The Ivy In Harrogate Celebrates Winter On The Terrace

On paper it might not sound very warm - a winter terrace in Harrogate at the Ivy restaurant. In reality it will warm your cotton socks as there is a roaring fire and winter blankets to ensure you are kept nice and cosy.

Of course there is always the Highland Park whisky to keep the cold at bay too, as well as the four tantalising cocktails which incorporate Highland Park's popular award winning whiskies.

Available until 9th February there is the Orkney Coffee made with Highland Park 12 year old vanilla syrup, finished with double cream and lightly flamed marshmallows. If you fancy something more fruity there is A Wee Dramble again made with whisky, lemon juice, sugar syrup and a float of Crete de Mure finished with crushed ice and cherries.

What they have done is transform the garden terrace into a beautiful winter wonderland for guests to enjoy. The floral installation features warming winter tones juniper berries. The candles, lanterns and fairy lights add much needed light during these dark winter days.

The terrace can be closed though if the weather gets too inclement. What you can guarantee though is the service which I have always found to be very attentive. They do add a 12.5% discretionary optional service charge to your bill but if the service you receive is excellent then it is worth it.

I tried the Roast Pumpkin Soup priced at £6.25 to heat me up - it worked straight away. A thick and robust serving of creamed pumpkin with truffle, Ricotta, pine nuts and crispy sage.

My partner decided upon the Tempura Prawns with salt and pepper squid. A plentiful serving of crunchy fried prawns.

If they can get a simple burger right like they did it just shows that you do not need to get too fancy to get a top result. I liked how the gherkins and tomato were served on the side and not in the bun. The Ivy Harrogate hamburger priced at £14.50 was beefy and moreish. If you add the Fountains Gold Cheddar it adds a nice cheesy taste, perhaps they could serve it with a nice tangy Harrogate Blue Cheese? The thick cut chips were served piping hot just like the rest of my order.

My partner's Minute Steak priced at £15.95 was cooked to her preference and the thinly grilled steak was apparently mouth watering. It comes with peppercorn sauce, onions and thick cut chips.

The Blackberry ice cream sundae surely tasted as good in winter as it would do on a hot summer's day. A mixture of vanilla ice cream with meringue, roasted hazelnuts, blackberry mousse, shortbread and a warm blackberry sauce on the side. Perfection in a bowl.

My partner chose the Apple Tart fine, you have to be patient though as it takes 14 minutes to cook. They serve it at the table with the Calvados flambé firing up. I couldn't resist and had a taste. If I closed my eyes I could have been in Normandy.

Whether the winter terrace is open or not when you visit you can be assured of good food and knowledgable friendly service.

The winter terrace is open until mid February

The Ivy, 7-9 Parliament Street, Harrogate HG1 2QU
https://theivyharrogate.com/