The Original Ivy launches Heritage Menu for pre- and post-theatre dining in Covent Garden

The Original Ivy on West Street in Covent Garden has announced the launch of its new Heritage Menu for pre- and post-theatre dining. Located just steps away from some of the capital’s most renowned theatres, The restaurant has been a fixture of Covent Garden since 1917. The new Heritage Menu draws on its culinary legacy, featuring dishes that have become synonymous with its reputation over the decades.

The offering, designed with theatre-goers in mind, is offered Monday to Friday and aims to cater to diners seeking a meal before or after attending performances in London’s West End. The initiative reaffirms the venue’s longstanding association with the local theatre scene, providing two courses at £28.95 or three courses at £34.95.

The menu begins with a range of aperitifs, including The Curtain Call – a Bellini-style cocktail with peach purée and elderflower topped with Prosecco – and the Smoke & Mirrors Martini, which incorporates a mist of smoky whisky. Diners can also opt for a selection of sharing plates such as Truffle Arancini, caviar and crisps, honey-glazed almonds, and Zucchini Fritti.

Starters on the Heritage Menu comprise Roasted Tomato Soup with orzo pasta and vegan feta, Goat’s Cheese Salad with chicory and pine nuts, Kiln-roasted Salmon with avocado and celeriac remoulade, Crispy Chicken Bang Bang Salad, and Cod Brandade Beignets with Provençale Herbs and Aioli. Main courses feature the restaurant’s longstanding Ivy Shepherd’s Pie, available in its classic form or with Mayfield cheese, as well as Roasted Sea Trout with peas and horseradish velouté, Spring Vegetable Risotto, Grilled Chicken with hummus, and Roasted Lamb Rump for an additional supplement.

A selection of sides, from traditional mashed potatoes to jasmine rice with lemongrass, enables diners to customise their meals. Desserts include Madeleines with Chocolate and Grand Marnier Sauce, Coconut Sorbet with Tropical Fruit, the Ivy Sherry Trifle, and the Knickerbocker Glory. The Ivy Chocolate Bombe, a dessert featuring a melting chocolate dome with ice cream and hot caramel, is available for a supplement.

Sean Burbidge, Executive Chef at The Ivy, stated: “The Original Ivy Heritage Menu places pre-theatre dining centre stage once again, honouring a tradition that has long seen actors, audiences and industry insiders gather on West Street before and after performances. The menu has been carefully crafted to provide a satisfying pre-theatre dinner or post-show supper, with flavours as elegant and showstopping as our local leading stars. As the lights dim across the West End this spring, The Original Ivy remains a notable venue for dining before and after performances.”

Food Desk

The Heritage Menu is served from 11:30am to 6:00pm and again from 9:30pm until close, Monday to Friday. For further information and reservations, visit The Original Ivy’s website here.