The Ivy Liverpool has become one of Liverpool’s most talked-about dining destinations since the brand opened its Castle Street venue. Housed in a striking Grade I-listed former bank building, the restaurant combines the signature Ivy Collection elegance with a menu of modern British favourites, private dining spaces, and all-day dining experiences—from brunch and afternoon tea to late-night cocktails.
What is The Ivy Liverpool?
The Ivy Liverpool is part of The Ivy Collection, a well-known group of upscale brasseries and restaurants across the UK and internationally. Every Ivy aims to blend timeless, theatrical interiors with accessible modern British cooking, and the Liverpool venue follows that playbook while paying homage to its historic building.
The restaurant operates as an all-day brasserie offering breakfast and brunch, a la carte classics (fish & chips, shepherd’s pie, soufflés), afternoon tea, cocktails, and private dining rooms for events.
Why it matters: for locals and tourists alike, The Ivy Liverpool is marketed as an experience — a combination of a photogenic interior, consistent Ivy-brand dishes, and the convenience of being centrally located near the Albert Dock and Liverpool ONE. For event planners, the private rooms and polished service make it a predictable choice for milestone meals, corporate bookings, and celebratory dinners.
The building and ambience — what to expect when you walk in
A historic setting with Ivy polish
The restaurant occupies a former Bank of England building on Castle Street — a Grade I listed structure with high ceilings, period features, and an interior redesign that preserves heritage while adding the signature Ivy touches: plush seating, brass details, and theatrical lighting. The combination creates an atmosphere that feels upscale yet welcoming — ideal for everything from weekend brunch to evening cocktails.
Layout and private spaces
The Ivy Liverpool features intimate dining areas for two to four, larger tables for groups, and dedicated private rooms like The Penny Lane Room, which seats around 16 for a seated menu and can host standing receptions. These private rooms are often used for birthdays, small corporate events, and private tastings. If you’re planning a small party, the private dining options are a big selling point.
Vibe by time of day
Morning: calm, coffee and pastries, a relaxed breakfast crowd.
Midday/afternoon: busy with lunch, casual catch-ups, and afternoon tea. Afternoon tea bookings are common for celebrations.
Evening: atmospheric dining with cocktails, groups and date nights; live music or events occasionally feature on The Ivy’s events calendar.
Menu highlights — what to eat and drink in 2025
The Ivy’s menu follows the Collection’s classic structure: starters, mains, desserts, a changing seasonal menu, and a curated drinks list. Below are signature and popular items you’ll commonly find at The Ivy Liverpool (menus are updated seasonally).
Starters and small plates
Twice-baked cheese soufflé (classic Ivy favourite).
Roasted scallops, whipped feta and salads are typical refined small plates.
Mains (classic British comfort & modern dishes)
Chicken Milanese with truffle sauce.
Traditional Fish and Chips (Ivy 1917 batter) — a staple for visitors wanting a British classic.
The Ivy Classic Shepherd’s Pie and other modern takes on British comfort food.
Desserts and sweets
Cheesecakes, signature desserts and the possibility of seasonal specials (Christmas menus, Valentine’s menus). The Ivy is known for dessert theatre and classic plates.
Drinks & cocktails
The Ivy’s drink list is extensive — signature cocktails, classic serves, wines by the glass and bottle, and a curated spirits list (PDF menu shows a wide whisky and spirit selection). Expect Champagne options and seasonal cocktails that tie into the restaurant’s events.
Recently (2024–2025): key trends and updates affecting The Ivy Liverpool
Because the hospitality landscape evolves quickly, here are the notable trends and updates relevant in 2025:
Continued demand for experience dining: Guests increasingly choose restaurants that offer an event feel — elaborate interiors, celebratory menus (afternoon tea, brunch events) and shareable dishes. The Ivy leverages this trend with its Grade I-listed setting and private dining rooms.
Seasonal and heritage menus: The Ivy Collection has pushed seasonal/heritage menus (e.g., a Heritagize two-course menu) which provide value and attract repeat diners interested in limited-time dishes. These menus are updated to reflect local and seasonal produce.
Private dining and micro-events: Post-pandemic, private dining demand persisted. With rooms like The Penny Lane Room, The Ivy Liverpool is positioned to capture birthdays, small weddings, and corporate lunches. Booking windows and deposit policies reflect these trends.
Afternoon tea popularity: Afternoon tea remains a reliable revenue generator for premium venues. The Ivy’s afternoon tea offering is promoted for celebratory gatherings and tourist experiences.
Online reservation platforms as primary discovery: Guests commonly find and reserve via The Ivy’s site, OpenTable, and similar platforms — and online menus and up-to-date PDFs are essential for diners planning ahead (menus may change, so always check the restaurant’s site before you go).
Step-by-step how-to: booking and planning your visit
Here’s a practical step-by-step guide to booking the best experience at The Ivy Liverpool, whether it’s a dinner for two, afternoon tea, or a private event.
How to book a standard table (step-by-step)
Check the website or OpenTable: Start with The Ivy Collection’s page for the Liverpool brasserie or OpenTable to view availability. Links and the online booking widget show real-time slots.
Choose date and time: Aim for off-peak timings if you prefer quieter dining (weekday lunch vs weekend dinner). For weekends and special dates (Mother’s Day, Valentine’s), book at least 2–4 weeks in advance.
Specify party size and requirements: Indicate dietary needs, celebrations, or accessibility requests when booking. The Ivy staff often confirm by email.
Receive confirmation: You’ll get an email confirmation — save the booking reference. If you need to change, follow the link in the confirmation or call the restaurant.
How to book private dining
Decide your format: seated menu, standing reception, or afternoon tea. Private rooms have capacity limits (e.g., the Penny Lane Room seats 16).
Enquire via the private dining page: Use The Ivy’s private dining enquiry form or phone/email listed on the private dining page. Provide date, time, headcount, budget per head and special requests.
Discuss menu and AV: Ask about set menus, drinks packages, dietary needs, and whether microphones or presentation equipment are available.
Confirm deposit and contract: Most venues will ask for a deposit and a signed agreement for larger private events. Confirm cancellation policy and final headcount deadlines.
How to book afternoon tea
Check slots in advance: Afternoon tea is popular for weekend bookings; choose a mid-afternoon slot (commonly 2:30–4:30pm).
Choose upgrades: Consider adding Champagne or special dietary options when booking.
Practical tips to get the most from your visit
Arrival & parking
Public transport is easiest: The Ivy Liverpool is centrally located near James Street and Moorfields stations; walking from the Albert Dock or Liverpool ONE is straightforward. Street parking is limited — use city car parks or park-and-ride options.
Dress code & atmosphere
Smart casual / business casual is a safe bet. The Ivy is polished but not strictly formal; dress smartly for evening dining or special events. OpenTable lists the venue as business casual.
Budget expectations
Pricing typically ranges from £15–£30 for main courses, with seasonal specials and tasting options that cost more. Afternoon tea and set menus often offer perceived value but check the current menu and prices online before booking. The Ivy’s menus vary by season/location.
Allergy & dietary needs
The Ivy provides allergen information and notes that not all ingredients may be listed; always tell your server about allergies before ordering. For detailed allergen info, ask in advance. The PDF drink/menu materials highlight allergen policies.
Photo & social media tips
The interior is photogenic — low, atmospheric lighting may affect phone photos in certain corners. Consider daytime bookings for brighter photos. Tag the official Ivy accounts or use location tags for better visibility.
Real-life examples & use-cases
Below are several real-world scenarios showing how different visitors use The Ivy Liverpool.
Tourist lunchtime stop
A couple visiting Albert Dock chooses The Ivy for lunch after a museum walk. They book online for 1pm, order fish & chips and the soufflé, and take in the historic architecture. They appreciate being able to walk to nearby sights afterward.
Birthday celebration in a private room
A party of 14 books The Penny Lane Room for an evening seated menu. The group selects a pre-set menu with wine pairing; the private space is decorated, a small birthday cake is served, and the staff handle timings. The deposit and final guest confirmation are handled in the week prior.
Business lunch
A small corporate team uses the Ivy for a midday working lunch, choosing a quieter weekday slot. The business selects a light set menu and asks for a flipchart/AV if needed (availability varies per venue).
Afternoon tea with family
A family books afternoon tea for grandparents visiting; they upgrade to Champagne for a celebratory feel. The three-tier stand and scones are well received and create a memorable experience for older relatives.
Comparing The Ivy Liverpool to other Liverpool options
If you’re deciding where to eat in Liverpool’s city centre, here’s a quick comparison that highlights when The Ivy is the right choice.
When to choose The Ivy Liverpool
You want a polished, consistent dining experience with a memorable interior.
You need private dining for a small event or celebration.
You prefer an all-day menu with emphasis on British classics and signature Ivy dishes.
Alternatives to consider
Independent riverside restaurants (Albert Dock): Often more locally focused, sometimes with more innovative local seafood options.
Casual cafes around Bold Street: Better for eclectic, indie food and a casual vibe.
Hotel restaurants: May offer exclusive views, particularly near the waterfront.
The Ivy is best when you want dependable food quality and a venue that works equally well for dates, family meals, and small events.
Reviews, reputation & what diners say (summary of 2024–2025 feedback)
No restaurant is perfect; The Ivy Liverpool has received both praise and criticism — typical for a high-profile national brand.
Praise: Consistent Ivy classics (soufflé, fish and chips), impressive interiors, good private dining facilities, and friendly staff on many visits.
Criticism: Some reviewers on platforms like TripAdvisor note variability in service or portions; branded venues sometimes receive mixed reviews in online forums. TripAdvisor and OpenTable show a range of scores reflecting individual experiences.
Takeaway: read recent reviews if you’re particularly sensitive to service or menu changes — but remember that big-brand venues often have fluctuating reviews across many visits and reviewers.
Money-saving tips and smart booking hacks
Check seasonal value menus: The Ivy sometimes offers two-course heritage or set menus for value on weekdays — great for sampling Ivy favourites at a lower price.
Visit off-peak: Weekday lunches and early weekday dinners are usually cheaper and quieter.
Afternoon tea specials: Watch for weekday discounts or Champagne upgrades on quieter days.
Use OpenTable offers: Occasionally OpenTable displays special offers or loyalty points — worth checking before booking.
Accessibility & inclusivity
The Ivy Collection lists accessibility information on its sites, and the Liverpool venue is located in a historic building — this can create accessibility considerations. If accessibility is essential, call ahead to confirm step-free access, restrooms, and seating arrangements. Staff typically accommodate reasonable requests when informed in advance.
Sustainability & sourcing (what to look for in 2025)
Many diners now ask about sustainability. The Ivy Collection has been moving toward seasonal sourcing and menu transparency; menus and PDFs frequently include allergen and ingredient notes. If sustainability is a priority, ask the restaurant directly about local sourcing, fish sustainability, and waste reduction policies before booking.
Common pitfalls to avoid
Assuming the menu is identical to London Ivy venues: Each Ivy location updates its own seasonal items; check the Liverpool menu before you arrive.
Leaving last-minute bookings to peak weekends: Popular slots fill quickly—book ahead for special dates.
Not flagging allergies: Because menus can change and ingredients may not be fully listed, always notify staff of allergies when booking or on arrival.
Sample itineraries (perfect day options including The Ivy Liverpool)
Option A: Tourist day — culture + Ivy lunch
Morning: Visit the Beatles Story or the Tate Liverpool.
Midday: Walk to Castle Street and enjoy a relaxed lunch at The Ivy Liverpool.
Afternoon: Explore Albert Dock, the Merseyside Maritime Museum.
Evening: Drinks at the waterfront and a theatre show.
Option B: Celebratory evening
Afternoon: Flowers and pre-event photos around the Georgian Quarter.
Evening: Private room at The Ivy for a set-menu celebration, followed by cocktails.
What to ask when you call or email before booking
Is my preferred date available, and what deposit or cancellation policy applies?
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies?
What AV or décor options exist for private dining?
Are there special menus for events/seasonal promotions?
FAQs
Where exactly is The Ivy Liverpool located and how do I get there?
The Ivy Liverpool Brasserie is at 31 Castle Street, Liverpool L2 9UB, in the city centre near the Albert Dock and Liverpool ONE shopping area. It’s a short walk from James Street and Moorfields stations; public transport or local car parks are the most practical ways to reach it.
How do I book a table or private dining room?
Book via The Ivy Collection’s website booking widget or third-party reservation sites like OpenTable. For private dining, use the private dining enquiry form on The Ivy’s site or call the restaurant directly to discuss menus, capacity and deposit requirements.
Does The Ivy Liverpool serve afternoon tea and do I need to book?
Yes — The Ivy offers afternoon tea, and it’s recommended to book in advance, especially on weekends and for larger groups or celebrations. Upgrades like Champagne are typically available.
What is the typical price range and is there a dress code?
Expect mains generally in the £15–£30 range, although seasonal and set menus may vary. Dress is smart casual / business casual; dressing up slightly is common for evening dining.
Are there private dining options and how many people can they hold?
Yes. The venue includes private rooms such as The Penny Lane Room and other flexible spaces for receptions — capacity and pricing depend on format (seated vs standing). Enquire with the private dining team for exact specifications.
For more UK stories, trends, and surprising insights, explore these related reads:
https://liverpooldaily.news/quest-liverpool-city-centre/
https://liverpooldaily.news/hope-street-hotel-liverpool/
https://liverpooldaily.news/crowne-plaza-liverpool-city-centre/
https://liverpooldaily.news/hope-street-hotel/
Wrapping Up
If you’re seeking a reliable, stylish dining experience in Liverpool city centre — one that pairs classic British dishes with an instagrammable interior and private dining options — The Ivy Liverpool is worth a try. It’s particularly strong for celebrations, afternoon tea and visitors who want a polished, predictable venue. Read recent reviews, check the current menu online, and book ahead for peak dates to ensure the best experience.
To read more, Liverpool Daily News
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