Why Christmas at The Ivy Asia Feels Like a Gift You Give Yourself – There are places that feel magical the moment you step inside—and at this time of year, when life becomes a joyful whirlwind of family gatherings, catch-ups and celebrations, I find myself drawn to spaces that truly embrace the season. The Ivy Asia is one of those places. The décor, the atmosphere, the food… it ticks every one of my boxes, and then some.
Christmas is often talked about as the most wonderful time of the year, but let’s be honest: it can also be the most exhausting. Planning, cooking, washing up—it sometimes feels like the season rushes past before we’ve even had a chance to enjoy it. That’s why I’ve grown to love the idea of meeting loved ones somewhere special, somewhere where the sparkle is already taken care of. And this year, The Ivy Asia is embracing the magic in the most dazzling way.
A Festive Transformation That Feels Like Stepping into a Dream
Each restaurant location is being transformed into a shimmering world of silver, light and seasonal imagination. Think theatrical decorations, twinkling details, and a glow that instantly lifts your spirits. It’s the sort of space that makes you stop for a moment—just to take it all in.
Pair that with vibrant music, warm hospitality and that signature Ivy Asia drama, and you have an atmosphere that wraps itself around you like a festive hug. Whether you’re meeting friends, gathering with family, or celebrating with colleagues, it’s a space designed to make everyone feel special.
Flavours Made for Feasting
What I love most at Christmas is the sense of festivity and indulgence dishes that feel celebratory, crafted, and full of personality.
This year’s festive specials include luxurious touches like Wagyu Beef Tataki with black winter truffle, fiery Kung Pao Monkfish with chilli and toasted cashews, and a beautifully fragrant Lobster Rendang served with jasmine rice. Each dish feels thoughtfully layered, bringing warmth and brightness to winter evenings.
And then there’s the Festive Origami dessert—a dark chocolate mousse paired with clementine sorbet. It’s delicate, rich and uplifting all at once, the kind of dessert that marks the end of a truly memorable meal.
Festive Menus for Sharing and Celebrating
If you’re planning a bigger gathering, The Ivy Asia’s festive sharing menus make life effortless—no frantic hosting, no timing multiple dishes, no pile of pans waiting at home.
The Festive Experience (£65pp) and the Festive Premium Experience (£85pp) both offer a generous mix of signature favourites: crispy wontons, yellowtail maki, prawn tempura, and the iconic Black Cod. The premium menu adds even more indulgence—yellowtail sashimi, king prawns with Szechuan heat, and melt-in-the-mouth Robatayaki Wagyu Beef.
Both menus end with the Festive Dragon dessert, a joyful medley of soft-serve ice cream, spiced doughnuts and yuzu custard. It arrives like a celebration in itself.
Afternoon Tea, Reimagined With Asian Flair
For something a little different, the Festive Afternoon Tea (£33.95pp) is a delight. Savoury favourites like duck spring rolls, prawn dumplings and steamed bao buns are paired with sweet treats such as pandan choux buns and a dark chocolate mousse reindeer.
It’s playful, elegant and perfect for a long, lazy catch-up. You can even add Champagne if you’re in the mood for extra sparkle.
Cocktails That Feel Like a Celebration in a Glass
Personally, cocktails are a must and quite simply, theatrical. Created with Pernod Ricard, every drink has its own little story.
There’s the Pineapple Royale with Champagne and rum, the Origami Orchard Sour with fig leaf and miso sugar, and the Silver Swan Paloma with tequila and pink grapefruit. And for those who gravitate toward the classics, the Moonlight Espresso Martini and Citrus White Lady offer sophistication with a festive twist.
A Thoughtful Gift for Someone You Love (Including Yourself)
If you’re looking for a thoughtful present gift cards are a lovely way to treat someone to an experience rather than another item to unwrap. They start at £25, with a special limited-edition £100 sparkling gift card that includes a complimentary bottle of Ivy Asia Cuvée delivered to the recipient’s door.
It’s a gesture that says: Take a night off. Enjoy something beautiful. Celebrate yourself.
A Season to Savour, Not to Stress
More than anything, Christmas reminds me that we deserve to enjoy this time of year—not spend it rushing around a kitchen or worrying whether everything is “just right.” Sometimes the best gift is letting someone else take care of the cooking, the decorating, the ambience… and simply being present with the people who matter.
This festive season feels like the perfect moment to slow down, gather together, and step into a little magic—and The Ivy Asia offers exactly that.
Festive Menus are available between 11th November – 31st December.
Poppy Watt