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A

Aapka
Kastanienallee 50 (Cnr Zionskirchplatz)
Asian – Indian/Pakistani
Tasty North-Indian cuisine, reasonable prices and a cocktail list as long as your arm, all at a prime location - what more could you want? Well, maybe a lift back to your hostel afterwards. But linger, because Aapka is cool enough to hang out after your meal. The music occasionally busts out with some bollywood-bangra or chillout classics for those who have eaten themselves silly and need to digest in the lounge. A lunch and brunch menu (both around €5) are also worth a stop for Kastanienallee shoppers, and so is the happy hour from 5pm. Kastanienallee 50, Mitte, U8 Rosenthaler Platz. Map 4.

Aiko
Brunnenstraße 193
Other
This modern sushi restaurant is a popular hangout for English-speakers - the courteous staff speak english and are happy to welcome large groups. On the food side of things, a generous sushi happy hour lasts all day long and includes half-priced nigiri-sushi, maki-sushi and inside-out maki. Be sure to try the tamago sushi as well as the spicy tuna roll. Another specialty is the tepanyaki, a traditional Japanese meat or fish dish made right before your eyes, with a fire show to go along with it! Vegetarians will also have no problems finding something to eat here - there are a variety of vegetable sushi rolls to choose from. If you’re still feeling adventurous after all this, try one of Aiko's sake cocktails to cap things off. Open daily, midday to midnight. Brunnenstraße 193, Mitte, U8 Rosenthaler Platz, Map 1.

Al Mayas
Grünberger Str. 75
Other, Other
The best thing about Al Mayas is that you get an authentic Arabian-style restaurant atmosphere at 'Döner Kebab' prices. Although you will not find Döner Kebabs on the menu, the traditional Lebanese and Moroccan cuisine will quickly win you over. The house specialty is Lahemishwi- succulent, grilled lamb with couscous. Also highly recommended are the Kombigerichten (combination plates), which allow you to try a little bit of everything that Al Mayas has to offer (from €5). Well- located on popular Boxhagener Platz. Open from 12 midday until 3am. Grünberger Str. 75, Friedrichshain, U5 Samariterstraße, Map 3.

Amrit
Oranienburger Str. 45
Asian – Indian/Pakistani
In three top locations around the city, Amrit’s specialises in Northern Indian food and is a sound bet for a hearty meal. The portions are tasty and super-generous and the menu contains some rare gems that you don’t tend to see at your local Indian eatery. This place has also perfected the cheap cocktail (€4 all night) and runs a roaring trade in drinkers and snackers after 11pm – which ensures that you can still place your food order at 1am. A big, busy establishment – which almost guarantees you a seat immediately and a veritable ‘team’ of service personnel for your table. Mains range from €7 – €13. Winterfeld Str. 40, Schöneberg, U1 U2 U3 U4 Nollendorfplatz, Map 2. Oranienburger Str. 45, Mitte, U6 Oranienburger Tor, Map 1. Oranien Str. 202/203, Kreuzberg, U1 Görlitzer Bahnhof, Map 3.

B

Basi'l
Dircksenstraße 47
Mediterranean
An exciting new italian restaurant with a twist. Expect a wide range of homemade pastas (€6-€10) with the emphasis on ingredients (scampi, walnuts and pears!) rather than stuck-in-the-mud boring sauces. They also do pizzas with a difference - preparing popular french-style tarte flambée. The restaurant itself consists of a bar for cocktails, a 'slow-eating area' for diners and a hidden lounge. Highly recommended are the Aperitivo evenings on Wednesdays with free antipasti and DJs spinning chilled house music after 6pm. Kitchens are open each day from 9am til midnite, the cocktail lounge stays open longer. Dircksenstraße 47, Mitte, S5 S7 S75 Hackescher Markt, Map 1.

Beersaloon am Ku'damm
Kurfürstendamm 225-226
Traditional German, Modern German
A traditional german restaurant with an international range of beers on tap, Beersaloon is a haven for all those on the move in the busy business and shopping area around Kurfürstendamm. With karaoke on thursday, live bands on friday and saturday and space for over 350 guests, this place can really heave. But don't forget to order something from the menu. The traditional Berlin and German dishes are freshly prepared and generous and are definitely worth a try. Extensive coverage of sports fixtures is also par for the course here - football, boxing and formula one being showed regularly on one of the 16 screens. Credit cards accepted. Kurfürstendamm 225-226, Charlottenburg, U/S Zoologischer Garten, Map 2.

Bergmann Köfte
Bergmannstraße 94
Middle Eastern
Obviously Döner rules the roost when it comes to Berlin street food - but wouldn't it be nice to have something you could trust? Bergmann's Köfte is the answer. It's a freshly-prepared (then fried) minced-meat, onion and herb mix on a bed of rice. Prices range from €2 - €4.50. Tip: Don't try asking for the exact recipe, they've been developing it for 18 years and it's a secret. Bergmannstraße 94, Kreuzberg U7 Gneisenaustraße, Map 3

Bonvite
Kurfürstendamm 25 (near Joachimstaler Platz)
Western
The concept behind Bonvite is to give you the sandwich store you know from back home, but fresher. So you get what you want: menus in English, a wide selection of sandwiches (from crayfish to English breakfast) and a variety of salads. But you also get some surprises: freshly prepared smoothies and yoghurt fruit drinks, sushi and the unique ,single sandwich' all prepared by hand. A perfect stop for those who want to quickly rest their legs, have a quality lunch and head back onto the Ku'damm. Open from 9am to 7pm, Monday to Saturday. Lunch Special €4.30 (Drink & Sandwich or Salad). Kurfürstendamm 25, Charlottenburg, U1 U9 Kurfürstendamm, Map 2.

C

Café Einstein (Stammhaus)
Kurfürstenstraße 58
Traditional German, Other
Out on the town, and looking for somewhere to sit by yourself and take in the day’s newspaper? Where does one go in such a noisy city? One’s local Viennese coffee house, of course. Café Einstein is one of the few such classic institutions in Berlin. But beware, this place is much more than just coffee and cake. The kitchen specialises in rare, quality Austrian food, ensuring fabulous dishes each week. With fine attention to detail and set in an 1870s villa, it’s little wonder that the rich and famous are often seen here hiding behind their newspaper. Mains range from 15€ – 20€. Kurfürstenstraße 58, Schöneberg, U1 U2 U3 U4 Nollendorfplatz, Map 2.

Carpe Diem
Savigny Passage 577 (between Uhlandstraße & Grolmannstraße)
Mediterranean, Other
Tucked away in the S-Bahn arches just off Ku'damm, this intimate tapas restaurant is a real treat for fans of the small spanish snacks. Delightful tapas dishes, hot or cold, are available from €3.80 - recommended is the rich spinach croustillante and anything off the daily tapas list. For traditionalists, normal-sized mains are also available - the food genre here expands from Spanish to general Mediterranean (mains €9.50-€17.50). A fine selection of Spanish wines, sherries and brandies and cocktails also await you. Open from 5pm until 1am, Tuesday to Saturday. Savigny Passage 577 (between Uhlandstraße & Grolmannstraße), Charlottenburg, U1 Uhlandstraße, Map 2.

Cochin
Neue Promenade 6
Asian – Thai/Viet/Chinese, Asian – Indian/Pakistani
An oasis in the middle of the very busy Hackescher Markt, Cochin offers a carefree atmosphere in which to dine. The roomy setting, complete with aquarium, makes this Indo-Chinese restaurant (with a focus on Vietnamese food) a relaxing venue for either lunch or dinner. On the cuisine side of things, Cochin is especially known for its South Vietnamese specialties - characterised by sweet soups and rice noodle dishes. Highly recommended is the duck with creamy curry sauce, the won-ton soup and all the rice noodle dishes. The Vietnamese kitchen at this restaurant is a family-run affair, which means you can expect authentic, high-quality Vietnamese food with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. After your meal, be sure to grab a unique Vietnamese coffee. Young, friendly waiters keep the service fast. Open Monday-Thursday 11am-1am, Friday-Saturday 11am-2am and on Sundays from midday until midnight. English menu and credit cards accepted, reservations recommended. Neue Promenade 6, Mitte, S5 S7 S75 S9 Hackescher Markt, Map 1.

D

Da Karlo
Karl Marx Allee 133
Mediterranean
Italian food, with a difference. Located on the typically Soviet Karl-Marx-Allee (an absolute must-see as part of your trip to former east Berlin), this sophisticated restaurant specializes in organic Italian food. Pizza and pasta get a look-in on the menu, but it's in the daily menu that Da Karlo really shines, serving everything from sea bream and swordfish to beef medallions (€4-€15). You can be confident that management goes to great lengths every day to ensure the quality of its meats and produce, sourcing bio-friendly farms in the state of Brandenburg and abroad. Open from 4pm ‘til late. Karl-Marx-Allee 133, Friedrichshain, U5 Frankfurter Tor, Map 3.

Der Alte Schwede
Knesebeckstrasse 92 (Nr Savignyplatz)
Other
Surprisingly, Der Alte Schwede ('the old Swede') is the only place you can eat Swedish food in Berlin (aside from Ikea). And what's more, you get a genuine Scandinavian experience - be it the traditional Swedish bread baked on site (yummo!), the Swedish aperitifs or the broad range of Scandinavian fish specialities (salmon, cod or herring prepared with fantastic sauces). For the adventurous the reindeer and elk are also worth a try. Prices are reasonable for such a unique selection, €8 - €20. Open from 5pm during the week, from 3pm friday to sunday. Knesebeckstrasse 92, Charlottenburg, U2 Ernst- Reuter Platz, Map 2.

Die Turnhalle
Holteistraße 6-9 (Cnr Sonntagstraße)
Mediterranean, Modern German
Die Turnhalle ('the gymnasium') is surely the only one of its type in Berlin. With ladders, basketball hoops and a viewing gallery this place certainly doesn't lack any sports hall authenticity. Nevertheless, Berliners happily laze about in the corners or outside in the beer garden looking very unsporty. Presumably it's the extensive menu, wine list and cocktails that keeps all guests happy and fed (food prices start from €4, mainly with a mediterranean focus). Go on... drop by and re-enact that basketball final from your youth. Holteistraße 6-9 (Cnr Sonntagstraße), Friedrichshain, S41 S42 S8 Ostkreuz, Map 3.

Dolores
Rosa-Luxemburg Str. 7
Western
Named after the center of mexican culture in San Francisco (the Dolores Mission) this place specialises in californian-style gourmet Burritos and does a darn good job of it. Not only is it the only restaurant of its type in Berlin but its attention to detail with its ingredients and recipes is top quality. Pick from tofu, chicken or beef burritos or quesadillas and then add beans, salsa and rice (price between €3 and €5). Tastier and healthier than a Döner! Open 11.30am til 10pm. Rosa-Luxembourg Str. 7, Mitte, S5 S7 S75 S9 U2 U5 U8 Alexanderplatz, Map 1.

E

Einhorn
Wittenbergplatz 5-6, Schöneberg
Vegetarian, Modern German, Traditional German
Eating Vegetarian is sometimes hard to swallow in Berlin, but Einhorn comes to the rescue with established 'Bio Know-How' and a seriously committed staff. Meals are tasty, fast and generous in this self-service kitchen - proof at last that Bio doesn't have to mean boring or expensive. Combine it with a trip to the farmer's market on Wittenbergplatz on a Thursday and feel good about yourself! Meals between €4-€8 - meat options also available. Einhorn I: Wittenbergplatz 5-6, Schöneberg U1 U2 U3 Wittenbergplatz, Map 2. Einhorn II: Mommsenstraße 2 S5, S7, S75, S9 Savignyplatz, Map 2

F

Foodball
Neue Schönhauser Str. 11
Other, Modern German
Already in Barcelona, this exciting new food concept from Camper has just arrived in the fashionable centre of Berlin, near Hackescher Markt. Foodball's idea is simple: produce natural, biologically-safe food for a fast moving guest. The unique result are 'foodballs' - rice balls filled with meat, vegetables or tofu, wrapped up in lettuce. The verdict: delicious. Also pick from a daily soup, healthy sweet options and freshly-squeezed juices. Menus (including a juice and coffee or tea) are available from €5. Open Monday to Saturday, 11am - 8pm. Neue Schönhauser Str. 11, Mitte, U8 Weinmeisterstraße, Map 1.

Franziskushof Stube
Wilmersdorfer Str. 95
Traditional German
Run by the inspirational Brother Thaddaeus, Franziskushof Stube is a German restaurant with a difference. In an effort to actively do something about Berlin's unemployment problem, Thaddaeus' idea was to employ ten long-term unemployed Berliners to help him in his project. After only a few months in business, the restaurant is a roaring success, frequented by locals and in-the know tourists (the meals come in at less than €10, almost unheard of for Ku'damm). On the menu expect generous servings of german favourites, like goulash, eisbein (salted pork) or schnitzel. Make sure to follow it up with a franciscan-brewed fruit liqueur - the tradition continues!! Wilmersdorfer Str. 95, Charlottenburg, U7 Adenauerplatz, Map 2.

G

Good Time
Hausvogteiplatz 11
Asian – Thai/Viet/Chinese, Other
The three Good Time Restaurants have independently developed a good reputation for Thai food amongst Berliners - pretty amazing considering that a new Thai restaurant opens here every eight seconds. Little surprise really as the food quality here is high. All fruit and vegetables are flown-in daily and prepared and cooked traditionally by experienced chefs. Half the menu is also Indonesian - a refreshing mix-up for the Berlin gastronomy scene. Meals range from 12€ - 18€, lunch is cheaper. The fresh juices also give you a taste of the tropics. Hausvogteiplatz 11, Mitte, U2 Hausvogteiplatz, Map 1. Chausseestr. 1, Mitte, U6 Oranienburger Tor, Map 1.

H

Habana Bar
Cnr Simon Dach Str. and Grünberger Str.
Other, Mediterranean
With a wonderful terrace on the intersection of Friedrichshain's two most happening streets, it's no wonder that Habana Bar is popular with the locals. The menu mainly consists of Mexican food (with a dash of tapas), and the enchiladas and quesadas are highly recommended (mains from €6-€9). Happy hour drinks are half price from 6pm until 8pm. The delicious mojito and caipirinha cocktails are always in demand here. The people who come here include a mixture of both locals and inquisitive tourists. Stop here and be seen. Cnr of Simon Dach Str. and Grünberger Str., Friedrichshain, U5 Frankfurter Tor, Map 3.

Hafis
Alt Moabit 47
A large, inexpensive, and busy Iranian restaurant – filled with Iranians, always a sign of authenticity. You feel like you’re being fed in someone’s living room. Listen to the hum of foreign tongues as you choose from an array of dishes and drinks. Try any lamb grill dish, served with Iranian bread and buttered rice. Or perhaps build your own kebab from a plate of fresh ingredients. End your meal with a dish of rose-flavored ice cream. Hafis offers a permanent 30 percent discount off everything in view of an old anniversary. Main courses €6-13. Alt Moabit 47, Mitte. U9 Turmstraâe. Map 2.

Hasir
Oranienburger Str. 4
Other
In a city dominated by over 300 Döner venues, it's little wonder that Hasir has approached Turkish food from a slightly different angle. It specialises in only top-notch Anatolian cuisine, has bakers working on the spot and a team of bow-tied, well-trained staff. For these reason it is a bit of a 'dignitary hot-spot' (even Ms Merkel has sat down for a Kebap) - so wear your smart shoes. Excellently located for the nightlife but, beware, servings are generous, so dancing afterwards may not be an option! Reservations recommended. Oranienburger Str. 4, Mitte, S Hackescher Markt, Map 1.

I

Ishin
Bundesallee 203
Other
In three locations, Ishin Japanese restaurants have always had a good reputation with Berliners who need a quick, quality sushi stop. However, the recent opening of the Wilmersdorf location changes the franchise style from deli to restaurant. The focus on fine traditional Japanese cuisine remains the same: expect quality ingredients, a broad selection of hot meals for the less adventurous, rare Japanese desserts and uniquely boiled rice. The Wilmersdorf restaurant is open from 11am-10pm, the delis from 11am-8pm. (1) Bundesallee 203, Wilmersdorf, U9 Güntzelstraße (2) Mittelstraße 24, Mitte, S1 S2 S5 S7 S75 S9 U6 Friedrichstraße (3) Galleria Steglitz, Schloßstraße 101, Steglitz U9 Schloßstraße. Maps 1, 2.

K

Kabuki
Olivaer Platz 10
Other
Only sushi at this secret-but-stylish restaurant south of Ku´damm. And what a selection! Nigiri, sachimi and temaki are all there but its the wide-range of Kabuki's unique creations that keep bringing the locals back for more. Pick from elaborately named sushi constructions such as the Tiger Eye or the I Feel Like Eel Roll (prices between €3-€14). To complement the meal is a superb selection of Japanese beers and wines and a japan-pop decor. Mention must be made of the sushi boats that go swimming past - a wonder of modern engineering! Open 12 til midnight, cheaper lunch rates for the first four hours. Reservations recommended. Olivaer Platz 10, Wilmersdorf, U7 Adenauerplatz, Map 2.

Kartoffel Laube
Probststraße 1
Traditional German
For an authentic taste of Berlin’s old ’Nikolaiviertel’ head to Kartoffel Laube. Not only is it situated in the shadows of Berlin’s oldest church, the Nikolaikirche, but it serves only traditional German food. As the name might suggest to those with a little German knowledge, this place limits itself to only potato dishes. Nevertheless, the menu has great variation. Choose from all types of traditional styles of baked and boiled potato dishes, a classic Berlin potato soup or the spicy potato ‚firesoup’ (mains from €4-€13.50). Dessert can even include potato cake, for those who can’t get enough! Open from 11am til late, English menus available. Probststraße 1, Mitte, S5 S7 S75 S9 U2 U5 U8 Alexanderplatz, Map 1.

Kuchi Sushi
Gipsstraße 3
Asian – Thai/Viet/Chinese, Other
There are not too many Sushi Restaurants in the world where you can order something called ‘Mr Miyagi’s Pizza Sushi Roll’ and actually feel cool doing it. But at Kuchi they will literally try to roll up anything in seaweed and see if they can get away with it. They pull it off easily – mainly because they are a friendly, family-run business and yet, at the same time, the place is so damn über-cool. Thankfully, prices for Kuchi’s extreme sushi creations (some of which have actually been trademarked) are not overly exclusive, with generous servings starting at €8. Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner, Sundays after 6pm. If someone in your group doesn’t order ‘My Best Friend’s Roll’ you are not cool. Gipsstraße 3, Mitte, U8 Weinmeisterstraße, Map 1. Kantstraße 30, Charlottenburg, S5 S7 S75 S9 Savignyplatz, Map 2.

L

Lagano
Kronenstraße 55-58
Mediterranean
Just over a year old, this modern italian restaurant has everything in place to allow your meal to run smoothly. Pick up a chip-card at the door then order your meal from the chefs directly and have it prepared fresh in minutes (thanks to super-fast induction cooking technology). You then pay by handing over your card on exiting. As you would expect for a restaurant with such efficiency levels, Lagano is popular with the business crowd for lunch and dinner. But thanks to very reasonable prices, tourists also flock here after cruising the Friedrichstraße/Checkpoint Charlie strip. Recommended for a recharge is the massive lagano salad with chicken breast, pinekernels and walnuts or any of the fresh homemade pasta options (mains between €5-€8). Kronenstraße 55-58, Mitte, U2 U6 Stadtmitte, Map 1.

Le Coq D’Or
Boxhagener Str. 27
Asian – Thai/Viet/Chinese
Less than a year old, Le Coq D’Or prepares a variety of Thai and sushi dishes for no more than €5. The bench seating may give you flashbacks of ‘that night at the Hofbräuhaus in München,’ but it means that large groups are comfortably accommodated here. A veritable football team of staff and chefs in the open kitchen should also ensure that your food gets to your table fast, irrespective of your group size. The area surrounding Simon-Dach Straβe is fast becoming the new funky place to live in Berlin – so stick around after your meal and check out the local scene. Boxhagener Str. 27 (corner Simon Dach Str.), Friedrichshain, U5 Frankfurter Tor, Map 3

Luxa
Torstraße 56 (Cnr Schönhauser Allee)
Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Modern German
Luxa has changed its stripes! The popular Mitte bar on Rosa Luxembourg Platz has emerged from it's winter hibernation, as a hardworking restaurant and snack parlour. But that's not to say the place is any less popular with the funky Mitte crowd. In fact everyone's back - munching on schawarma, falafels and pizzas (€2-€6), all prepared on site. And it's good to know you can still get a drink here, be it a fresh peppermint tea, hand-pressed orange juice or a beer. Ideally located for Mitte's other bars and clubs, open from 10am til late. Torstraße 56, Mitte, U2 Rosa-Luxembourg-Platz, Map 1.

M

Mao Thai
Wörther Strasse 30
Asian – Thai/Viet/Chinese
Come eat flavorful Thai food at the oldest Thai restaurant in Eastern Berlin. Founded in 1993, this chic restaurant near trendy Kollwitzplatz has friendly staff who prepare everything from scratch. Fresh ingredients are important to the Mao Thai, who imports all of its vegetables from Thailand. Relax in this pleasant atmosphere that includes fan-shaped napkins and real tablecloths. This isn’t the place to go if you’re in a hurry, but you will find that the reasonable prices and scrumptious dishes make up for it. Specialties include spicy shrimp soup and red curry in an earthen pot. During the summer, be sure to try the fresh Dorade fish soaked in creamy red curry sauce and Thai spices. Reservations are recommended after 8 pm and can be made online. Credit cards are accepted here, a rarity in Berlin. Wörther Strasse 30, Prenzlauer Berg, U-Bahn Senefelder Platz. Map 4. Mains 8-15 Euros. Open 12-3:30 pm and 6-11:30 pm daily.

Maoa
Leipziger Platz 8
Asian – Thai/Viet/Chinese
This exciting new restaurant concept fits well into Berlin's newest quarter, Potsdamer Platz. Here's how it goes: first, put together your meal from 60 different raw foods in the Maoa food market (meats include shark, springbock and kangaroo!), tell the chef the cheeky marinade you want, then hand over your meal and watch it get transformed into your own tasty creation in minutes. Thoughtful restaurant design and live kitchen telecasts on the bigscreens make for an enjoyable, yet quality, dining experience. Interesting fact: Pop your head out the back door to see what is apparently the Berlin Wall's last remaining watch tower. Unlimited servings cost €19.90 in the evenings, €11.50 during the day - single servings and an a la carte menu are also available. Leipziger Platz 8, Mitte, U2 Potsdamer Platz or S1 S2 Potsdamer Platz, Map 1.

Maru
Rigaer Str. 74
Other
Korean food is tipped to be the next big thing in Berlin. Maru restaurant is in the fascinating heart of squatter-central, Friedrichshain, where iPods meet political graffiti in relative harmony. Maru serves traditional Korean meals, as well as the hot new Korean sushi fad, which adds a bit of colour to the traditional Japanese variety. Both impress, with rich sauces and a real enthusiasm for hot spice (they can cool it down for you too). Open from midday 'til midnight, Tuesday to Sunday (reservations recommended for the evening). Mains from €7 - €10. Maru, Rigaer Str. 74, Friedrichshain, U5 Samariter Str., Map 3.

m

mrhai & friends
Savignyplatz 1
Asian – Thai/Viet/Chinese
In a wonderful setting beside beautiful Savignyplatz, mrhai and friends is a restaurant for people who think they have seen (and eaten) it all. Owner Mr Hai's concept is the production of Kreativküche (creative cooking) and his weekly menus are testament to plenty of ingenuity. For €8 (€7 for the vegetarian option) pick up a three course lunch which will challenge how you think about Vietnamese cooking. A traditional german cucumber salad, but spiced with a vietnamese dressing and pineapple? Or fried eggplant sandwiches with a traditional vietnamese onion sauce? Food from 11am til midnight each day, a unique cocktail list is available from 4pm. Savignyplatz 1, Charlottenburg, S5 S7 S75 S9 Savignyplatz, Map 2.

N

Nosh
Pappellallee 77
Modern German
At Nosh, the changing daily menu often depends on the nationality of the chef, which means that you are bound to see some pretty exotic creations on the blackboard when you walk in for dinner (mains from €10-€20). During the day Nosh is relaxed and quiet with WLAN hotspots and extensive breakfast/sandwich menus (€3-€7) taking care of arty business lunches. The sunday brunch is award-winning. Situated on Prenzlauer Berg's golden mile, Pappellallee, this restaurant is an ideal stop before hitting one of the bars or clubs in the area. Pappellallee 77, Prenzlauer Berg, U2 Eberswalder Str, Map 4.

O

Oliva
Oranienburger Str. 84
Some argue that Oliva serves the best pizza in Berlin. It makes sense considering that the staff (who is friendly, welcoming, and downright amusing) is often jabbering Italian at each other. Oliva also has a daily selection of freshly prepared pasta dishes. The atmosphere is real casual. There are even TVs for European football fans. And the location is perfect: by Hackescher Markt in Mitte, so it’s a great place to grab food and beer after a day of sightseeing, or before heading out into the night. Main courses €4-7. Oranienburger Str. 84, Mitte. S5, S7, S75, S9 Hackescher Markt. Map 1.

P

Papa Nô
Oranienstraße 191, Kreuzberg
Asian – Thai/Viet/Chinese, Other
A clever mix of old and new Asian food - named after the ancient art of Nô theater, which dates from 14th Century Japan. Everything in these hi-tech sushi restaurants has been planned to make things super-easy to order. From the pay as you go ordering system to the fleet of Smart Cars belting around town maknig home deliveries, there’ll be something on offer here that tickles your fancy. Papa’s boasts plenty of dishes from across Asia – from curries to stir fries – but its main claim to fame is very sexy sushi. If you never thought that sushi could fill you up, order Papa Nô’s specialty – the quick fried Volcano Sushi Roll. Meals range from €2-€7. Oranien Str. 191 (at Heinrich Platz), Kreuzberg, U1 Görlitzer Bhf, Map 3 and Warschauer Str. 81 (corner Boxhagener Str.), U5 Frankfurter Tor, Map 3.

Paris Bar
Kantstrasse 152, Charlottenburg
Other
First and foremost a "seriously-in" restaurant with French cuisine on the menu and an A-list international guestlist (Madonna and U2 have both dined here - presumably not together!). Prices are therefore, as you would expect, higher than average. However the daily menu does have some exotic offerings: foie gras and Brittany snails being two of the more challenging options. A stop by is also worthwhile merely to admire the one-off art installations donated to Paris Bar by visiting international artists. Reservations recommended - or wear big sunglasses and act famous. Kantstrasse 152, Charlottenburg S5 S7 S75 S9 Savignyplatz, Map 2

R

Restaurant Drei
Savignyplatz 2
Modern German
The only thing better than sliced bread is dining somewhere fashionable. It tastes better too. Drei Restaurant tries a variety of dishes each week – mainly beef, lamb and fish based. Servings are generous and powered up with plenty of rich ingredients – so running for the S-Bahn after the meal will not be an option. As a tip, at lunchtime the price tag halves to €7 for the express lunch - soup of the day, a choice of one of two mains and an espresso. The décor of Drei is well thought out with arguably the most flattering lighting in the city. Needless to say, an absolute must for those who plan on dating in Berlin. Savignyplatz 2, Charlottenburg, S5, S7, S75, S9 Savignyplatz, Map 2

RNBS*
Oranienburger Str. 27
Asian – Thai/Viet/Chinese
“Life is too short to eat bad soup:” an ancient Vietnamese proverb and the philosophy of RNBS*, the fast, inexpensive, healthy, and tasty alternative to greasy kebabs, which get all over your face and clothes and make you stink. The food is simple, totally natural, and free of artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. The spring rolls are famous in Berlin. The noodle dishes taste like something you’d expect in a high-end restaurant. The warm soups are perfect for those cold nights. And the herbal teas will revive you the morning after the night before. Main courses €3-6. Two locations: (1) Oranienburger Str. 27, Mitte. S1, S2 Oranienburger Straβe. Map 1. (2) Holmes Place Health Club Gendarmenmarkt, Mohrenstr. 50, Mitte. U6, U2 Stadmitte. Map 1, 3.

Romiosini
Uhlandstr. 185-186 (Nr Kurfürstendamm)
Mediterranean, Other
Located near the trendy Kurfürstendamm, Romiosini is a haven for those looking for something cheap and hearty to eat, in what can be a pricy neighbourhood. For €7, the all-you-can-eat buffet (from 11am-9pm) is unbeatable - pick from an international mix of tasty hot and cold dishes. The a la carte menu from 9pm until late is mainly Mexican and Greek food and, combined with the fantastic drink specials throughout the night, guarantees that you can afford an extravagant night in the heart of West Berlin after all. Reservations not required (except for large groups), open 9am - 3am. Uhlandstraße 185-186 (Nr Kurfürstendamm), Charlottenburg, U1 Uhlandstraße, Map 2.

S

Sangrantino Wine Bar
Behrenstraße 47
Mediterranean
Looking for a quiet place to withdraw to after belting between the sights? Sangrantino is as familiar as your local Italian Restaurant, except its location is a whole lot better! And it is certainly 'in the know', with Italian owner Daniele regularly travelling back and forth between Berlin and Umbria to bring the best possible Sangrantinos into the German capital. All the better for us, of course, as it means that a selection of 15 types of this red (the hot new grape, don’t you know!) are ready to be sipped by the glass. Lunch is also a real bargain here with a choice of soup or a salad plus the daily pasta for just €5.90. Proof that eating in the big end of town doesn’t have to involve mortgaging your arm. Behrenstraße 47, Mitte, U6 Französische Str., Map 1.

Schwarzes Café
Kantstrasse 148, Charlottenburg
Modern German, Traditional German
Established by a group of rebellious students in 1978, this place has long been a Berlin institution. To this day the clientele remain a mixed bunch - with composers and artsy types from the nearby theatres sitting beside students and business lunchers. Aside from people-watching, the real treat here is what comes out of the kitchen - most mains and cakes are home-made from scratch and are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Definitely worth a late night (or early morning) pilgrimage. Kantstrasse 148, Charlottenburg S5 S7 S75 S9 Savignyplatz, Map 2

Splendid Delikatessen
Quartier 210, Dorotheenstraße 37
Modern German, Traditional German, Vegetarian
This classic delicatessen is owned by Andreas and Klaus, and they are developing a bit of a name amongst Berlin foodies for top quality German products. Save money on that big Contiki bus trip and eat here every day of the week instead. Meals range from traditional Bavarian meatloaf to Swabian pastas (specifically maultaschen or spätzle). The hot food is on offer from noon to about 7pm, but plenty of exotic homemade snacks, cakes and wines are always available from the shop between 9:30am and 8pm. Not just another bio-supermarket; Splendid Delikatessen is definitely worth a visit. Quartier 210, Dorotheenstraße 37, Mitte, S5 S7 S75 S9 Friedrichstraße, Map 1.

Suppenbörse
Friedrichstraße 90
Modern German, Vegetarian, Other
The backbone of Germany - the hearty soup - earns itself a high-street address at Suppenbörse, or `The Soup Stock Exchange´. High work rate is the motto here, with the six weekly soups and a daily special made fresh each morning (two meat, four vegetarian). This commitment to fresh food, and Suppenbörse's popularity, has it's downsides - soups can be sold out by late afternoon, so go at lunchtime to avoid disappointment. Servings come in 400ml or 200ml and all soups (with bread) are less than €5. Friedrichstraße 90, Mitte, S5 S7 S75 S9 Friedrichstraße, Map 1.

Susuru
Rosa-Luxemburg Str. 17
Other
This stylish new japanese restaurant specialises in Ramen-like dishes - japanese noodles in a tasty soup. On the menu at Susuru are Udon noodles - soft and juicy noodles in exotic soup flavours such as soya with duck breast (mains start from €5). With a menu that changes regularly based on the season, japanese beers and wines available and a great location just five minutes from Alexanderplatz, Susuru is just waiting to be discovered. Larger groups can easily be accommodated. Tip: Be prepared to get a bit slurpy with your soup - it adds to the flavour! Rosa-Luxemburg Str. 17, Mitte, U2 Rosa Luxemburg Platz, Map 1.

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Thai Boran
Friedrichstraße 127
Asian – Thai/Viet/Chinese
Situated round the corner from the bouncy Oranienburger Straße, Thai Boran is a more peaceful and authentic alternative for those wanting to head out and eat somewhere central. And the menu is a quality affair too. Pick from the usual favourites massaman gai, pad thai and homemade green and red curries, aswell as some new interpretations on the daily menu (mains between €3.90-€14.90). Tip: Reduced lunchtime prices run from midday til 6pm during the week, or all the time if you are a student! Open midday to midnight. Friedrichstraße 127, Mitte, U6 Oranienburger Tor, Map 1.

Thüringer-Stuben
Stargarder Str. 28
Traditional German
It’s always a compliment to a German restaurant when Berliners call it “super” (pronounced zoopa) when they’re leaving, as is the case at Thüringer. The food is good. Heaping portions of meat, potatoes, and vegetables – creamed, mashed, or fried. The Jägerschniztel (battered, pan-fried pork) is nice. So is the Grillpfanne, a two-person plate of various meats served with potatoes (Kartoffeln). The warm, friendly atmosphere of the place is equally inviting. After dinner, stroll through Prenzlauer Berg, a trendy corner of town filled with bars, cafes, and ex-pats. Prices are inexpensive for German food in Berlin, unless you like street sausage. Main courses €8-12. Stargarder Str. 28, Prenzlauer Berg. S8, S41, S42 Prenzlauer Allee. Map 4.

Triangolo
Grünberger Str. 69
Mediterranean
A quality Italian restaurant for those looking for a more refined evening when heading out in Friedrichshain. As well as offering fresh homemade pastas and pizzas, Triangolo focuses on dishes from the Italian island of Sardinia - meaning that fresh fish is always on the menu (mains from €4.50 - €14). The friendly staff are attentive and and professional, and you can expect excellent table service. Italian red and white house wines are on tap. Open 4pm - midnight, every day of the week. Grünberger Str. 69, Friedrichshain, U5 Samariterstraße, Map 3.

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Vapiano
Potsdamer Platz 5
Mediterranean
The Vapiano Restaurant at Potsdamer Platz is the 11th in Germany and the second one in Berlin following the success of the flagship restaurant at Augsburger Straße (near Kurfürstendamm). Eating here is easy: When you reach Potsdamer Platz walk straight out of the S-Bahn, grab an electronic swipe card at the door and start chatting directly to the chefs about what you want from the antipasti, pastas and pizza on offer (€2.50-€8). Kitchens are open from 10am-12 midnight, making it a handy stop-off for those having a look around Potsdamer Platz, no matter what time of day. Menus available in English. Potsdamer Platz 5, Mitte, S1 S2 U2 Potsdamer Platz, Map 1.

Viva
Knaackstraße 18
Mediterranean, Modern German
With a sleek design and an interactive approach for its customers (who are allowed to create their own meals!!), Viva is not your typical traditional spanish restaurant. Aswell as a menu of modern german and mediterranean meals, it's also got an international range of spirits, cocktails and wines that will satisfy even the most selective of well-travelled connoisseurs. But the spanish food is the winner here - the tapas and the ciabatta bocadillos deserving special mention. Tapas from €2.50, bocadillos and mains from €5 - open til late. Knaackstraße 18, Prenzlauer Berg, U2 Senefelderplatz, Map 4.

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Weinstein Mitte
Mittelstrasse 1 (corner Charlottenstrasse)
Modern German, Mediterranean, Other
If you are looking for gourmet German food at reasonable prices, this is the place to go. Located on a quiet side street near bustling Friedrichstrasse, Weinstein Mitte has the charming ambience of a classic German restaurant. Specialising in German and Austrian wines, most of which can be ordered by the glass, they also offer excellent German regional food with a Mediterranean flair — the fish dishes being particularly succulent. The menu changes monthly in accordance with seasonal ingredients and includes a business lunch (€11 for a soup or salad, a main and dessert or coffee). The Weizkiesel (german-style tapas) is perfect for people on the run to the nearby theaters or opera or for those who can’t decide on one dish. Open Mon-Fri 12midday-1am, Sat 7pm-1am. Closed Sunday, menu in English. Mittelstrasse 1 (corner Charlottenstrasse), Mitte, U/S-Bahn Friedrichstrasse, Map 1.

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Yellow Sunshine
Wiener Str. 19
Vegetarian, Western
A vegetarian with a hankering for a juicy burger? A fast-food connoisseur wanting to do things a bit healthier? If either of these descriptions matches you, head to Yellow Sunshine - Germany's first and only organic vegetarian fast food restaurant. With years of experience, the management have developed vegetarian burgers, gyros and other fast food with only biologically safe vegetarian ingredients which tastes just like the real thing. Burgers start from €3 and can be combined with fries, salad, desserts and bio drinks to make a real feast. Ordering in English is fine, open midday til late. Wiener Str. 19, Kreuzberg, U1 Görlitzer Bhf, Map 3.

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Zoe
Rochstr. 1
Other
This trendy, modern oasis offers both Mediterranean and Asian food with flair. Step inside to find a calming atmosphere, where everything from the tablecloths to the walls are white. At this family-run restaurant, the menu (also in English) changes daily, and emphasis is placed on fresh ingredients. Be sure to try the delectable asparagus mousse topped with fruit jelly. Also enjoy cheap mixed drinks and wine by the glass. During the day, come for lunch or coffee and use the free wireless internet. Reservations are recommended after 7 pm, and can be made online. Three-hour cooking classes are offered at their cooking school down the street, and are available in English. Rochstr. 1, Mitte. S-Bahn Hackescher Markt. Map 1. Mains 8.50-16 Euros. Open Monday to Friday 12pm-12 am, Sat. 1pm-12am, Sun 2pm-11pm.

Zum Nußbaum
Am Nußbaum 3
Traditional German, Modern German
In the oldest known residence in Berlin stands a 250 year old guesthouse beneath a shady nut tree. Owned for twenty years by the same owners, Zum Nußbaum must be a contender for the most well-informed Berlin cuisine restaurant in the city. Choose from a range of home-made favourites like boulette or bratwurst or pigliver berlin-style (mains from €2.30-€9). The elabourately named "Vater Zilles Jaumenschmeichler" plate is also highly recommended for those who want to practice their Berlin dialect when ordering. The name comes from the famous Berlin cartoonist, Heinrich Zille, whose sketches line the walls and who used to do his (rather considerable amount of) drinking on the premises. Whether under the nut tree in the courtyard or inside the cosy bar and restaurant, this place is definitely worth a stop. Open midday to open-end, menus in English. Am Nußbaum 3 (Nikolaiviertel), Mitte, S5 S7 S75 S9 U2 U5 U8 Alexanderplatz, Map 1.

Zur Gerichtslaube
Poststraße 28 (Nikolaiviertel)
Traditional German, Modern German
Relaxing with a glass of wine in the leafy courtyard of this classy restaurant its difficult to imagine that this was once the place where troublesome Berliners were gruesomely hanged for petty crimes. Thankfully, since the 1300s the guests have changed a little and now it's tourists and foodies on the hunt for German and Berlin delicacies that gather under the grand arches inside or in the courtyard. Highly recommended are the "Wildschweinsauerbraten" (wild boar) or the restaurant's unique "Kassler" (pork wrapped in pumperknickel, originating from Berlin). Mains range in price from €8.50-€17.50 and can be accompanied with wine by the glass. Open from 11.30am til midnight for food. Excellent service. Poststraße 28 (Nikolaiviertel), Mitte, S5 S7 S75 S9 U2 U5 U8 Alexanderplatz, Map 1.