Canary Wharf, British, Modern Restaurant Guide

“Always ambient and fun” – Richard Caring’s stretching (twisting?) of the Ivy brand is easy to snipe at but has so far avoided degenerating into farce. For sure, “the food is certainly nothing superior”: fans may claim it’s “more than adequate”, but its overall ratings nowadays are only just the right side of poor. That said, even critics of the cooking often feel that the “lovely” interiors and “welcoming service” provide compensation, and fit the bill for making an occasion of a meal. In the capital, the most mentioned outlets are The Ivy Chelsea Garden (“delightful garden tables and ideal for a noisy girls’ night out”); and The Ivy Kensington Brasserie (“huge fun, loads of buzz” and “always a treat”). The Ivy City Garden and Canary Wharf’s Ivy in the Park follow along in terms of volume of feedback. The newest member of the spin-off family is The Ivy Victoria – a vast space with 300 guests over two floors.

2019 Review: In the lobby of Canary Wharf’s top landmark, this is “a business restaurant primarily, so I don’t really rate the atmosphere” (“it’s too bland for anything else”). “However, it works perfectly for a meeting: breakfast and lunch menus are well thought out and the food well put together”. For its purpose “definitely one of the best restaurants in the Wharf”.

James Dawson’s 12-year-old wine shop/bar/kitchen operation has gathered momentum in recent years, expanding from its Battersea base to branches in a Fleet Street crypt, Islington, Liverpool Street and Canary Wharf. The “great wine list” from sustainable, small-scale producers is the focus, with “lots by the glass” and at “good value”. It’s backed up by “consistently good” small plates, cheese and charcuterie.

A marvellous waterside location, plus large terrace – in the heart of Canary Wharf overlooking Middle Dock – is a key strong point of this early 2020 newcomer. It’s not a foodie hotspot, but a good-looking after-work rendezvous or somewhere to head to at weekends for a bottomless brunch.

2019 Review: “On a clear day the sights across London are wonderful” on the 37th floor of the recently opened Novotel Canary Wharf. This 65-cover venue still inspires limited feedback, but such as we have praises “beautifully presented dishes, tasty drinks and a great atmosphere”.

2018 Review: An enviable waterside location in Canary Wharf (in the same former warehouse buildings as the Docklands Museum) provides the setting for this large new Drake & Morgan’s outlet; all-day dining, Sunday roasts, cocktails, plenty of outside seating and weekend brunch complete the picture.

A “lovely river view” is the making of this substantial Grade II listed Georgian Docklands pub from Fullers, directly opposite the 02 Centre. The proximity to Canary Wharf means it is somewhat pitched to a business clientele, with upscale food and smart table dressings.