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Millie Deere checks out Oktoberfest feast and Ooompah fun which will welcome you (and your hearty appetites) in Kings Cross until 30th October
Originating in 1810 in Munich, in celebration of the union of (yet to be appointed) King Louis I to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen, Oktoberfest has developed over the decades to become one of the largest fairs in the world and a wider celebration of Bavarian culture.
Central London’s Oktoberfest celebrations are in full swing until October 31st at the German Gymnasium, a venue which has a notable history of its own. Its 57-foot-high timber-trussed roof has watched over King’s Cross station for over 150 years, as the Grade II-listed Gym was used in the first British Olympic Games in 1866. As well as dining in the restaurant, cocktails can be sipped at the Meister Bar. Upon entrance, guests are greeted by the glows of orange dahlias spilling out of the branches of the Gymnasium’s apple tree centrepiece.
Celebrations extend from the Grand Café to the terrace, where the pluckier guests can choose to enjoy the buzz of the Warsteiners and König Ludwigs in sturdy two-pint Maßkrug. Light, hoppy, and straight from the tap, their golden tint stands bold against the red gingham tablecloths.
A head chef who boasts an impressive career from Berlin to London, Alex Thiel’s Oktoberfest Spezialitätmenu is available daily from 11:30 am and leaves little room for improvement. The braised beef Rinderroulade and Obazda, a tangy German cheese on Rye, were the standout contenders, followed by a warm slice of Strudel rich with autumn apples and spice. The goodies are served by staff in brilliant Dirndls of pinks and red, fit with aprons and frilled sleeves, and Lederhosen with Trachtenhüte.
The jovial melodies by the Oompah band ensured all senses were well catered for. The brass/wind quartet performed in full get-up, which offers pertinent inspiration: The Gymnasium promise anyone dressed in “Bavarian attire” a free stein of bier on the haus. Now that’s an offer that can’t be refused.
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