Klosterhaus translates from German into ‘monastery house’. It’s an apt name after the buildings former residents. The luxury restaurant, which specialises in Central European cuisine, has been developed within the landmark 18th century grade 1 listed Quakers Friars building and is a short walk from Cabot Circus.
The food on the menu will pay homage to the classic dining scene of grand cafes in mittel-European countries. Think schnitzels, various flavoured sausages, as well as sides of spätzle (a type of egg pasta) and sauerkraut. The menu was developed by executive head chef Bjoern Wassmuth (from London’s German Gymnasium restaurant) and head chef Rhys Grayson. Plus, Klosterhaus aims to use local ingredients and will be using suppliers from the south-west of England, such as sourdough bread from Coombeshead Farm Bakery and fish from Wing of St. Mawes.
Klosterhaus will be serving brunch, lunch and dinner, and also has set lunch and dinner menus available. Dishes will include soused herring with herring caviar, sweet mustard, potato and apple salad; authentic German chicken and veal schnitzels accompanied with glorious sauces; and slow roast duck with potato dumplings and braised red cabbage. Room for dessert? Klosterhaus will be serving Central European favourites like their decadent Sachertorte and warm apple strudel served with vanilla ice cream. And of course the best chocolate, cherry and Kirsch filled dessert that is the Black Forest gâteau. With those desserts available, you’ll definitely want to make room.
As for the drinks, the wines will be mainly European and the bar will be serving some killer cocktails. Try their Mighty Dragon which is a mix of Bulleit Bourbon whisky, honey and chamomile syrup, fresh lemon and egg white. For a fruity drink, order the Kloster Daisy which consists of tequila, Cointreau, fresh lime, orange marmalade and homemade passion fruit syrup. There are plenty more on the list that taste like your favourite Central European desserts such as apple strudel, as well as a range of German beer on draft and bottled, plus local Bristol beers and ciders too. And according to Klosterhaus, in true German style, they have an array of beers from the legendary 229 year old German brewery Rothaus located at an altitude of 1,000m deep in the Black Forest, which can be enjoyed by the glass, mug or stein.
The restaurant, bar and outdoor terraces is open all day. The restaurant is spread over two floors connected by a central staircase and an island bar which will be the centrepiece of the ground floor. The interior is impressive and is influenced by the both the cities of Bristol and Hanover. The restaurant is incredibly spacious and has a mix of earthy tones based on Bristol’s industrial history and also showcases rich colours like the velvet red bar stools. This is definitely the place for some impressive shots for Instagram, that’s for sure! Klosterhaus will also have a number of event spaces for business meetings and social events. During warmer climates, the outdoor terrace is the perfect spot for people-watching over the square.
So if you fancy some comforting food and delicious cocktails in a pretty spectacular setting, then get booking. We can think of wurst things. Book your table here.