Celebrities enjoyed a star-studded preview of the Ivy’s new restaurant
Helen Flanagan at the launch of Ivy Asia(Image: Liverpool Echo)
The Ivy Liverpool welcomed a slew of celebrities and famous faces to mark the launch of its sister restaurant concept, Ivy Asia. The company’s first local site opened on November 19 last year, set in the former Bank of England building, with Asia confirmed to open in the upper level of the venue.
The Ivy Asia restaurants feature the same lively floral décor found in sister venues, with distinctive Asian cultural accents. The menu differs from the Ivy’s usual offerings, showcasing exotic dishes such as seared wagyu beef alongside a selection of sushi and sashimi.
To celebrate the grand opening on Tuesday, November 4, television stars, sports personalities and famous faces attended a star-studded preview evening with fire breathers and a cherry blossom trees before walking the red carpet.
Notable names included Helen Flanagan, former Liverpool defender Jamie and Nicola Carragher and Jamie’s fellow Reds legend John Barnes.
Jamie Carragher and his wife Nicola at the launch event for Ivy Asia on Castle Street(Image: Liverpool Echo)
Guests were treated to drinks and canapés, alongside a first look at the restaurant’s beautiful interiors and new Asia concept.
Inside the venue, guests enjoyed live entertainment including an electric violinist, percussion, DJ and dancers, as well as The Ivy Asia’s signature service, free flowing Ivy Asia Cuvée and canapés from the menu, including sushi and small plates.
The ECHO spoke to Barnes as he made his way into the stunning venue on its launch night. He expressed his excitement over the opening of Ivy Asia here in the city.
John Barnes said the city is “going places” at the launch event at Ivy Asia on Castle Street(Image: Liverpool Echo)
He said: “I love fusion food and I love The Ivy, so the Asian fusion at Ivy Asia is probably going to be my favourite restaurant.”
John enjoys visiting the Ivy Asia’s Manchester restaurant, but he is pleased to see one opening in our city too. He told the ECHO: “Of course we’re going to have one in Liverpool, we’re going places.”
The Ivy Asia Liverpool’s menu will feature an array of dishes that celebrate the bold and distinctive flavours of Asian cuisine and spotlight seasonal ingredients. Signature dishes include its delectable sushi and sashimi, flavoursome small plates and mains, as well as a selection of desserts.
Including 46 covers and a bar area, Ivy Asia is the latest gem in Castle Street’s hospitality crown. Laura Mills, managing director of The Ivy Group, previously said: “Since we opened The Ivy Liverpool Brasserie last November, it has been such a joy to welcome so many wonderful guests.
“We know how much Liverpool loves The Ivy Asia, and we’re thrilled that this vibrant city now has its very own. The Ivy Asia Liverpool offers more than just dining, it’s a place to create memorable experiences, from our carefully curated menu of fan favourites to our signature opulent interiors and electrifying entertainment.
“We can’t wait to welcome everyone through our doors and share in the excitement of Liverpool’s dynamic dining scene.”