I recently had the pleasure of dining at
The Ivy in Birmingham, and I have to say—it more than lives up to the hype. I love the Ivy in St Johns Wood London, so I was hoping for the same experience and I was not disappointed. From the moment you step in, the atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between luxury and comfort. The art-deco interiors, vibrant colours, and elegant details make the space feel both upscale and welcoming. It’s not the kind of place that feels too formal or intimidating, which I really appreciated.
The menu leans toward modern British with a few creative twists. I went for the bang bang aubergine, (served with Tenderstem Broccoli Roasted peanuts sesame red chilli white mooli miso ponzu mayo) and my business partner the Asian salad, (watermelon, tender stem greens, cashew nuts and miso) and every bite felt thoughtfully crafted. Rich, flavourful, and beautifully presented. The dessert? The chocolate bombe is a must—just trust me on that one. It is hard to find a fun stylish restaurant that well caters for Vegans but the Ivy always come up trumps.
Drinks were another highlight. The cocktail list is creative without trying too hard, and there are some great mocktail options too (I tried one with coconut and bubble tea pearls—unexpected and genuinely refreshing). They offer amazing non alcohol options too.
Service was attentive and professional without being overbearing. Even during a busy dinner service, the team managed to keep everything moving smoothly and with a smile.
That said, it does get lively—if you’re after a quiet, intimate dinner, I’d recommend going during off-peak hours. And yes, it’s definitely on the pricier side, but for a special occasion, it absolutely delivers on experience, quality, and ambiance.
Overall, The Ivy Temple Row is more than just a beautiful setting—it’s somewhere that knows how to make a meal out feel like a proper treat. The dress code is smart casual but also for dinner you can dress up.
Would I go back? Absolutely. It’s a standout spot in Birmingham and a brilliant choice for when you want to elevate the occasion.