St Andrew Square’s food and drink scene has flourishing in 2017 with the opening of a number of new premium dining options for Edinburgh. The latest restaurant to take up residence on the square is London’s famous Ivy Collection which will be opening in September this year. In anticipation to the opening we catch up with GM of The Ivy on the Square Eric Garnier.
There is a lot of buzz and anticipation with regards to the opening of The Ivy on the Square. How do you feel about being part of such an exciting project?
Scottish hospitality is very apparent here and with The Ivy on the Square offering the ideal environment, an affordable all-day menu with friendly service, we know we are part of something special.
In your opinion, what are the key qualities that make for a truly enjoyable dining experience? And, conversely, what totally ruins it for you?
Effortless and knowledgeable service with style and speed, a great choice of local produce in signature dishes that people come back for, in a stylish restaurant that has just enough sophistication without being intimidating. Conversely, bad service will ruin a meal out, but that is down to bad management.
The restaurant will offer a relaxed yet sophisticated setting for guests and offer all-day dining. How do you achieve that and successfully move from daytime to evening dining?
That is down to the size and efficiency of a good team. Yes, we’ll be open all day, but we will ensure that the transition from day to night is seamless, due to well-trained, well-guided staff. My personal approach with the team will be to put the focus on our customers and their dining experience.
Will the restaurant be a copy of The Ivy in London or is it being tailored to the Edinburgh market?
Being part of The Ivy Collection will bring an identity and success with it, but paying attention to our Scottish environment and the uniqueness of Edinburgh’s history will be very important.
The menu will include a selection of The Ivy Collection classics, which is your favourite dish and why?
My favourite is the Shepherd’s Pie – minced lamb and beef, chopped by hand, with a rich gravy. Why? It’s simple, but absolutely delicious; it’s the kind of dish where you only use your fork.
The food and drink scene in Edinburgh is thriving with lots of new bars and restaurants opening around the city. What advice (aside from visit The Ivy on the Square!) would you give to a Foodie trying to explore the city?
The restaurant culture here offers a wide selection of cosy venues with smaller destination restaurants. Aim for those that offer good quality food and service at an affordable price.
More details theivyedinburgh.com
