The Ivy Norwich Brasserie

I've wanted to visit here for a while now as I've visited other Ivy restaurants before and enjoyed them. First impressions were, as we were shown to our table, how cramped it felt. The tables seemed very close together so much so I struggled to get into my chair (I'm an average size guy) as I couldn't pull it back far enough due to the next tables occupants. My wife and I chose the steak for our mains. These come with nothing other than a garnish which, at the price they charge, seems rather tight on their part, they even charge extra for the sauce.. I asked for mine to be cooked medium rare and my wife asked for medium. When they were served, my medium rare was given to my wife and I was given my wife's. We weren't asked prior to this who had which steak, so we assumed they knew. Unfortunately I had already put my sauce on mine before we noticed so I couldn't swap with my wife. For desert, I had one of their chocolate bombes. I had to leave half of it as it was so sweet and sickly. The service on the whole was ok but I don't think I will visit again.

We visited for our son’s 18th birthday celebration. The welcome was warm yet professional. Our waitress was amazing, as were all the staff. The food and drinks were delicious. The restaurant was busy but we didn’t feel rushed and I would say we felt valued as customers. And the little birthday surprise at the end was such a thoughtful touch. Thank you everyone you helped make our day a day to remember.

While on holiday near Norwich twice a year, I decided to try The Ivy. I only had tap water so I can't comment on the drinks. I ordered the Shepherd's pie, which was very tasty and the meat was good. We also had a side of Tenderstem broccoli each, which was al dente but I prefer it a bit softer. We ended the meal with a creme brulee each, recommended by the waiter. The decor was beautiful and the staff were all polite and accommodating. It was a special meal that ended with coffee.

The food was really excellent but the whole experience ruined by the bill after asking for TAP water I received bottled water then charged £10 for it. Absolutely disgusting totally spoilt our special day, feel ripped off.

This restaurant has quite a vibe in the centre of Norwich, and is clearly very popular. Unfortunately, when I visited, many of the dishes were sold out. There also tends to be an assumption that everybody likes cheese, thus restricting choices further, such as putting Cheddar mash on Shepherds Pie. The Chicken Milanese was very good, although I requested them not to put any cheese on it. The crème brûlée was also very good.