German Gymnasium

Built in 1864 for the German Gymnastics Society, D&D London’s immaculate restoration of the German Gymnasium is a return to the mega-brasserie style of their 90s heyday, with brasserie-style food served on the ground floor (lunch, weekend brunch etc.) and a more refined menu available in the main restaurant. The vast ‘grand café’ space is a real spectacle with theatrical staircases linking the sprawling, marble-floored dining room to secluded tables tucked behind gleaming white architrave pillars upstairs. By contrast, the Mittel-European menu is more homely than awe-inspiring, although its stellar renditions of think-cut veal schnitzel, beef broth with calf’s liver dumplings, stroganoff with spätzle or crisp, gooey apple strudel are certainly no less memorable. Meat fiends will warm to Black Forest hams and ample wursts (including a curry version), while a ‘butcher’s plate’ loaded with steak, ox tongue, sausages and sauerkraut outshines the pedestrian rib-eye with crispy onions. Ambitious pricing is offset by lunchtime specials, and the German-led wine list is heaven for fans of Riesling and Spätburgunder. “Exceptionally friendly” suited staff match the stylish setting.

As the first ever purpose-built gymnasium in England, the German Gymnasium is steeped in history. Since its construction in 1865 for the German Gymnastics Society, the building has become home to a sophisticated restaurant, two bars and an outdoor terrace. Located in the heart of King's Cross, this venue is right at the heart of London's bustling epicentre. Spearheaded by executive chef Bjoern Wassmuth, the upstairs and more refined restaurant offers broad menus with Mittel-European classics.

Explore German cruising with a view of King’s Cross, starting with warming German options such as Bayrischer Wurstsalat (smoked pork sausage, gherkins, red onions, cheddar, chives and mustard dressing), Black Forest ham, goulash with beef onion, potato, peppers and sour cream, or herring “Hausfrauenart” with onion, apple and rye. Meatless starters are available, including burrata with squash and autumn leaves, vegan schnitzel or crushed avocado and crispy jalapeno balls.

Sausage connoisseurs can choose from four options, ranging from currywurst to Kasekrainer (smoked and grilled cheese pork sausage), each served with the ideal sides. Schnitzel, hot dogs and burgers are also available. Aside from this, mains include house fish and chips, tiger prawns in curry leaf and coconut milk or native breed grass-fed ribeye with bearnaise, peppercorn or red wine jus.

As one might expect from a German eatery, desserts are dangerously decadent. Guests can finish their meal indulgently with a Mont Blanc tart, warm apple strudel or Black Forest gateau, just to name a few. Those looking to save can enjoy a very reasonable two or three-course set menu. The drinks menu matches the food, with plenty of choices for all palates, alongside an excellent beer selection available in one or two pint portions. For any visitors who want to double down on a day of indulgence, cigars are also for sale. Regardless of the occasion, the German Gymnasium has what you need, right in the heart of London.