A taste of elegance...

The ivy belfast

St. Patrick’s Day in Belfast is always a grand affair, and what better way to mark the occasion than with an indulgent meal at The Ivy?

Nestled in the heart of the city, this renowned establishment promises luxury, charm, and impeccable dining, and I can confidently say it delivers on all counts. Accompanied by my colleague Pauline, we stepped into the restaurant on March 17th, eager to experience what The Ivy had to offer—and from the moment we entered, we knew we were in for something special.

Ambience & Decor The Ivy Belfast boasts a décor that is nothing short of spectacular. The space is a visual feast, blending opulent art deco aesthetics with contemporary sophistication. Lush greenery drapes elegantly throughout the venue, accentuating the jewel-toned furnishings and dazzling chandeliers. Every detail, from the plush seating to the intricately patterned walls, exudes an air of refined luxury, creating an atmosphere that feels both lively and intimate. The mood was further enhanced by the gentle hum of conversation, the clink of glasses, and the warm glow of soft lighting—perfect for a celebratory evening.

From the outset, the service at The Ivy was impeccable. The staff exuded professionalism and warmth, striking the perfect balance between attentiveness and discretion. Our server was knowledgeable, effortlessly guiding us through the menu and offering thoughtful recommendations. Despite the bustling St. Patrick’s Day crowd, we never felt rushed, and each dish arrived in perfect time. The overall experience was seamless, a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to providing top-tier hospitality.

Starters For my starter, I opted for the Classic Duck Salad, a dish that masterfully combined bold flavors and textures. The crispy duck was beautifully tender, with just the right amount of richness, perfectly complemented by the fresh watermelon and hoisin dressing. It was a flawless start, setting the bar high for the rest of the meal.

Pauline chose the St Tola Goat’s Curd Salad, which was a delicate yet flavorful creation. The creamy, slightly tangy goat’s curd paired beautifully with the freshness of the Courgette ribbons. The addition of Hillsborough honey lent a touch of indulgence, making this an exceptional choice for a lighter but equally satisfying appetizer.

Mains Moving on to the main course, I indulged in the Rib-Eye Steak, cooked to absolute perfection. The steak was seared beautifully, boasting a crisp exterior while remaining juicy and flavorful inside. It was accompanied by a peppercorn sauce that added just the right amount of depth and heat. The sides—

Asparagus and Sprouting Broccoli—were simple yet expertly prepared, retaining their vibrant color and natural sweetness. Each bite was a reminder of why high-quality ingredients, when treated with respect, can create something truly special.

Pauline opted for The Ivy Classic Shepherd’s Pie, a dish that proved to be the epitome of comfort food with a sophisticated twist. The rich, slow-cooked lamb was layered beneath a silky, buttery mashed potato topping, with just a hint of crispness on the surface. Every spoonful delivered warmth and deep, satisfying flavors, making it a standout dish on the menu.

Desserts To round off my meal, I selected the Bushmills Whiskey Crème Brûlée. The flavor was exceptional, with the rich, caramelized top giving way to a beautifully smooth and creamy custard infused with the warm depth of Bushmills whiskey. However, while the taste was impeccable, the texture wasn’t quite to my preference. It’s purely a personal preference, but next time I dine at The Ivy, I’ll be tempted to try the Fine Apple Tart, which takes 14 minutes to prepare, or the Dark Chocolate Orange Cheesecake, both of which sound like equally decadent ways to end a meal.

Pauline’s choice of Salted Caramel Chocolate Truffles, however, was a complete triumph. These decadent bites delivered an indulgent balance of rich chocolate and buttery caramel, with a delicate dusting of cocoa providing a bittersweet finish. It was an absolute delight to sample one (or maybe two!), and Pauline confirmed they were the perfect way to end her meal.

Additional Dining Options Beyond its exquisite à la carte menu, The Ivy Belfast offers a variety of dining experiences to suit all tastes and occasions. Their Two-Course Heritage Menu, priced at an incredible £19.95, is perfect for those looking for a refined yet affordable meal. The restaurant also boasts an impressive brunch menu, ideal for a leisurely weekend treat, and a luxurious Afternoon Tea experience that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Additionally, The Ivy caters to all dietary requirements, ensuring that everyone, regardless of preference or restriction, can enjoy a meal tailored to their needs without compromise.

Final Thoughts Dining at The Ivy Belfast was a truly wonderful experience, offering a perfect blend of ambiance, top-quality food, and outstanding service. The menu expertly balances classic dishes with modern flair, ensuring that there is something to satisfy every palate. While my dessert didn’t quite hit the mark for me, that’s purely a matter of personal taste rather than execution. For anyone looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy an exceptional meal in a stunning setting, The Ivy Belfast is an absolute must-visit. Whether you’re after a cozy dinner, a lively lunch, or a festive gathering, this venue delivers an experience that lingers long after the last bite. A truly refined gem in the heart of Belfast.

A Personal Note: I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to The Ivy Belfast for a truly memorable evening. Your commitment to excellence in food, service, and ambiance does not go unnoticed, and I look forward to returning soon.