From Britpop anthems and packed club nights to Liverpool’s enduring influence on British music and culture, the spirit of the 1990s remains alive across the city. Now, diners can relive that iconic era as The Ivy Collection launches its new Cool Britannia Menu, celebrating 30 years since a cultural movement that helped define modern Britain.
Available from 2 September until 6 October, the limited-edition menu pays tribute to the flavours, creativity and confidence of the decade, while recognising The Ivy’s own place at the heart of the Cool Britannia phenomenon.
Long regarded as one of London’s most famous restaurants, The Ivy became a favourite haunt for many of the musicians, actors, artists and cultural figures who helped shape the era. While Britpop bands dominated the charts and British creativity captured global attention, The Ivy was at the centre of the celebrations.
Now guests visiting The Ivy Liverpool can enjoy a taste of that nostalgia with a specially curated menu available Monday to Friday from 11.30am to 6.30pm and Sundays from 11am to 6.30pm. In a nod to 1996, the year widely regarded as the peak of Cool Britannia, diners can enjoy two courses for just £19.96, with the option to add a dessert for £8.95.
Designed to combine classic British comfort food with the adventurous flavours that emerged during the decade, the menu begins with starters including Glazed Onion Soup with gratinated cheese croutons and parsley, Gratinated Halloumi with fire-roasted pepper purée and vine tomatoes, and Kiln-roast Salmon Rillette served with dark rye bread, crushed avocado and basil pesto.
One of the standout dishes is the Grilled Robata Chicken Skewers with Bang Bang peanut sauce, sesame, coconut, lime and coriander. Inspired by The Ivy’s legendary Bang Bang Chicken, the dish pays homage to a 1990s favourite that became so popular guests famously campaigned for its return after it disappeared from the menu.
Mains include a nostalgic 90’s Coconut Curry with sweet potato, spinach and aromatic rice, Salmon Linguine in a smoked salmon cream sauce, and Chicken Supreme with smoked pancetta, chestnut mushrooms and a rich red wine and port sauce. Guests can also upgrade to a Minute Steak with peppercorn sauce, thick-cut chips and watercress for an additional £4.95.
Desserts continue the celebration of classic restaurant favourites that were staples of the decade. Options include Sticky Toffee Pudding with salted caramel sauce and clotted cream, Best of British Mature Cheddar served with crackers and apple, Mango Vanilla Sponge with rum-soaked sponge and Chantilly cream, and the indulgent Platinum Sundae featuring hazelnut and dark chocolate, bourbon vanilla ice cream, crushed hazelnuts and meringue.
To complete the throwback experience, The Ivy Collection has partnered with Cointreau to create two cocktails inspired by the music and cultural icons that helped define the era. The Champagne Supernova (£12.50) blends Cointreau, cherry and lemon topped with Champagne, while the Spice Girls (£13.50) combines Cointreau Spicy, The Botanist gin, rhubarb, hot honey and cranberry.
Mark Askew, Group Executive Chef at The Ivy Collection, said: “Cool Britannia was a defining moment for British culture, and The Ivy has always been woven into that story. This menu celebrates the era through a collection of dishes that feel both nostalgic and timeless, including modern interpretations of genuine Ivy favourites from the period.”
Whether you’re reminiscing about the soundtrack of the 90s, planning a lunch in the city centre or simply looking for an excuse to enjoy some classic British dishes, The Ivy Liverpool’s Cool Britannia Menu offers a stylish trip back to one of Britain’s most memorable decades.
The Cool Britannia Menu will be available from 2 September to 6 October at participating Ivy Collection restaurants, including The Ivy Liverpool.
Guests are invited to book a table here.