AWESOME BERLIN

There is simply no question about it. NOBELHART & SCHMUTZIG SPEISELOKAL ‘s experience is one of the must-stops for every foodie visiting or living in Berlin. This unconventional and beautiful dining experience has certainly made a mark on Berlin’s new gastronomy scene. No wonder it just got its first Michelin Star.

Awesome Picture by GABBA-DENIM.COM

Take the subway to Kochstrasse (U6) to an “up and coming” area between Mitte and Kreuzberg. Just south of the tourist-ridden Checkpoint Charlie, Nobelhart & Schmutzig is located in a less than attractive building. If you don’t pay close attention, you may actually miss the sign outfront. But wait…once you get in, it feels like you’ve been transported to another dimension. The design is absolutely stunning and somewhat subdued, cozy and on the darker side. The kitchen is surrounded by the most stunning giant  counter I have seen in Berlin. This gives guests the oppotunity to constantly interact and watch the staff going about their business of making a delicious dining experience. There are a few communal tables in the back, if you prefer a more traditional approach to dining.

We simply loved our overall experience. Tip: if you can, let Billy Wagner (owner and somellier) take over the wine pairing and recommend whatever he feels is the best option. Yes, this might make your bill a little “saltier”…but it will definitely make the experience that much richer. Plus, it is an awesome opportunity to interact and ask him questions. Don’t feel pressured, though, if you either go for the pre-set pairing or just pick your own pairing, you will most definitely enjoy the food here. On to the menu…

Picture from NB&S’s Facebook Page

At NOBELHART & SCHMUTZIG SPEISELOKAL there is no “à la carte” service. There is only one menu consisting of 10 courses. The restaurant philosophy is to source everything locally. All of it. That totally sets the tone for what kind of food you will get. Seasonality definitely plays a big role here and you should be aware of that. Pick the warmer months to come here, if you prefer a more “colorful” menu. Otherwise, do not worry. No matter what time of the year, they serve some of the most beautiful food in Berlin.

The ambiance is on the quieter side, but as the night progresses and the wine glasses are poured, you notice the initially somewhat stiff mood change. We were loud from the beginning….oopsie! ; )

Reserve WAY in advance. It is a current hot spot.

NOBELHART & SCHMUTZIG SPEISELOKAL ‘s WEBSITE

Address: Friedrichstrasse 218 Berlin

NOBELHART & SCHMUTZIG

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Hidden special places are always a great way to explore a city like Berlin. If you would like to experience a gem of a place and learn about the rich world of “erva mate”, you simply must stop by at META MATE BERLIN in Prenzlauer Berg.

Take the subway (U2) either to Rosa-Luxemburg-Platz or Senefelderplatz and walk a couple of minutes to one of the prettiest areas in Prenzlauer Berg (see map below). The outside patio is so cute you might feel tempted not to enter the shop. But, make sure you do. Immerse yourself in the rich and social experience of mate drinking. And to be fair, the shop interior is quite quirky and cozy!

The very welcoming and knowledgeable shop owners Krithika and Fabricio will not only make you feel at home. They might actually join you for a fun communal mate drinking hour or two. Take the opportunity to learn more about this drink that has become a cult among the Berliner hacker community and that is now being adopted by a wider audience.

The mate served here is top notch. It is hand collected from selected forests. There are only 2 to 3 harvests a year!! The whole business here is very fair trade. Ask the owners about it. It is a fascinating process. Beyond the amazing variety of artisanal yerba mate teas prepared and served in locally made mugs called “cuias”, one can also find an impressive range of mate drinks, beer, mate chocolate and soaps.

Get a “cuia”, gather round with friends and enjoy your mate. Sometimes the communal experience can be taken to the next level by the same “cuia” being shared among friends. Your mate experience, your choice. During the warmer months make sure to enjoy this fun experience outside while admiring the beautiful altbau architecture around you.

Once you’ve enjyoyed your mate at META MATE BERLIN, walk north and soak up the sun at one of my favorite places in Prezlauer Berg: the little park around Wasserturm (Water tower). Climb up to the top lawn, find a spot and read a book. Or just chill. Doesn’t that sound like a fun day?

META MATE’S WEBSITE

Address: Straßburger Str. 16, 10405 Berlin

META MATE

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HALLESCHES HAUS GENERAL STORE is a super special multi purpose space located just off Hallesches Haus U-Bahn Station (U1 or U6). To get here just hop on the U-Bahn and as soon as you exit Hallesches Haus Station, cross the kanal and walk about 100 meters towards the gorgeous looking brick building.

Housed inside a 1902 stunning Post Office red brick building, this mixed space is hard to describe. A meticulously curated general store, beautiful café and happening lunch place where some Berlin’s creatives hang out. We actually  come here quite often. No wonder. We simply love this space.

Picture from HH’s Facebook Page.

From a design/style perspective there are few places in Berlin that deliver grand and cool at the same time. HALLESCHES HAUS GENERAL STORE does. Spend some time taking in the industrial design elements. Admire the stunning lighting fixtures. Walk all the way to the back of the space and hang out with friends on the back couch.

The food offerings here are simple yet consistently solid. We love watching the kitchen action through the general store’s entrance glass windows. From cookies to salads/sandwiches and quiches and daily specials we have always eaten well here. Make sure to try the delectable “Egg in a basket”. The coffee bar is also top notch. Our favorite coffee drink here is, of course, the flat white. Hallesches Haus General Store is just the perfect place for a light meal inside an inspiring space.

Egg in a Basket. HH’s Facebook Page Picture.

Hallesches Haus also offers brunch on Saturdays and there is often some kind of special event happening here. Keep an eye out on their Facebook page. During the warmer months keep an eye out for great events including nomad cinema nights and parties.

Before you leave, make sure to spend sometime browsing through the store area. We are particularly obsessed by the “do it yourself” industrial lighting fixture area. Their textiles are also beautiful.

There are a couple of super cool street art murals very close by. Just cross the kanal back towards Hallesches Haus Station and walk towards Mehringplatz. Explore the Social Housing complex and discover the murals. Our favorite is “Make art, not War” by Shepard Fairy (Obey Giant). For more street art in Berlin check out our STREET ART BERLIN GUIDE.

HALLESCHES HAUS GENERAL STORE’S WEBSITE

Address: Tempelhofer Ufer 1, Berlin 10961.

HALLESCHES HAUS GENERAL STORE

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We couldn’t help but smile when we found about this place. HAPPY BARISTAS COFFEE SHOP is a great name for a coffee place. Little did we know that we were also about to keep smiling as we tried their amazing coffee and food options. Located in an up and coming part of Friedrichshain (just off Ostbahnhof), it is super easy to get here. Just hop on the S-Bahn to Ostbahnhof and walk for about 5 minutes.

HAPPY BARISTAS COFFEE SHOP is a relatively new addition to Berlin’s amazing Craft Coffee scene and we must say, an amazing one. First off, service is super friendly and yes, the baristas are truly happy! ; ) The craft coffee drinks are prepared with care and the quality is top notch. They serve roasts from multiple roasters from all over the world. We still haven’t tried the savory dishes, however, the cookies and cakes were also very good. They claim to offer a seasonal food menu that changes constantly so it makes no sense for us to recommend a specific offering.

Not only does Happy Baristas rank high on the coffee front, but it also has a very interesting and cool style and design concept. We particularly love the El Bocho (a Berlin institution) art in the back of the coffee shop. The sink (in the middle of the shop) with the plants around it is also super interesting.

If you would like to explore the area after or before your coffee we recommend you walk towards Boxhagener Platz and pop in and out of the super soulful little stores along Boxhagener Strasse. If time allows explore the side streets as well. If you are feeling more adventurous walk towards Revalerstrasse and find a world of street art, cool clubs and bars on number 99 (aka RAW). Also check out Urban Spree, one of our favorite urban art spaces in town.

HAPPY BARISTAS COFFEE SHOP’S FACEBOOK PAGE

Address: Neue Bahnhofstr. 32 Berlin

HAPPY BARISTAS

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Swabian? What is Swabian food? Well, according to Wikipedia: “In comparison to the more French-influenced Baden cuisine, Swabian cuisine is rather simple and down-to-earth. It is native to Swabia, which comprises great parts of Wurttemberg and the Bavarian part of Swabia, as well as the Allgäu which has parts lying in Austria. Of very essential importance are egg noodle products in many variations, e.g. Spätzle or Maultaschen. Also typical are substantial soups and stews.” There you go, this is the type of food you’ll find at the casual and delicious DIE MAULTASCHE SWABIAN COMFORT FOOD .

This gem of a place is somewhat off the grid, even if it is just a few steps from the gorgeous and touristy Gendarmenmarkt square. To get here take the Subway to Französische Strasse (U6) and walk 5 minutes. From the outside, the small casual eatery looks cut if not a bit generic. Let’s just put it this way, the design/style of the place is not their forte. Look past that and get ready for some great Swabian comfort food.

The menu focuses on Swabian classics. Go for either the Spätzle or the Maultasche (Giant Swabian raviolli) and you’ll be happy. Of course, there are quite a few Maultasche options. We always go for the tasty Maultasche with sauteed onions in a rich broth. This type of dish is specially perfect for those rainy Berlin days. So comforting and delicious. The staff is efficient and friendly and service is swift. Price is reasonable. A great place for a casual lunch.

Make sure to check out their convenience fridge with take-home almost ready-to-eat options. We always end up taking some delicious Maultasche and broths home.

Of course, make sure to explore the Gendarmenmarkt area after your meal. Make sure to explore the twin churches and the beautiful Konzerthaus. Another option is to explore the Deutsche Bank Kunsthalle around the corner, one of our favorite (small) art spaces in Berlin.

DIE MAULTASCHE SWABIAN COMFORT FOOD ‘S WEBSITE

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As some of our friends say, it looks like Prenzlauer Berg is having a bit of a comeback. And a good part of this “come back” has been driven by fun craft beer places. That craft beer scene has gotten more interesting now. As of this week (May 1st, 2016) we are happy to report that BIRRA ITALIAN CRAFT BEER BAR is open for business. That’s right. Italian craft beer in the heart of Prenzlauer Berg. And we like it! And in case you didn’t realize it, Birra is Italian for Beer. ; )

The bar is conveniently located on Prenzlauer Allee, very close to where it crosses Danziger Strasse. A few steps from the Prenzlauer Allee/Danziger Strasse Tram stop (M2). Look for the old school vintage bookstore sign “Bücher”. Birra is right next door.

The place is cozy, unpretencious and welcoming. Like a true craft beer bar should be. We were particularly mesmerized by the beutiful cooper beer taps. The tap is dominated by crafts from Birrificio Lambrete, who won the prize for best Italian Brewery and have over 20 years tradition.  There are 16 Tap and 3 Handpump options on offer. Among the most famous options are Montestella (Pilsner), the IPA Gaina and the smoked Sout “Ghisa”. I started with a Pale Ale that tasted ok, then moved to an amazing Double IPA that I could not stop drinking. When in doubt, go for the double IPA…if you can handle the alcohol! We will come back for more. They do serve some kind of cold Italian Style bar food, but we did not have a chance to try it. Next time!

Since you are in the area, you might want to bar hop and check out the craft beer options at Monterey Bar and Salt n’Bone, some of our favorite craft beer hang outs in the area.

BIRRA ITALIAN CRAFT BEER BAR’S FACEBOOK PAGE

Address: Prenzlauer Allee 198, Berlin

BIRRA ITALIAN CRAFT BEER

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When we first set food at REFUGIO COFFEE BAR we knew we had to write about it. It is just that special of a project.

Refugio is a mix of share house, café and event space located in the Neukölln district. It is a unique project in the sense that it has been able to successfully shelter people in need and at the same time create a very welcoming environment for everyone. On the ground floor, you will find this gem of a coffee bar. Sven Lager, Andy Romeike and their teams work hard to create a beautiful story of social and communal wealth, a far cry from the more traditional philantropic models.

To get here, take the subway (U8) to Schönleinstrasse and walk for less than 5 minutes.The very spacious coffee shop is very well put together. From the design and art elements to the nice coffee equipment and the top notch craft coffee. We are particularly obsessed with the golden comfy and inviting couch. Take some time to go around the room and enjoy the displayed art for sale.

That said, what is truly amazing about this coffee shop is not what one can immediately see. The project and the people around here is what truly matters. Volunteers working in the coffee and hospitality industry donate their time and exchange skills, culture and experiences with refugees and persons in need. Grab a nice coffee and hang out for a while.  Watch the beautiful project come alive. If you feel like it, talk to some of the people either working or just chilling. You are guaranteed to have an extraordinary experience.

This space has an amazing rooftop terrace that is currently being rennovated. We will let you know if and when it will be open to the general public. Stay tuned.

While you are in the area, make sure to explore the Turkish Market (Tuesdays and Fridays) along Maybach Ufer. One of your favorite street markets in Berlin.

REFUGIO COFFEE BAR’S FACEBOOK PAGE

Address: Lenaustraße 4 Berlin

REFUGIO COFFEE BAR

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When we heard FES TURKISH BARBECUE had openned we couldn’t wait to visit. And let me tell you, we could not have come here soon enough. This place delivers delicious turkish food in a novel and fun way. Unlike any other Turkish place we have been to in Berlin. That says a lot as Berlin is one of the most exciting places on the planet when it comes to traditional yummy Turkish food. Now we have FES!

PICTURE FROM RESTAURANT’S FACEBOOK PAGE

Getting to FES TURKISH BARBECUE is super easy. Just take the subway (U7) to Südstern and walk 2 minutes. Make sure to take a moment to take in the magnificent Südtern church as you leave the subway station.

PICTURE FROM RESTAURANT’S FACEBOOK PAGE

The first surprise factor. FES has a super cool design. A true departure from the more traditional Turkish joints of Kreuzberg. From the super cool cooper tubes and wood boxes hanging from the ceilings, to the fun FES hats hanging on the brick walls. Don’t miss the beautiful fabric accents on the benches! Fun and innovative and yet keeping with its origins. Just perfect.

That fun and innovative concept is sustained with the barbecue grills on each table (much like a Korean barbecue concept). The meat is grilled to taste by each guest. Pick a mix of meats from the menu (we suggest going for the Lamb options) and add a few mezzes (side dishes)! We were particularly impressed by the lovely aubergine paste (Trust! It is better than any babaganouch you have ever tried) and the garlicky goat cheese paste. To be fair, though, ALL side dishes were delicious. All dessert options are great, by the way. They are big enough to share, though. Service is very efficient and mega friendly.

Make sure to explore Bergmannkiez just around the corner, a very lively and interesting neighborhood in West Kreuzberg.

FES TURKISH BARBECUE ´S FACEBOOK PAGE

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We have had the pleasure of following the amazing Dutch Duo (Lode and Stijn) journey up to this point. From their exciting pop-ups and foodie events to being one of the most expected restaurant openings in town. These guys have done it. They have just opened the doors of LODE & STIJN RESTAURANT. And we couldn’t be happier. For them and for us!

PHOTO FROM RESTAURANT’S FACEBOOK PAGE

The restaurant is located a couple of blocks off one of Kreuzberg’s most exciting canals. To get here, take the subway (U8) either to Kottbusser Tor or Schönleinstrasse and walk for 5 minutes or so. During the daytime/sunset, make sure to budget some time to walk along Paul-Lincke Ufer and take in the atmosphere.

Make your way to Lausitzer Strasse 25 and find a discreet and beautiful sign: LODE & STIJN. Take a moment to observe the beautifully subdued design elements. We are particularly obsessed with the lighting fixtures and the nuanced wooden tones. The bar design and the open kitchen in the back tie in the space concept beautifully. Very chic, very cozy.

The food. Ah…the food. Lode & Stijn serve delicious, inventive, modern, somewhat minimalistic and seasonal food. The bread is simply to die for.  Thanks to Lode’s magic hands. If you’ve managed to stop eating the bread (Trust!), you are ready to start a great dining experience. It is really hard to pick a favorite dish here, but we seriously recommend you try their melt-in-your-mouth Bitterballen (a Dutch staple) for starters. For mains we seriously recommend both the irresistible Beef Tatar on Toast with Oysters and Chicory + the perfect Blutwurst, Smoked Trout and raw Potato Salad.  Or go “full-in” and get the menu of 5 dishes. Absolutely worth it! Desserts are also beautiful. We must confess we only had the Pavlova and it was delicious.

The service is knowledgeable, attentive, warm and efficient. Make sure to ask for food/wine pairing recommendations.

Reservations are strongly advised.  

LODE & STIJN is a great place to enjoy the evening with friends or even a romantic date. If you are feeling adventurous, make your way across the canal to speakeasy BAR MARQUÉS, a cool Berlin cocktail bar institution (hidden in a restaurant basement).

LODE & STIJN RESTAURANT ‘S WEBSITE

Address: Lausitzer Strasse 25, Berlin

LODE & STIJN RESTAURANT

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Behold! BEST BIERGARTEN GUIDE BERLIN (TOP 5) is out!

We know…we know…there are a thousand “BIERGARTEN GUIDES” around. It does seem fitting, though, that we let you know what are our shortlist of favourite ones. We always keep our lists short. Not because there aren’t a million options (there are!) but because we feel it is our goal to help you experience the places we feel have something special about them.

It is, however, no easy task. “Biergärten” (plural) are all over town. And we must admit, there are hundreds of decent ones. If you happen to walk by one that you feel have a nice vibe, by all means, try it. You are bound to have a truly local and amazingly relaxed experience.

That said, ff you are looking for the essential and most interesting ones, follow the list below. Whether you try one of them or a few, you are guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

*TIPS:

– Most Beer Gardens open from late April to late September. The warmer the day, the more lively and animated these places are. The best time to visit them is from 5-10PM, if you are looking to capture the true vibe of a German Biergarten!

– Get in, grab a spot, sit down. Send someone to get the grub and the beer.

– Enjoy the communal atmosphere and share your table. It can be a social experience if you like, but no one will bother you if you are not into chit chat.

– Most of the places below also have restaurants, however, we recommend an outdoors, chill experience in communal tables and below Chestnut trees!

On to the BEST BIERGARTEN GUIDE BERLIN:

PRATER

Prater is considered the oldest active biergarten in Berlin. And somehow it manages to stay current, fun, upbeat. As the sun sets and the lights twinkle below the Chestnut trees, the most magical atmosphere takes over this place. Come here during the day and you will miss on a fantastic spectacle. Stay until later and you will be rewarded. This is our “go to” biergarten. It is located in the heart of Prenzlauer Berg, one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Berlin.

PRATER BIERGARTEN

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ZOLLPACKHOF

Photo from diginights.com

We love taking our dog here. This biergarten has a privileged location by the river and near the Parliament and Chancellery. Cozy and atmospheric contrast to the modern architecture. The beer is top notch. Make sure you sit down below the Chestnut trees. Get your beer and watch the boats go by. It’s magical. Take a walk along the river banks towards Bellevue Palace afterwards (or beforehand).

ZOLLPACKHOF BIERGARTEN

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CAFÉ AM NEUEN SEE

This slice of paradise is located around Tiergarten Park, right by the Spanish embassy. There’s a very atmospheric restaurant here (which is also worth a visit). But let’s focus on the biergarten. It is surrounded by woods and a lake. Unlike some beer gardens, this one can also get quite busy during weekends (when the weather is nice), so it may require some planning. Make sure to try their pizza (not typical) with the beer. This place is also very close to the back of the Berlin Zoo, so why not combine a trip to the Zoo with a satisfying Biergarten experience?

CAFE AM NEUENSEE

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BIERHOF RÜDERSDORF

Located behind the world famous nightclub Barghain, this Bierhof (Beer Courtyard) has a restaurant and plenty of loungy seating. The location itself is worth a visit. Especially if you make it while the sun is still out. Rarely do people get a chance to observe the Berghain and surroundings on a terrace and amidst green foliage. Get there a little after 6PM and just chill, have a pint of beer and some barbecue. Or join them for the 10 AM breakfast (also served with beer, if you like). : )

BIERHOF RÜDERSDORF

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ESCHENBRÄU

Eschenbräu has possibly one of the funkiest locations of this list. It is located in a cellar of an apartment building complex in Berlin Wedding. It’s a mix of brewery and biergarten. The cellar spills out into a fun courtyard. Here you can get either one of the three traditional brews (pilsner, dunkel or hefeweizen) or one of the nine seasonal brews. It’s really a beer lover biergarten. And totally worth a visit.

ESCHENBRÄU

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You may also refer to the ones below. They are also amazing biergärten! Check them out if you find yourself near them. We will review this list frequently so you are assured we are giving you our best appraisal of Beer gardens not to be missed while in Berlin.

SCHLEUSENKRUG

GOLGATHA

BRAUHAUS SÜDSTERN

BRACHVOGEL

JAGDHAUS SPANDAU

RESTAURANT GRUNEWALDTURM

FISCHERHÜTTE SCHLACHTENSEE

EIERSCHALE ZENNER

LUISE DAHLEM

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Cavatelli, Penne, Fusilli, Maccheroni, Paccheri, Caserecce, Tagliatelle, Tagliolino, Linguina, Pappardelle, Spaghetti, Ravioli…you name it. MANI IN PASTA is a breath of fresh air in the Berlin pasta scene. In fact, they are one of the few that are truly commited to elevating pasta-making into an artform.  Since recently opening at the “ever-so-hip”  Markthalle Neun in Kreuzberg, Mani in Pasta has certainly given the local “craft pasta” trend a fresh face. To get here, hop on the subway (U1 Line) until you hit Görlitzer Bahnhof station and walk for 5 minutes (see map below for details).

Picture from Mani in Pasta’s Facebook Page

Lorenzo and the Celona brothers (Angelo and Gioacchino) have brought together some serious talent and created a permanent space that is both charming and inviting. Here fresh pasta is made daily. You can even watch it!

At Mani in Pasta one can either eat on the spot or get super fresh pasta/sauces to take home. We have tried both options and have to say we loved both experiences.

Picture from Mani in Pasta’s Facebook Page

The very competent and lovely team constantly comes up with fresh pasta options so we are often surprised with some new pasta concept. We have recently learned that they use 4 different types of flour: Rye, Durum wheat, Spelt, Kamut (whaaaa?). The pasta options go from traditional to innovative. You are sure to find something that fancies your taste buds. When in doubt, ask for recommendations from the friendly staff. The best times to visit are Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays as the whole market comes alive.

Carbonara – from MIP’S Facebook Page

Since you are in the area, make sure to explore the neighborhood and visit Kunstquartier Bethanien (a former hospital turned into art center). We love it!

MANI IN PASTA’S FACEBOOK PAGE

Address: Eisenbahnstraße 42-43, 10997 Berlin

MANI IN PASTA

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It just doesn’t get more “real” than YAAM BEACH CLUB. A place to get in touch with true Berlin vibes. Come here if you are interested in street culture, food, arts and music. If you would like to get in touch with locals on a super chill environment. Or even if you would like to hang out at a unique urban beach club (yes, there is sand!) surrounded by industrial buildings.

YAAM (Young and African Arts Market) has been around for the last 15 years. Since then it has been an important part of Berlin’s leisure culture. Once you arrive at the place you will immediately encounter a few Caribbean and African food trucks. Walk through them (or stop for a bite) and explore quite a few amazing street art murals as you make your way to the party area. Get in to the concert hall if you are there for a party, Reggae night or event. Walk past it and get to the beach/bar area for one of the coolest urban beaches in Berlin. This last area also has some interesting art.

Make sure to walk around (prefereably with a drink in your hand) and explore the different corners. Sit down by the river and enjoy a chill sunset.

YAMM is one of those places that you can walk in at noon and walk out early in the morning. It is all up to how you want to soak in the atmosphere and vibes. The whole space does have a block party feel!

Photo from Yaam’s Website

More importantly, YAAM is one of the last  Reggae/Dancehall/Hip-Hop clubs that Berlin has to offer. Make sure to come here for that as well. Don’t be fooled by the upfront shabby looks. YAAM produces special events and themed concerts with flown in DJs year round.

photo from Yaam’s website

YAAM BEACH CLUB’S WEBSITE

Address: An der Schillingbrücke 3, 10243 Berlin

YAAM BEACH CLUB

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We love SALT N BONE GASTROBAR! A gastro craft beer pub with cozy, casual atmosphere located in one of our favorite neighborhoods in Berlin: Prenzlauer Berg. This gem of a neighborhood gastropub is located smack in the middle of Helmholtzkiez, between the U-bahn Station Eberswalder Strasse and the S-Bahn Station Prenzlauer Allee.SALT N BONE definitely has a welcoming vibe. The wooden design elements give it that cozy and warm feel. That “at home” feel that only a handful of places successfully deliver. Couple that with efficient and friendly service and you get one of our favorite “hang out” bars in Berlin. The crowd is mixed, casual and friendly.

Photo from Salt N Bone’s Website

But we truly come here for the beer. SALT N BONE has 5 rotating taps dedicated to local Brews and Imported Craft Beers. They also have a selection of 20-30 bottles. We stick to the taps! Watch out for beer pairing events, brewery nights and tap take overs! They often host fun events! Make sure to make a reservation in advance for such events.

If you are not into beer (shame on you! ; )), no problem, they also love their cocktails. The menu ranges from Classics to House Creations using home mande infusions and syrups.

The food here is also great. They make their own seasonal sausages and delicious Sunday roasts. We are particularly fond of their Scotch Egg and Meat on a Stick (Braised Pork Belly in Sticky Soy Jus, Spiced Butternut Squash Puree & Chipotle Mayonnaise). Just perfect to go with our beer!

SALT N BONE GASTROBAR is a non smoking bar. A welcome addition to our popular BEST NON SMOKING BERLIN BARS LIST.

SALT N BONE’S FACEBOOK PAGE

Schliemannstraße 31, 10437 Berlin

SALT N BONE GASTROBAR

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PACIFICO BUNS & BOWLS is the new food venture from the folks behind Parker Bowles and Prince Charles. As the name suggests, this cool and casual lunch spot offers a fun fusion of dishes and flavor profiles from the Pacific region. There is, however a notable influence from Korea, with sprinkles of Hawaii, Mexico and California.

To get to PACIFICO BUNS & BOWLS, just hop on the U-bahn (U8) to Moritzplatz. The restaurant is on Oranienstrasse, across from the amazing Modulor store. Look for the fun Neon lights and you are sure to easily spot Pacifico.

The place has a sleek and funtional design. We are particularly drawn to the artsy light fixture installation. You can’t miss it. Just look up. Also, check out the plants and “vases”. Very cool concept.

Pacifico does get busy at lunch time, so plan ahead. That said, the good looking staff is very efficient and service is friendly and to the point. Order at the counter.  The patrons are mostly young professionals that work in the area and the vibe is super casual and non pretentious.

The dishes look scrumptious for the most part and the flavors are rich and satisfying. Options go from fun burgers (try the Kimcheezy, it’s delicious),  “tacos” (homemade bao buns served like tacos), scrumptious bowls (the Spicy Kahuna Bowl looked promising) and madus/dumplings. Top it all off with a sloppy side of kimchi fries. You will not regret it.  Make sure you have friends along to help you finish it!

Even though we classify Pacifico as a lunch place, they do open during dinner hours! Make sure to check their website for specifics!

If you are here during the day we recommend you explore Prinzessinengarten (very atmospheric community gardens) right across from Moritzplatz. Take a book to read or just wonder around. It is totally worth a visit. A great community run project that screams “BERLIN”!

PACIFICO’S WEBSITE

Address: PRINZENSTRASSE 84.1 | 10969 BERLIN

PACIFICO

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We had heard the buzz around this place and were curious about trying it but, for some reason, it took us a while. Now we cannot stop going back. Kanaan is simply that good. Some of the best middle eastern flavors you will find in town.

Kanaan is located on a quiet and super cool area between Prenzlauer Berg and Pankow neighborhoods. In fact, it is a perfect lunch or dinner spot if you are exploring the Mauerpark area. Take the subway (both S-Bahn and U-bahn) to Schönhauser Allee Station and walk for 5-7 minutes. They have recently opened Kanaan Express in Kreuzberg and we have yet to go by, but we hear the food is just as good. 

The restaurant is located on a corner lot and looks quite interesting with unmatching everything…from chairs, to tables and fixtures. Very “Industrial with a touch of East Berlin”. Very casual and funky. Most tables are outdoors, but there is quite an atmospheric covered back area, where you can sit and observe the trains go by! Yes, Kanaan is located right above the train tracks. Super cool!

The staff is not only good-looking but also very, very friendly. Service is good and to the point. And the food….ah…the food. We basically loved everything we have eaten here. Every time!

The menu reflects the multi cultural bakground of owners and chefs. Israel, Palestine, Syria, Morocco, Russia are only a few of the represented cultures. We simply cannot get the Malawach Sabich and the increadible Cauliflower dish (we had to order it twice!) out of our minds! That said, you are safe ordering pretty much anything on the menu. Come here for lunch, dinner or brunch! 

We have recently learned that beyond making delicious food, Kanaan is also a very socially responsible business. They often cook with refugee chefs and have a great program where they pair at-risk German youth with refugee youngsters and get them working together on their spice business. Sounds great, ha?

Address 1: Kopenhagener Str. 17, 10437 Berlin

Address 2: Blücherstrasse 37, 10961 Berlin

KANAAN’S FACEBOOK FACE

KANAAN

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KANAAN EXPRESS

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By the time I finish writing this post, I am sure another new salad/healthy food establishment will have opened in Berlin. This is not necessarily a new trend. However, for some reason, the city has seen an unprecedented number of high quality healthy salad bars popping up in the past year. Good news for us that are looking for the BEST HEALTHY SALAD RESTAURANTS in Berlin (at least a couple o times a week). : – )

Have a look at our top picks and where to find them (make sure to check our interactive map below).

The Store at Soho House

Hands down our favourite salad bar in Berlin. This exciting space is located on the ground floor of Soho House, a members only club. Do not worry, though. No membership is necessary. It is a good idea to order a mixed salad plate and sample a few of the salads at once. Don’t miss out on exploring the whole concept store. It is gorgeous!  Address: Torstrasse 1, Berlin.

The Klub Kitchen

Located in one of the most charming areas in Mitte, The Klub Kitchen serves beautiful and healthy salads and dishes. Clean, sleek and yet inviting. Order at the counter and wait for your dish hanging out with the cool crowd. We had the Green Bowl (yum!), but we’ve heard the Glass noodles made from sweet potatoes are amazing. Also check out the local design stores around this area!  Address: Mulackstrasse 15, Berlin.

Candy on Bone

Photo from Candy on Bone’s FB feed

I know. The name does not immediately screem salads. And to be fair, this place also serves delicious sandwiches and meaty dishes. That said, we did fall in love with their salad options and absolutely recommend them. Candy on Bone is located along Planufer in Kreuzberg, one of the prettiest stretches along the Landwherkanal. Go inside, get your salad and sit outside watching life go by. They have recently increased their seating options for those rainy days.  Address: Planufer 92B, 10967 Berlin

Stella

Stella is located in a quaint and leafy street called Weserstrasse, in the heart of one of the most vibrant and interesting neighbourhoods in Berlin currently.  The design elements are pleasant, tasteful and well thought out. We had a wild rice, pumpkin salad with roasted hazelnuts the last time and we can’t simply take it out of our minds…so delicious. Address: Weserstr.166, Berlin.

The Bowl

This place takes their commitment to salad bowls super seriously. They stay away from trans fat, artificial additives and refined sugars. In fact, they are located above a Vegan supermarket in Friedrichshain. Don’t be fooled, though. The ambiance is sleek and trendy and the salad selection and quality are top notch. Go for the Mexico Bowl or the Makro. They are both super yummy! Address: Warschauer Straße 33, Berlin.

Also make sure to check out:

• Joris

• Superfoods & Organic Liquids

• Daluma

See the interactive map below for directions!

HEALTHY FOOD & SALAD BARS BERLIN MAP

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For the longest time Kanntrasse in Charlottenburg has been known as Berlin’s little “China town”. At least when it comes to food options. We have personally had great mealsin this area since we moved to Berlin and have enjoyed watching its food scene florish. We are happy to report that MADAME NGO VIETNAMESE CUISINE is a new and delicious addition to the mix.

MADAME NGO VIETNAMESE CUISINE is a breath of fresh air in the traditional Vietnamese Berlin food scene. Walk along Kannstrasse just off Savigny Platz and stop when you see the giant “PHO” sign and 3 giant Pho pots through the glass window. Very inviting!

The place has a casual and cool design with industrial, natural and South East Asian elements. We are particularly drawn to the somewhat sexy photographs stuck to the glass entrance doors.

The menu travels between France (appetizers) and Vietnam (Mains, Small plates, Pho, Specials and Bahn Mi). It all looks very appetizing but we have to confess we always go for the Pho options. The Phở bò tái and the Phở bò Madame Ngo are our favorites. The rich and fragant broth itself is worth the trip here. Do not be shy. If you’d like more herbs on your Pho…ask for it!

The crowd is casual and diverse (well…it’s Berlin, so that just abot describes 90% of all places). If anything, folks seem to be a little bit more put-together here than your average Pho joint. Service is good and efficient.

It may be tricky to get a place if you are being spontaneous, so try calling for a reservation if you want to be safe.

Take a stroll around Savignyplatz and stop by one of our favorite bookstores in Berlin: Bücherbogen am Savignyplatz. This beautiful bookstore is located below the train tracks and has an amazing book selection.

MADAM NGO’S WEBSITE

Address: Kantstr. 30, 10623 Berlin

MADAM NGO

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That’s right, folks! BRAMMIBAL’S DONUTS  is the newest doughnut shop in town and they are bringing the Berlin doughnut game up! There has been a buzz about this place for a while and to be honest, when we heard the doughnuts were vegan, we were like….No, thanks! But since then, close friends (whom we trust) have told us great things….so we had to try it.  Truth is…who knew vegan doughnuts could be great?!

And they have a great location to go with it! BRAMMIBAL’S DONUTS  shop is located along Maybachufer, one of our favorite stretches along the Landwehrkanal, in Kreuzberg. The Turkish Market is located along the same street (on Tuesdays and Fridays). Just hop on the U-Bahn (U8) to Schönleinstrasse and walk for 5 minutes.

The doughnut shop itself is super cute and well designed with casual seating in the front and a cozy sofa area in the back. We particularly like the composition of the mid-century style couch, the exposed white brick with the cool modernist photography. We would hang out here for a while if it didn’t mean that we would gain 1000 pounds.

They offer a great variety of doughnuts, from caramel hazelnut, speculoos, raspberry almonds, cinnamon sugar, toasted coconut to matcha, blueberry, cookies & cream, ginger and much more. We definitely have to keep going back to try all the flavors. Of course, the best companion to a great doughnut is coffee and BRAMMIBAL’S does offer solid cofee options. If you feel like something savory, they also serve bagels from Fine Bagels with toppings on offer. But why would you?

After you’ve stuffed your face with doughnuts, you might want to take a long walk along the Landwehrkanal and enjoy a slice of local life. Tip: walk from Brammibal’s towards Admiralsbrücke and hang out with the locals as the sun sets (especially lively during the warmer months).

BRAMMIBAL’S DONUTS WEBSITE

Address: Maybachufer 8, Berlin

BRAMMIBAL#S DONUTS

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Great bugers in the West Side! The Butcher is a new addition to Kantstrasse in Charlottenburg and reiterates the vocation of this stretch as a foodie strip in Berlin.

Photo from The Butcher’s Website

To be honest, this area has long been associated with respectable Asian (Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese and Taiwanese) food options. It has even been called Berlin’s “Chinatown”. Well, we are quite happy that The Butcher is bringing “diversity” to Kanstrasse.

To get here, take the Subway to Savignyplatz and walk for 5 minutes. Look for the classy black awnings. The Butcher’s design is sleek and modern and the stainless stell and wooden elements definitely give it the distict air of a classy burger joint. We simply love the fridges in the back. Feels hip yet inviting.

Be adventurous and explore the additional two rooms adjancent to the main dining area. There is a library and a super sleek sitting room that The Butcher shares with the hip “Sir Savigny” Hotel. Make sure to check the mural on the backyards wall. It is super cool !

The menu is fun, inventive and delivers consistent good burgers and mains. We have tried the classic “The butcher” and “The Benedict” (Prime Aberdeen Angus beef, ham, fried egg, lettuce, tomato & hollandaise sauce). Both were perfectly cooked and deliciously juicy. The side of sweet potatoes was perfect. We can’t wait to go back to try some of the other burgers and dishes, like the slow cooked Baby back ribs or “The Codfather” (Fresh blue cod, beer battered, tartare sauce & chips).

Photo from The Butcher’s Website

Service is attentive and efficient and the crowd is fun and upbeat. I am telling you, Kantrasse is a hot ticket these days! Make reservations if you do not want to run the risk of having to wait, especially for dinner.

Explore the area around Savignyplatz before or after your meal. It is quite interesting and one of the most happening areas in West Berlin.

The Butcher’s Website

Address: Kantstraße 144 10623 Berlin

THE BUTCHER

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By now you know that we are absolutely in love with Berlin’s inner courtyards. We have even written a quick guide to exploring some of the city’s coolest ones. Not only do these urban oases inspire us to explore and discover some of Berlin’s secrets everyday, but they also hide some of the city’s most atmospheric coffee experiences. Well, get ready for our HIDDEN COURTYARDS COFFEE GUIDE. Also make sure to check out our Hidden Courtyards Food Guide! Check the interactive map below to find them!

Father Carpenter

Located inside Blue Yard, one of Berlin’s most stylish and beautiful couryards, Father Carpenter is the quintessential third wave coffee bar. They serve some delicious snacks and avocado on toast (among other brunch options).

Bonanza Roastery

The new Bonanza Roastery and coffee bar location is not only perhaps the slickest in town but it is also located in a most stunning hidden red brick courtyard complex. Close to a Kinderbauernhof (an urban kid’s farm) in the heart of Kreuzberg. Coffee is top notch and the vibe is truly special.

Barcomi’s

Surrounded by one of Berlin’s most beautiful private art collections (Hoffmann Sammlung) and in a magical couryard linking to one of our favorite streets in Mitte, Barcomi’s is a Berlin institution by now and a perfect spot to stop for cake and coffee. They do serve food as well.

Ben Rahim

Tucked away at the end of the 8th courtyard of Hackeschermarkt, this high quality coffee place is very special. Walk from the Rosenthalerstrasse 40 entrance through the courtyards until you reach this slice of coffee heaven. They also serve some yummy middle eastern sweet treats.

Concierge Coffee

Concierge is the smallest and coziest third wave coffee bar in Kreuzberg. In a charming courtyard right along the atmospheric Paul-Linke-Ufer. Very special. The coffee quality is consistently amazing. Grab your coffee and find a nice spot by the Canal and enjoy your coffee like a local.

The Visit

The Visit is the new comer in the Berlin Third Wave Coffee scene and they chose an increadible location for their first shop/roastery. A beautiful courtyard hidden from the busy and chaotic streets around Kottbusser Tor. Not only is the coffee amazing, but the pastries and small plates are YUM! Just follow the “We have coffee” neon sign!

Companion Coffee

Companion is a hidden gem of a coffee shop. Not only is it hidden in a beautiful Kreuzberg courtyard, but it is also located inside one of Berlin’s coolest concept stores: Voo Store. Needless to say, the coffee served here is amazing.

HIDDEN COURTYARDS COFFEE GUIDE

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