
Tucked away in a pothole-ridden Shahpur Jat lane, Ivy & Bean takes inspiration from the namesake children’s books by Annie Barrows. It pitches for chic and halcyon comfort which will appeal alike to adults, children and adults pretending to be children. The interior dining room is appointed with floral upholstery, mason jars and birdcages while the large open-air balcony showcases a bookshelf flanked by faux-hedges. The jovial spirit carries onto the service, which is personable but slightly casual with table service. The menu takes inspiration from Australian dining, focusing on easy-going plates rendered with attention. My glasses of 'Dutch Drip Cold Coffee' and 'Dark Chocolate Shake' were grounded and balanced. A plate of 'Bacon and Tomato Pancakes' was large enough to frisbee around, and too much fun to stop eating. Smoked Bacon and tomato slices ‘pancaked’ together with mozzarella till crisp, then topped with a peppery Mornay, wilted lettuce, parmesan and a poached egg. The 'Rosemary and Lamb Burger' was constructed on the well-seasoned patty, seared till juicy, set between soft buns, mozzarella and a fried egg. The accompanying 'French Fries' were fluffy and crisp, but the burger never fit my mouth. For dessert, I chose light and buttery 'Waffles', browned at the edges. They came topped with ice cream, watermelon spheres, sliced apples and bananas, pomegranate pearls and micro greens. Simple and fussy at the same time.