Revered restaurant group The Ivy has launched a brand new brasserie and dining experience in Spinningfields, Manchester. The Executive Magazine went along to the exclusive launch party to check it out.

Spread across four floors, the brand new Ivy Collection restaurant occupies a purpose built exposed timber frame structure in the heart of Manchester city centre. Located in Spinningfields, The Ivy comprises of a ground floor brasserie,  first floor private dining room, an opulent Asian bar and restaurant on the third floor, and a sumptuous Roof Garden featuring fire pits and foliage on the top floor, with views of the city and a fully retractable roof for the summer season.

The official VIP launch party saw a host of celebrity guests, including sports stars, business moguls and TV personalities, along with Richard Caring, the group owner, making an appearance. The glamorous evening showcased the new venue in spectacular fashion, and has been well received by the press and critics alike after soft launch taster sessions earlier in the week. With reservations already fully booked for the next 6 months, Manchesters largest restaurant with over 530 covers is also set to be the busiest.

In keeping with the theme, the red carpet was substituted for a green grass walkway, and live performers adorned in ivy welcomed the VIP guests. The paparazzi was out in full force to capture the arrivals of special appearances, and a live band creating an exciting atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.

We spoke with the General Manager Kate Cooper, who tells us “we’re confident that The Ivy Spinningfields will add to Manchester’s already impressive dining scene. We’re all very excited to welcome both those living and working in Manchester, as well as those travelling from further afield.”

The Brasserie offers an all day dining experience, including classic breakfasts like eggs royale, afternoon tea, and an evening a la carte menu with featuring lobster, steak and a monkfish and prawn curry. The theme of rich indulgence and retro luxury is prevalent, with every last detail considered from a marble topped bar to the nappa leather quilted seating.

Venture upstairs into the opulently decorated Asia suite which has been tastefully adorned with authentic antique Japanese ninja armour, art-deco style Geisha artwork, and sumptuous materials, along with precious gem stone flooring. Here you will find an infusion of Asian flavours, including black cod with miso, Thai sea bass with coriander, lime and chilli, and asparagus with white wafu dressing and black sesame.

As well as a spectacular array of fine food, a tasty cocktail menu has been created especially for the Manchester venue, with an array of modern classics with a unique Ivy twist. A finely curated wine list includes Louis Roderer Cristal 2009 champagne.

You’ll need to book your visit in advance, as the highly anticipated dining experience is going to be a firm favourite on the Manchester fine dining scene.