Since it first opened over two years ago The Ivy Asia has established itself as the city’s most opulent and stylishly elegant restaurants.

From the moment you pass through the heavy wood polished doors into the ground floor reception the décor can only be described as ‘amazing’

The wonderfully designed reception area takes you into a world of lavish opulence with its wall coverings, décor and furnishings. But more than anything else its the warm, friendly and welcoming receptionist who has the gift of making you feel truly special.

I loved the fact that the reception area was spacious and had seating, including a very comfortable chaise longue – a welcome addition where you can sit and wait for a member of your party or whilst your other half is parking the car!

Taking the lift after a long day spent mostly on my feet was an experience in itself and one that I wanted my partner to share. When the lift doors opened they revealed the mystical oriental splendour and amazing ambience Ivy Asia possesses.

The décor is striking and decadent. Murals adorn the walls with their art inspired wallpaper. There is a sculptured ceiling, tasteful golden statues, mood matched lighting and the piece de resistance is the green gem stone floor that is lit from beneath that makes the place even more impressive.

Expertly designed the seating is such that wherever you sit you are guaranteed privacy. There are tables for two or four plus velvet upholstered banquette seating in recess positions filled with matched cushions.

Sparkling crystal glasses sit next to gleaming cutlery and designer napkin rings and chopstick holders add to the palatial feel.

Our server introduced himself and gave us time to peruse the menu and make our choices. He offered advice when we asked questions and never rushed us. It was obvious he was there for us and to ensure we had a memorable experience.

We selected our starter from the small plates selection. I chose Yasai Tempura – crispy fried asparagus, sweet potato, shitake & enoki mushrooms that came with a citrus soy dressing. The vegetables were coated in a light, crispy batter and the citrus dressing was a perfect match.

This was a Vegan dish and as I am not a lover of all things spicey was perfect for me. If you are like me and don’t enjoy hot spicey food the menu has a code at the side of each dish showing a red dot for dishes that fall into that category.

My partner opted for the Sweet & Sour King Prawns. The  unique presentation of this dish was amazing as was its taste combination. There was a good portion of prawns and the batter was hot and crispy. They were garnished with toasted sesame, sweet peppers and spring onion and served with a sambal chilli.

Our mains were chosen from the large plates section. A fish lover I was very tempted by the Salmon Teriyaki and I was not disappointed. The pan-fried salmon fillet was thick and succulent and the Teriyaki sauce smooth and tangy with the right taste balance of sweet and sour. The accompaniment of pickled  radish and lime made the dish even more perfect.

My partner opted for the Thai Green Chicken Curry. The dish had aubergine, bamboo shoots, lychee coconut, coriander and was served with Jasmine rice. My partner, who travels the world in his job, declared this curry was more than everything it should be and exactly in keeping with its title.

We shared sides with him extolling the virtues of the wok fried greens with ginger and chilli whilst I indulged myself with the Cucumber, Peanut and Coriander Salad which looked as good as it tasted.

A dessert is a must when dining at Ivy Asia. My partner is not a dessert person but even he was ecstatic and is still talking about his choice of The Green Lantern a new take on white chocolate and honeycomb cheesecake. Elegantly served it has  raspberry pearls and mango sauce and contains all manner of hidden surprises that will certainly tickle the tastebuds.

I chose Sphere which had so much more than my usual heaven on a plate desserts. It was rather theatrical. The centre piece was a white chocolate sphere containing vanilla ice-cream which undertook a magic transformation when my server poured over a hot sauce. Chocolate Popping Candy and a tangy Yuzu Caramel added a sensational twist to the dessert.

The Ivy Asia is the perfect place for making memories and ideal for any occasion from lunch, afternoon tea (do try their special one) or dinner. It’s a palatial place to enjoy a feast in a really special atmosphere.

The Ivy Asia, 55 Vicar Lane, Leeds LS1 6BA

Open: Sun/Mon/Tues/Wed/Thurs/ – 11.30 – 10.45 Fri & Sat11.30 – 1.00am

Tel: 0113 531 7990  web: theivyasia.com