 

Getting down to brass tacks, The Ivy is a legend, and legends do not go gentle into that good night. This restaurant is part and parcel of London culture, and will be for years to come. 

 

Testimonials

I’ve been with Innerplace pretty much since they started which is over 21 years now. Whilst I have access to other concierges through work and credit cards, Innerplace will always be my go to due to their incredible service, friendliness, expertise, knowledge and most of all their ability to get me a last minute booking at the most in demand restaurants in town, even when fully booked!

In the last few years they’ve really upped their game in terms of members parties and access to events which as well as being fun are also great networking opportunities. Tim has put together an incredible team and its always a pleasure to speak with them over email, phone and also when I meet them in person.

Most recently I asked them to find me a venue for our work summer drinks as I wasn’t able to find anything within budget or with the required flexibility on numbers, food and drink. They found me an incredible venue which ticked all the boxes and they did all the leg work keeping me up to date and well informed.

Keep up the great work!

Nigel Keng

Testimonials

I've been a member of Innerplace going all the way back to 2007. Throughout the years and to this day I have always been very impressed with the level of service they provide. The team is always warm, friendly and incredibly responsive to any questions or requests. What also really sets them apart is the fantastic monthly members events they organise at stunning venues, where they put a lot of care into every detail. I can't recommend this company enough.

Nima Faghihi

Testimonials

Innerplace has been a game-changer for me! Their Lifestyle Concierge service is truly exceptional. From securing access to the most exclusive venues in London to tailoring bespoke experiences, the team is knowledgeable, responsive, and always goes above and beyond. Their connections and expertise ensure that every request is met with a smile and a solution. Whether it's culture, entertainment, socialising or networking with like-minded people, Innerplace delivers the best of London with style and flair. A must-have for anyone looking to elevate their lifestyle in the city!

Roberto Oquiname

Testimonials

I've been extremely happy with Innerplace's services over the years, with everything from concerts, sourcing exclusive luxury items, VIP memberships, private flights and of course, even more frequently, short notice bookings to the most exclusive new restaurants. I will look forward to working with you for many more years to come.

Peter Lowy | Chairman of the Lowy Group - Red Member

Testimonials

The Innerplace team has unrivalled knowledge about and access to London’s premium entertainment, dining and nightlife. When combined with a superb client experience, it makes my Innerplace membership invaluable when planning an evening out for work or pleasure.”

Josh Fiennes | Index Equity Portfolio Manager

Testimonials

Innerplace has always provided a brilliant professional and friendly service. They are my first port of call for inspiration and advise when planning any event, from a party to a dinner to a date. I can trust their newsletters to keep me informed about the latest launches, opening and ticket opportunities and you can tell how highly they are regarded in London by how well you're treated when you have booked through them.

Libby Brodie | Producer

Testimonials

Innerplace is my first call if I need to arrange a night out. Be it drinks, dinner, clubbing or all three, they can always help. I particularly enjoy the treatment I receive at restaurants booked through Innerplace - who doesn't like a welcoming glass of fizz!

Greg Norman | Solicitor & Macfarlanes

Testimonials

When I was in a bind Innerplace really had my back - travel plans through others failed - Innerplace rode to the rescue with a quick call- chartering private planes and cars and smoothed everything through with hotels - all ready for when I landed.

Oliver B | Investment Banking - Red Member

Testimonials

The service I have received from Innerplace has been superb every time, not just dinner or club reservations but also gigs, events and other lifestyle requests... In conjunction with the regular parties that you host I believe the membership is great value for money. Even helping me with a recent weekend trip to New York, which was exceptional. Everything ran like clockwork making my life a lot easier than it otherwise it would have been. A truly great service.

Matt Stallard | Senior Manager & Consulting

Testimonials

Innerplace keeps me at forefront of London's ever changing dining and entertainment environment

Robert Downer. Senior Consultant | Strategy, Ernst & Young LLP

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