The end of summer often marks the hour of truth for the thinkers and doers who opened new establishments this year. Success, or just another person’s dream crushed by the sometimes harsh Berlin reality? Though Berlin still has lots of space for culinary treats, not everyone manages to hit the nerve. We journeyed though Berlin’s raw, sexy and hip districts to find those who we believe will stay for good.
Fechtner Delikatessen
Opening a restaurant near Rosenthaler Platz isn’t exactly the most innovative idea of the year, but it admittedly still works well. Especially if you’re going with the times and open a lunch spot for health-conscious foodies looking for a quick snack. Fechtner’s emphasis lies on fresh and regional ingredients, both healthy and of highest quality. Expect great salads, sandwiches and self-made smoothies.
893 Ryotei
On busy Kantrstraße there’s a building that looks like a vacant, run-down supermarket with a mirror front panel. But don’t be fooled, beneath the dreary outside lies a culinary shrine for gourmets! Inside lies 893 Ryotei, the latest restaurant by food guru and chef The Duc Ngo, who already brought us Cocolo Ramen and legendary Kuchi. Sitting around a vast open kitchen you’ll find some of the finest fish creations in West Berlin, all the while being amused by the people outside who check their looks in the mirror panel, believing the place was deserted.
Coda Dessert Bar
You can expect greatness when a renowned restaurant designer and a leading pâtissier work on a new concept, and at Coda you get no less than brilliance. Newly opened in Neukölln it offers the perfect symbiosis between dessert and beverages. Many of the drinks are self-made and innovative – you won’t find them anywhere else in the world. They’re paired with world-class desserts and create a unique food experience starting at 15€. Absolutely new concept, unseen in Berlin. Check it out!
Panama
A beautiful two-story restaurant in a Schöneberg backyard paying hommage to Janosch’s children’s book “Oh, wie schön ist Panama” (“Oh, how beautiful Panama is”). It’s the story of a bear and a tiger who go on an adventure to look for an exotic place called Panama. When they finally find a beautiful and exotic cabin by the river, they believe they found Panama – not realizing it in fact is the very home they had left behind. The restaurant’s interior feels exotic but familiar – everything it contains was crafted in Germany. Chef Sophia Rudolph also pays hommage to Janosch, using local ingredients to create exotic tongue-pleasing flavours. 10 points from us!
Shiori
Shiori is a very well-kept Japanese secret in the heart of Mitte. There’s only 10 seats in total, creating a very intimate and private atmosphere that invites you to get in touch with other guests. The food is as brilliant as the minimalistic design – the perfect combination. Be advised: Reservation in advance is mandatory!