It’s London, 1917. The news of the World War is all over the newspapers, bread rationing is introduced at the start of the year, air raids and having to hide from bombings under the ground. The year was also when The Ivy first opened. To mark its perseverance and history, the restaurant chain has introduced a “time capsule” set menu, inviting diners to try what fine dining looked like back in 1917.
Between January 4 and February 9, The Ivy On The Square offers guests an opportunity to sample the set menu from just £19.17, tasting the flavours that graced the tables over a century ago.
The 1917 menu offers two or three courses, every day, from 11:30am until close. The restaurant is a place “where every dish tells a story, and every moment is a taste of history”, so the themed dinner is exactly what The Ivy is all about. Secret Edinburgh got the chance to try the new menu for ourselves, taking a wee journey back in time.
To start, guests can opt for the Wild Mushroom Soup with plant-based mascarpone, sourdough bread croutons and red amaranth. The classic dish offers a delectable balance, in which one could never tell the mascarpone was vegan! For the main event, the Grilled, Thinly Beaten Beef Steak was just what we needed. The meat comes with wild mushroom sauce, truffle and Parmesan chips and watercress, putting all of our beloved ingredients into one meal.
Visitors can also treat themselves to a dessert for an extra £5, and let’s face it: who’s going to say no to dessert. The choice was obvious – the familiar crunch of the Crème Brûlée was as alluring as ever, offering a sweet kick to finish off the feast.
What is more, a themed set menu would not be completed with 1917-themed cocktails. Vivien Leigh’s Elixir is the winner of the three options, with Bombay Sapphire Premier Cru Gin, bitter honey aperitif and pineapple cordial, topped with tonic water.
So, get immersed in the tasteful atmosphere of The Ivy On The Square, located on St Andrew’s Square, as a new, budget-friendly culinary adventure awaits.