In the past ten years, Berlin has become Europe’s third most-visited city. We aim to show you the very best parts of it. This urban metropolis features modern iconic structures and buildings that date back to the 15th century, but Berlin offers more than its breathtaking architecture. Love coffee? The specialty coffee scene is thriving here. Want to explore the city through a culinary itinerary? Our guide features numerous beloved restaurants, including vegan ones. Read on to discover the city’s hidden gems, from design and entertainment to gourmet food!
SHARE THIS Guide
Freitag
After a visit to Freitag, you’ll never see truck tarpaulins quite in the same way again. This innovative brand has brought a breath of fresh air to the accessories market. Using recycled truck tarpaulins, the Switzerland-based brand crafts one-of-a-kind bags, backpacks, and accessories that match their functionality and minimal design with their vibrancy. If you don’t want to get a new bag, you can also check out a range of apparel designed with the same minimalist aesthetic.
The Amazing Crocodile Design Store is a concept shop that acts almost like a gallery space for young designers from all over the world. Founder Jana Kubischik trained as an architect and opened the store in 2015. She favors avant-garde and innovative designs from new brands you probably can’t find elsewhere, but you can also buy products created by a few well-established designers.
Fan of hats? You should definitely stop at Rike Feurstein. This shop offers handmade hats made from 100% fur felt, seagrass, or Panama straw. The founder, designer and milliner Rike Feurstein, makes the products using an almost extinct craft, shaping them into modern, distinctive and innovative shapes. Bonus design trivia: one of her hats won a RedDot Design Award in 2013.
Fein und Ripp is a family-run shop where you can find vintage, never-worn clothing from the 20s and 30s and a range of special items that include mining pants, original Henley-style shirts, or vintage-style suits made from 40s fabric. The brands featured in the shop are heritage-inspired, taking you on a trip to the times when everything was well-crafted and effortlessly elegant.
Upcycling Deluxe transforms one man’s trash in another man’s treasure via innovative designs that are chic and modern. A perfect example of the creativity that characterizes the upcycling movement, the store offers distinctive products, including bottle cap earrings, wallets made from old cement sacks, hats crafted from coffee sacks, and bags made of old vinyl records or number plates.
Wingwheels is a must-visit store for any e-cycling fans. Customers can choose from a wide range of e-bikes, including bicycles designed for racing, trekking, commuting, or leisure riding. Accessories from well-known brands, a renting service and a repair shop are also available. This is also the only shop in Berlin where you can test the carbon fiber Leaos pedelec which is made in Italy.
The Store is designed to provide much more than the standard retail experience. Founded by British designer Alex Eagle, this concept shop brings together creative minds from all over the world to establish a sense of community. Art, fashion, music, and good food as well as special events make this store a necessary stop on your Berlin itinerary.
SOTO offers an eclectic range of menswear that covers any occasion and style preference. From minimalist Scandinavian outerwear to classic designs, from cool sneakers to handmade footwear and the latest in men’s fashion, you will surely find a new favorite here.
If you love fashion, The Corner must be on your ‘to visit’ list while you’re in Berlin. Among clothing and accessories made by world-renowned fashion designers and international brands you will also find a range of art, magazines and exclusive skincare collections.
The owners of Parkhaus Berlin travel the world and bring back gorgeous items to sell in their store. The products are varied and range from furniture to clothing and home accessories, but all of them are special and distinctive. They also sell lighting fast, but the good news is that you’ll always find something new and exciting here.
A heaven for design aficionados, Dopo Domani immerses its customers into a world filled with iconic furniture, lighting and décor items as well as the latest in contemporary design. You’ll probably spend a significant amount of time here, walking through the rooms which are designed to look like the interior of a stylish home.
Kochhaus is unlike any grocery store you’ve ever seen. The products are not arranged in product groups, but are placed instead on 18 separate tables that correspond to a recipe. Customers choose the recipe they want to try at home and can purchase the exact measurements to cook for a certain amount of people. A must-visit shop for any cooking and good food lovers!
The SIEBENSACHEN store opened in 2003. It was founded by Jörg Adam and Dominik Harborth, who are both product designers and have been working together since the 90s. You can browse through their own collection, S7, where you’ll discover a range of creatively designed items, including the popular Mozartkugel Musical Box.
Co-founded by a German designer and a Swiss artist, SÜPER STORE offers a range of beautifully crafted everyday objects, accessories, glassware, and designer furniture. The items are carefully chosen to inspire and to tell a story, so rest assured that you’ll find at least a few gems here.
Saint George’s New & Second-hand English Bookstore
Saint George’s New & Second-hand English Bookstore is a perfect place to visit if you want to add a book or two to your reading list. Here you can find new and second-hand hand-picked books with a focus on philosophy, poetry, theory, and history. There are plenty of both fiction and non-fiction titles, with new shipments from US and UK arriving five times a week.
“Style is something you have, not something you buy,” says Denim Project. This Danish fashion label offers its collection of denim products alongside vintage items that include dresses and Nordic sweaters to create a distinctive and urban-chic look.
lala Berlin was founded by Iranian designer Leyla Piedayesh. Here you’ll find gorgeous designs that combine “urban cool and elegant chic”, whether they’re hand-knitted scarves or silk blouses. A blend of Middle Eastern prints, vibrant patterns and modern minimalism create a striking look that exemplifies the soul of contemporary Berlin perfectly.
Lala Berlin GmbH, Alte Schönhauser Straße, Mitte, Berlin, Germany
Walther König is probably one of the best art bookstores you can find, not only in Berlin, but anywhere. The selection of books is astounding and includes rare titles and antiquarian books. The friendly staff is always on hand to help you find a specific book, but if you’re not looking for something in particular, you can just immerse yourself in a world of art, photography and architecture.
Shakespeare and Sons is everything a cozy bookstore should be and more. The décor is filled with vintage details and comfortable seating areas. The books are incredibly varied, from philosophy to children’s, in English and French, both used and new. Don’t forget to buy a traditional New York bagel (or more than one, we’re not judging you) and a cup of coffee from the cafe to make your visit truly special.
You might not have the time to browse through the over 2 million titles Ocelot offers in store and online, but you will definitely have time to discover at least a few gems here. The store claims it is “not just another bookstore”, and we have to agree. You can enjoy an espresso and a slice of cake while reading through a book or magazine, check on your messages using the free Wi-Fi and also stop by Philipp-Schaeffer Bibliothek, located in the back room.
At Pro qm you’ll find an impressive collection of books that range form economics and politics to architecture and urban subcultures. Located in a 1920s building, Pro qm was founded in 1999 and redesigned by architects ifau und Jesko Fezer. The thematic bookstore encourages discussion and social engagement through various events, book presentations and exhibitions. Local artists and architects also frequently visit the store.
This cool Berlin bookstore stocks a vast range of architecture, art, photography, and interior design magazines from all over the world. It’s not surprising, as the store is located in the heart of the art scene in Berlin. At Do You Read Me?! you’ll find quirky publications and books – you will easily discover new favorites here!
Love photography books and small print art publications? Then you must drop by Motto at Skalitzer Straße in Kreuzberg. It’s the first bookstore opened by Motto Distribution, a company that distributes books and magazines from 150 publishers to over 100 stores around the world. The Berlin store is located in an old frame factory and features dark wood walls and rows upon rows of good books. The perfect place to lose yourself for a couple of hours on a rainy afternoon.
At Godshot, the art of making coffee is taken seriously. Each shot is accurately weighed and each cup is served only if it matches the exacting standards of the barista. The result is a dark espresso filled with flavor and aroma, which can be perfectly balanced with a slice of French tart, cake or a croissant.
Five Elephant is one of the most popular coffee shops in Berlin, supplying its roasted beans to other cafes in the city. The beans are bought directly from the farmers and roasted on the premises, filling the interior with the unmistakable and intoxicating smell of freshly roasted coffee. Have a cup, but remember to also order a slice of cheesecake as many say it’s divine. Fun fact: laptops are banned in the main area, forcing people to (gasp!) literally talk to each other over a cup of coffee.
Recently opened, the Father Carpenter Coffee Brewers has already gained a legion of fans. Flavorful, smooth and delicious coffee, an interior courtyard full of peace, sweet and savory treats – what’s not to love? This is a perfect place to go to when the weather’s warm and you want to chill with a good coffee and something to eat.
Not only does Double Eye serve what many call ‘the best coffee in Berlin’, but it also offers it at a lower price than many other specialty coffee places. The founder of this popular cafe is an award-wining barista, so the place is almost always packed. And since there aren’t tables to sit at, customers either savor their espressos the traditional way, while standing inside or outside, or order the coffee to go.
Go to Distrikt Coffee if you love strong, quality coffee – the beans are brought in from three different roasters located in Berlin, Paris and London, and every drink contains two shots as standard. The décor is gorgeous, blending industrial and vintage features (wooden tables, black steel seating, exposed brick walls) with a warm and welcoming vibe, which is always a winner combination.
Concierge Coffee measures just 15sqm, as it stands in the place of an old concierge’s office (hence the name). Located next door to several office buildings, this miniature coffee shop is a popular place during the mornings and at lunch time, but there are several benches outside where you can enjoy your coffee while soaking up some Berlin sunshine.
The two baristas who opened Companion Coffee have previously worked at The Barn, which says a lot about the quality of their coffee. This café has a distinct personality and serves excellent cups brewed to perfection. Located inside the stylish Voo clothing store, Companion Coffee is a perfect place to visit if you want to relax in a chic ambience and add a few items to your wardrobe at the same time.
If you’ve never heard of ‘slow coffee’, you should definitely go to Chapter One for a cup – chances are you’ll return for another one! This coffee shop offers a wide selection of beans sourced from around the world, with the staff offering friendly advice and help to customers who are confused by the huge variety. The place is cozy and quite small, but it’s perfect for a relaxing coffee break in good company.
Opened by an award-winning barista in 2009, Café CK serves fantastic specialty coffee and has quickly become a popular neighborhood hub. Go here for your coffee fix, whether you prefer a strong espresso (served in a glass!), a refreshing iced coffee, a delicious latte, or a foamy cappuccino. If you’re lucky enough to be in Berlin during one of the tasting events, make sure you go for a chance to taste coffees from all over the world!
At The Barn, coffee brewing is elevated to an art. The premium quality beans are roasted in London and immediately shipped to the café where they’re brewed using three different methods and water filtered through a reverse osmosis system. The staff may be a bit particular about coffee (crema and sugar are frowned upon), but the passion for coffee obviously runs high at The Barn. Which means that every cup will taste awesome because it will be brewed to perfection.
This spacious and bright café is a favorite hub for many locals and has a welcoming atmosphere, meaning that children, dogs, and even tourists are welcome. Designed with a book and magazine area and offering a separate (and quiet) reading or work space, this coffee shop is ideal for those who want to browse through an architecture or art magazine while they enjoy a cup of great coffee. Here you can also order homemade cakes and a range of sandwiches to give you enough fuel to continue exploring Berlin.
Bonanza Coffee is serious about the coffee it offers and every step of the manufacturing process is completed by people who are as passionate about coffee as the owners of this popular café. The roasting stage is done in-house and defies convention, with shorter roasting times ensuring a cleaner flavor and a taste that is distinctly Bonanza.
Whether you’re in the mood for a cappuccino or want to savor some delicious French patisseries, you really shouldn’t miss Du Bonheur. The décor is lovely, with pink walls and flowers adorning the tables, but it’s the mini cakes you’ll be thinking about for days. These gorgeous creations are works of art in miniature and you’ll also have a range of macarons to choose from.
Olivia has a sweet and charming exterior that includes red and white striped awning and white seating reminiscent of French coffee shops. But you’ll find an even sweeter range of products inside to go with your cup of espresso. From chocolate bars and French tarts to hand-painted chocolate chip cookies and cakes in an adorable jar, this is a must-visit location for anyone with a sweet tooth.
This creatively decorated coffee shop has an equally creative concept at its core. Kinkibox was founded by two fashion design graduates and features sewing machines placed on tables, with a vintage-inspired décor blending eclectic furniture and lighting designs. Customers can work on their sewing projects and then enjoy a cup of coffee while they admire their work. The coffee shop also organizes workshops and events throughout the year.
Stop by Aunt Benny for a cup of aromatic coffee accompanied by a bagel from a varied selection or a slice of homemade cheesecake. But if you’re hungry after exploring the gorgeous streets of Berlin, you can also enjoy a more substantial meal, including paninis, muffins, and salads. This welcoming coffee shop is also ideal for breakfast, as it offers a wide range of muesli options and other treats to give you a boost in the morning.
Curry 36 is the kind of place that may not look like much at a glance, but it’s always packed and ultimately achieves an almost iconic status. Many places in Berlin serve the famous currywurst, but none can match the appeal of Curry 36, a street stall that has served the fast-food staple for more than 30 years. It’s open from 9:00 am to 5:00 am, catering to those who are on a lunch break from work but also to the people taking a detour on their way home at night while trying (very hard) to maintain their balance.
If you go to the Ottenthal restaurant, you can order schnitzel and homemade Viennese apple strudel while you listen to Mozart and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the elegantly simple décor. The restaurant offers a blend of contemporary and traditional Austrian cuisine, as well as an impressive range of Austrian wines. Fun fact: the beautiful clockwork is actually taken from the village of Ottenthal, and it has been wound up daily for the past 100 years.
Volver serves traditional Andalusian-Spanish tapas which are made using recipes passed down from one generation to the next. Run by a couple, the restaurant is only open in the evenings, as the owners are also the ones who cook and prepare the meals. The atmosphere is cozy and warm, as one would expect from a place that serves tapas, which are traditionally meant to be shared and enjoyed at one table with family and friends.
If you love sushi and authentic Japanese food, you must pay a visit to Sasaya. It’s regarded by many as the best Japanese restaurant in Berlin. Apart from the aforementioned sushi, you can order a range of fish dishes, delicious seaweed salad and a range of teas and sakes. Keep in mind that this extremely popular restaurant requires a reservation, and you’ll probably have better luck booking a table for lunch.
Berlin’s Glass restaurant has a sophisticated décor you can get a glimpse at through the impressive glass facade. The simple black tables and seats are contrasted by a gleaming silver curtain that surrounds the kitchen and partly reflects the diners. The refined cosmopolitan menu is inspired by Berlin and visual arts, offering gourmet dishes made from locally sourced and ethically produced ingredients. It’s a stylish place where you can choose between two tasting menus that change frequently.
At Monsieur Vuong you can enjoy the exotic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, fragrant jasmine blossom or lemongrass teas, and authentic Vietnamese espresso, all of which will transport you for a couple of hours to the streets of Hanoi and Saigon. The menu changes every two days, so you’ll have the opportunity to discover new culinary gems every time you visit this popular restaurant.
The Bird is a New York-style bar and restaurant that prides itself on serving the best burgers and steaks in Berlin. Said burgers are made with premium German ground beef and served with homemade pickles and fresh veggies, while the steak is actually imported from a US farm and dry-aged for 30 days. Here you’ll also find Spanish ribs and locally sourced and deliciously smoked pulled pork. Or put more simply, a heaven for meat eaters.
This stylish restaurant offers Asian and German-inspired dishes in a refined décor that features industrial accents and soft lighting. Here you can also enjoy listening to live music and savor cocktails at the elegant bar. Just remember, most first-time customers overlook the entrance at first, as Tausend is perfectly hidden behind a nondescript metal door underneath a bridge.
Mogg is located in an imposing red brick structure designed by Alexander Beer and built in 1927, which already makes it quite interesting. But even though it’s located in Berlin, this culinary destination is actually a New York-style deli that has received a glowing review from The New York Times. A must-visit place for all homesick New Yorkers, for those who love pastrami sandwiches, and anyone who wants a taste of the city everyone loves without booking a plane trip.
Nobelhart & Schmutzig doesn’t simply prefer local ingredients, but it actually uses ONLY locally grown ingredients. This means that lemons, tuna or chocolate are nowhere to be found on the menu. Supporting local farmers and preparing the meals with seasonal ingredients, the restaurant offers mouth-watering dishes which are made using traditional methods and age-old techniques.
This popular vegan restaurant offers a range of vibrant dishes made with locally grown ingredients which are predominantly organic, seasonal and always fresh. The lovingly made dishes are not only healthy and delicious, but they also include various gluten free and raw options as well as vegan cheesecakes made with almond and cashew ‘cheeses’. Yum!
In the country where sausages are as varied as the pasta shapes in Italy, it’s refreshing to stumble upon a gourmet vegan restaurant. Lucky Leek is more than just a place that provides meat-free alternatives – it takes customers on a delicious and revelatory culinary experience via haute cuisine. It’s no wonder non-vegans love this place!
