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Kipferl Restaurant & PatisserieB+Worth Trying

Name: Kipferl Restaurant & Patisserie
Address: 20 Camden Passage, London N1 8ED, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.4

20 Camden Passage, London N1 8ED · Austrian restaurant, Breakfast restaurant, Cafe · 4.4/5 Google (1656 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Austrian comfort food and cakes in a cozy Islington spot—delicious, authentic, but expect premium prices and occasional service hiccups.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Kipferl Restaurant & Patisserie delivers authentic Austrian comfort food with genuine flavor, particularly in its celebrated schnitzel and cakes, supported by warm, attentive service and a charming central location. However, inconsistent execution across dishes and cramped physical space prevent it from reaching higher territory. The experience is solid and worthwhile for those seeking authentic Austrian dining, though pricing sits high for a café-style venue.

Restaurant Summary

Kipferl Restaurant & Patisserie brings a slice of Austria to the heart of Islington, offering authentic comfort food and a tempting array of cakes in a cozy, relaxed setting. The Wiener Schnitzel and Sachertorte are the stars of the show, with many regulars and expats praising the flavors as a nostalgic trip back to Vienna. Service is generally warm and attentive, with staff like Zoltan and Sarah earning special mention for their hospitality. The ambiance is informal and inviting, perfect for a casual brunch, family meal, or a sweet treat after exploring Camden Passage. The culinary approach here is traditional Austrian, focusing on classic dishes like schnitzel, goulash, and Käsespätzle, with a few modern touches such as vegan schnitzel and gluten-free options. This is a haven for those craving hearty, familiar flavors and generous portions, though some diners have found the food inconsistent—especially when it comes to cakes and certain mains. Prices are on the higher side for a café-style venue, but the quality of ingredients and central location justify the expense for most guests. For families with kids, the experience is mixed. While the menu includes approachable options like schnitzel, French toast, and cheese dumplings, several reviews mention challenges with pram space and a lack of flexibility for young children. The current menu offers both vegetarian and vegan mains, but picky eaters or those needing extra accommodation may find choices limited. If you're bringing little ones, aim for off-peak hours and be prepared for a bustling, sometimes cramped environment.

At a Glance

Authentic Austrian comfort food and cakes in a cozy, welcoming setting.
Friendly, attentive staff with strong regular customer base.
Prices are high for a café-style venue; expect £28+ per person for a full meal.
Occasional inconsistency in food quality, especially cakes and schnitzel.
Limited space for prams and mixed experiences for families with young children.

What Sets It Apart

authentic_austrian_cuisine
extensive_cake_selection
central_islington_location

What People Love

The authentic taste of the Wiener Schnitzel and goulash
Decadent cakes and pastries, especially the Sachertorte
Warm, welcoming service from staff like Zoltan and Sarah
Atmosphere that transports you to Vienna
Central location perfect for pre- or post-theatre meals

Points of Concern

Pricing is genuinely expensive (£17.50+ mains, £6.50+ cakes) which may surprise casual diners.
Some diners report inconsistent food quality, especially dryness in cakes and schnitzel.
Mixed experiences for families with young children—space for prams is limited and staff flexibility varies.
Service can be slow or inattentive during busy periods; problem resolution is not always proactive.

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£28-36 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Try the Vegan Schnitzel or Red Pepper Braised Lentils for plant-based options.
Order the Garden Salad for a lighter meal or as a gluten-free choice.
Pair your meal with an Austrian wine or beer for the full experience.

Perfect For

Craving a nostalgic taste of Austria in London
Celebrating special occasions with friends or family
Enjoying a leisurely brunch or afternoon coffee and cake
Impressing out-of-town guests with authentic European fare

Location Insights

Area: Trendy, lively, and cosmopolitan area popular with young professionals, families, and foodies; relaxed yet stylish vibe.

Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy with high foot traffic, especially evenings and weekends.

Nearby: Located near Camden Passage, close to boutique shops, cafes, and the Almeida Theatre; surrounded by other restaurants and bars.

AngelA trendy and sophisticated neighborhood with a mix of boutique shops, independent restaurants, and a thriving cafe culture. Camden Passage is particularly known for its antique markets, vintage shops, and charming pedestrian-friendly atmosphere.

Camden PassageA picturesque pedestrian street with a distinctive vintage and artisanal character, featuring independent boutiques, antique stores, and high-end dining establishments.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday10:00–22:00 Tuesday10:00–22:00 Wednesday10:00–22:00 Thursday10:00–22:00 Friday10:00–23:00 Saturday10:00–23:00 Sunday10:00–19:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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