Berlin… a vibrant and eclectic city, full of contrasts and surprises. From the famous Brandenburg Gate to avant-garde buildings scattered across the skyline, Berlin’s atmosphere is unmistakable. We were pleasantly surprised by how much we enjoyed this place!
When it comes to gastronomy, Berlin does not disappoint. Whether you’re craving a hearty portion of pork knuckle at a traditional beer hall or seeking a culinary adventure at a Michelin-starred vegetarian restaurant, this city has it all. For a quick and affordable lunch on the go, try the traditional currywurst or the famous döner kebab. Be sure to visit the 6th floor of one of the largest department stores in Europe, KaDeWe, where you’ll find luxury delicatessens and a complex of restaurants. From 1300 types of cheese to an impressive selection of fish and seafood… the choice is enormous.
However, Berlin offers more than just amazing culinary experiences. The city pulses with creativity and a mesmerizing street art scene, attracting artists, musicians, and free spirits from around the world.
KaDeWe Feinschmeckerbars
KaDeWe Feinschmeckerbars is a paradise for food lovers. This luxury gourmet food hall not only boasts an impressive selection of fish and seafood, cheeses, cured meats, sweets, and alcoholic beverages but also features many bars and restaurants.
Austernbar @ KaDeWe
In the luxurious KaDeWe, you’ll find the best place in Berlin for fresh oysters, Austernabar, literally translated as the oyster bar. The menu features many different varieties of these shellfish from various parts of the world, as well as a selection of other fish and seafood. Do yourself a favor and don’t miss the delicious smoked eel, perfectly paired with a spicy horseradish sauce.
Cookies Cream
Hidden among the bustling streets of Berlin, there is a restaurant called Cookies Cream, serving innovative and modern vegetarian cuisine, awarded a Michelin star. Finding this iconic place is an experience in itself. The entrance is tucked away in an unassuming courtyard behind the Westin Grand Hotel. Look for the ornate chandelier that will lead you to a door lit by a few light bulbs. This is the epitome of Berlin’s rebellious spirit. The decor is unique… cool, modern elegance. A concrete ceiling with disco balls hanging from it, hinting at the place’s history, brick walls, white tablecloths, candles, fuchsia-colored chairs, and electronic music pulsing in the background. The atmosphere is unbeatable.
4 course menu €59 / 3 course menu €49
Hackethals
A lively pub proudly serving hearty flavors of German cuisine. On the daily changing menu, written on a chalkboard, you’ll find German classics such as boiled pork knuckle, potato dumplings, and sauerkraut. Their house-brewed beers are recommended to accompany your meal.
Hofbrau Wirtshaus
Hofbräu Wirtshaus is a lively beer hall where the spirit of Bavaria comes to life. When you step inside, you are greeted by the tempting aroma of German classics like pretzels, pork knuckle, sausages, and spätzle. But let’s be honest, you don’t come here just for the food; you come for the experience. Imagine wooden benches filled with laughing guests, staff dressed in traditional Bavarian attire, and a band playing lively tunes. It’s like being transported to a bustling Oktoberfest… order a stein of beer and join in the fun.
Konnopkes Imbiss
Hidden under the railway line, you’ll find Konnopkes Imbiss, the most famous sausage stand in Berlin, with a history dating back to 1930. The star of the show is currywurst, sausage with ketchup and curry, including a vegetarian option. Savor this simple snack surrounded by the hustle and bustle of the city, while sipping a chilled pilsner.
Mustafas Gemuese Kebab
A visit to Berlin would not be complete without a trip to Mustafa’s Gemüse Kebap. Kebab is the undisputed king of street food in Berlin, and this iconic stand has gained an almost legendary status among both locals and visitors. In addition to the chicken kebab, you’ll find a veggie option with grilled vegetables on the menu.
Zur Letzten Instanz
Zur Letzten Instanz is the oldest restaurant in Berlin, a place where history meets gastronomy. We love visiting such historic establishments, where stepping inside feels like time has stood still. The menu is short but well-composed. Andrzej couldn’t resist ordering their signature meatballs, and I chose the fish of the day. The meatballs were delicate and full of flavor, and my fish in lovage sauce was perfectly prepared.
Rawtastic
earching Berlin’s culinary scene for interesting vegetarian places, we came across Rawtastic, a restaurant serving raw, vegan dishes made from organic products. Raw means that the ingredients can be heated to a maximum temperature of 40 degrees Celsius. We tried the caprese with cashew mozzarella and the avocado pizza. Unfortunately, this restaurant no longer exists, but if you find yourself in Berlin, it’s worth looking for other places serving healthy and creative vegan cuisine, which Berlin abounds in.
Cafè cinema
Next to the iconic Hackescher Markt, along a graffiti-filled alley, lies one of the most beloved bars in the Mitte district. Café Cinema is an atmospheric spot for coffee or beer, with dim candlelight and vintage-style knick-knacks adorning the interior. The atmosphere is artistic, unpretentious, and fun—a place you want to return to.
