Review: The Ivy Brasserie

Some morning are perfect and last Wednesday was one of those mornings. I happily battled my way through the Cambridge rush hour traffic as even that couldn’t dampen my spirits. Maybe because the first few days of spring announced themselves in a parade of yellow trumpeted blooms and I could feel the sun warm my shoulders. Of course it might have been that I was making my way to The Ivy Cambridge Brasserie for their opening week Blogger Breakfast as well. 

Entering The Ivy for the first time you are greeted by a strong and wildly colourful décor by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio*.  I’m a less is more women in general, but these bright colours and in-your-face design really works as it’s paired with a 1920’s sophistication, so you’re left attracted to the HUGE swan murals and sharp-angled art that covers the walls.  The bar begs to be sat at by elegantly dressed persons and reminds me a little of the famous Overlook Hotel** while the deep velvet of the moss green chairs invite you to take a load off.

You might be thinking ‘breakfast at The Ivy you say? No problem, I’ll just take out a second mortgage/sell a kidney and be right with you’. The thing is when you eat here in part at least, you’re paying to have your experience in a prestigious institution. But don’t think that means they are simply dinning off*** the London reputation, in either service or sustenance.  Yes the drinks were over £3 each though as a Cambridge resident for many years I’d say the prices aren’t too far from the average eatery.  Head Chef Stuart Conibear has worked at Downing College and was chef to Prince Charles for over 3 years so if it’s good enough for our future king its good enough for me.

 As stated this was a blogger breakfast which meant there was much image taking of instagramable dishes as we tucked into still warm pastries and coffee.  I indulged in tangy, seeded avocado on a toast with (deeply yellow and perfectly poached) hen’s eggs. We also got a tour to see the private dining area and walk around the restaurant fully and I could happily have spent a few hours here either for a brunch or at cocktail hour.

One side point that gives me just a little pause is when asked how the food is sourced and if fair trade/ethical/organic concepts are taken into consideration, the brasserie responded by saying “As with any responsible restaurant group, we take the time and effort to make sure we work with the best suppliers.” Not the most convincing of replies so this is something I will keeping an eye on and I’d love to know what you think as well. 

All things considered I’m looking forward to going back.  Yes dear reader, it looks like Cambridge culinary lovers have yet another place to think of when deciding where to go for a dinner date.  Will I see you there?

* Am advised this was ‘consulted on by’ so not entirely sure how much of a hand they had in this design.  It’s really rather good either way.

** That gorgeous bar in The Shining, pre the Jack Nicholson crazed homicidal maniac murder spree of course!

*** pun FULLY intended