For our second and final night in Leeds we wanted something a bit more upscale and chose The Ivy just a couple of blocks from the hotel and sister to the famous Ivy in Coven Garden; it was everything we could possibly want!
We all ordered yummy drinks such as Rhubarb Gin & Tonics, Mojitos, Espresso Martini and I had an Ivy VLS which had Absolut Elyx with Fever Tree Mexican and Yuzu Soda which was yummy, but needed a tad more vodka. The wines were yummy with reasonable prices as well and we started with a 2019 Verdejo from Cuatro Rayas in Rueda, Spain. The setting and decor is gorgeous with a quasi-Victorian/Art Deco look (is that possible?) and our sever Rogene was absolutely magnificent. We were a group of 8 and hence it was a task indeed.
Sam started with Truffle Arancini and a magnificent Buffalo Mozzarella with Salsa Verde, pistachio , courgettes, and a basil and green herb dressing. Will & I had the yummy Steak Tartare of strip loin with tabasco-mustard sauce, cornichons, shallots, parsley egg yolk on top and toasted granary bread.
Tempura Prawns with Salted Squid was another hit, and Sam was impressed with the huge vegetarian menu presented to him. He chose the Chargrilled Halloumi main with warm asparagus, cauliflower and a raisin and green herb sauce. We moved on to a nice light red with the Frappato Nerello Mascalese from Terre di Guinara 2019 which was really fruit forward and then took the sommelier's suggestion (Fabio was Portuguese) of the Douro Tinto 2018 from Quinta do Vallado which we loved.
Mains were Shepherd's Pie and the Chicken Milanese, but the hit was the Veal Rib Eye with sliced tender veal, pommes aligot, crsipy prosciutto, tomato, red pepper, sage leaves and a yummy rich red wine sauce.
Desserts were a huge hit for those who had them: Chocolate Bombe and Rum Baba, but I loved my simple glass of 10 year old Tawny port Quinta do Vallado which was the same grapes as the red wine!
We loved The Ivy and they loved us as well; what a great tram and what a great time we had with even more family.
Onto North Yorkshire!
