A dramatic City hotspot delivering crowd-pleasing pan-Asian flavors, standout views of St Paul’s, and showy service theater—great for celebrations, but noise, pacing, and value inconsistencies mean it suits spectacle seekers more than purists.
The Ivy Asia St Paul's delivers competitive quality on par with respected local favorites, anchored by exceptional cathedral views and theatrical design paired with genuinely attentive service from named staff. However, inconsistent food quality and pacing issues—particularly during busy service—prevent it from reaching grade A territory. Best experienced on set menus during calmer seatings.
Stepping off New Change into the dining room feels like entering a jewel box, all glowing floors, blossom canopies, and a front-row view of St Paul’s. The vibe leans bold and celebratory, the kind of place where a server remembers your occasion and a DJ nudges the energy upward. One guest summed it up as, "the room steals your breath and the staff keep the momentum." Expect a loud, high-energy scene rather than hushed formality. The kitchen plays in pan-Asian territory with a modern, fusion-forward lens: gochujang-glazed chicken, kimchi-studded dumplings, glossy sushi, and shareable duck pancakes. The culinary approach leans contemporary and crowd-pleasing: colorful plating and familiar flavors with a few spicy detours rather than chef’s-table intensity. On a good night, tempura crackles and miso cod glides; on busier nights, pacing and heat can wobble. Value lands best on set menus, while the a la carte path pays a premium for the view and theater. Families can make it work thanks to a real kids menu (teriyaki chicken, salmon, tofu) and fun desserts, though the soundtrack runs strong and the room is tight at peak times. For younger or noise-sensitive kids, consider earlier seatings or the lunch set. If you need ultra-plain options, the fusion tilt may push a few plates outside the comfort zone, but there are still simple, recognizable choices for cautious eaters.
Area: Prime City of London shopping and office district with rooftop views and after-work crowds; appeals to celebratory diners and business meetups.
Safety: Well-lit, highly trafficked, generally safe central district with active evening footfall.
Nearby: Steps from St Paul’s Cathedral and One New Change mall; heavy tourist and office worker mix; transport-rich area.