The Ivy (London)

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Around 1917 Abel Giandellini purchased what was a modest café that quickly gained favour with the theatre community. Soon after its opening Mario Gallati joined M. Abel in the role of Maitre D’hotel and was instrumental in transforming the Ivy. The subsequent redevelopment of the restaurant produced a dining room, which largely resembles the restaurant as it is today.

The name itself originated from a chance remark by the actress Alice Delysia, who overheard Monsieur Abel apologise to a customer for the inconvenience caused by building works. When he said that it was because of his intention to create a restaurant of the highest class, she interjected ‘Don’t worry – we will always come and see you. “We will cling together like the ivy,” ’ a line from a popular song.

In 1945 Mario Gallati left subsequently to open Le Caprice in 1947. Between his departure and the acquisition of the restaurant by Chris Corbin & Jeremy King in 1989, the Ivy passed through several hands. Sold by M. Abel to Bernard Walsh of Wheelers in 1950, it was later owned by Joseph Melatini, Lady Grade and the Forte organisation.

The Ivy was relaunched in 1990: the architect M J Long carried out the extensive refurbishment, with leading contemporary artists commissioned to create site-specific works. Restored to its former glory, it now seems firmly established as London’s favourite theatre restaurant.

“A table at the Ivy is one of the most sought after pieces of furniture in London.” AA Gill.