Goodbody’s was a name famous on Teesside for their signature sandwiches and coffee, but since the closure of the much-loved venue seven years ago, the building has stood empty. Now Middlesbrough couple, Lindsey Stephenson and Amy Cowans have transformed the former Albert Road café into a luxe new cocktail bar and restaurant, TigerIvy.
Featuring Instagrammable décor, themed bottomless brunches and dramatic cocktails, the eatery has taken inspiration from what’s on offer in neighbouring cities.
Lindsey said: “We’ve been in the hospitality trade for a number of years and already have two established bars in Darlington. We’re both originally from Middlesbrough and have wanted to open a venue in our hometown for a long time.
“We looked for a good while and came across the former Goodbody’s unit which we thought was perfectly located within the town centre. It’s close to the railway station, the Town Hall and Turtle Bay, which is always a popular nightspot and we wanted to be part of it.
“We also wanted to stand out with an unique name and that’s where TigerIvy was born, it doesn’t have any deep meaning, we just wanted a word that fitted in with our floral theme.”
Talking of décor, the bistro is filled with stylish plush furniture, cosy booths and a flower wall. All fittings at the eatery have been supplied by local companies from across the Tees Valley.
“We started out with an empty shell and have been putting in all of the hours to transform the restaurant and bring our vision to life.
“Friends and family have really helped us out and although it’s taken longer that we originally thought, we’re glad to get it all finished in time for the festive season.” mentions, Lindsey.
TigerIvy features Instagrammable décor
Opening daily from 11am, TigerIvy’s menu serves up everything from breakfast to mouth-watering small plates and sharing boards to pre-match pizza and options for children. They’re also focusing on offering premium coffee, cocktails and spirits.
Plans for special events are already in motion, as the pair look ahead to hosting ABBA-themed brunches and Ibiza classic nights featuring a live DJ.
They have also introduced a bottomless parmo night, where diners can tuck into unlimited plates of the Teesside classic dish and a special New Year’s Eve brunch menu is planned to ring in 2024 in style!
Lindsey said: “We want people to stay in Middlesbrough, we don’t want locals to feel as if they have to catch the train to either York or Newcastle to enjoy a good night out. There is plenty on offer on our doorstep and we hope that TigerIvy can contribute to a thriving night time economy.”
TigerIvy’s menu features popular brunch dishes including eggs benedict.
Whilst the focus for the meantime is to establish the business, both Lindsey and Amy are ambitious about what the future might hold and have already received glowing reviews from customers.
“We have had lots of positive feedback from the public and all we can do is to encourage everyone to pop down and try our range of delicious food and amazing cocktails for themselves.” said Lindsey.
TigerIvy welcomes walk-ins or you can pre-book your table by visiting their website. Discover Middlesbrough’s fantastic range of restaurants by visiting our Food and Drink Guide.
