There’s a sweet story behind Ivy and Jack. The spot used to be home to the old Town Cinema, and the restaurant’s name is a callback to the very first movie shown there – 1968 Sidney Poitier romcom For Love of Ivy. The film takes pride of place up in lights, and there are nods to Ivy and Jack’s tale throughout the eatery’s menu.
The venue is industrial chic with warm touches: pipes and subway tiles meet timber, shiny copper panels, retro orange chairs and cosy booths. Greenery surrounds the entrance, and streetside tables afford people-watching along Hay Street.
Ivy and Jack is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and Western Australian produce is front and centre. From the dinner menu, grilled northwest barramundi accompanied by a grapefruit and fennel salsa is a standout. Roasted lamb back strap is tender and plentiful, topped with a dusting of cumin and toasted pine nuts. Saffron arancini balls are crisp and moreish with roasted pepper aioli.
Wines focus on Swan Valley and Margaret River drops while the cocktail menu has undergone a recent makeover. Jack’s Love is a smooth gin number featuring Lillet, lemon, bitters and rosemary syrup – the syrup gives the cocktail a deliciously smoky scent, with a sprig of the herb draped over the glass.
Dessert is a tough choice between vanilla brûlée, chocolate tart and mixed berry Eton mess. The latter is dished up beautifully in glass – each delicate layer contrasts with the next, from crunchy caramelised meringue pieces, to smooth vanilla cream and blueberry compôte. It’s finished with a smattering of juicy fresh berries on top.
Ivy and Jack’s doors are open every day of the year – stop by for local fare with a twist, and a dash of hidden Perth history.