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On a frosty winter evening, we ventured into the welcoming warmth of The Ivy Clifton Brasserie in Bristol. Renowned for its stylish interiors and impeccable service, the restaurant was buzzing with the joy of the festive season. People gathered for Christmas get-togethers and company parties, their laughter blending harmoniously with the soft background music.
Adorned with twinkling lights and a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, the ambiance was nothing short of magical. Outside, a pair of cheerful snowmen stood guard by the main entrance, setting the tone for a cozy and indulgent evening.
Our Dessert Choices
After a delightful dinner elsewhere, we turned to The Ivy for a post-meal indulgence. The dessert menu was brimming with festive options, and here’s what we savored:
1. Christmas Crème Brûlée
A quintessential holiday treat, this crème brûlée came with a winter berry and cinnamon compote, perfectly complementing the creamy custard. The dish was accompanied by a delicate shortbread that added just the right amount of crunch. Each spoonful was a harmonious blend of festive flavours, embodying the spirit of the season. However, we found the creme brûlée itself was too runny. It hasn’t set properly and with every spoon, it drips down the side. Not quite what we were hoping for.
2. Selection of Cheese
For a more savory ending, we opted for the cheese platter. A thoughtfully curated selection included:
- Cornish Yarg
- Stilton
- Saint-Nectaire
- Melusine Goat’s Cheese
- Camembert Le Fin Terroir
These were paired with a rich red onion and cranberry chutney and wholegrain crackers. The combination of creamy, tangy, and nutty flavors made it a perfect choice for cheese lovers.
The Dessert We Missed
We had our hearts set on the Ivy Snowman—a whimsical creation of vanilla parfait, chocolate brownie, milk foam, panda sponge cake, honeycomb, and popping candy. Alas, it was sold out. While disappointed, we consoled ourselves with an equally extravagant option.
3. Birthday Dessert Box
Even though it wasn’t anyone’s birthday, this indulgent dessert turned out to be a showstopper. A golden chocolate orb encased a treasure trove of vanilla ice cream, honeycomb, chocolate strands, and freeze-dried raspberries, all sprinkled with gold flakes. The pièce de résistance was the hot salted caramel sauce, poured over the orb to reveal its delectable contents. A true feast for both the eyes and the palate, it was a decadent conclusion to our evening.
We have learned that if you don’t want to overdo it, ask the waiting staff to leave the pouring caramel sauce on the side. That way you get to decide how much to your dessert. If you leave them to it, you may end up with a flooded dessert. The hot salted caramel sauce overpower the dessert, making it too sweet.
Other options that we did not succumb to are as follows:
- The Ivy Chocolate Bombe, the a variant of the Birthday Dessert Box above with classic melting dome, vanilla ice cream, honeycomb and hot caramel cause for pouring.
- Classic Frozen Berries – selected berries and red currants with frozen yoghurt and white chocalate sauce
- Christmas Pudding – Flambeed Christmas putting with almonds, redcurrants and vanilla cream
- Selection of Ice Creams and Sorbets
- Colston Bassett Stilton with Chutney, grapes, celery and crackers
- Warm Almond Mince Pies with brandy cream, candied orange and pine sugar
- Salted Caramel Chocolate Truffles with liquid caramel centre
Drinks to Pair
To accompany our desserts, we enjoyed:
- A Pot of Coffee and Cream – Rich and aromatic, it paired beautifully with the sweetness of our treats.
- Oolong Tea – Its delicate floral notes provided a refreshing contrast.
- Camomile Tea – Calming and soothing, it rounded off our experience perfectly.
The Atmosphere
Seated in a cosy circular booth, we were enveloped by the festive energy of the room. The attentive staff ensured our comfort, adding to the overall charm of the evening. The brasserie’s iconic décor—with its stylish lighting, chic furnishings, and seasonal touches—enhanced the magical holiday ambiance.
Final Thoughts
The Ivy Clifton Brasserie is more than just a dining destination; it’s an experience. Whether it’s for a festive dessert, a special occasion, or simply to soak in the atmosphere, this Bristol gem offers something for everyone. Our winter dessert escapade left us with sweet memories and a yearning to return for more.
If you’re in Bristol this festive season, treat yourself to the indulgence and charm of The Ivy Clifton Brasserie. Just be sure to arrive early if you’re dreaming of their iconic Ivy Snowman!
