The Ivy: famous London restaurant that will open its doors in Belfast in September in Donegall Square North

Joining 39 other venues in The Ivy Restaurant portfolio, the Belfast location will open across two floors of the historic Cleaver House on Donegall Square North, in the heart of the city centre.

The company initially said around 70 jobs would be created at the new luxury restaurant.

But in an announcement today, The Ivy said the restaurant will create more than 100 jobs in the local hospitality sector and will be open seven days a week from breakfast to dinner.

Commenting on the latest addition, Laura Mills, Managing Director of The Ivy Collection, said: “Belfast has been on our radar for some time and we are absolutely thrilled to be opening in this vibrant city.

“The city is one of the must-visit cities in Europe, if not the world, and we are excited to be part of the emerging buzz and lively atmosphere it brings.

“We can’t wait for Belfast to experience the undeniable magic that The Ivy Collection is famous for, and we look forward to joining the city’s already incredible culinary offering.

“We are recruiting passionate and dedicated individuals to join our dynamic team. Please contact us at [email protected]”

The company is actively recruiting for a range of positions. These include bar manager, sous chef and waiter roles.

Construction of The Ivy in Belfast began in January this year and is set to be part of a total £8 million investment.

With the Cleaver House listed, much of its external and internal character remains.

The building was originally constructed in 1888, designed by architects Young & Mackenzie, and was a department store until 1984.

The Ivy opened in its original location on West Street in London over a century ago. It now operates over 30 restaurants across the UK, including cafes and brasseries. It opened its first location in Dublin in 2018.

The original Ivy celebrated its centenary in 2017 and remains arguably London’s most famous restaurant.

It was opened by Abel Giandolini as an Italian café in a building on the same site.

Some of those cited as fans of the restaurant include Laurence Olivier, Noel Coward, Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman and David and Victoria Beckham.