What to expect
The Ivy Chelsea Garden is the King's Road outpost of The Ivy Collection. It's an elegant but relaxed all-day brasserie serving British and European classics from breakfast through to dinner. It's best known for two things: the flower-covered frontage that changes with the seasons, and the leafy garden terrace at the back, which is heated and covered so it works year-round. The menu runs from brunch and afternoon tea to seasonal mains, with a strong cocktail and wine list.
The garden
The garden is the reason most people book. Set behind the building and away from the King's Road, it was planted by Ginkgo Gardens with trailing wisteria and climbing roses, and it connects to an orangery and terrace so there's cover whatever the weather. Inside, the restaurant divides into a bar and lounge, a café and the main dining room, which makes it work equally well for a quick coffee or a long dinner.
The building
The restaurant occupies a Grade II listed building dating to 1722, and opened in March 2015 as part of the Ivy Collection's expansion beyond the original Covent Garden restaurant.
Good to know
It's a popular spot for a special occasion or a relaxed weekend brunch, so booking ahead is recommended, especially for the garden. The kitchen runs late and closes around midnight most nights. The seasonal frontage is one of the most photographed on the King's Road. Its busiest day of the year is the Saturday during Chelsea in Bloom so book early if you want to see the flowers around Chelsea and visit the restaurant.
