Before going to Berlin, I wasn’t sure what to expect. It is a city with a rich history, and I generally associated it with World War II, the Berlin Wall and the Jason Bourne movie franchise (quite a few scenes are filmed there). Was in for a surprise!
Berlin is not a pretty city, however what it lacks in beauty it makes up for in culture! Street art is really big here, and you can see it everywhere you go. Be sure to check out Haus Schwartzenburg Street Art Alley for some of the best examples!
Many original residents left Berlin after the Wall fell in 1989, and the city rebuilt itself into a new, thriving metropolis full of young people, hipsters, cocktails scenes and amazing food. English is very prevalent here, and there seem to be a large number of expat enclaves. There is a lot of diversity here, and it is reflected everywhere you go. As a foodie, the most noticeable for me was Berlin’s food scene. There are definitely some places here you have to check out:
Hallesches Haus – This is a hidden cafe, with a sketchy looking alley entrance. However the inside is amazing. Lots of natural light, a small market and communal seating. This is where people come to work, and meet friends, in a relaxed environment. The turkey burger was very tasty, but the star of the show was their granola bar. Honey, cinnamon, oats…this thing was so good I had to come back twice and buy half a dozen. A great place if you’re looking to relax.
Schnitzelei in Mitte – What could be more authentically German than Schnitzel? Exactly. And this is the best place for it in the city. You are seated and greeted with a complimentary glass of beer. You must get the schnitzel, of course, with spaetzle (potato pasta). It also comes with a side of delicious bread, so make sure to go there with a big appetite!
Father Carpenter – Again, down a nondescript alley, this is honestly the best brunch place I have been to in my entire life! Their menu is seasonal and contains a variety of vegan/vegetarian dishes along with the usual fare of benny’s and eggs. My favourite dish here is the Avocado Toast. Avocado, pesto, eggs, roasted corn….this is a thing of wonder. And I normally don’t like Avocado Toast! I went back twice for this. Be warned though….there is generally a long line, so try to go early and get your name on the list.
Pho – Surprisingly delicious and not generic. I tried the Hardenbergplatz location and I was very impressed. Menu is inventive, great vibe and dishes to suit all tastes. I had the Curry Ga, and loved every bite of it. A nice departure from standard European fare, if you’re looking to add some spice to your life.
Doner Dach – Best Doner/Kebab in the city! This Middle Eastern delight was actually invented in Berlin! And is Berliner’s #1 fast food. They are everywhere!! Here they have a specific style of constructing the pitas and wraps that include meat, french fries, grilled veggies and a sprinking of delicious seasoning sauce. They are so good that I actually ate this 3 out of the 7 nights that I was in the city. A must try!
Of course, after eating, you must go for a drink! Berlin has a great cocktail scene, and finding a tasty drink is rather easy. The only hard part is narrowing down your choices! Here are my recommendations:
Monkey Bar – Voted Europe’s best bar, and perhaps one of the coolest bars I’ve ever been to, this bar overlooks the Berlin Zoo and has a jungle theme. This bar is really lively and has a great vibe. It is generally busy no matter when you go, however going earlier in the day on a weekday gives you the most chance of getting in. They have a large, jungle themed cocktail list and there really is something for everyone. My favourite is the Pearl Island Fizz. They also have small plates, if you wanted to snack. Large windows and patio create an outdoor feel during the day, and give you great views of Berlin at night.
Timber Doodle – Strange name, great cocktail speakeasy! This is a small speakeasy type bar with limited seating and creative cocktails. They have a large, storybook menu which is an actual book you can read. It creates a story for every cocktail and is a fun place to spend a few hours drinking and enjoying the creativity.
Newton Bar – Heavy oak tables, red leather seats, 18ft photographs of naked ladies in stilettos…this bar feels like a gentleman’s club meets a modern, trendy cocktail space. This is a good place to see and be seen, and has an extensive cocktail list. My personal favourite is the Vanilla Sky, a vodka based cocktail with vanilla, raspberry and cream. A great place for a sophisticated drink.
If beer is more your thing, the craft beer scene in Berlin is really up and coming. German does have strict purity laws, however these creative breweries are finding a way to incorporate the old with the new (though I’m told the there are actual inspectors who will come in to ensure the beer on premises adheres to the strict laws). That being said, here are some fun beer spots where you can find a creative brew:
BRLO Brwhouse – Brewery, Bar, Restuarant and Beer Garden. This warehouse space is at the forefront of the Craft beer movement in Berlin. They have 20 active taps, in addition to a number of cans and bottles for every taste. They actually do really great food, and host brewery tours if you wanted to see where the magic happens. Spend some time tasting flights and get to know their offerings
Protokoll Berlin – Craft beer bar featuring beer from all over the world, along with a selection of cider and mead. 24 taps to choose from, and a very knowledgeable bar staff to help you decide which beer is best for you. This bar is a run by an American and has a diverse crowd from all over the world.
Berlin is not like other European cities. It is not steeped in tradition, and is open for new ideas, foods and businesses. It feels very alive and there are hidden gems scattered about everywhere. This city will surprise you and it is unforgettable. Contact me today to start planning your Berlin adventure!
