The Ivy Clifton Brasserie

Covent Garden’s iconic The Ivy has been sprouting offshoots for a while, with this being its first move outside of the capital in Bristol’s well-heeled Clifton Village. It might lack HQ’s trademark harlequin stained-glass windows and A-list celebrity clientele but its magnificent, high-ceilinged Georgian stylings and elegant slate-blue and mustard flooring more than compensate. Equally impressive are the old prints and paintings on the walls, depicting Bristol’s industrial heritage. The breakfast-to-dinner menu offers a please-all range of international dishes, such as the Ivy trademark shepherd’s pie and crispy duck salad, along with fish cakes, steaks and a sprinkling of Mediterranean salad starters. Afternoon teas range from a simple cream tea to a blow-out Champagne affair, while Clifton Royale and Brunel Breeze cocktails nod to the location. Service is smooth and prices reasonable given the grandiose setting: it’s a glam addition to Bristol’s burgeoning food scene. 

The Ivy Clifton Brasserie was the first Ivy restaurant outpost outside of the capital and it’s clear to see why it spawned the further expansion of the Caprice Holdings chain all over the UK. The typically timeless nature of The Ivy Clifton Brasserie lends itself brilliantly to any occasion whether that is a celebratory dinner, or a relaxed breakfast.

Based in an old bank, the entrance to the restaurant is impressive in itself with four stone pillars guiding visitors to the front door. Once you head into the dining room, prepare to be greeted by a wave of colour with the restaurant done up in bold blues and yellows. Pieces of modern art hang in wherever you look and the impressive, glowing bar adds to the grandeur of the room.

In terms of food, you won’t be short of choice at The Ivy Clifton Brasserie with their classic all-day menu full of British comfort food. Starter options cover everything from smoked salmon on rye bread to a lobster risotto. For main courses you might go for the roasted half chicken served with smoked aubergine purée, tomatoes, peppers and a Moroccan sauce, or perhaps a classic fish and chips. The tempting dessert menu includes a chocolate bombe as well as rum baba, ensuring a good end to any meal.

Aside from the all-day menu, The Ivy Clifton Brasserie also offers a fantastic breakfast menu in the mornings consisting of everything from pastries to a full English. On top of this, there is the option to have afternoon tea at the restaurant for a set price of just under £20.

To top all of this off, there are a huge range of drinks available throughout the day whatever the occasion; from a lengthy wine list to a selection of cocktails and craft beers, The Ivy Clifton Brasserie has got you covered.