Cocktails, Coffee, and Cardamom Buns | Rediscovering Berlin’s Magic
Summer in the capital is the motto of July, and the vibrant streets of Berlin are calling me back. I missed the city, its people, and the incredible freedom and diversity it offers. I’m thrilled to return to my old home, ready to revisit my favourite spots and uncover new hidden gems. From sipping cocktails to savouring specialty coffee and indulging in delicious cardamom buns, join me as I dive into the heart of Berlin once again.
Timeless Treasures
Windhorst Bar | Berlin’s Hidden Gem for Classic and Serious Drinking
It’s not just the quality of drinks and food—it’s the hospitality and the bar team that truly make a place memorable. How they care for you, understand your preferences, and make you feel special in the end. One of my favourite bar seats in Berlin is at Windhorst Bar, nestled near Friedrichstrasse station. The essence of Windhorst Bar lies in their professionalism, mastery of their craft, and genuine care for their guests. The drinks are always on point, offering a relaxing experience for my taste buds with classics that have a contemporary twist, and you’ll find a fine selection of spirits on the shelf. If you haven’t been there, it’s a must-visit for real cocktail lovers.
Beyond the top-notch cocktails and cosy atmosphere, it’s the exceptional hospitality that stands out. Günter Windhorst and his team craft each drink with meticulous care, blending creativity and sustainability. Every visit is a delightful experience, making Windhorst Bar a true gem in Berlin’s bustling center. Cheers to unforgettable nights and the art of fine drinking. You’ll already find many of my love stories about Windhorst on my website.
What I especially like about the drinks is their nod towards France and the selected selection from Armagnac and Cognac to Calvados and French fortified wines. What’s in My Glass?
Normandie Fleurie: pommeau de normandie, calvados vsop, van nahmen riesling juice, avaa verjus, bénédictine liqueur and toasted pecan bitters
Hildegard Bar | A Poetic Journey of Music and Craft Cocktails in Berlin
Hildegard Bar is another destination in Berlin’s vibrant bar scene whre i return when i am in town. Located near the historic Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, this bar offers a blend of tranquility and exclusivity, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s a place where one can escape the daily grind, feel at home, and enjoy a special drink. In summary, Hildegard Bar stands out as a gem in Berlin West, offering an exceptional blend of atmosphere, history, and creativity. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a meticulously crafted drink in a thoughtfully curated setting.
Thomas Pflanz, a mainstay of the Berlin bar scene, has poured his experience and passion into creating Hildegard Bar. Named after Hildegard Dahlmann, Hildegard Knef, and Hildegard von Bingen, the bar reflects a blend of exclusivity, artistic heritage, and historical nods. This thoughtful blend is evident in every detail of the venue, from the interior design to the lighting, the long bar counter, the jukebox, and even the meticulously curated ladies’ restrooms. The carefully curated music selection adds to the bar’s charm, making it a haven for both drink enthusiasts and music lovers. Pflanz’s passion for music is seamlessly integrated into the bar’s ambiance, enhancing the overall experience. Drinks like the “Watermelon Man,” inspired by Herbie Hancock’s song, and other literary-themed concoctions, such as the Bukowsky, highlight Pflanz’s innovative approach. The Bukowsky, for instance, is made with fat-washed bourbon and served with crispy bacon and a beer side, inspired by Bukowski’s poetry. Each cocktail is not just a drink but an intellectual and poetic journey.
Green Door | Always Worth a Revisit for Its Specialness
Originally founded as a speakeasy, Green Door has become one of Berlin’s most iconic cocktail bars. For nearly 25 years, this Schöneberg gem has offered a relaxed atmosphere where attentive hosts serve both classic and signature drinks. Read my adventure.
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Local Liquid Landmarks
Velvet | From Garden to Glass – The Unique Charm of Velvet Bar
Velvet Bar in Berlin is a trendy cocktail bar known for its innovative and seasonal approach. Located in the vibrant Neukölln district, the bar emphasises locally-sourced ingredients and frequently changes its menu to reflect the freshest produce available. Velvet’s cocktails are creative, often incorporating unusual flavours and homemade infusions. The bar’s intimate and stylish ambiance, combined with its focus on sustainability and quality, makes it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts and those seeking a unique drinking experience in Berlin.
How does Velvet stand out from other bars?
Velvet offers a unique win-win situation for both the bar and its guests: Self-collected drink ingredients provide individuality and an extraordinary cocktail experience. Processing ingredients that cannot be found in a market opens up a much broader spectrum of flavors, bringing a unique spice to the drinks. The bar team selects the highest quality ingredients and decides on the perfect time for their ripening. Additionally, foraging is a calming and peaceful activity and a balancing contrast to the hectic bar life. The cocktail menu is ever-evolving and changes with the seasons, reflecting the availability of foraged ingredients. This keeps the offerings dynamic and intriguing, consistently providing guests with new and exciting experiences. Additionally, foraging requires the bar team to invest time and effort outside the bar, which fosters a deeper connection to the ingredients and heightens their appreciation for natural resources. Operationally, foraging introduces a level of unpredictability and necessitates flexibility in supply chain management. The team must be prepared to adapt based on the availability of ingredients and ensure they align with the bar’s high standards. Overall, foraging enriches the Velvet Bar’s identity, adding a layer of authenticity and commitment to quality that resonates deeply with cocktail enthusiasts.
What’s in My Glass? My last tastebud treat was the Strawberry, and its taste still lingers on my tongue.
A symphony of flavours dances upon the palate. The crisp purity of Blanco Tequila melds with the lush sweetness of freshly juiced strawberries, a tender kiss of summer’s embrace. Mezcal adds a whisper of smoke, weaving through the warmth of Amontillado Sherry like a golden sunset over the horizon. Hazelnut Spirit lends a nutty depth, while pink pepper sprinkles a delicate hint of spice, creating a harmonious blend that is both vibrant and soothing.
Kink Bar & Restaurant | Industrial Charm and “Spaceknot” Ambiance
Nestled in the vibrant district of Prenzlauer Berg, KINK Bar & Restaurant stands out as a destination that merges modern culinary artistry with a chic, industrial atmosphere. Located at Schönhauser Allee 176, KINK is easily accessible via public transit, with the U2 Senefelderplatz station nearby.
Housed in a restored industrial building, KINK effortlessly blends high-end sophistication with a relaxed ambiance. The interior is a harmonious fusion of contemporary design and industrial chic, featuring exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and large windows that create an airy, open feel. The bar, staged in the center of the main room with its lofty ceiling, evokes the charm of Cuba’s colonial industrial aesthetic. A unique highlight is the captivating hundred-meter-long mesh of neon tubes, which at first glance seems like a spontaneous scribble. This neon installation, known as “Spaceknot,” is a masterpiece by Kerim Seiler, elegantly interacting with the architectural scale of the room and offering new perspectives with every visit.
KINK boasts an in-house cocktail lab where the skilled bar staff work their magic, adding an extra individual touch to each cocktail. The lab, complete with a rotovap, is a fascinating feature you can discover while exploring the space. One of the highlights of the KINK Bar menu is the option to choose between short and long versions of each drink, allowing guests to adjust the alcohol strength and play with the flavours. Renowned for its eclectic mix of international cuisine and innovative cocktails. The food menu is crafted with seasonal ingredients, providing a fresh and dynamic dining experience.
Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a sophisticated meal or a stylish spot to unwind with friends over cocktails, KINK Bar & Restaurant in Berlin is worth a visit. Its combination of exceptional food, inventive drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere ensures a unique and unforgettable experience. In the summer, you can also enjoy the large garden area, perfect for a relaxing evening outdoors.
Goldfisch Bar | Where Relaxed Vibes and Uncomplicated Hospitality Meet
Nestled in the vibrant Friedrichshain district of Berlin, Goldfisch Bar is a hidden gem that exudes charm and sophistication. Located at Grünberger Strasse 67, this bar has become a haven for cocktail lovers seeking quality drinks and an intimate atmosphere. Entering Goldfisch Bar is like stepping into a timeless retreat. The soft lighting casts a warm glow, enhancing the inviting ambiance and making it the ideal place to unwind after a long day.
The interior is thoughtfully designed, featuring exposed brick walls and a long bar stocked with an impressive array of spirits. A striking mural of three Japanese women, embodying the ‘see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil’ motif, dominates the back wall, adding an artistic flair that complements the bar’s sophisticated aesthetic. The seating is cosy and well-arranged, with a mix of small tables and a large couch area at the far end of the room. This layout ensures an intimate experience, perfect for both solitary reflection and engaging conversation.
One of the most endearing aspects of Goldfisch Bar is its commitment to offering creative and high-quality cocktails. The menu features both classic and innovative drinks, along with house specialties. Each drink is crafted with precision and passion, reflecting the bartenders’ expertise and dedication to their craft. What truly sets Goldfisch Bar apart from the crowd in Berlin is its down-to-earth, welcoming atmosphere. The bartenders are not only highly skilled but also incredibly personable. The absence of pretentiousness makes it a relaxed place to go, ensuring each visit is a good experience.
My connection with Goldfisch Bar goes beyond its enchanting drinks and ambiance. I first met the co-owner, Kai Wolschke, a decade ago when I was just beginning my cocktail journey in Berlin. Little did I know, our paths would cross again at Goldfisch Bar, where he immediately recognised me. Kai’s magic lies in his incredible memory; he seems to remember everything. Over the years, we’ve become good friends, and every visit to Goldfisch feels special, filled with a comforting sense of nostalgia and friendship.
In a bustling city like Berlin, it’s a delight to find a tranquil spot like Goldfisch Bar. It remains one of my favorite places, where I can reminisce about good times and create new memories. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just looking to relax with a drink, Goldfisch Bar is a must-visit in Friedrichshain.
Fresh Finds – New Discoveries in Berlin’s Bar Scene
Himitsu | Berlin’s Hidden Japanese Spirits Bar
Himitsu, meaning “secret” in Japanese, is a hidden bar tucked away in the heart of Berlin, specializing in Japanese spirits. Here’s a sneak peek into my adventure at Himitsu.
My quest began at Manifesto Market in Potsdamer Platz. Booking online was a must (limited seating, trust me). Excitement mounted as I weaved through the vibrant market, following clues like Japanese magazines and manga. Moments later, I was welcomed into a small, intimate space. Himitsu’s ambiance immediately enveloped me. The cosy space, bathed in soft lighting, featured five seats at the bar and an additional 20 seats at six round tables adorned with dark red velvet sofas and golden-yellow-black chairs. The atmosphere was perfectly complemented by the background music, which was audible enough to enhance the mood yet soft enough for conversations. The hosts at Himitsu were incredibly warm and attentive, guiding me through their exquisite selection of Japanese spirits.
The menu offers three categories: a handful of fresh cocktails, highballs, and three aged cocktails, which are classic cocktail variations aged in Japanese kame pots. Kame pots are Japanese eartheware pots handmade in Okinawa. The nature of the soil imparts a specific kind of minerality, subtly mellowing and enriching the cocktails’ flavours over time. I don’t want to spill all the secrets, but there are surprising delights waiting for you.
Himitsu offers more than just a drink; it’s an experience that transports you to a different cosmos, a unique timezone, wonderfully mysterious and enchanting. If you find yourself in Berlin, uncover this hidden gem for yourself. If you’re thirsty for Japanese spirits, explore the diversity of Japan’s finest at Europe’s largest selection, right in Berlin at Ginza. From Shochu and Sake to Whisky, Craft Gin, and specialty liqueurs, immerse yourself in a world of flavors at Atelier Ginza on Pfalzburger Straße. They offer regular tasting events and personalized tastings upon request. Visit Ginza.
Lovis Bar | A hidden Gem in a Historical Setting
Imagine a hotel, restaurant, and bar coming together in a former women’s prison – a place where resistance fighters were once held during the Second World War. Intriguing and steeped in history, with just a hint of a dark past. Lovis Bar, however, is not your typical speakeasy. This hidden gem is tucked away in the enchanting courtyard of the Wilhelmina Hotel in Charlottenburg.
Access to the bar is through the old sluice gate, leading you via a charming hidden garden. This relaxed route bypasses the hotel lobby, making the experience feel like a secret discovery. The renowned architectural firm Grüntuch Ernst carefully transformed the space. Throughout the property, the past is preserved without overwhelming the serene atmosphere, with some rooms featuring remarkably thick walls that tell their own story. Special thanks to Ben for an insightful tour from the restaurant to the rooftop sauna and pool. The result is tasteful, respectful, and full of soul—a rare achievement. A staycation in Berlin’s West, where the surrounding city simply fades away.
The concept of Lovis Bar is as unique and inviting as the entire hotel complex. One glance at the back bar reveals something different: rows of identical pharmacy bottles replace the usual branded labels. There’s no focus on brand names or extravagant garnishes. Instead, the emphasis is on flavours and how they work together.
The cocktail menu is presented as a flavour coordinate system: drinks range from light to strong on the x-axis, and from sweet to dry on the y-axis. Twelve distinctive cocktails are offered, numbered and simply described by their ingredients – such as “Rowanberry, Spruce, Lemon” (No. 19). Like the restaurant, the bar places great importance on seasonal and regional ingredients. The spirits, mainly sourced from small artisanal distilleries, reflect the same dedication to quality that defines head chef Sophia Rudolph’s kitchen. This results in a seamless harmony between bar and kitchen, each complementing and inspiring the other. Even the bar food follows this philosophy – with cheese sourced from Blomeyer’s, a local favourite just around the corner.
A visit to Lovis Bar is more than just enjoying a drink; it’s an immersive experience in a building rich with history, where every sip becomes a journey back in time. Come taste the experience for yourself.
It is Coffee Time – Caffeine Chronicles
Acid Mitte Bakery | A Taste of Madrid in Berlin
Or another title of the story could be “my Love for Cardamom Buns: From Copenhagen to Berlin”. My passion for cardamom buns began last year in Copenhagen. At the legendary Juno Bakery, I tried my first cardamom bun and was immediately smitten. The Swedish-born baker Emil Glaser, a former Noma chef, briefly worked in Paris before moving back to Copenhagen to open Juno the Bakery. The cardamom buns are incredibly delicious. They’re fluffy, buttery, and oozing with cardamom and sugar. So, so good. No wonder this newfound love eventually led me to Acid Mitte in Berlin where they also serve cardamom buns.
Acid originated in the Barrio de Las Letras in Madrid, where former photographer Fede Graciano opened the first Acid Café in 2017. Over time, the business expanded, giving rise to the Acid Bakehouse and additional locations in Madrid. Each of these venues is uniquely designed, offering an impressive selection of sourdough breads and pastries, accompanied by a constantly changing coffee selection.
Acid Mitte, located on Rosenthaler Straße, sits at a bustling corner, making it the perfect spot to watch people pass by through the large windows. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the delicious cardamom buns are a true delight that keep me coming back regularly. The warm and earthy tones of the tiles dominate the color scheme, creating an inviting ambiance along with the large stainless-steel counter. In addition to classics like croissants, pain au chocolat, cardamom buns, and cinnamon rolls, there are monthly specials that provide seasonal variety.
Moreover, Acid Mitte offers a carefully curated selection of products and projects from friends of the team, including coffee, kombucha, natural wines, and in-house products. The sourdough breads are a standout feature of the café, and the generously cheese-topped buns are delicious.
Acid has become my favorite spot, and I eagerly look forward to the fresh cardamom buns every time I visit. Another highlight is the rotating coffee selection, which recently featured specialty beans from the renowned APRIL roastery.
And if you prefer it more the ‘Danish Way,’ pay a visit to Sofi the Bakery. Located within walking distance in the heart of Hackescher Markt, this hidden spot is known for its delicious artisanal bread, pastries, and cakes, all baked in-house with high-quality ingredients.