The Hampshire edition of the Ivy Brasserie is splendidly located in the centre of St. Albans city, in close proximity to the area’s most well-known sites. The restaurant sits nestled amongst the stunning Cathedral and Abbey Church of Saint Alban and a state-of-the-art gallery, as well as the 600-year old Clock Tower. The brasserie is also near the Alban Arena, an events space that hosts concerts, exhibitions, and performances – making it a great post- or pre-show dining option.
In addition to the Ivy’s excellent location, the restaurant itself is very beautiful; it’s a sophisticated take on all-day dining with stunning interiors. The inside of the restaurant is decked out in vibrant colours, making the décor a visual feast. The main restaurant hosts breakfast through to evening cocktail services, plus there is a semi-private room which seats up to 12 people for all-day dining. The Ivy does set menus and group dining ones, to make arranging dining options easier.
The menu features many of the Ivy’s signature classics and takes on British staples such as the Shepherd’s pie and the roast chicken. Punters can also choose the fish of the day, which is selected daily, while vegans and vegetarians can choose from a dedicated menu – there’s a vegetarian shepherd’s pie.
For cocktail hour, patrons are presented with an extensive list of boozy concoctions to choose from, such as the Margarita Valencia or the Crimson Vesper, featuring Absolut Elyx vodka, Lillet Rouge, and Plymouth sloe gin. There are plenty of gin and tonics, beers and ciders, non-alcoholic drinks, and an international selection of wines too.
If you’re sticking around for dessert, which you should, you may expect the likes of crème brulee, apple tarte fine, and a decadent chocolate bombe with hot salted caramel sauce. You would do well to book your next dinner at the Ivy St. Albans.