Great views and atmosphere can't make up for embarrassing, Aunt Bessie's quality roast.
Came to The Ivy expecting a refined Sunday roast, but left wondering if I'd accidentally paid £29 for something reheated from the freezer aisle.
The roast potatoes were dry, dense, and suspiciously uniform, Aunt Bessie's on an off day. Yorkshire puddings were flavourless and hollow, with that telltale mass-produced texture. Vegetables were minimal and uninspired. The lamb was unseasoned and tough.
For a restaurant with The Ivy's name and reputation, this felt rushed, joyless, and deeply underwhelming. No real flavour payoff, and no sign that anyone in the kitchen had any pride in the food they send out.
Feels all the more jarring given how beautiful the setting is. This was less "elegant brasserie" and more "supermarket ready-meal with better lighting". I wouldn't return for the roast -- and I wouldn't recommend it. read more