The Ivy is set to launch its Taste of Scotland menu on July 20, offering a curated selection of Scottish dishes at its Buchanan Street in Glasgow and on the Square in Edinburgh locations. The limited-time menu, available until September 1, highlights Scotland's rich culinary heritage with locally sourced ingredients, including jams from Arbroath, haggis from Linlithgow, and whisky from the Isle of Islay.
Menu Highlights and Pricing
Guests can choose between a two-course meal for £34.95 or a three-course meal for £42.95, with optional pairings of a locally brewed Scottish beer or a craft whisky cocktail. The menu was specially prepared by the head chefs of the chain, offering a variety of Scottish staples with a high-end twist.
First-Hand Experience
Eilidh Farquhar of the Daily Record sampled the menu ahead of its launch. She started with a Strawberry Jam Bellini, made with prosecco and Mrs Bridges strawberry jam from Scotland's east coast. As a treat, she enjoyed the Oatmeal-rolled Lathallan Haggis Bon Bons with malt-whisky and wholegrain mustard mayonnaise, describing them as "to die for."
For her starter, Farquhar chose Campbell's Haggis with turnip, crispy potato, and whisky peppercorn sauce, noting the "sharp kick of spices" complemented by the smooth turnips. Other starter options include a cheese soufflé or haddock risotto.
Main Course and Dessert
For the main course, she opted for the Perthshire Wild Mushroom Pappardelle with garden peas, kale pesto, and truffle cream, which she found "melt in the mouth" with a rich flavour. Traditional options like sirloin steak or grilled salmon fillet are also available.
Despite not having a sweet tooth, Farquhar chose the Cranachan Bombe for dessert. The dome is melted by a hot whisky cream sauce, unveiling vanilla ice cream, raspberries, and Scottish heather honey. She praised the balance of sweetness, saying the raspberries and whisky sauce provided a burst of flavour without being overpowering.
Overall Impression
Finishing with a Smoked Margarita, Farquhar left "perfectly full and blown away" by the meal, noting that the menu blends Scottish flavours without feeling gimmicky. She would definitely return to try more.
