GLASGOW is about to get the mother of all celebrity hangouts as it is revealed world-famous London restaurant The Ivy is to open in the city.
Boasting a reservation list of international superstars among its customers, Glasgow will be home to a branch of the famous restaurant.
The original restaurant in Covent Garden, which opened a century ago, was the haunt of household names like Laurence Olivier, Vivien Leigh, Marlene Dietrich, John Gielgud and Noel Coward.
More recent diners include Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, Angelina Jolie, Madonna and David and Victoria Beckham.
The Ivy is a name synonymous with the world of glitz and glamour and although not part of the same group, an Ivy also operates out of Los Angeles.
Plans have now been lodged with the city council to convert the Buchanan Street building currently occupied by the Nationwide Building Society into a branch of the famous brasserie creating 150 new jobs.
The building society will move to new premises in nearby Argyle Street.
A report to city planners says: “We have paid special attention to design quality, local character and selection of materials to create an exceptionally high quality Ivy brasserie in line with the reputation of the Troia brand.”
The ground floor of the category B listed building will accommodate a bar and restaurant with a second restaurant on the first floor.
Any details of architectural merit, including decorative cornices and metalwork which are discovered when removing the existing shop fittings will be retained and repaired.
The report says: “The design of the interior will be of the highest standards, creating a sophisticated, timeless setting and a premier destination.
“A mix of fixed and freestanding bespoke furniture will provide a variety of styles and ambience unique to the brasserie.
“These include lighting, furniture and spectacular artwork, specially commissioned for the brasserie.
“The public toilets will have Carrera marble clad walls, bespoke timber pannelled and marble vanity units and heritage style fittings.”
Graeme Laing, planning director with city based commercial property consultancy Lambert Smith Hampton, said: “The Ivy is coming to Glasgow. The Ivy is an iconic brand and this is part of their expansion plan coming out of London.
“Glasgow is a key target location and it is their aspiration to bring something not presently in the city. The building will have a really high quality fit-out.”
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