Located just a short stroll from Cardiff's historic castle, The Ivy Asia has emerged as a dazzling addition to the city's culinary scene, bringing with it a blend of beautiful flavours, and delicious cocktails, all served in a glamorous setting. This destination restaurant has become synonymous with stunning Asian-inspired dishes, ensuring a culinary experience that transcends the ordinary. The vibrant atmosphere and luxurious decor make this an ideal destination for both lunch and dinner, while the offering of intriguing cocktails well into the night solidifies its status as a visit when in Cardiff.
Upon stepping into The Ivy Asia, one is immediately captivated by the opulent surroundings. Adorned with stunning artwork, the restaurant is a visual feast in itself. The pièces de résistance, however, is the presence of two large cherry trees, their delicate blossoms creating a breathtaking contrast against the dazzling green onyx floor. It's a setting that seamlessly blends elegance with a touch of the bold, setting the stage for a memorable dining experience.
To commence our evening, we opted for one of the specially crafted festive cocktails - the Pink Kurisumasu. This delightful concoction featured Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé, Sakura Vermouth, and Creme de Fraise, creating a perfect harmony of flavours - served with an artistic flair, it set the tone for the culinary adventure that awaited us.
"The Ivy Asia isn't merely a restaurant; it's a culinary journey that invites patrons to savour the extraordinary."
Our journey into the world of Asian-inspired delicacies began with the Salmon & Avocado Maki Rolls. A symphony of fresh, delicate flavours, the rolls showcased the chef's mastery in combining high-quality ingredients. The salmon, melt-in-your-mouth and paired impeccably with creamy avocado, created a sushi experience that left a lasting impression.
Following suit, we indulged in the Spicy Tuna & Sesame Maki Rolls, a testament to the restaurant's commitment to delivering bold and diverse flavour profiles. The spicy tuna, tinged with sesame undertones, provided a satisfying kick that tantalized the taste buds. Each bite was a culinary adventure, highlighting the restaurant's dedication to authenticity and innovation.
For the main course, we decided to delve into the Aromatic Marinated Duck for two. The dish, a true showstopper, arrived at our table in grand fashion in the form of a towering duck complete with crispy duck presented in all its glory. Accompanied by steamed pancakes, cucumber, spring onion, and hoisin sauce, the dish was not just a feast for the palate but a visual spectacle. The presentation, featuring hanging gold buckets carrying all the trimmings, added an extra layer of theatricality to our dining experience. It was, without a doubt, a dish that seamlessly blended tradition with contemporary theatrics.
To complement our main course, we chose a side of steamed rice, a simple yet essential addition that perfectly balanced the rich and robust flavours of the duck. The culinary synergy between the main course and the steamed rice elevated the overall dining experience, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail that defines The Ivy Asia.
To accompany our meal, we selected a fine glass of Rioja, specifically the Bodegas Beronia from Spain. This full-bodied red wine proved to be an ideal companion, its rich and velvety notes complementing the complex flavours of the Asian-inspired dishes.
As our culinary journey concluded, we found ourselves reluctantly passing on the opportunity for dessert. However, the promise of a return visit loomed large, with the anticipation of exploring the sweet offerings on our next venture. Despite the missed dessert, what we did indulge in was nothing short of impressive - a testament to The Ivy Asia's commitment to delivering an impressive dining experience.
The Ivy Asia in Cardiff stands as a beacon of culinary excellence, seamlessly fusing beautiful Asian flavours, a captivating decor, and an inviting ambiance. From the cocktails that initiate the evening to the awe-inspiring Aromatic Marinated Duck, each element of the dining experience is a testament to the restaurant's dedication to perfection. The Ivy Asia isn't merely a restaurant; it's a culinary journey that invites patrons to savour the extraordinary. As we departed, we couldn't help but feel that our evening at The Ivy Asia was not just a meal but a celebration of gastronomic artistry.
The Bill: £64 per head
