The Ivy Bath Brasserie - Dining Experience (2024)

We enjoyed visiting the Ivy Bath Brasserie during our weekend trip to Bath in October 2023. The restaurant is beautifully decorated with a relaxed atmosphere, with a hint of sophistication, and the restaurant caters to all dietary requirements.

The menu offered various dishes, each cooked perfectly and bursting with flavour. The staff were attentive but very busy, so the service was slightly slower than expected. They offer sophisticated all-day dining, so whether it is for a delicious breakfast, weekend brunch, a wonderful lunch, afternoon tea, or dinner for celebrating special occasions,

It’s no wonder The Ivy Bath Brasserie is one of the most popular restaurants in Bath for tourists and locals alike!

Despite being busy, the restaurant exudes a lovely atmosphere with sumptuous art deco detail to the interior decor, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

We’ve had the pleasure of visiting several other restaurants and brasseries that fall under the umbrella of The Ivy Collection, each offering their unique charm and flavourful cuisine. The Ivy Bath Brasserie, nestled in the heart of Somerset, is no exception. This enchanting establishment carries the same signature elegance and warm hospitality that The Ivy Collection is renowned for.

We have previously visited The Ivy Winchester, so we did know what to expect. But there were some menu changes, and we made sure not to order the same as last time!

History

The Ivy Bath Brasserie, part of the esteemed Ivy Collection, is a historic gem located in the heart of Bath. Established in 2017 on the previous site of the Natwest Bank on Milsom Street, it seamlessly blends the old with the new, preserving the grand banking hall’s original features while introducing The Ivy’s signature elegance.

Exterior

In keeping with Bath’s grand architectural landscape, The Ivy Bath Restaurant is housed in one of the many historic Bath buildings with charming features.

In the summer, the Brasserie’s windows are framed by tastefully arranged blooms, and in the winter, topiary trees give this city centre eatery an English garden countryside feel. Echoing the city’s grandeur, it is a harmonious addition to Bath’s beautiful urban tapestry.

Interior

Entrance Foyer

As you step inside The Ivy Bath’s small but exquisitely decorated foyer, the elegance immediately took us.

To our right, the entrance to the main restaurant and bar area beckoned us in, while stairs leading up hinted at additional seating areas, the Baldwin Room and a terrace that we were told was the hot spot during summer.

There was, however, a noticeable absence of a cloakroom. So, we had to keep our bulky winter coats by our side on the bench seat.

Bar

The bar was a spectacle in itself. We arrived early and enjoyed watching the barman expertly crafting co*cktails.

Despite the tempting array of co*cktails, we opted for a bottle of Pinot Grigio, Crescendo from Italy. A delightful candy floss was also available at the bar, but we decided to save our appetites for the culinary delights awaiting us.

Main Restaurant Seating

A beautifully decorated space greeted us as we were shown our seats in the main restaurant area. A warm atmosphere that made us feel right at home.

See Also

The Ivy Bath Brasserie & Garden - Restaurant in Bath, Central Bath

With high ceilings and walls adorned with colourful artwork, each telling its story and adding depth to the original features of the building.

The immaculately set tables with enough space for privacy between diners, plush seating, and ambient lighting all combine to create an inviting ambience.

Every corner of The Ivy Bath Brasserie is meticulously designed, ensuring a feast for the eyes and the palate.

Private Dining

Upstairs, on the first floor, there is an additional seating area, The Baldwin Room at the Ivy Bath Brasserie promises an exclusive dining experience.

The Baldwin Room, named after the renowned architect Thomas Baldwin, is a stunning space filled with light and an airy ambience. No matter the occasion – be it breakfast, lunch, high tea, dinner, events, special occasions, a celebration, or even informal meetings, it is open and available seven days a week. The room can accommodate up to 40 guests on long or round tables. However, it is essential to note that a minimum of 16 guests is required for booking.

Restroom

Even the restrooms exude sophistication, with detailed finishes and pristine fixtures.

The toilets, beautifully adorned with a flower ceiling, jungle-themed wallpaper, and rose quartz basins, were a testament to The Ivy’s commitment to luxury and elegance.

Outdoor Seating

We were told about the enchanting terrace at the Ivy Bath Brasserie, boasting al fresco meals, offering visitors a sense of tranquillity akin to a secret garden. It provides stunning views of St Michael’s spire, making it a delightful spot to relax and eat when the British weather allows it.

It was far to cold in October, so we didn’t experience it. Knowing The Ivy’s attention to detail, we’re sure it would be just as splendid as the rest of the establishment.

Menu

One of the delightful aspects of dining at The Ivy Bath Brasserie is their commitment to capturing the essence of each season in their menu.

The menu changes seasonally, reflecting the freshest ingredients and flavours, allowing for a delightful variation in your dining experience. They offer sophisticated all-day dining at the Ivy Brasserie. You will not be disappointed if you visit for a weekend brunch, a wonderful lunch from their set menu, a whimsical afternoon tea or a wonderful evening meal with a loved one.

Whether you’re a fan of classic British dishes or crave food from around the globe, The Ivy Bath Brasserie caters to all.

They offer an impressive selection of dishes that perfectly balance traditional, contemporary British menus favourite and exotic international delicacies. Each dish is delicately prepared, presenting as appetising to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Regardless of your food preferences, the rotating menu ensures every The Ivy Bath Brasserie visit is a new culinary adventure. Check what is on offer on The Ivy Bath Menu before your visit.

Our Food Review

We enjoyed trying out their autumn menu during our visit to The Ivy Bath Brasserie. This seasonally inspired assortment of dishes truly encapsulated the essence of autumn, with hearty and warming flavours that were a treat for our taste buds.

The chef and team at The Ivy have done a remarkable job, showcasing their exceptional skills and ability to adapt and creatively utilise seasonal produce. Here’s a breakdown of our gastronomic journey through the autumn menu at The Ivy Bath Brasserie.

Starter

Our evening began with a pair of divine starters. Luke savoured the steak tartare, perfectly paired with egg yolk and slices of toast.

On the other hand, I delighted in the spiced peanut chicken coconut skewers with a hint of lime. Each bite was an explosion of flavours, setting the tone for the rest of the meal.

Mains

Luke relished the delicious lemon sole for the main course, delicately flavoured with capers and lemon. I chose the chargrilled halloumi, served generously with giant couscous.

Accompanying our mains were truffle and parmesan chips, which added a touch of decadence to our meal.

Desserts

We ended our two courses on a sweet note, sharing an apple tart tart tatin served with vanilla ice cream. The dessert was the perfect blend of sweet and tangy, leaving us satisfied yet yearning for more.

Service

We understand the restaurant was busy, but the service time was slightly disappointing. We had nowhere to get to, so it was not a major problem for us, but I feel I should mention it.

The friendly and helpful nature of our waitress somewhat made up for this. Maybe they could do with more waiting staff to give the great service we are used to from other Ivy Restaurants.

Dress Code

The Ivy Bath Brasserie encourages a smart-casual dress code. So, while you’re free to dress comfortably, a touch of sophistication wouldn’t go amiss. Smart jeans are allowed, but sportswear and flip-flops are not permitted.

Reservations

The Ivy Bath Brasserie is a popular dining spot in the city, so making a reservation in advance is recommended.

You can do this easily online or by calling the restaurant directly. The Ivy also offers private hire options for events or special occasions.

FAQ

More Things To Do in Bath

With its rich history and vibrant culture, Bath offers plenty to explore. From historic landmarks to bustling markets, there’s something for everyone.

So, before or after your meal at The Ivy, why not take the opportunity to discover more of this charming city?

Explore our blog post of things to do in Bath here.

The magnificent Bath Abbey, with its stunning Gothic architecture and awe-inspiring stained glass windows, offer an incredible glimpse into the city’s rich history.

Our visit to the Bath Spa provided a much-needed opportunity to unwind and enjoy some luxury pampering.

But the highlight of our trip was undoubtedly the Ancient Roman Baths. Stepping into this ancient world, where the Romans once bathed in the thermal waters, was both fascinating and humbling.

Pop into the Pump Room Restaurant for afternoon tea after the baths.

Places to Stay in Bath

Combining your visit to The Ivy Bath Brasserie with an overnight stay in one of Bath’s many hotels or B&Bs can enhance your experience in this historic city. After a delightful meal at The Ivy, retire to a comfortable room nearby, eliminating the need to rush or travel far. Here are two accommodation options nearby we’ve personally tried and can recommend.

The Z Hotel

The Z Hotel is ideal if you appreciate modern interiors, central location, and value for money. Nestled within the heart of Bath, it’s just a stone’s throw away from all there is to see in Bath.

The hotel boasts a chic, minimalist design and while the rooms are compact and windowless, they are well-appointed, ensuring a comfortable sleep. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly yet stylish stay.

The Apex Hotel

For those seeking a more luxurious experience, the Apex Hotel won’t disappoint. This hotel offers spacious rooms with magnificent views and a collection of extras to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

From plush bedding to a fully-equipped spa, the Apex Hotel ensures every aspect of your stay is catered for. While it comes at a higher price point, the level of service and facilities it offers justifies the investment.

There are plenty other places you can try too!