The Ivy Cafe Blackheath London

I have been here many times having grown up in Blackheath and remember it well when it was Chapter II (sister restaurant to Chapter One in Kent) 20 odd years ago. It actually changed from the restaurant (only) that it was to the all day dining brasserie it is now whilst I was away abroad for 6 months, so when I got back I was surprised as it was pretty much the flagship restaurant in Blackheath. Obvious care and attention to the brunch experience but ultimately some aspects that could have been better as well.

Many shops and restaurants have changed since, so there is a possibility that there are others I have not been to that are worthy of trying. However, the stylish look, casual feel, attentive service and array of menu choices do make this venue a very nice option as there is not much to dislike. I have found the service can be quite stretched to discomfort levels when fully booked and even seen / heard staff being argumentative with each other when the pressure is high which, if removed, would raise its game a lot. However, I have also found the staff very accommodating and hospitable to guests as much as is possible to requests which is actually a forte of this venue.

Many shops and restaurants have changed since, so there is a possibility that there are others I have not been to that are worthy of trying. However, the stylish look, casual feel, attentive service and array of menu choices do make this venue a very nice option as there is not much to dislike. I have found the service can be quite stretched to discomfort levels when fully booked and even seen / heard staff being argumentative with each other when the pressure is high which, if removed, would raise its game a lot. However, I have also found the staff very accommodating and hospitable to guests as much as is possible to requests which is actually a forte of this venue.

There is obvious care in to the smoothies, shakes, hot drinks and general brunch options and I think this says a lot as only places that have pride in their work will go to this attentive level for the small things which I do like here. The salad and eggs benedict were on form today with perfectly runny yolks but I don’t agree with the top of the eggs being grilled just for decoration as this seriously affects the hollondaise – sprinkles of herbs or seasoning would be what I would go for instead here.

It hasn’t always been this well done on some past occasions however, today was very good. Aspects that could have been better, I would say the were the chips as, although wonderful, had too much cooking oil within them (and could have had this soaked away more before serving) and I felt the sauce béarnaise could have done with a touch more seasoning (the tarragon was fine but seemed to need a touch more acidity via more punch from the shallot & white wine reduction and salt). Still, very pleasant brunch and even more cherished for the detox diet I am shortly about to embark on.

https://major-foodie.com/chapters-blackheath/
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