Munich, September 9 – The Munich Volkstheater, preparing for its 2026/2027 season, is ushering in a new culinary era. The renowned ‘Schmock’ restaurant, a fixture for over 25 years, has closed its doors, making way for ‘Trattoria Seppione’. This change comes as the theater prepares for the premiere of ‘Geierwally’ on September 24, 2026, marking a significant shift in the gastronomic landscape of the cultural institution.
End of an Era: Schmock Closes After 25 Years
The ‘Schmock’, located in the annex building of the Volkstheater, was more than just a theater restaurant. It was a beloved establishment known for its Israeli-Arabic cuisine, cultivating a loyal following since its inception. Founded by Florian Gleibs in December 1999 on Augustenstraße, the restaurant moved with the Volkstheater to its new location in 2021, expanding its space and continuing its tradition.
The closure of ‘Schmock’ marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Munich’s gastronomy. The distinctive ‘Welcome to Schmock Minchen’ sign has already been removed from the red brick facade on Tumblingerstraße 29, and the restaurant’s website simply states: “Dear guests, we quietly say Schalömchen.”
Reasons Behind the Closure
Sources within the gastronomy scene point to several factors contributing to ‘Schmock’s’ closure. A general decline in dining out and consumers tightening their belts are cited as primary reasons. Additionally, the area around the Schlachthof, where the Volkstheater is now located, has not yet established itself as a prime destination for upscale dining.
Some also suggest that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, following the Hamas attack on civilians in Israel on October 7, 2023, may have played a role. Concerns about safety at a Jewish restaurant or even protests against the Israeli government’s policies could have deterred some guests.
A New Beginning: Welcome ‘Seppione’
In response to the economic climate, a conceptual realignment was deemed necessary, leading to the introduction of ‘Seppione’, a ‘Trattoria bavarese’. The new restaurant aims to blend Italian lightness with Bavarian coziness. Gleibs, when asked about the new venture, chose not to comment. However, the ‘Seppione’ website describes its offering: “At Seppione, pizza and dumplings can hold hands, without any big family drama. Here, Italian lightness and Bavarian coziness meet on one plate and get along wonderfully. So, senza troppe parole – without much talk: Come by for a Spritz or a cool beer.”
The menu will feature antipasti, pasta, pizza, and ‘Cucina bavarese’, including dishes like ‘Passero con Formaggio’, also known as Kasspatzn. ‘Seppione’ is scheduled to open on September 24, coinciding with the start of the Volkstheater’s new season.
Volkstheater’s New Season and Culinary Outlook
Intendant Christian Stückl is set to unveil the full plans for the new season on Thursday morning, September 10, 2026. Following the ‘Geierwally’ premiere, the stage 2 will host the world premiere of ‘Philophobia’, and on October 30, Ibsen’s ‘An Enemy of the People’ will be presented under the direction of Sapir Heller.
For those who will miss ‘Schmock’, a small consolation: Florian Gleibs’ book “Shalom Kitchen” compiles Levantine recipes and stories from Israel, offering a taste of the restaurant’s legacy.
Source: merkur.de
