When it comes to restaurants in Windsor, few boast a more iconic location than The Ivy Royal Windsor Brasserie. Nestled directly opposite Windsor Castle, it offers not only a prime spot for people-watching but a front-row seat to the Changing of the Guard, best viewed at 11am if you can time your booking right.
Upon entering, the decor sets a tone of laid-back luxury. There’s an abundance of fresh greenery, pops of pink, red and green, and curated artwork inspired by the local area. Floral installations by Art Consultant Adam Ellis lend a distinctly British charm, complemented by marble flooring, sumptuous furnishings, and softly glowing pendant lighting. It’s classic Ivy elegance with a Windsor twist, including a bright red phone box in the entrance for that perfect Instagrammable moment.
The brasserie is known for delivering British classics with a European flair, and the Summer Seasonal Menu, available until 3rd September 2025, is no exception. Curated by The Ivy’s team of chefs, the menu blends fresh seasonal flavours with global influences – think crisp salads, bright seafood dishes, and decadent desserts with summery notes.
There’s no need to stop off at a cocktail bar before dining – the drinks list here is a destination in itself. The Ivy’s cocktail offering is vast, from Ivy twists on the classics to their seasonal “Touch of Rosé” menu, crafted for fans of Whispering Angel. Don’t miss the Peach and Leaf Whispering Angel (featuring fig leaf, peach cordial, cardamom, and soda water) or the Angel Margarita, a refreshing blend of Volcan Tequila, Aperol, lime juice, strawberry syrup, and, of course, Whispering Angel rosé. For something timeless, the Sunset Martini and White Lady of Windsor gin cocktail both deliver with style.
As for starters, the Heirloom Tomato and Watermelon Salad is a refreshing opener, paired with plant-based cream cheese, pistachios, olives, and finished with a punchy tomato dressing. The Duck Liver Parfait offers something richer, topped with caramelised hazelnuts and served with apricot and apple chutney on toasted brioche.
Mains continue the seasonal theme with standout salad options like the Gochujang Glazed Aubergine Salad, which comes with sesame, pickled radish, jalapeño, and a sticky rice and avocado dressing. Or try the Korean Glazed Grilled Chicken Salad, served with avocado, yuzu-pickled mooli, and a miso-ponzu dressing, both light but flavour-packed choices for a sunny afternoon.
Seafood lovers will appreciate the Pan-Roasted Fillet of Salmon, dressed in a pink peppercorn hollandaise and served alongside broccoli, lemon, and watercress – a classic dish elevated with just enough flair to keep it interesting.
With pistachio having a real moment this season, it felt only right to try the Raspberry and Pistachio Coupe – a standout dessert that perfectly captures the summer mood. Layered with raspberry sorbet, pistachio mousse, and a bright raspberry sauce, it strikes just the right balance of indulgent and refreshing to round off the meal beautifully.
Other dessert highlights include the Vanilla and White Chocolate Cheesecake with a tropical mango and passion fruit filling served alongside sorbet, and the Strawberry and Elderflower Trifle, layered with savoiardi biscuits, strawberries, and a delicate lavender and vanilla cream. Each is light, elegant, and undeniably seasonal.
With its unmatched setting, expertly crafted cocktails, and a summer menu full of colour, freshness, and finesse, The Ivy Royal Windsor Brasserie offers a dining experience worthy of its regal neighbour.
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The Ivy Royal Windsor Brasserie, 31 High St, Windsor SL4 1PQ
