The Ivy · Restaurant · London
Covent Garden's original 1917 restaurant, steps from the West End theaters.
The Ivy on West Street is the original, the 1917 flagship at 1-5 West Street among the Covent Garden theaters. It is the room every later Ivy Cafe and Ivy Brasserie was built to echo, and after a century of writers, actors and post-curtain regulars under its stained glass, a pre-theater dinner here remains a quintessentially London way to open an evening.
The interior is the source of the whole look: oak paneling, a shimmering central bar ringed with red-leather stools under crystal-and-brass chandeliers, deep green banquettes, and the signature harlequin stained-glass windows that wrap the walls in diamond-cut color. The restaurant also holds a private dining room for larger parties.
The kitchen is classic modern British brasserie under long-serving executive chef Gary Lee. The shepherd's pie is the dish guests single out most, a domed, browned crown of mash over slow-cooked lamb with gravy poured tableside, alongside the smoked haddock fishcake with a poached egg on a crushed pea and herb sauce. Finish with the sticky toffee pudding under a salted caramel sauce.
A pre-theater and post-theater set menu is available, alongside weekend brunch from late morning. The Ivy is a British institution, not a starred kitchen: it does not hold a Michelin star and is not currently listed in the Michelin Guide. The room opens Monday to Saturday from noon to 11:30 PM and Sunday to 10:30 PM, and dress leans polished smart-casual over shorts and athletic wear.
Address: 1-5 West St, London WC2H 9NQ, London
The Ivy takes reservations through OpenTable. This MyRSVP guide covers the room, what it is known for and when to go in London; use the booking link on this page to reserve direct.
Hours of operation
- Monday: 12:00 - 23:30
- Tuesday: 12:00 - 23:30
- Wednesday: 12:00 - 23:30
- Thursday: 12:00 - 23:30
- Friday: 12:00 - 23:30
- Saturday: 12:00 - 23:30
- Sunday: 12:00 - 22:30
Frequently asked about The Ivy
How do I get a reservation at The Ivy in London?
Tables at The Ivy are booked directly with the restaurant. If it is part of a bigger London plan, our London partner handles the beach clubs and nightlife around your dinner and can point you to the venue's own reservations channel.
What should I order at The Ivy?
The Ivy is best known for its signature dishes and shareable plates. Tell MyRSVP your party size and any dietary needs and we note them with your request.
What is the dress code at The Ivy?
The Ivy keeps an upscale dining dress code: smart, dressed-up attire, no athletic wear or beachwear. MyRSVP confirms any current door specifics with your booking.
Where is The Ivy located?
The Ivy is in London, at 1-5 West St, London WC2H 9NQ. MyRSVP can build it into a full London itinerary alongside the surrounding nightlife.
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