When it comes to dining experiences that combine spectacular flavours, striking interiors, and attentive service, Ivy Asia in Cardiff is hard to beat. Richard and his wife Nadya recently enjoyed their second visit – and if their glowing review is anything to go by, it won’t be their last. From dazzling starters to a showstopping dessert, here’s how their afternoon unfolded…
Starters to Remember
Arriving at 2pm, they kicked things off with two standout dishes: the Beef Sang Choi Bao and Gochujang Glazed Chicken. The slow-roasted beef lettuce wraps, served with Thai basil and mint atop a playful monkey plate, were an instant hit. “Fantastic – I almost didn’t share,” said Richard. The chicken, paired with kaffir lime mayo and pickled cucumber, was praised for its aromatic and refreshing flavour.
Mains that Dazzled
Next came the Char Siu Barbecue Glazed Pork Belly and Wok Fried Lobster & Duck Fried Rice. The pork belly, coated in a smoky BBQ dressing with a hit of ichimi spice, was described as “juicy and bursting with flavour.” Richard, who’s not usually a big fan of rice, admitted the fragrant mix of lobster, duck, lychee and sambal completely won him over: “I could eat rice every day if it was served like this.”
Desserts That Stole the Show
For those with a sweet tooth, Ivy Asia delivers in style. The warm Passion Fruit & Coconut Doughnuts with yoghurt dipping sauce were a joint favourite. But the real spectacle came with the White Chocolate Sphere, filled with vanilla ice cream, chocolate popping candy and yuzu caramel. “Melt in your mouth goodness,” Richard said, describing the table-side pouring of warm caramel sauce that causes the chocolate dome to melt before your eyes.
Drinks with a Twist
To complement the meal, Richard enjoyed a Mango Sling cocktail – a tropical blend of Ron Santiago de Cuba, coconut liqueur, Midori, pineapple, mango, lemongrass, lemon and coconut espuma – while Nadya opted for a fun Candy Floss Mocktail.
Vibrant Atmosphere & Attentive Service
The couple loved the energy of the venue, which was “busier than expected – in a good way.” They were warmly welcomed and well looked after throughout, with one waiter even giving Nadya a (slightly optimistic) chopstick tutorial. Every dish was served in good time, and they both felt the pricing was spot on for the quality of the food.
Final Thoughts
“This is our second visit to Ivy Asia and we will definitely be returning with family and friends,” Richard said. “There’s so much more to try, and the menu is updated regularly. Five stars from us.”
Ivy Asia Cardiff
69 – 70 St David’s, Cardiff CF10 1GA
029 2267 9999
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