It’s been an institution for Berlin intelligentsia for years located in a charming period building that’s the original location of the Café Einstein empire, Germany’s version of Starbucks. But this super-stylish bistro and coffeehouse is anything but mass-produced. A glossy main dining room is lined in rich walnut paneling, bistro chairs and historic black-and-white photographs of ‘20s Berlin. Tall hand-carved ceilings and oversize picture windows frame treetop views of the buzzing Berlin neighborhood. Just a room away is a dimly lit drinking bar for those moving on from caffeine to more stimulating alcoholic drinks that percolates till 2am.
The Food
The day begins bright and early with a sexy commuter crowd in fashionable eyewear lingering over the Morgenpost while eating homemade breads, pastries, and egg dishes. By afternoon it’s more of a coffee and lunch crowd ordering the occasional chicken sandwich or tossed salad with potato soup while chattering about the latest CDU infighting. By night the menu turns a bit fussier and a lot more French with oysters on the half shell, beef tartare and towering shellfish selection. Entrees are a choice of steak frites with grilled tomatoes, Wiener Schnitzel or goulash with dumplings.
Last Word
Home of the original Café Einstein, this Berlin cafe offers a sexy crowd of neighborhood bohemians enjoying a pricey all-day menu of French bistro specialties.