Gilden im Zims “Heimat kölscher Helden” in Köln

Simo, a great and attentive waiter

Fresh off the train and bowled over by the main cathedral, which God managed to strategically place just outside the Hauptbahnhof, I unglazed my eyes long enough to ask two workmen where to eat. You know, the guys in the blue and fluorescent yellow jumpsuits, who could be anything from plumbers to electrical workers, but surely have been eating in Cologne since they were weaned. I was sent to Gilden im Zims, and then I asked about a typical lunchtime meal. Only the younger fellow was speaking English, but the older gentleman nodded in agreement when I was suggested bratwurst with beer sauce, and here it is. This is the 1/4 kg version, for only four euros more you can have double the bratwurst. Hard to imagine. Yes, the bratwurst is marvelous. But the beer sauce is sublime. And the potatoes… the potatoes are sautéed in some kind of animal fat with little bits of pork mixed in, maybe some onions… they are a meal in themselves. To redeem myself, I returned the next day and had the vegan lentil stew, also pictured here :-) I’ve added a small section of the menu which features vegetarian and vegan options, there are more available.

We (my wife, dog and me) went for lunch on thursday the 4th of september. Food was great! A bit on the salty side, but the seasoning and roasting were spot on. I got the 250 gr bratwurst with potatoes and Kölnische sauce, which is a sort of gravy. Absolutely delicious. We got so much food, lunch ended up replacing diner. The waiter (I think I saw the name Daltier) was very friendly, very fast and punctual with serving drinks and food. He immediately brought a bowl of water for our dog. Germans in general are incredibly dog-friendly, but still, waiters who think of our girl without being asked get bonus points. Our dishes were €17 and €26, and my Kölnische beers were €2,20 per glass (0,2l) . Very reasonable prices. Would absolutely recommend.

Leckeres Essen, freundliches Personal, Preise Top

A truly great place to enjoy the evening. We were completely satisfied! The rump steak was cooked to perfection, and my savoy cabbage rolls were excellent in both flavor and texture. The mashed potatoes were too runny for my taste. But that's just my personal taste. Definitely worth a visit!

Drank Kölsch, had fun, and Lucas served us well. That's how it should be, and that's how it should stay!

Excellent service, down-to-earth food, good value for money.

Very good. Thanks Lucas for the great service 😌.

The food was plentiful and very well prepared. The cinnamon pan and knuckle of pork were absolutely fantastic. Our server was super friendly and always there when the Kölsch ran out. Definitely recommended! I'll be back next time I'm in Cologne.

The food was good. The service was super friendly. Unfortunately, it was very loud.

Great food and great atmosphere

The service was excellent, as well as the taste of the food. Especially Lucas was very friendly. And of course, Best Hakse!

Great service, delicious Kölsch beer. Marvin is the best waiter. We'll be back.

Many thanks to Marvin, it was a lovely evening.

Good food and nice service what more could you want

We had the opportunity to visit this restaurant and bar in Cologne , later in the evening. We decided to order traditional Weiner Schnitzel. We got good service from Marvin and the food was good quality and value. I would recommend this place.

Very tasty, everyone very friendly, food got quickly, staff very attentive.

Food was good, though not great. Even within the context of a brauhaus. That said, lots of vegetarian options, which is super.

For gourmands of all ages. Beautifully presented products, often at discounted prices. It looks like it'll be moving to the end of the year... take advantage of it.

Lucas was very nice and friendly, the food was great, I would definitely go back!

Superb, ambitious restaurant, top-notch food! Our server, Lucas, was very quick and super friendly! Very personable, Lucas! Keep up the good work! We'll be back. Best wishes from Heilbronn

Thank you for the lovely evening with our friends from out of town 🍻🍖🥩. Special thanks to Köbes Chris 🫶. The Kölsch is delicious, and the knuckle of pork and the spit roast were absolutely dreamy 😋

Cool location, friendly service and fair prices

A beautiful brewery with a cozy interior and outdoor area. The menu offers many delicious classics, as well as good beer. The food arrived very quickly, tasted excellent, and the service was super friendly. We were very satisfied with our visit.

The food was excellent, and the service was friendly despite the crowds. Many thanks to our waiter, Lucas, for the excellent service. We'll definitely be back.

Highly recommended. The prices are commensurate with the quality of the food, and the service is very friendly.

Simo Top waiter, service and food great 👍

Extremely disappointing experience at Gilden im Zims. We came here expecting a nice meal, but ended up waiting for over an hour without ever being served. Waiter named Emiliano asked us for our order, yet people who arrived long after us were served their food while we were completely ignored. One waiter came to ask us for an order, and then 1hr after another waiter came to offer us coffee (we felt shocked and outraged, with his coffee offer, 1hr after we have ordered food, which never came). After an hour of waiting with no explanation and no food, we had no choice but to leave and eat somewhere else — at a simple kebab shop that managed to serve us immediately. This was hands down the worst service I’ve experienced at a restaurant in Cologne. A place that cannot even bring food after taking the order is simply unacceptable. Definitely would not recommend.

I happened to visit this restaurant during my business trip to Gamescon and it became a regular. I heard rumors about the delicious Schweinshaxe, so I went there. It exceeded my expectations, being perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. I was so impressed that I returned twice during my trip. My second visit was especially enjoyable thanks to Meister Olaf's cheerful and professional service. The menu recommendations were excellent, and I returned for lunch the next day. I recommend the ribs as well as the Schweinshaxe. If you want to experience both friendly service and unforgettable flavors, this is the place to go. This is a restaurant I stumbled upon during a business trip and ended up becoming a regular. I went there after hearing good things about their Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle), and it was even better than I expected. I was so impressed by the perfectly crispy skin and tender meat that I went back two more times during my trip. The second visit was especially enjoyable thanks to Meister Olaf's cheerful and professional service. The dish he recommended was excellent, and it even led me to come back the very next evening. Besides the Schweinshaxe, I also highly recommend the ribs. If you want to experience both friendly service and unforgettable food, this is the place to go. Dieses Restaurant wurde während meiner Geschäftsreise zu meinem Stammort. Ich bin dorthin gegangen, nachdem ich von der Schweinshaxe gehört hatte, und sie war sogar noch besser als erwartet. Die perfekt knusprige Haut und das zarte Fleisch haben mich so beeindruckt, dass ich während meiner Reise noch zweimal dorthin zurückgekehrt bin. Der zweite Besuch war besonders angenehm, da Meister Olaf einen fröhlichen und professionellen Service bot. Auch das von ihm empfohlene Gericht war hervorragend, und das war der Grund, warum ich am nächsten Abend erneut dort war. Neben der Schweinshaxe kann ich auch die Rippchen wärmstens empfehlen. Wenn Sie sowohl freundlichen Service als auch unvergessliches Essen erleben möchten, sollten Sie diesen Ort unbedingt besuchen.

Very nice ambience and very friendly service (Käthe ❤️)

Touristy but still delicious. The ambiance is also great thanks to the location on the Heumarkt.

We liked it, good portion, good value, good taste. For pork knuckles, try it.

The food was perfect, the portions were large. Thanks Lucas for the friendly service.

The best restaurant in town, with large portions and incredibly delicious food. The service is top-notch, thanks to our waiter Lucas, who fulfilled our every request.

Twelve of us were there today for dinner and a beer. A huge compliment to our waiter, Lucas, who, with his service and excellent food, created a perfect atmosphere and an unforgettable visit to this establishment.

Brilliant, from start to finish. The waiter enjoys his work, and that's something the guests really appreciate. I felt very comfortable and would happily return for fine dining here again. Keep it up...

Best place we have found in Cologne. Beer non-stop. Service 100/100

Brewery with fantastic food. Highly recommended are the knuckle of pork and the bratwurst.

Zims is logistically perfectly located at the entrance to the Heumarkt. On this beautiful summer evening, all the tables outside were occupied. The staff was, as always, super friendly. I've had better food at Zims, but it arrived very quickly. Given the number of guests, you probably have to accept some compromises in the food.

I was shocked to discover that my favorite waitress is no longer there 😮‍💨

Unfortunately, it was very dirty, and the food was cold. We complained about this, but we were told that the restaurant was so busy that the food sometimes took longer to cook.

The meal was a bit much for two people, but we managed to finish it. 1200g of crispy pork trotters cost 27.5 euros. There is a toilet for guests to use for free, and it is very clean. The service attitude is also good. Overall, I am satisfied with the meal.

Food is alright. Service ia aweful.. why are they even asking for tip?..cheap service

We wanted a table for four and politely asked two waiters! They were completely unfriendly and told us they were totally into their jobs and that we weren't welcome. Sunday, August 17, 2025. Not worth recommending!!!!!

Whenever we're in Cologne, we stop by Gilden im Zins – it's simply a must for us. The team is super friendly, you immediately feel welcome, and the atmosphere is totally relaxed and informal. The portions are generous, the food delicious, and the prices are really fair. Simply an all-around cozy place to feel good.

A very nice brewery with delicious Kölsch beer and food. The service was extremely friendly and professional. Later, a disco in the basement invited you to work off those ingested calories 😅

The restaurant was huge and everything is so clean even though its so crowded! The waiters were so polite as well and the Schnitzel was delicious!!

Friendly and smiling service. The meal was good.

It's soooo delicious there... friendly and fun staff ❤️🫶 Visited there on August 15, 2025. The beef sauerbraten was fantastic... Praise to the chef/kitchen ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Drinks were also great

Very tasty and friendly service (Olaf)

It was a great evening in the old town

As always, we were impressed by the food and the good service.

The crispy knuckle was to die for. The kolsch is a good drink.

Very atmospheric and interesting, very tasty kolsch. The interior is bomb

Food was good, and portion size was generous. The one small issue was that it took too long to wait for the bill, even though waiter was told that I'm ready to pay and there were other waiters staying idle. But overall very good if you can take your time after a meal.

Of all the Haxen and Collegno-style beer I've had, this one is by far the best. If you think of Kölsch as a Cask or Terra, it might be a bit bland or less carbonated, but it's a beer you can drink like water!

The food was excellent, but the service was terrible. It took us 25 minutes to order another drink, and the waiter looked at us and ignored us. It's a shame, really, because it's the best pork knuckle I've ever had. Maybe it's because we're not German, since he served other tables well.

A highly recommended restaurant on the Heumarkt. Friendly service and a beautiful, unique interior. A great place to enjoy Kölsch. U.Ri. ™

Great food, great staff, great location Far too crowded and constantly overcrowded Delicious food Would go back anytime

Best Service so helpful modified menu to cater for celiac and great German food, Good beer

Paul, best man Attentive, in a good mood... Completely satisfied

We were here with visitors from abroad, eight people in total. Super-fast and friendly service in German and English, thanks Darnel! I don't think you can expect Michelin-starred cuisine here in downtown Cologne. However, the food was solid. Drinks were good. There were vegetarian options. I would come here again with a group of visitors after a visit to the cathedral.

Great potato pancakes that are gluten free. Sauerkraut and red cabbage salad good as well. Just so you know the sauerkraut has meat. As a vegetarian this would have been good to know!

Great service and the best food we had at a Brauhaus

Celebrated my birthday there yesterday at lunchtime. Luckily, I booked a table. The Wiener schnitzel with fries and fried potatoes was good; I wish they had included a small salad for that price. Potato pancakes, sauerbraten, cordon bleu, and cabbage rolls were also well received. The two birthday children even got a gift from the house to take home. How wonderful is that!!!!!!!!

Allergy menu available - gluten free options. I was able to get the 1.2kg crispy pork knuckle with chips and sauerkraut and removed the sauce. Amazing food!! Very helpful staff!

A must-visit when in Cologne. The ambiance, food, and modern brewery are always worth a visit. Last time, we had some very pleasant moments and met people who were planning to visit us at Gasthaus Früh Kleve.

We really enjoyed it and it tasted great! Good value for money. Friendly staff, well organized, and a very nice atmosphere.

Very friendly and attentive service. Delicious food and a great atmosphere.

Yesterday, we were on a stopover in Cologne and, of course, had to have a good meal somewhere. Then we walked into the city center and found ourselves in front of the Gilden im Zims restaurant. What can I say... despite the holiday and the good weather, we were actually offered a seat. As a welcome, we were, of course, offered a Kölsch beer by a typical Cologne waitress. To sum it up, it's simple: Great food! Great service! Great taste! Great location! Great price! A fantastic stay, and we would come back anytime. Thanks to the entire team!! We'll be back when we're in the area! :)

Very good food, reasonable prices, and very friendly service. Beautiful location both inside and out. Highly recommended!

A review of the house, not the brewery, the beer and the restaurant. Brewery "Gilden im Zims" (1563, 1946, 2006–2009), Heumarkt (Hay Market) Square, 77 The historic 16th century building has changed its name several times with the change of owners. In 1920, the house was purchased by Johann Zims, in connection with which the house became known as "Haus Zims". In 2009, after a thorough restoration of the building, it housed the brewery of the famous beer brand "Gilden Kölsch", and the house was named "Gilden im Zims" with the addition "Hometown of Cologne Heroes". Both names are visible on the facade. The establishment can accommodate up to 800 visitors at a time on three floors, not counting the summer terrace.

Recommended Food: Wrust, Haxen (pig nuckle) Beer: Kolsch, a 200cc Cologne beer The sausages and Haxen are delicious and not salty. The location is great, and even the locals say it's a popular restaurant. Highly recommended.

Highly recommended! Friendly service from Michelle, delicious food, we were able to sit outside, and the interior is beautifully decorated. We'll be back! Photo: Himmel un Äad

Typical brewery in a beautiful location with good food and large portions, not to be missed on your trip to Cologne

Delicious modern brewery, very friendly, attentive service, online reservation worked great, top location

Spent a wonderful and sociable evening. The waiters on the late shift are very nice and professional!

A rustic restaurant with a homely flair

Oh yes, you feel comfortable and are in good hands

Really good traditional German food accompanied by good quality lager. The desserts are really good

The food was simply divine! I ate heaven and earth, and it was simply amazing. The service was super friendly and welcoming.

Always very courteous and friendly. Our dog was given water first before our turn, which was a plus. The food was excellent, as always, and the waiters always make you feel very comfortable.

Great terrace and a very nice indoor area too. The food was really delicious! The staff is very friendly.

Friendly service, good schnitzel with homemade fries (at least they looked that way), and the Gilden-Kölsch tastes excellent. Definitely worth a visit 👍🏼

We always enjoy coming back when we're in Cologne. The food is very good and the service is simply fantastic. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Cologne!

I can highly recommend Zims. It's an institution, and it's also a great place to host private parties. The service and food are excellent.

The pork is very tender and tasty. Best Schweinhaxe I’ve ever had.

We were looking for a restaurant with delicious German schnitzels. This place had a huge selection and an attractive menu. We were quickly served by friendly and enthusiastic staff. We ordered a corden bleu and schnitzel, which were large, arrived within 5 minutes, and were delicious. Highly recommended!

Perfect service. Food is down-to-earth and good!

Forgot to take photos of the food but our impression of the food was so so. Only the location was good, very easy to find right at the corner and plenty of seats no long waiting time.

Well attended, but not uncomfortable. Very well eaten and well catered for. Been there for the first but not the last time!

We attended an event at Zims on Sunday afternoon and had some delicious Cologne tapas beforehand. We had perfectly chilled Gilden beer. Not really my style, but this time it was particularly delicious. The service was very friendly, and the view into the cellar, in particular, reveals a great location. We'll definitely be back.

The food was tasty but far too little for the price.

A very cool location in Cologne's old town. A great interior design style, which you wouldn't expect in a restaurant like this.

It was very nice with them but sometimes it was very loud and you couldn't talk when such large groups of men come in it is very unpleasant but we would always come again because the service was just great

An incredibly beautiful brewery on the touristy Neumarkt square with a museum-like vaulted cellar!!! The historic stonework dates back to Roman times; house number 77 is said to have been first mentioned as a Minnefusshaus (a house of love) in 1163. Today, the Gilden im Zims is the official brewery of the Gilden Brewery and can accommodate up to 1,000 people on four levels. The Gilden (Low German for drinking party) tastes great anyway and has the current standard price of €2.40. A solid 5-star rating, if only for the music in the house. The restrooms are spacious and spotlessly clean. On my previous visits, there were even TVs in front of the sinks. The waiters were understanding that, as Brewery Trail hikers, we only wanted to try/sample one or two bars of beer per station. Naturally, they seated us at a bar table in the front area.

Simply delicious and beautiful. Cologne brewery culture.👍

Very good meal with lots of varied choices! The place is very friendly, as are the servers who are adorable.

One of the tastiest Kölsch varieties. Janet is super accommodating, fast, and super friendly—thank you!! 💚

Very delicious food, great service, thanks Olaf! We'll be back.