dinner at the ivy clifton brasserie.

A couple of weeks back, Sam and I dressed up a little nicer than usual and made our way to the gorgeous Clifton Village to check out the new Ivy Clifton Brasserie, which promised the best modern British food in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. 

The Ivy is open 7 days a week from breakfast 'til dinner, and has many familiar dishes on the menu - all made to a very high standard. 

As we walked in through the doors the first things that struck me were the high ceilings and the art deco inspired design. They could do with a little more space around the front desk as a few people came in behind us making it rather cramped, but once they'd figured out where we were sitting they ushered us over to our table with a smile. They definitely get a big tick for friendliness. 

We started with cocktails (above). A Lavender Lady for me - a slightly sweet gin cocktail with a very subtle hint of lavender - and an Espresso Martini for him.

For our starters, Sam chose the Raw Market Salad - which was very pretty, colourful and fresh - and I picked the Seared Scallops. My scallops were cooked perfectly and I loved the flavour combination with the pea puree and parmesan crisps. 

On a bit of a fishy theme, he had the Salmon & Smoked Haddock Fishcake and I chose the Roast Salmon Fillet, and various extra greens to share. The lovely big fishcake comes with a perfectly poached egg & creamed spinach - so again, Sam chose the prettier meal. My salmon was cooked exactly how I requested, and was really good with the herb sauce and a squeeze of lemon.

We both fancied something chocolatey for dessert. Sam chose the Chocolate Bombe, which the waitress poured hot salted caramel sauce over, making it melt into a pool of yumminess (just like on First Dates!). I had the Warm Flourless Chocolate Cake, which was dense, dark and decadent, and served with raspberries - which is one of my favourite combinations.  

All in all, a lovely little evening full of tasty food. The place itself is beautiful & feels like you're somewhere a little bit special, but the staff were still really down to earth, jokey and helpful. 

I'll definitely be heading back for another little treat sometime! 

• all food & drink complimentary, but all words are my own opinion! •

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