The Ivy on The Square Edinburgh

Overlooking the beautiful St Andrew’s square in the heart of Edinburgh’s new town is The Ivy on the square. It is the only Ivy Collection restaurant in Scotland’s capital and maintains the feeling of smartness that has become associated with the Caprice Holdings chain.

From the outside it looks the part, with the huge glass front allowing passers-by to see right into the colourful restaurants. There is also a small outdoor area where you can sit during the warmer months to enjoy your food or drinks.

Once you enter the restaurant you are greeted by a wave of colour – all the seating is upholstered in green, yellow or orange material giving an old-school feel to the place. Huge art deco lamps hang from the ceiling and the walls are covered in pieces of modern art. At the far end there is a gleaming gold bar where you can also sit.

When it comes to the food, the various different menus all offer modern British dishes with some classic Scottish influences. The Breakfast menu varies from a selection of pastries to a lengthy eggs section including hot buttermilk pancakes. The vast all day menu encompasses everything from yellowfin tuna carpaccio to a classic shepherd’s pie meaning that there will be something for everyone.

There is also a decent sandwich menu if you’re feeling like something a little lighter or afternoon tea if you’re wanting something a little classy, whilst the three course set menu for £21 offers brilliant value for such a prime location. There is also a separate vegan and vegetarian menu available.

In terms of drinks, there is a solid wine list with which has wines by the bottles, carafes and also by the glass at all price points. There is also a separate cocktail menu offering some unique takes on all the classics.