Harden's survey result
Summary
“A bit clichéd, but never lets us down”, say fans of the sub-sub brand of this famous brasserie chain, who “have no idea why its reviews are so bad”. For too many reporters, though, these outlets represent “a failing imitation of a classic that is itself rather variable”, with a “disappointing. expensive, mundane menu and inattentive service”. The best bet? “Stick to breakfast and enjoy the surroundings”.
Summary
“Trading on The Ivy’s name, but nothing like the real thing”: outlets of Richard Caring’s sub-sub-brand are “squarely bistro in nature” and proving less successful than their brasserie namesakes in capturing diners’ affections. True, some do tout them as a “dependable if unexciting” choice, but – lacking the pizzazz which carries the experience at their grander cousins – the focus falls more on the “bland, by-numbers” food and service that’s “neither here nor there”. Top Tip – “Prefer breakfast to the expensive lunch and dinner options”.
Summary
“Trading on The Ivy’s name, but nothing like the real thing”: outlets of Richard Caring’s sub-sub-brand are “squarely bistro in nature” and proving less successful than their brasserie namesakes in capturing diners’ affections. True, some do tout them as a “dependable if unexciting” choice, but – lacking the pizzazz which carries the experience at their grander cousins – the focus falls more on the “bland, by-numbers” food and service that’s “neither here nor there”. Top Tip – “Prefer breakfast to the expensive lunch and dinner options”.
Summary
“A dilution of the Ivy name” – the cheaper, more bistro-esque ‘Café’ sub-brand is “a woeful imitation of the original” that’s “all style and has nothing else to recommend it”. Even many of those recommending breakfast – its best feature – say the results are “very predictable”, and later in the day you get “standard pub grub-type food at fine dining prices” served by “brittle” and “amateur” staff. “Avoid at all costs!”
For 31 years we've been curating reviews of the UK's most notable restaurant. In a typical year, diners submit over 50,000 reviews to create the most authoritative restaurant guide in the UK. Each year, the guide is re-written from scratch based on this survey (although for the 2021 edition, reviews are little changed from 2020 as no survey could run for that year).
Have you eaten at The Ivy Café?
Restaurant details
The Ivy Café Restaurant Diner Reviews
"Brilliant for booking online when you are struggling to find anywhere else that is open on a Monday or Tuesday in town, but convenience aside (and that is their greatest selling point) the food isn’t up to much. "
"We were five old blokes, unlikely customers, many not used to trendy Marylebone, having an overdue lunch reunion. The staff did us proud."
Opening hours
Last orders: 11 pm, Fri & Sat 11.30 pm, Sun 10.30 pm
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