Sometimes there is nothing better than unearthing that perfect go-to restaurant, where you know a table will always be available, the service spot-on, the atmosphere approachable and the menu filled with crowd-pleasing classics.
And while the original Ivy restaurant has honed its reputation for upscale exclusivity, Caprice Holdings has smartly traded on that, to create a series of accessible, informal neighbourhood restaurants, first with its grills and brasseries arm and now with a string of cafés- all of which possess that distinct Ivy prestige but with a comforting openness.
Following Marylebone and Wimbledon Village, the third opening to join the group’s fleet of cafés, is on St John’s Wood High Street. Here, London-based Martin Brudnizki Design Studio has assembled a dazzling eye-catcher that is anchored by an antique onyx bar, gold pendant lighting and marble flooring underfoot. That further leads into a dining space where a feature skylight sits above cosy burnt orange banquettes and mirrored walls overlaid with glass murals depicting various wildlife.
Open seven days a week, the all-day diner serves up a vast menu of comforting bites to suit all tastes, from creamy Eggs Benedict to cottage pie, a series of tummy-filling sandwiches and good ol’ crispy battered fish and chips. Of course, a Saturday spent shopping wouldn’t be complete without popping in for an indulgent champagne afternoon tea, served with a selection of savouries along with freshly baked fruited scones, clotted cream and strawberry preserve.
INFORMATION
Website
ADDRESS
120 St John’s Wood High Street
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Lauren Ho is the Travel Director of Wallpaper*, roaming the globe, writing extensively about luxury travel, architecture and design for both the magazine and the website. Lauren serves as the European Academy Chair for the World's 50 Best Hotels.
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