The Ivy Christmas pop-up on Buchanan Street in Glasgow has reopened after a full festive makeover, and one visitor was shocked by a Mulled Guinness drink that she now prefers over mulled wine.
The restaurant, which closed on October 4 when The Ivy Brasserie moved to a new location on Vincent Street, underwent a major overhaul before reopening to the public on November 4. The pop-up is filled with Christmas trees, tartan bows and garlands, with two polar bears guarding the front door.
A Festive Wonderland Inside
Guests are greeted by Christmas lights, trees, and unique statues decorating the ground floor. The most eye-catching piece is a huge Christmas tree in The Morgan Room upstairs, which is staged in candlelight and dazzles with lights and baubles.
During her visit, the writer tried a festive burger filled with cheese, bacon, tomato and lettuce, as well as other menu items including Haggis Bon-Bons, Truffle Arancini, Turkey and Stuffy Hot Sandwich, and Scottish Haddock Fish Finger. Desserts include Whisky Creme Brulee, Bramley Apple Crumble, and the Cranachan Bombe.
The Mulled Guinness Surprise
From the drinks menu, the writer tried Jingle Bells, featuring Johnnie Walker Black Ruby and white chocolate, and the Hot Honey and Fig Palona. But it was the Mulled Guinness from the winter warmers menu that truly caught her off guard.
Ladled out of a large slow cooker, the Guinness is mixed with winter spices, orange and blackcurrant. Despite not being a fan of stout or beer, the writer was blown away after the first sip, describing the drink as warm, sweet, and distinctive from the usual taste of Irish stout.
Walk-Ins Only Until New Year
The Ivy Christmas on Buchanan Street is open from 12pm to 10pm every day until December 31. The restaurant only accepts walk-ins, meaning it is first come, first served, with no reservations available.
