Name: German Gymnasium
Item: German Gymnasium
Author: Fiona Jarvis

We’ve been to the German Gymnasium, the new restaurant from D&D London, a number of times and it’s always been a treat. Not just for the introduction to Mittel-European (German) cooking but for the ease of access. It was originally the first purpose-built gymnasium in England, built in 1864, for the German Gymnastics Society. It hosted the indoor events for London’s first Olympic Games in 1866 and became a Grade II Listed building in 1976.

The style of the place is most certainly ‘grand’, without being stuffy and truly resembles the Grand Cafe’s of Europe. It’s a feast for the eyes not least for the taupe/pink leather seating and the amazing central flower displays – spectacular!

German’s at the Original Gymnasium

Spectacular Feast for the Eyes & Stomach in The Totally Accessible Grand Cafe

Initial reviews of the food were ambivalent but we’ve always had a good meal/time.The curry sausages and schnitzels are lovely as are the wine recommendations from the sommelier. The Grand Cafe is not too expensive with starters at £8.50- £12.50 and mains at £16.50 – £29 (for a 42 day aged steak) and the portions are hearty. The staff are very helpful but can be over-worked busy times. However, each time we’ve been we’ve had a good time with, most importantly, no access hiccups or embarrassment.

Outside Seating & Drop Off is Totally Flat & Smooth

Two Staircases to Restaurant & Meister Bar With a Lift to The Side

So why is it so easy to access in a Listed Building no less?? First of all the entrance is entirely flat and there’s always someone on the door to help. It’s between king’s Cross and St. Pancras so it’s easy to get there and there’s space for a taxi/car drop off. The pavement outside and the terrace area with additional seating (& heaters), is totally flat. The space between tables is more than adequate for a wheelchair and the internal flooring is smooth. Natural light makes everything easy to see and the acoustics are good even at the busiest of times. A lift takes you to the first floor restaurant and bar so nowhere is ‘out of bounds’. However, the best area is the Grand Cafe on the ground floor, this is where you can find one of the best disabled toilets in Europe (ex.hoist)!

German Gymnasium is Home to One of The Best Disabled Toilets in Europe – Functional & Attractive – A Pleasure to Visit! (We’ll Excuse The Cord Tie Up).

It has all the correct facilities and is far removed from the normal plain white clinical disabled loos. The interesting wallpaper follows the theme of a German Gym and there’s soft piped music – it’s no different from the ‘able’ toilets.

As a result The German Gymnasium has to get 3 BBS Ticks, it’s my new favourite.

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German Gymnasium

German Gymnasium

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