Lusmanns returns to the capital after 20-year hiatus

More than 20 years since first opening in north Kensington and after a two-decade absence from London, Lussmanns is set to return to the capital next month.

Situated on Highgate High Street, directly opposite the entrance to Waterlow Park, the 130-cover restaurant brings the same signature style for which Lussmanns is known, along with several new features.

The group has existing branches in St Albans, Hitchin, Harpenden, Berkhamsted and Hertford, with the new Highgate outpost soon to join the estate. Lussmanns already has plans to launch a seventh restaurant in Woburn in October, having secured a Grade II-listed building previously occupied by Loch Fyne. 

In Highgate, sliding glass doors will lead guests through the early 1930s building, where a café-style space will offer space for guests to enjoy a coffee, spritz or main menu dish. Here, customers will eventually be able to order sandwiches, salads and drinks to go. 

A new bar will serve beer from Hertfordshire's Mad Squirrel brewery, as well as Lussmanns' Garden Gin, made with herbs from the group's own garden. The bar leads into the main restaurant, beyond which lies a 30-seater walled garden. 

Founder and managing director, Andrei Lussmann, and his team will bring their concept to a site formerly occupied by Côte. The relaxed, ethical dining brand was the first small restaurant group outside of London to be certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) in 2014 and has scooped several awards for its efforts in sustainability. 

Dining at Lussmanns

In the main restaurant, customers can expect dishes like Label Anglais free-range chicken schnitzel; MSC fishcake with spinach, capers and butter sauce; and South Coast crab linguine, with brunch served at weekends. The menu will change eight times a year to showcase the best of the Great British larder. 

The Lussmanns Locals set menu will be available daily from 12pm–6.30pm, offering two courses for £20.95 and three for £23.95. 

Lussmann says of the upcoming launch: "Opening a restaurant in London feels like we're coming home, as that's where it all started for Lussmanns in north Kensington in 2002. We can't wait to open our doors in historic and beautiful Highgate village and welcome customers to come and enjoy the finest ingredients sourced from farmers, fishers and producers all practising the highest standards – and at affordable prices."

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