If, like us, you enjoy a bit of sustenance with style when you shop, then look no further than The Ivy, Leeds.
Perfectly located in the elegant Victoria Quarter of Leeds’ shopping district, it’s far too easy to swing through the stained-glass door, shopping bags in hand, and rest your weary feet. Choose to sit at the welcoming bar and recharge with a few cocktails, ready for your next shopping foray, or take a seat at one of the beautifully laid tables to go all out with a three-course meal. Whatever you preference, we highly recommend booking a table in advance, as even midweek the place is packed out with hungry shoppers, locals and tourists alike choosing to flock to this popular dining destination.
Do begin, as we did, with a refreshing drink from the wonderful cocktail menu – it really sets the tone for what’s to come and helps accompany you as you study the extensive menu. With plenty of choice on offer, everyone is well catered for here. Expect the usual classics such as The Ivy’s Shepherd’s Pie, Traditional Fish and Chips, or Sirloin Steak, as well as lighter options including their famous Blackened Cod. The starters really are standout here, and I’ll often order a couple instead of a main, especially the Roasted Scallops served with crispy potato rosti, pea puree and a parmesan sauce – just delicious. Themed specials regularly appear throughout the year and are definitely worth trying out as they’re only available for a set time and really showcase the creativity of the kitchen.
The arrival of The Ivy Asia next door has certainly had an impact on the offering here. My guest ordered the Dressed Crab and Avocado Tian which arrived encased in a giant silver crab, his silver claws grasping the crispbreads and dry ice adding to the drama of it all. Luckily it isn’t theatrics over taste here, with each bite tasting just as good as it looks.
Make sure you save room for dessert as it’s not one to be missed. If you have time, order the Apple Tart Fine (pictured) which takes 14 minutes to cook, but is certainly worth the wait – I can taste it as I type. It’s between that or the show-stopping Chocolate Bombe, but both are a winning closing act.
I must take a moment to shout out our waiter Christoph – a Frenchman who made us feel thoroughly spoilt and didn’t even bat an eyelid when we accidentally dropped a wine glass on the floor – luckily it was empty!
Finally, the interiors are how one would expect in an Ivy – elegant, sophisticated, and a treat for the eyes with an eclectic mix of artwork adorning the walls. Leeds is particularly large featuring multiple rooms, so it never feels extensive, overcrowded, or busy, instead creating a sense of intimacy. You MUST make a trip to the bathrooms while here – the floral installation is mesmerising and certainly worth a photo or two.
The Ivy Leeds, Vicar Lane, Leeds, LS1 6BA
Open seven days a week, 8.30am-midnight
