Cologne's traditional pub Leev Marie shines in new splendor after renovation

Cologne's traditional pub Leev Marie shines in new splendor after renovation

The Cologne pub scene has a new highlight: the traditional pub "Leev Marie" in the Lindenthal district has been reopened after elaborate renovation work. Mark Junglas, the creative head behind the project, originally wanted to create a Smash-Burger shop. But when he acquired the "Marybilds" in December 2024, he quickly found that there was still a lot of need for action. The building, which dates from 1836, was in very poor condition. A total of seven containers full of rubble came to light during the renovation work, and the former kitchen was severely moldy so that it had to be completely gutted.

Junglas, who quickly organized craftsmen with friends, recorded every step of the renovation work on his social media channels. It is particularly noteworthy that one of his videos reached almost a million views. On April 4, he was finally able to open the gates to the "Leev Marie" after the original opening date could not be met during the carnival. The response to the opening was consistently positive, but Junglas still sees scope for improvements.

Cologne kitchen in focus

The host is particularly proud of the Cologne specialty Himmel and äd, which he personally prepares. His goal is to be known for the best sky and äd in Cologne within the next ten years. This shows that Junglas is not only about the revival of a traditional pub, but also about deeper networking with Cologne cuisine, which can be found not only in brewery and at Grandmas, but also in traditional corner pubs and restaurants in the city, which are known for Rheinische dishes.

The variety of Cologne cuisine is impressive, with classic dishes such as Halve Hahn, Cologne caviar and indispensable for many - sky and flötz. Constantly changing offers and down -to -earth home cooking make the hearts of the lovers of Rhenish traditions beat faster.

The art of the Smash-Burger

What would a pub be without a good gastronomic offer? This is where the influence of the "Burger Vision" comes into play. Originally designed as a Smash-Burgladen, the local burger experts do not remain unused. You have your own unique Smash-Burger creations in the repertoire that bribe through a crispy texture. These burgers, which are already celebrating great success in the branches in Hamburg and Berlin, are prepared in such a way that the inside remains juicy and tasteful, while the outside becomes crispy.

A little pioneering spirit has not harmed, and the combination of traditional Cologne cuisine and the trend of Smash-Burger could catapult the "Leev Marie" to the top. With a clear focus on quality and taste, the pub could quickly establish itself in the Cologne gastro scene and become a popular meeting place for everyone who wants to connect the good old to the new one.

This remains to be seen how the "Leev Marie" develops and whether Mark Junglas can realize his ambitious goal. However, it is clear that something very special is being created in the heart of Cologne.