Reviewing an IVY RESTAURANT - OVERRATED!

A bit of a change of plan today, I was planning to head a bit further north however circumstances meant that today's review is taking place in Cobham and in particular, the Ivy Restaurant collection. I've been asked to go back to try their lunch but some of you also mentioned that you think it's overrated. Let's give it a go!
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[@Skidoo22]

Looks like the Shepherd ate most of the pie before it got to your table. 🐄🤠

[@GaryEats]

You got that right! LOL

[@TimK2646]

Georgie Porgie and LIL Jack Horner both got there first before Gazza

[@Lucy-Wilkinson]

😂😂😂

[@alanwilkinson9487]

​@@Lucy-Wilkinsonwhat pie

[@philauguste7310]

ah, it was the 2 courses deal pie. Main one would have been double the size

[@daveh5742]

People don't go to The Ivy for the food, they go there to be seen going there or to tell their friends "I've been to The Ivy"

[@Suve35967]

I understand they would want to look slim at the famous Ivy. Certainly wouldn't have any problems.

[@GaryEats]

lol oh dear

[@fandangobrandango7864]

It's really not much of a brag anymore, it's very affordable

[@jeffreyphillips2323]

I think there is a lot of truth to that. People dress very smartly only to be served inferior quality food.

[@christinebeames712]

Betty’s used to be top notch , but the sandwiches there , the ham and chicken , are boring , the scones are heavy and dry ,the tea is good but at £6 each it should be , won’t be going back

[@shamlamb3961]

Least u can say to ur friends, you’ve been to The Ivy. You can also say, you’ve been to The Ivy and it was overpriced shite!

[@GaryEats]

Lol fair enough

[@garyk1334]

I think it's for the money the most ludicrous sized dish I've ever seen

[@davidjohnscottMUFC1996]

Shamlamb really went in for the kill hahaha

[@GRUMPY0254]

There is absolutely nothing you can do to enhance bland, tasteless food. The Shepherds pie was pretty, pretty average. Well done Gary for being honest and fair. 🤮🤮🤮

[@hoppersdoppers]

😅​@@GaryEats

[@andywalkerchannel]

It has a very 1990s feel to it. They seem to think that people in general don't understand restaurants. I think they understand £6-odd for a piece of bread. Absolutely outrageous and small portions, as well. Another lovely review, Gary, as always, and all the very best to you and the cameraman. You are doing a great job. Thank you.

[@GaryEats]

It was a wonderful restaurant. Truly majestic so it’s a shame that the food didn’t match

[@artyfingers4488]

Did Tom 'Nine Chips' Kerridge train at The Ivy?

[@lukebignell7846]

They get by on their reputation. It wouldn’t cost them that much to revamp the menu and produce decent food. A real opportunity missed as a business as long as they continue to serve up 1970s style low grade food

[@動物同理心]

@@artyfingers4488 I know! Just because he had a lot of weight to lose, doesn't mean the rest of us do!

[@paulgreen758]

brilliant review Gary, ive paid 250 for a Michelin star 7 course, I needed a kebab afterwards I was still starving

[@GaryEats]

Wow that is not great to hear Paul 😳

[@paulgreen758]

@@GaryEats 4 small courses and 3 even smaller that I didn’t like, it was for a 35th anniversary, we got a carry out to take home I’ll never spend that money again

[@MGX93dot]

kebab would taste better too

[@paulgreen758]

@@MGX93dot it did mate

[@midlander4]

Sorry but I'm calling bs on this story. Why not name the restaurant? And "a 35th anniversary" - not yours? - sounds v odd. "We got a carry out to take home"... also known as a takeaway.

[@richardgetlevog3123]

Hi Gary. Great review. In all honesty i think you were being very generous with your score and calmness. I'd have been fuming if i was served that for £20. 2 things stood out for me. 1) I've never been to a pub or restaurant and had soup that didn't come with some sort of bread or roll as standard. To pay over £6 for some sourdough to go with it is extortion i think. At least Dick Turpin wore a mask lol. And 2). This one always winds me up. The service charge. I don't and never will pay a service charge. I think its unfair on the customer and is another way of getting money out of you. I'm always happy to directly give the waiter or waitress a tip if the service is good. But it has to be on ky terms. The shepherds pie did look nice but you'd need a microscope to see it. I've heard of shrinkflation but this took the biscuit in my opinion. I can't believe you had to pay extra for the spinach as surely the pie should have came with some sort of vegetables as standard. Its such a shame you were disappointed as the restaurant itself did look stunning. Unfortunately i can't give it anymore than a 3/10 mate. Like yourself i try to look at the positives everywhere but they were few and far between here sadly. Thank you for another great video Gary and looking forward to watching many more. Keep up the great work🙂👍

[@GaryEats]

Hi Richard, what can I say apart from totally disappointing, fantastic location and good service but it ends there. I’ll never return and I really can’t recommend, in fact in hindsight I think I was generous, take care and hopefully see you on the next one 👍

[@lindacraig7486]

Agreed! Brilliantly said!

[@simong7101]

I would just like to say I really enjoy Gary's videos. I think he's spot on every time and find him a decent normal chap giving reviews without an ego, like you find on most people with a youtube channel. Keep up the good work 👏.

[@GaryEats]

Thank you very much Simon that’s very kind to say

[@The-KimP]

Cauliflower soup and shepherds pie are hardly taxing dishes to make so you would expect them to top notch for that portion size and price. A mix of lamb and beef would have put me right off TBH. You were right to point of the deficiencies and very fair. The food just didn't match the decor and service.

[@GaryEats]

These were my thoughts as welll. Thank you for watching and agree with you!

[@darkoanton5]

When there's minced beef in a Sheppard's pie that a sign of bullshit.

[@michaelfelsinger-k2i]

Hi Gary, it even looks a bit disappointing. You're right about the bowl , and about the mix of lamb mince and beef mince. And the spinach looked lost. The Yanks have their creamed spinach which is appropriately heavy on the spinach. And not providing a slice of bread gratis for the soup is a bit petty. Beautiful decor and ambience , but unlike a gingerbread house , you can't eat that. This episode only confirms what I figured out during my stay in England in 2017 - the best value is to be found in little pubs and cafes , among the restaurants of our Arab and Turkish friends , and anywhere on Brick Lane. All the best , amigo , and thanks for another fine video !

[@GaryEats]

A perfect comment thank you 🙏, all show and no real class 👍

[@pbarratt73]

Love this channel... I've been off work with illness since November and these videos have relaxed me.... but also made me envious as I still can't eat properly (had chemoradiation) apart from soup and farleys rusks soaked in milk 😊 Thank you for uploading content.

[@michaelfelsinger-k2i]

Sad to hear that. Hope you're getting good care and that you're in the process of going into remission and regaining your health. This channel is like one big family and you will not want for support and encouragement from your fellow subscribers . All the best !

[@pbarratt73]

@user-rr1zt5go4q bless you... never smoked a cigarette my whole life hit 50 years old and I got diagnosed with throat cancer last October. Had to have surgery and then 6 weeks chemo and radiotherapy. Christmas was awful Terrible pain. Can't eat properly just things like yogurt and ready brek etc... Will find out in June hopefully that its gone away... thank you for your comforting words 😊

[@michaelfelsinger-k2i]

Hi Philip@@pbarratt73 So sorry to hear you have cancer. I know someone who is now in remission who was also diagnosed with throat cancer, but unlike you, he was a smoker. I'm sure you're going to fight like hell to overcome this , even as he did . Please keep us posted on how you're doing . We are all with you in this difficult time , and look forward to hearing good news that the cancer is under control and your life is getting back to normal. God bless, keep strengthening your body and mind, and keep fighting ! Michael

[@GaryEats]

You take care mate and I hope you feel loads better soon, my thoughts are with you. Take care and thank you for watching and commenting 👍👍👍

[@pbarratt73]

@GaryEats bless you mate... 😊

[@markemarkatfb]

I took my wife to our local Ivy for our anniversary. Not cheap but really enjoyed it. Plus we got a bonus dessert - chocolate mouse with a red heart on top, completely free. I’m not sure you had the best luck with your choices, that mince did look like something I’d feed to my dogs - maybe that’s why it comes in a silly bowl?

[@GaryEats]

Glad you enjoyed yours. Yes, the bowl was very silly

[@geishasha]

'Collection' is just a posh word for chain. Nothing wrong with chain restaurants but you don't go to them for fine dining.

[@GaryEats]

Not a fan of this one

[@siobhanblake9150]

Agreed. Collection is such a ridiculous way of saying chain imo

[@andyhall109]

Really enjoying your honest, welcoming, no-nonsense delivery, both in editing and the criticism itself. I'm a fan!

[@GaryEats]

Thank you Andy very kind

[@hughblack6831]

We had lunch at the Ivy in Brighton at the end of last summer, can't say I'll be rushing back. I had Fish and chips and it was average tasting at best, I was quite disappointed. My wife had the shepherd's pie as you did and your comments echo hers. I couldn't fault the staff or the surroundings but it was definitely over priced for the portion size and taste. I always ask if the fish is local as well and am often greeted with a moment of silence, surely putting money back into the local economy would be good selling point? My local pub does and is so much better for it. Nice review Gary, love your work, keep making them. 👍

[@GaryEats]

Thank you Hugh I will and I’m sorry to hear you had a similar experience 👍

[@sirwi11iam]

Went to the Ivy in Cardiff last year and wasn't impressed. 2 fish pies and a glass of red was over £70! The fish pies was just this soup in a bowl with about 5 chunks of the different types of fish and then this separate puff pastry lid that was basically just air... The soup tasted nice but I was starving after and got a burger elsewhere instead 😂 Edit: The decor and service was excellent though.

[@GaryEats]

Yes, the decor is superb. Sorry to hear you also had an underwhelming experience

[@ateamfan86]

I hate them places where you go for a meal and your still hungry afterwards.

[@MGX93dot]

you cant eat the decor. unless the place is an absolute hovel, i dont see why people care so much

[@jennigee51]

@@MGX93dotpleasant surroundings are conducive to a better experience.

[@PlumCrumble]

Absolutely criminal serving soup without bread!

[@GaryEats]

Completely agree

[@owenb8636]

I loathe when restaurants split up a meal into different parts you have to pay extra for. Completely ruins the experience

[@lindacraig7486]

Agreed.

[@graemer3657]

Great video. I like the low marks sometimes because it proves you are honest - in life things aren’t always 10/10

[@GaryEats]

It can’t be perfect every time 🤷‍♂️

[@DadgeCity]

Soup looked great, bread for £6 though... The main course portions didn't look big, the way they're presented, but they were okay, although if I'm paying £17 for shepherd's pie I'd hope it would come with some boiled veg... A plate would be an improvement.

[@GaryEats]

Good shout. Agree with your comment

[@tonypritchard828]

Food critic Jay Rayner once commented when offered the desert menu 'no thank you, we've suffered enough'. Brutal!

[@GaryEats]

Wow!

[@Buddybrindle]

Gary, so sorry that you didn’t enjoy your meal. That shepherds pie looked really weird sitting in that bowl. It certainly didn’t look in the least appetizing either. Hope you have a better experience at the next place you visit!

[@GaryEats]

Thank you hopefully I will thank you

[@JacobRusty-Clogg]

I really love watching your channel. You have one of those voices and ways of speaking that I could listen to all day. Greetings from Gibraltar and keep up the good work!

[@GaryEats]

That is very kind and hello Gibraltar 🇬🇮

[@shellvlogs132]

Fantastic channel, no gimmicks, just straightforward reviews, enjoyable to watch 🌟 great channel Gary

[@GaryEats]

Much appreciated. Thanks so much 😄

[@shellvlogs132]

@@GaryEatswelcome 🌟

[@HelenBrock-f8u]

Hi Gary another great review. The ivy is over rated. I agree with you I would also give it a 6 out of ten. Looking forward to your next review👍👍

[@GaryEats]

Thanks so much Helen

[@pnero777]

I used to walk by the London Ivy every morning. There were street cleaning trucks which would spray the pavements with disinfectant to wash away the sick and urine from the night before, and they would also spray the fruit and vegetables which had been delivered on the pavement outside and were waiting to be taken in.

[@GaryEats]

👍

[@lindacraig7486]

OMG. I just needed to know that!

[@annaleighb]

I’ve never been to one of these but always had the feeling it would be style over substance. Thanks for the honest review, Gary!

[@GaryEats]

You’re welcome Anna a bit disappointed 🤷‍♂️

[@neilsmith7547]

Didn't think much of the shepherd's pie gary. Looked really dry. Also should have been on a plate like you said for more room. Excellent review gary 👏

[@GaryEats]

Thank you Neil very kind 😊

[@trisbaker363]

I was 1 off, nice vid Gary, you'll soon be at 60000 followers, really pleased for you and the camera man.

[@GaryEats]

Thank you so much Tris

[@jamesbarker1764]

Your videos are always neatly presented. Kudos to you Gary.

[@GaryEats]

Glad you like them!

[@paulc1553]

A new Gary Eats video drops today before my 39th birthday tomorrow. Get in. I'd like to take the time to thank Gary and his subscribers for the kind words when I said I suffer from Cerebral Palsy/Depression. I really appreciate that. Love, Paul xxx.

[@GaryEats]

Have a wonderful birthday Paul. You deserve it!

[@robsmith6281]

Stay strong brother and happy birthday for tomorrow.👍🏻😁

[@paulc1553]

@GaryEats: Thank you. Appreciate that xxx.

[@paulc1553]

@robsmith6281: Thank you. Appreciate it xxx.

[@lindacraig7486]

I dont know what date this was but I hope your birthday was a wonderful memorable day.

[@wayinfront1]

Agreed, lamb and beef together in a Shepherds Pie doesn't work. Pricing for two course set menu seems reasonable, especially given the prestigious Ivy name. I'd have given your Ivy experience just half a point more than you did, so 6.5. I just looked at the menu for a country pub 3 miles from where I live in Kent £70 for 2 courses! It's not even known as a gastronomic mecca. Prices seem to vary so much these days. I don't eat out very much, but I can thoroughly recommend the Black Pig at Staple, which is a little village south of Wingham, which is about 5 miles south-east of Canterbury. If you're standing outside the Black Pig, which is a 16th century pub, it's incredibly quiet, Staple is a small village and it's miles from any busy road. Anyhow the food is terrific, there are ample portions - I know you'll be glad to hear that, Gary - and the interior and exterior ambiences are great. Prices are very reasonable. The menus are certainly more wide-ranging than most pub ones, and certainly have a lot more to show than the Ivy's rather scant offering.

[@GaryEats]

Thank you I actually know the area very well so I’ll take a look 👍

[@jeremyhooper1309]

Your reviews are always very fair Gary and really well filmed. I think that there is this push to maximise profits at many restaurants at the moment. I’ve noticed many starters being portioned for three when there are four of us dining and wanting to share. Miserable and cheap cost cutting which will backfire for them in the end. As you said, what would it cost them to offer a free bread roll? Keep up the excellent work bringing us these reviews.

[@GaryEats]

Very kind Jeremy thank you

[@michaelhardy5186]

Best food KZbin site at the moment. Just worried about The Cameraman and imagine him having to pack his home made sandwiches in a plastic box.

[@melanytodd2929]

I know....😢. I think Gary does share, sometimes...

[@johnmc3862]

Its his wife.

[@GaryEats]

It’s not! 😄

[@GaryEats]

Thanks Michael. The cameraman is all good, we can get a packet of crisps on the way home

[@kathyhayden2499]

Some bread too so he can make a crisp butty

[@Andrade985googlemail]

Definitely agree with the comment about having a roll with soup. Shepherds pie is with lamb not beef. For the price, I would have expected Garlic Bread and salad along with the dew as standard.

[@GaryEats]

I fully agree 👍

[@ChimpingBulldog]

A well-known TV chef did call The Ivy 'a chip shop for luvvies'.

[@GaryEats]

Lol which one?

[@snithereens]

What is a luvvie?

[@reetpateet8656]

I believe the whole Ivy chain is up for grabs!🤔 £6.95 for those chips was absolutely criminal!

[@GaryEats]

They were nice chips mind you

[@ZeldaFitz]

Hoping Harvister might put in an offer

[@AnnWright-jb2dw]

A pound a chip.

[@rabartels]

Great video Gary. I understand if you eat out often and can cook well at home, you will be very critical what they serve it must be at least better than home or much better meals from the supermarket 😊

[@GaryEats]

Thank you very much. Indeed!

[@barnem108]

its like a posh weatherspoons aint it

[@GaryEats]

Wasn't impressed with this showing at all

[@davidfinch5062]

No, it's not that good.

[@barnem108]

😂 what not as good as weatherspoons? swerve that place then@@davidfinch5062

[@lindacraig7486]

Ha Ha

[@LittleBearBBQ_Food_Original]

Ahhhh!!! The Ivy! A perfect example of Aesthetics & Branding over Substance. I have been to a couple (not the original, that maybe different) and I felt that it was Harvester food in a nicer setting and with a rather larger supplement!

[@GaryEats]

I have to agree with you. Setting over substance

[@anthonyforde2772]

Hi Gary! Fantastic as always. Maybe you could review Scott’s in Mayfair at some stage. Keep up the great work

[@GaryEats]

I will in the summer Anthony

[@carolcurtis1573]

Very unusual not to serve a small crusty roll or even a bit of bread with soup , and yeh very thin for a cauliflower soup , as soon as you cut open the shepherds pie you could see the potato was dry . Everything looked lovely but obviously lacked in flavour. Thanks Gary for an honest review 👍loved the interior

[@GaryEats]

Thanks so much

[@SoulLegendsRadio]

If these places paid as much attention to their food than they do their decor then you wouldnt mind so much the inflated prices, I'm afraid there was nothing there that looked tempting to me and I totally agree with you regarding the Dish, that would have really got up my nose, another great review Gary thank you, Gav

[@GaryEats]

Spot on Gav. Have to agree with you

[@chrissullivan2848]

Hi Gary another great review. Me and my wife usually go to Greece for holidays but unfortunately haven’t been able to go for the last few years. Would love to see you do a Greek review. Keep up the good work really look forward to your videos

[@GaryEats]

Thank you Chris and I will be going a Greek restaurant good idea thank you 😊

[@Kiangaf]

I preferred the breakfast I had in the Ivy than the dinner I got. I wasn't blown away by the Shepherds pie either Gary. As for my favourite cheese it would be Stilton or Cashel Blue.

[@GaryEats]

I completely agree with you and fantastic choices

[@kenrehill8775]

Roquefort, the cheese that Stilton and cashel blue dream of being.

[@ailishoreilly9581]

Thanks for all your reviews Gary. Really love your clips.

[@GaryEats]

That is very kind and really appreciated thank you, have a great week 👍👍👍

[@jackrobinson501]

Great review as always Gary shepherds pie definitely on the small side looks nice though and I agree about the bowl very awkward spinach looks lovely as well keep up the videos

[@GaryEats]

Thanks Jack 👍

[@DavidJames-ms6rt]

I've passed the Ivy in London, York and Manchester on several occasion's and have a look at the menu, had a think and then go Naaaahhh and move on. One day I will take the plunge, but think it will be a bit of a Jamie Oliver, Ramsey and Gino Decampo disappointment. Sometimes the old adage....Less Is More rings absolutely true!! Looking forward to your new videos later in the week 😃

[@GaryEats]

I would go somewhere else David! Thanks mate :)

[@jamesfahy2935]

Soup served without bread and butter? They should be ashamed!

[@GaryEats]

Indeed. You have to have bread!

[@usercarefree44]

Little sour dough bread would be nice included. But 6 quid for bread..do you get the loaf?

[@ncf1]

I'm desperately unimpressed with the roofwork of The Ivy; I believe that's why they are holding back on buns for the soup, to save up for a Roofer and tiles.

[@GaryEats]

Very good 😂

[@stephenleonard6336]

Gary, my wife says you are too kind here. She would have given it a five!! I always trust your judgement! Good luck. Great reviews!

[@GaryEats]

I think the wife is right Stephen in hindsight and thank you both for watching 😊

[@iheggis86]

Most Ivy food is made in a central production kitchen and reheated/assembled onsite. Chefs don’t taste the food onsite, hence why much of the food is under seasoned.

[@Sarah-ft8jr]

Really? That’s ridiculous!

[@tomfitz-tm6tz]

Another moderately upmarket place gets majority of items from Brake bros and then adds a few extras..!!

[@geoffreykeane4072]

I was about to ask that question! Thanks. If the food isn’t seasoned it implies the chef doesn’t taste what’s going out!

[@GaryEats]

I actually thought that myself as all looked too uniform

[@For_us_foodies]

Another great review Gary. You have quickly become my fav food reviewer on here.

[@GaryEats]

That is very kind and much appreciated

[@hoppersdoppers]

Ridiculous, my son is a chef in top fish restaurant in south Devon... they make bread fresh every morning and is given free with every meal

[@GaryEats]

That's very good. Which restaurant if you don't mind me asking? Sounds great

[@hoppersdoppers]

@@GaryEats The Seahorse in Dartmouth... please give it a go Gary. Look it up. Amazing food. Only small but top class chasing their Michelin

[@FourIntoOne]

I live in Surrey and not a million miles away from there. Not been there yet, and thanks to this review, I shan't bother!

[@GaryEats]

No problem, glad I could help

[@johnsutherland3096]

Great review as usual Garry, keep them coming

[@GaryEats]

Thank you John

[@rajs4419]

Totally agree Gary. I've been to the Wimbledon Village branch. Gorgeous interior but the food was very disappointing.

[@GaryEats]

👍

[@alanbarnes3569]

Hi Gary, I would be very interested to see who was working in the kitchen. Currently there is a national shortage of good chefs, so that might have something to do with the standard not been great. If you like stilton then you should give Dolcelatte a try. I know The Ivy in Brighton is much better. Thanks 😊

[@GaryEats]

Good to know Alan and really like Dolcelatte 👍

[@greghanks170]

Great review really enjoyed Thanks for all your hard work regards Greg keep the reviews coming

[@GaryEats]

Thank you Greg very kind and appreciated

[@dansharpe2364]

I first went to the original one in London 35 years ago with a very, very famous American musician who I was interviewing for the magazine I worked for. It was the largest expenses claim anyone had ever put in and didn't even include any booze because Gene Simmons from KISS is teetotal. The food was nowhere as good as my then local Italian caff on St Peter's St in Islington.

[@GaryEats]

I haven’t been to the original sadly!

[@kenirving5240]

I have to say, what a ridiculous looking shepherd’s pie. Some foods can take a little pretentiousness, but not shepherd’s pie!

[@GaryEats]

Yes. Not a fan to be honest

[@melanieevans1574]

Yep.... 6 was exactly what I gave it. I appreciate the restaurant is stunning but cauliflower soup and cottage pie aren't exactly difficult to make nor difficult to make really tasty. I also thought the portion was ridiculous considering the pie came with no vegetables unless you paid extra and this bowl thing that seems to be all the rage at the moment is just stupid. Again, one of those places where you pay for mediocre food just to say you eat there!

[@GaryEats]

Unfortunately Melanie I think you’re 100 per cent right 🤷‍♂️

[@kierangoddard2198]

I dined in The Ivy. Like most other comments, it was a beautiful, but dated restaurant. The food was mediocre, and I just had no time for the French waiter who was pompous. I ordered a pint glass of lemonade. I was given a 150ml mixer size bottle of lemonade at £3:80, and a pint glass placed beside it. He thought he was being very clever. Lemonade at over £25 per litre is just making a statement that they did not want us back.

[@GaryEats]

Kieran that is terrible service, I had excellent service but poor food. I will never return either. Take care and have a good week 😊

[@gavincollins9376]

When I cook shepherds pie I always add Worcestershire sauce to the mince when cooking, a simple ingredient but adds so much flavor to the mince

[@GaryEats]

That's a great idea!

[@jeffjones9792]

It's like the chef is not trying the food as he/she cooks it. Cauliflower soup should have very small pieces of veg, not lumps of cauli in it. With so many 'side dishes', a hot plate wouldn't go amiss, and as far as the minute shepherd's pie in a big plate is concerned - do they not have an executive chef to oversee? 5 out of 10 would have been enough. That said, thanks for taking us along . Appreciated.

[@GaryEats]

Yes, you are right. More than welcome Jeff

[@Mark1405Leeds]

No excuse for that soup [Making yesterdays last longer] The most miserable Shepherds pie ever! ] Zero excuse for no bread with soup! [ my Nan used to take her own in her handbag just in case] Any extra went in the handbag too.

[@GaryEats]

Not good at all Mark

[@moorenicola6264]

No bread with soup is lunacy but to then charge £6.25 for some bread and a similar price for the chips is just ridiculous! It's often the little things like delicious freshly baked bread that bring people back and being stingy will stop people from coming back. They could do with revamping their exterior too. Looks shabby from the outside for those prices.

[@stan_austin]

Ye no bread is a joke, what does that cost them in reality…. Maybe 20p….

[@maylloyd3348]

Six was generous for two flawed and unfinished dishes at that price. And your B-roll of the inside didn't endear me, it looked like a cross between a race track cafe and Gretna Green! As always, thanks for going to these places so we don't end up making the same mistake!

[@GaryEats]

Thank you May I was a little generous on this one 😳

[@MegaVector2011]

Nice quirky wall decorations, a bit of an Ivy signature. Pretentious food presentation though and looking at the blow torched Shepherds pie, I'm sure the Shepherd didn't mind you eating his pie. Looking forward to your trip to Whitby. Great upload!

[@GaryEats]

Thank you very kind

[@sivabalasingham9918]

Gary is one of my favourite youtubers in the UK❤

[@GaryEats]

You're far too kind - thank you

[@a1joiner5]

Gary is my favourite KZbinr period!❤

[@colinmacfarlane6838]

29 quid for a bowl of mush! At least Dick Turpin wore a mask before he robbed you 😂

[@GaryEats]

LOL

[@Sr19769p]

Hi, Gary. I hate it when I go to a restaurant and have to adjust the food to make it alright. There's an esoteric culinary term for using both lamb & beef mince in a pie topped with mash: Sheppage Pie 😂. Seems to me it was more about the facade than the food. Great post, pal 👍.

[@GaryEats]

Thank you and I fully fully agree it’s not about the food 🤷‍♂️

[@CharlesCampo1]

I’ve got the man flu too. But this vid has certainly made me feel better! Thanks you!!! 😊😊😊

[@GaryEats]

Glad I could be helpful and I hope you feel better soon

[@kerriesowka6666]

When my Nan was given stingy portions of food she'd say "You could fit that in your eye "No idea where that came from but it made sense 😂 That Shepherds mini pie was definitely a fit in your eye 🫣And im reeling from the price of a roll 😳😳But a great review despite the stupid bowl 😂Hope you feel better soon , and for me , Fountains Gold cheddar from the Wensleydale Creamery is my favourite cheese 😋😋

[@GaryEats]

Lol!! Thanks so much Kerrie and yes the bowl was very silly

[@sensationalfailure]

Thanks for the heads-up! Judging from your video, I think 6/10 is spot on. Not to be avoided, not keen on going, either. Stilton is great cheese, but so are Gorgonzola and Roquefort. Mountain cheeses are to die for, too: think Appenzeller and Gruyère. Even Tilsiter and Esrom are good. There are so many amazing cheeses the answer is clear: I can't have a favourite! Get well soon!

[@GaryEats]

Thank you and yes you're right. You know your cheeses, I love them myself. Thank you so much!

[@mrc5653]

Very well balanced review Gary,I’d definitely feel a bit short changed there👍

[@GaryEats]

Thank you it was a bit disappointing

[@nimedave]

Part of the problem is that a lot of the food is not made fresh on site. It comes in as posh ready meals and is heated up.

[@GaryEats]

I don’t know but that would explain a lot

[@nimedave]

@@GaryEats one way to tell is to ask to modify the ingredients in some of the dishes. Funnily enough I was at the Cobham one for breakfast today. Was a bit pricey for what it was and the scrambled eggs seemed like powdered ones to me.

[@tomfitz-tm6tz]

Yes...friend is manager of well known chain...not naming it....all food in plastic pouches....heated up and few extras added to look freshly made 😂

[@recoverytrustees526]

I haven't commented for a while-Its good to see the progress of this site, its very professional and well done for your enthusiasm and ability. Excellent review. Good to see your hair now back to normal...............:) the style changed for one review! Would recommend the Midland Grand in London-dined there again recently, excellent and they allow corkage! All best wishes and keep up the fantastic work!

[@GaryEats]

Thank you for commenting it’s really appreciated, I will take a look as I don’t know the hotel and thank you again 👍

[@DuncanMcintyre-jk3qb]

Well done for giving it a go fella quality output as always enjoyed it immensely-makes a jobbing chef like myself feel better to see other’s product

[@GaryEats]

Glad you enjoyed it Duncan!

[@paulhayward6286]

Excellent review as always, personally I prefer more food than bowl, chips for £6.95, I wonder how many spuds they used ONE

[@GaryEats]

Not many Paul

[@Curryking32000]

We were going to go to the Ivy in Norwich on Friday but will give it a miss. We're going to try the Cosy Club restaurant which is expensive and could just be as over priced. Lets hope the portions are better.....wish us luck.

[@GaryEats]

I do wish you luck and my apologies, let me know how the meal goes 👌🤞😊

[@darrenmundy524]

Hi Gary, great channel - would highly recommend Nest restaurant up here in North East, they do a 10 course set menu that is exceptional. one of the best places I've eaten - Ive been to many places including celeb places which are not always as good as you think they will be. House of tides in Newcastle also is exceptional.

[@GaryEats]

Thank you Darren I’ll take a look, 10 courses 😳

[@stuartjomes7289]

Clare and I agree ....lovely restaurants but the food is overrated in our option (Winchester and Marlow)...😊

[@GaryEats]

Hi Stuart and Clare, it is overhyped and overrated 👍

[@richardbrennan5448]

I eat at this restaurant quite frequently and do find the dishes very hit and miss. It's a shame you did not try the bread, it's really a small loaf and quite delicious. The cheese souffle and chicken parfait are also excellent, but my favourite dish is the eggs benedict they do for their weekend brunch. it's not cheap, but as you say, the décor and service are excellent.

[@GaryEats]

Thank you Richard lovely restaurant but the food was a bit disappointing

[@maxwellfan55]

Agree. I like it when they come around with a bread basket, it's a nice, hospitable touch. See much less of that in restaurants now. As regards the soup, the consistency seemed to imply they hadn't thickened it with taste-sapping flour, so that's a plus for me. Obviously I can't vouch for the taste, but it looked nice..

[@GaryEats]

It wasn’t the best to be honest 🤷‍♂️

[@MarkmanOTW]

Knowing that restaurant, I would say people go there 'to be seen' instead of the culinary experience. Given it's location (in Cobham) it's more about the vibe, drinks and local celebs/footballers that may be there instead of the quality of the food - which in my view is there as a prop for the social gathering instead of 'the main event'.

[@GaryEats]

Perhaps so. Food was underwhelming!

[@BenjaminBaker120]

The first time I have watched a video of yours where there was the need to work through the full compliment of condiments, says it all !

[@GaryEats]

Yep, how often have you seen me with a desperate need for condiments

[@AJ-sv5qg]

Love Shepherds pie but won't be going to Ivy for it. Great review thanks

[@GaryEats]

Thank you 👍

[@olliesgrandad]

Another great review and think you scored it spot on. Spent the weekend in Cornwall staying at The Jamaica Inn in Bodmin -you need to give that a 'go'. Another place we had a very nice butexpensive tea and cake, with outrageous decor was The Camelot Castle Hotel at Tintagel. Now that is one you ought to feature due to its style.

[@GaryEats]

Thank you and I hope you had a lovely break, great suggestions and I promise I will take a look thank you 🙏

[@GaryG1974]

Shephard's pie or cottage pie that use both lamb and beef is an abomination and is purely there for pretentious nonsense, Cottage pie is only beef and Shephard's pie is only lamb; any other variation is simply wrong. That is a criticism of the restaurant not your review. I am actually glad you chose it, at least we could get a true and honest opinion on it. - The so-called "soup" just looked like a bowl of milk with bits floating in it. It looked far too thin. I despair between this soup looking like thin watery milk and Wendy's milkshake like cement. Can nobody learn proper texture anymore!?! 🤣 and yes, you should have got at least a couple of slices of bread with it, if not a bread basket - As I said above that mixed meat Shephard's is an abomination My score would be 3/10. Gary you were extremely generous with 6/10 ♥

[@GaryEats]

I completely agree with you regarding the Shepard's Pie. It was a weird mix which didn't work in my opinion. The soup was nice but not great. Thanks as always for your kind generosity Gary.

[@dunslaycasson3263]

As an owner of a restaurant, where we prepare all our offerings from scratch I really do worry that people think The Ivy cooks good food. What The Ivy Collection does is reheat food that is prepared centrally. Every Ivy menu is the same, does that not tell you something! Also has anyone ever seen a picture of an Ivy Collection kitchen. I have scoured the internet cannot find one single picture, does that again tell you something. Every Ivy I have been into (thankfully not many) the kitchen is always well hidden! Plus side the restaurant looks good. Although our local one looks like an explosion in a garden centre! I do worry with so many independent restaurants closing that the UK is dumbing down on its food offering.

[@GaryEats]

Thank you for the insightful comment, unfortunately I think many chain restaurants cook off site and simply reheat and garnish

[@charlottelanvin7095]

bread is actually really important! hospitality folks I know never skimp on the bread and never charge the customer for it. if you have local baker who makes good bread, get him or her on board in your restaurant. I have complimented chefs on the bread, it can transform a dish like that soup. on seasoning, I don't mind adding salt to a dish when it's not seasoned to my taste but after having tasted it! when I cook at home I will do with little or no salt for health reasons, and invite guests to season to their taste. my reasoning is: if you prefer to add salt, you always can, but if too much is in there, you can't take it out!

[@joereedsmith1531]

I always take a buttered roll with me and have done so for 40 years.With a buttered roll you can make anything better.

[@GaryEats]

A good point regarding both the roll and seasoning Charlotte thank you 👍

[@reklaw3603]

The bland comes from, they cook the food and you season as to your requirements. As a lot of people will complain it is seasoned too much, or too little. Hey ho!, people are very strange! I am personally with you towards season in the cooking, it draws out the flavours. Also, I would not have enjoyed the Shepherds pie, as lamb is lamb, its called shepherds pie for a reason. I rated it a 4, alongside ott pricing. I do suppose you are paying for the ambience, looks luxurious, but, you are there to eat and drink. Another good honest review, many thanks, honesty is key and you provide honesty, very very well. Whitby will be good, Humble Pie 'n' Mash is lovely! looking forward to it!

[@GaryEats]

A very good comment. Can’t wait for Whitby but need to shift this flu ASAP. Take care and thanks 😄

[@gooner7331]

I agree with your comment about seasoning it to your taste when it comes to soups. But something like a shepherd's pie does need seasoning in the mince part of it at least in my opinion. Otherwise you would have to mix it all together after you have added salt and pepper. Also i took it that they hadn't added much in the way of herbs to the mince unless i took Gary's comments the wrong way.

[@reklaw3603]

@@GaryEatsHope you get well soon and yes, it will be the Flu. loads of lemsips work wonders, lemon and honey are key flu fighting ingredients. Take care, we need people like yourself to give honest reviews. Well done in your venture!

[@reklaw3603]

@@gooner7331Spot on, you truly do need to season properly minced meat, i was going to add the mixing part also, glad you did, well caught.

[@JazzFunkNobby1964]

I remember back @ 1995 Gene Wilder was performing on stage in London's theatre land and as a cab driver then, I used to collect him from his lodgings in Highgate and drive him to the Ivy restaurant in Covent Garden and other various places. He was a proper Gent.

[@GaryEats]

That is so brilliant to hear, good news 👍👍👍

[@jeffreyphillips2323]

I would have given it a four. As I said in your previous video the Ivy chain is style and service over substance. That was very poor and expensive food. I don't understand their business model. Those Shepherd pies were obviously frozen as all similar. Six pounds for some bread!!! 🙄 Better to have good quality cooking and food at a less salubrious place. I think the Wimpy (❤) was better value! 👌

[@GaryEats]

Maybe I was a little generous on this one Jeffery and I have to agree with you thank you

[@heidifogelberg3544]

Of Bowls and Blandness ... Sorry it wasn't better! It is a beautiful place, but if the food isn't a match, it's not worth it. I've often found that places with this sort of chi-chi cachet do rest on the "special" reputation sometimes. Reminds me of that review you did - was it at Harrod's? Similar thing - paying for the name.

[@GaryEats]

Not a problem Heidi. Thank you!

[@midinotes]

Well done Gary for being honest and giving it a go. Not sure if this ever been asked (or answered) but how do you get along with filming inside these places? Have you ever been told not to?

[@MikeNewland]

Good question.

[@GaryEats]

I've been asked to not film once and they told us to leave but that was a Chinese buffet months ago

[@MikeNewland]

Refusing filming could get in the media and would look terrible like banning people from snapping the plateserfood.@@GaryEats

[@alanmurphy8137]

Great video Gary. Think they must have put to much emphasis on the appearance of the shepherd's pie and forgot to season it properly, which I find happens quite alot when going to nice restaurants. Keep up the videos, love watching.

[@GaryEats]

Thank you Alan all round this was disappointing

[@snapdragon1194]

Another fantastic honest review from you Gary. I agree 💯 with you about serving it in a bowl, it was totally impractical. You seem to have to season and add flavour to it as well, that's not a great sign for such a popular eatery. Prices were way too high for what you had to eat. I don't think anyone could disagree that there are other better restaurants out there to visit and more affordable as well. Looking forward to your next review 😁

[@GaryEats]

Thank you so much, the bowl was pointless 🤷‍♂️. It’s not a recommendation from me and I won’t be returning, onwards and upwards 👍👍

[@edcoad4930]

Well said!! These places attract customers on a somewhat snobbish reputation, which seems to give establishments the right to shrink portions and increase prices. More old school "holes in the wall" to demonstrate a quality meal is accessible to everyone.

[@GaryEats]

Good comment Ed thank you

[@leelythgoe2483]

Soup with no bread? Outrageous.

[@GaryEats]

Agreed!

[@oblongmusic3389]

I also had the Shepherds pie at a London branch. I think they maybe knock them out by the hundreds in a central kitchen ? Mine was too small and looked like it’d been at least twice cooked , though was warm rather than hot .. it tasted ok ish , but no better than average.. I went on a Sunday at midday and to start with service was good , but by 1pm the place was packed and people were steaming into their cocktails, and the ambient volume got louder and louder to the point where our party of four at a table for four , couldn’t actually hear each other anymore .. we weren’t drinking alcohol .. also the service had deteriorated to the point where we couldn’t get any attention- the shift changed at 1 pm , so our designated waiter had disappeared, and we were pretty much ignored by the new shift - I’m guessing because we didn’t want to load up on their pricey cocktails etc .. I wouldn’t score it higher than a 5/10 .. underwhelming food and inconsistent service, with a dash of overpriced product .. never again .. and I’d recommend anyone not to bother .. I’m sure the drinks are delicious and very strong , so I’m sure lots of people have a wonderful experience overall , especially if they’re hammered enough not to care about the food or the noise levels ..Swerve .. 😅

[@GaryEats]

Yep, same experience as me!

[@lonegunwomen]

You are too kind with your rating Gary. A poor portion size of Cottage pie and not the least bit tasty the Ivy is overrated. Always enjoy your videos honest and a pleasure to watch. Take care.

[@GaryEats]

Thank you maybe a bit generous on this one I agree

[@RosieHarp]

Another interesting review ⭐️ I've always wondered if The Ivy restaurants lived up to their reputation. Monterey Jack's my favourite cheese 🧀

[@GaryEats]

It’s definitely running on the original restaurants reputation