Fischers

Charming Atmosphere, Authentic Austrian Delights

Fischer's, tucked in the quaint heart of Marylebone, offers a taste of Vienna, or at least London’s idea of it. The charm is undoubtedly in its ambiance—a throwback to old-world Austrian aesthetics, complete with historical flair and just the right amount of kitsch that makes you want to sip slowly on something bubbly while leafing through a tattered Dostoevsky novel. Begin your culinary journey here without a reservation this time, and you'll likely be charmed in. The location is effortlessly cozy yet bustling—its atmosphere a testament to its residential allure and frequent full books. Service varies from impeccable attentiveness over lunch to a frenetic buzz during supper, much like Vienna might flirt with bedlam in high season.

The food? It dances between quintessential and excessive, leaning heavily into schnitzels the way Murphy leans into an inevitable defeat. The chicken schnitzel is undeniably well-prepped and adorned with just enough crispy exuberance to please even the sternest Viennese expat. Other dishes flirt with hit-or-miss territory—a twist of fate embraced by other traditional recipes like Käsespätzle or the overly heavy pitivier. Desserts bring you back full orbit, especially when apple strudel steals the show over a lackluster Kaiserschmarrn—which caters otherwise to nostalgia more than they do to purists. Bearing in mind the cavalier forkful prices (£60 for modest schnapps and potatoes), quell the skepticism as you dive because this place retains enough allure to Puppeteer repeated visits solely by fond memories and a taste for exploration. Yet leaving stung by an eyewatering wine mark-up may not stay easily digestible—the service? Consider it a practiced waltz best relished when skilled hands guide the dance. — Milo Tastemaker