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The Ivy Clifton BrasserieB+Worth Trying

Name: The Ivy Clifton Brasserie
Address: 42-44 Caledonia Pl, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4DN, Bristol, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.5

42-44 Caledonia Pl, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4DN · British restaurant · 4.5/5 Google (2832 reviews)

Reservations · Takeout

Stylish Clifton brasserie delivering polished classics and celebratory service; excellent set-menu value at lunch but noise and service inconsistency surface at peak times.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

The Ivy Clifton Brasserie delivers solid neighborhood dining with exceptional setting appeal and above-average food quality anchored by reliable classics. However, inconsistent execution during busy periods—particularly with steak doneness and service pacing—prevents it from reaching grade A territory. The 1917 lunch menu offers genuine value, and celebratory touches resonate, but operational reliability needs strengthening to compete with Bristol's premier dining destinations.

Restaurant Summary

Housed in a handsome Clifton building, this brasserie feels warm and bustling with statement art, a bright conservatory, and staff who often add celebratory touches. One guest noted, "the room looked stunning and our server made the birthday feel special." Expect a lively scene that can run quite noisy at peak times. The cooking skews modern British with comfort classics polished up and a few global notes—think onion soup, shepherd pie, steaks, and fish, alongside squid with miso-wasabi and a Keralan curry. It is elevated traditional rather than experimental. Lunch value on the 1917 menu is frequently praised, though steak doneness and timing can waver during busy periods. Families fare well thanks to familiar choices like burgers, fish and chips, and pasta. There is no explicit kids menu mentioned in recent reviews, but the accessible dishes suit younger palates. Noise and waits at peak times may challenge very young kids; consider earlier or off-peak bookings.

At a Glance

Beautiful heritage interior and conservatory vibes
Strong lunch value via the 1917 two-course menu
Thoughtful touches for celebrations
Noise levels high at peak; can hinder conversation
Service speed and steak doneness inconsistent when busy

What Sets It Apart

heritage_interior_with_conservatory
set_menu_1917_value
celebration_friendly_service

What People Love

Glam brasserie atmosphere with heritage charm
Reliable classics like onion soup and shepherd pie
Friendly, celebratory service gestures
Great-value set lunch portions

Points of Concern

Peak-time waits for seating and between courses can be lengthy
Noise levels and echo make conversation difficult for some
Steak doneness and tea service show variability
Allergy handling felt procedural rather than proactive in one report

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£45-62 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Pair French Onion Soup with Minute Steak for a satisfying sub-£40 two-course path pre-service charge
Seafood fans: Teriyaki Salmon (£24.75) offers a lighter main with bright flavors

Perfect For

Birthday dinners with classic dishes
Celebratory lunches on the 1917 set menu
Out-of-town guests exploring Clifton
Pre-theatre or pre-bridge stroll meals

Location Insights

Area: Leafy, affluent Clifton Village with heritage architecture and boutique shopping; attracts locals and celebratory diners.

Safety: Generally safe, well-lit streets with steady foot traffic; occasional crowding at peak dining times.

Nearby: Near Clifton shops and cafes; short walk to Clifton Suspension Bridge and scenic viewpoints.

CliftonClifton offers a sophisticated dining environment with a range of upscale restaurants, cafes, and brasseries. The area attracts a clientele that appreciates quality dining experiences in a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere, often frequented by locals and visitors enjoying the cultural and architectural heritage.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday09:00–23:00 Tuesday09:00–23:03 Wednesday09:00–23:30 Thursday09:00–23:30 Friday09:00–00:00 Saturday09:00–00:00 Sunday09:00–23:00

Available: Reservations, Takeout

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