AFTER the hype of the opening earlier this year I jumped at the opportunity to visit The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie.

Located in the historic Rotunda building which dates back to 1827, The Ivy’s exterior has a sense of grandness. You feel like you’re in a Hollywood movie as you enter the lobby. Our table had a view of the whole restaurant and the atmosphere was buzzing.

The circular bar is at the centre of the large but not overcrowded space, with the most beautiful vast ceiling.

The walls are vibrant and feature a mural of Cheltenham’s first Gold Cup in 1804, which works well with the pristine white tablecloths and silver for which The Ivy is renowned.

Sadly, I was driving so I was unable to sample one of the bespoke cocktails on the menu, which were classics with a twist. The mixologist looked impressive behind the circular bar and made myself and my companion a beautifully refreshing ‘passion fruit mocktail’ which was perfect during the heatwave.

The menu is extensive with a sophisticated slant on much-loved classics. Our waiter took great care in catering for my food allergies – a pescatarian who is allergic to chilli and pepper, I’m normally limited on options when dining out but the menu here provided five choices which was a rare treat.

My companion and I opted for the same starter and main - Atlantic sea scallops (£11.95) followed by crab linguine (£15.95).

The scallops were divine, with a smooth pea puree which was enhanced with a lemon zest tang, and you could tell they were fresh from Devon that day.

The crab linguine was also superb, with the touches of smoked garlic, lemon and rocket the perfect compliment. I was worried that the lack of chilli would affect the overall taste but the chef got the balance right with added courgette and lemon – delicious.

After much social media hype I wanted to try the world famous Ivy melting bombe and, as it was Wimbledon season, the dish had been to adapted to The Centre Court Melting Bomb (£8.50) with white chocolate strawberries and shortbread. Quite simply, this is one of the best desserts I have ever had.

My companion chose the lemon meringue Alaska (£7.25). The impressive presentation resembled a beehive and the flavours worked well with the lemon not being too over powering.

Overall the food was well executed in both flavour and presentation without being pretentious and the menu meets all tastes and budgets.

Afterwards, we each had a sencha jasmine tea, which was subtly sweet and highly fragrant.

As you can see, The Ivy in Cheltenham lives up to the iconic brand’s reputation. Dining there is indeed very special.

RATING: 5/5

theivycheltenhambrasserie.com