The Ivy City Garden — Restaurant in London

Unfortunately our visit was a bit of a comedy of errors.

The front of house couldn't find our table, took us to the wrong table and eventually figured out where we were booked.

Initial drinks orders took an absolute age to be taken, then was taken wrong and the host had to come back over to double check as "sometimes I write too fast and can't read what I've written." I was dumbfounded.

Drinks then took a while to come, water for the table was in a heavily water stained jug with other dirty marks on the outside. One of the drinks had to be remade as we were told that the waiting staff had "accidentally put a finger on the drink."

Again, took ages for our food orders to be taken with the host again needing to double check our order. We ordered drinks at the same time and one of the party jokingly said that the child on the table would take the vodka and soda. When this was read back when confirming the order we understandably said oh no that wasn't really part of the order it was a tongue in cheek joke - The host then took time to explain that we shouldn't joke and that could have been a wasted order at the bar and cost money.

Food came out in dribs and drabs so half the party was left waiting before we all started. When we did, some of the food was nice, some was very poor. The burger for example was a shop bought stale and very dry bun with one of the driest burgers I've ever had. Certainly not what you are paying for.

Music came on half way though which was too loud to hear yourself think and they eventually realised and turned it down. The room was very cold (and I'm always hot) and not very welcoming or inviting.

Final drinks and deserts also took ages to come out, at this point the restaurant was half empty so no excuse for pre prepared deserts to take so long to come out. Again sub par standard food.

Tables were not cleared between meals whilst taking orders, the bill had to be asked for and then again had to go up to ask a member of staff if we could actually pay as we had been waiting 20 minutes for the card reader.

Brunch for 8 took 3.5 hours. I'm honestly shocked this place is...

Let me first say I am a big fan of the Ivy group and have dined at several all over the country including the Ivy City Garden Liverpool Street. We arrived early to have a drink at the bar before lunch. The hostess was far from welcoming despite the bar being not busy. No offer of taking our coats, took over 15 minutes to get the first drink. Only 2 bar staff serving drinks for the whole restaurant. Shown to our table which is essentially in the conservatory. It was cold despite a gas fire on, asked to move but told it would warm up as fire had only just been put on. Asked for a menu which did not arrive before having to ask again. Waiter then asked to take our food order several times despite us asking for more time. Food was ok but took an eternity to arrive. Senior staff apologised blaming staff shortages (Brexit etc) then asked if we would mind moving tables as we were 4 and they needed to join tables together for a party of 14. We accommodated and they through in a bottle of wine. I have never left a negative review but having paid over £125 per head I would have expected a much better experience. This particular Ivy restaurant is very popular being located in the city and close to Liverpool Street station. It is very tired and in desperate need of a total refurb. Service must be improved and brought back to a standard befitting the Ivy brand and price tag. At best I would say, all in all the overall experience was akin to going to an upmarket Wetherspoon’s but to be honest that would be unfair to Wetherspoon’s! I sincerely hope this venue is not representative of how the Ivy Group are performing at other restaurants and letting standards drop both in terms of service and...

From the moment we stepped into The Ivy City Garden, we knew we were in for a truly special experience. The venue itself is stunning, with beautiful decor and a warm, inviting atmosphere that set the perfect tone for our celebration. We had booked in advance, and everything was perfectly set up for us, including a high chair for our son, as we were celebrating his first birthday. The attention to detail was impeccable, and the staff were constantly attentive, serving us with smiles and good humour throughout our visit.

A special mention must go to Othman, who led the service with the finesse of a magician. Each time he approached our table, he produced something even more special, making our celebration unforgettable. His dedication and ability to anticipate our needs added a magical touch to the evening. Othman's service was truly 10/10, making us feel like royalty. We have never been treated this well before, and he has set a new standard for exceptional service.

We enjoyed the roast beef and lamb, both prepared with great care and quality, comparable to a Michelin-starred restaurant in both food and service. The special touches, such as providing our son with a surprise sweet treat to mark the occasion for us and him, ensuring he wouldn't be left out, made the experience even more memorable.

We have allergies, and the staff took them seriously, giving us confidence and making us feel special. This was, without a doubt, the best dining experience we have ever had. All five of us agreed that we couldn't have asked for more. We will be returning every year for our son's birthday, as well as for other...