This place is expensive. Good thing I went there for a business lunch! It was packed and cramped. I had the seafood soup and carne asada tacos. The tacos were disappointing. But, the seafood soup was delicious! Nikki Hilton sat at the table next to us. I guess that’s why it’s so damn expensive.

i used to come here for lunch with my mother and my aunts when i was little.. before the celebs and papz took over. it used to be okay – now its not. overpriced. tasteless food. crowded. .. do you really want to eat somewhere where you are constantly being watched?

The food is alright if you’re used to TGI Fridays. That’s all well and good but don’t charge me four star prices for two star food! The service is terrible. We sat in the patio next to Melanie Griffith. Big deal.

The Ivy Restaurant is a well known eatery in the heart of Los Angelos. Everyone knows that it is THE spot to see Celebrities. It is a warm looking restaurant with the famous white-picket fence with ivies growing on the outside. Celebrities would usually sit outside on the patio, table 41, while paparazzi snap away. If you sit there, the paparazzi would probably wonder if you are a celebrity. It is located on a trendy street where you will find Kitson/Kitson Kids (another celebrity hangout).

Prior to visiting my cousin-in-law, I asked her to choose a restaurant where I will see Celebrities. Being in the movie industry, she was able to make reservations in less than a week, which was a bonus!

The service was excellent and we were seated right away. Our table was in the corner of the room. The lights were dimmed with a tealight on the table…very romantic! It had a homely feeling to the restaurant. Great place for a date, but I wouldn’t recommend babies or toddlers. We were getting stares from other tables and of course there were whispers. They probably thought we were celebrities. Unfortunately, it was so dark that I couldn’t see any celebrities. I’m sure if there were, paparazzi would be outside.

We did not have any appetizers, but we did have an entree and dessert (of course). Surprisingly, the food was good! The selection of dessert is all home-made, much to my liking! Our server recommended that I try the apple pie, and it was a good choice. The apples was sweet and it just melted in my mouth. The seafood linguini had fresh seafood and the pasta was not too hard and not too soft.

Price: 1 thumb up (it could be pricey)

Quality: 2 thumbs up

Location: 1 thumb up (trendy area, but parking is not so great, unless you get valet)

Service: 2 thumbs up

The Ivy has a regular American menu, but with its’ own style and presentation. If we ordered wine and a 3-course meal, this could leave you at about $100 per person down the hole. I thought it was well worth it.

PS: Reservations is a must! Give it at least 1-2 months ahead for dinner seating. Lunch/Brunch is usually not so busy.