12 Unique Restaurants in Berlin: Where to Find the City’s Most Eccentric Eats

245

Welcome to our guide on unique restaurants in Berlin, where we’ll explore the city’s most extraordinary dining spots. From historic venues to modern culinary wonders, this gem in Germany offers unforgettable experiences for every foodie.

Berlin isn’t just for history buffs or art lovers; it’s a paradise for food enthusiasts too! The city’s dining scene is diverse and exciting, with everything from elegant rooftop dinners to quirky themed cafés. Whether you’re enjoying farm-to-table dishes at Katz Orange or indulging in vegan creations at FREA, Berlin is a showcase of the beauty of Germany.

Dining here is more than food—it’s an experience. After you fly to Germany, prepare for meals that turn into memories. Let’s dive into Berlin’s most unique dining experiences!

👉 Pro Tip: The East Berlin Food Walking Tour is a total win for foodies and history buffs! You’ll snack on local favorites, hit up hidden gems, and get the inside scoop on this super cool neighborhood. Show up hungry and ready to explore—it’s the perfect mix of good eats, fun vibes, and Berlin history!

Unique Restaurants in Berlin: 12 Incredible Berlin Eateries

Exploring Berlin’s unique restaurants takes you on an adventure through flavors and stories unlike any other. Each spot offers a taste of the city’s diverse culture and history, wrapped up in unforgettable meals, making it one of the top places to live and visit in Germany.

1. CODA

• 📍 Location: Neukölln
• 💲 Price range: $150 – $250+ per person (Tasting Menu)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Dessert Fine Dining / Pâtisserie
• 🔥 Standout Features: Michelin-starred dessert tasting menus, sweet and savory pairings, craft drink pairings.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Dessert lovers, experimental diners, and Michelin dining enthusiasts.

Forget everything you think you know about dessert, because CODA in Neukölln will blow your mind. It’s a Michelin-starred restaurant serving only dessert tasting menus – but these aren’t just sugary concoctions. Chef René Frank masterfully blurs the lines between sweet and savory.

Each course is a surprise, paired with a drink. You might experience black garlic ice cream with aged balsamic, a savory kimchi praline, or a delicate parsnip dessert with cassis. For a culinary adventure that redefines “dessert,” CODA is an absolute must.

2. NENI Berlin

• 📍 Location: Charlottenburg (Rooftop of 25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin)
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Israeli / Middle Eastern / Mediterranean
• 🔥 Standout Features: Rooftop views of Berlin Zoo, Middle Eastern sharing plates, lively dining atmosphere.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Groups, rooftop views, and modern Mediterranean food fans.

Perched on the rooftop of the 25hours Hotel, NENI Berlin offers incredible views over the city and the Berlin Zoo! The vibe is “Balagan” – happy, organized chaos – with a menu designed for sharing. The air is filled with tantalizing Middle Eastern spice aromas.

Devouring their signature Sabich (a pita stuffed with fried eggplant, egg, and tahini) is a good plan. A colorful array of mezze like creamy hummus, smoky babaganoush, and crispy falafel are also excellent for sharing. Watching the monkeys while you eat is wonderfully quirky.

3. Pee Pee’s Katzencafé

• 📍 Location: Neukölln
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person (Cafe/Snacks)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Cat Cafe / Coffee & Cake
• 🔥 Standout Features: Free-roaming rescue cats, homemade cakes, cozy café setting.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Cat lovers, casual coffee breaks, and cozy hangouts.

If you love cats, Pee Pee’s Katzencafé in Neukölln is your little slice of heaven. It’s a cozy cafe where adorable rescue cats are the main attraction, lounging on chairs or purring on laps. The smell of coffee and freshly baked cake mingles with the faint scent of cats.

Ordering a delicious slice of apple crumble cake or their popular vegan chocolate cake is a wise choice. A cup of fair-trade coffee or a pot of tea completes the heartwarming experience. Just be prepared for a cat to try and steal a nibble!

4. Prinzessinnengarten

• 📍 Location: Kreuzberg
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $25 per person (Cafe/Lunch)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Farm-to-Table Cafe / German / Seasonal
• 🔥 Standout Features: On-site urban garden, seasonal ingredients, community-focused outdoor space.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Eco-conscious diners, relaxed lunches, and green urban spaces.

Prinzessinnengarten in Kreuzberg is more than a cafe; it’s a thriving urban farm built on a former wasteland. Wander through rows of vegetables and herbs grown in transportable crates before sitting down to eat food made with ingredients picked just steps away. The air smells earthy.

Trying a simple but incredibly fresh salad with edible flowers from the garden is a must. A hearty vegetable soup made with seasonal produce, or their quiche featuring garden herbs, are also excellent. It’s an inspiring place for a wholesome, rustic meal.

5. Frea

• 📍 Location: Mitte
• 💲 Price range: $40 – $70 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Vegan / Zero-Waste / Farm-to-Table
• 🔥 Standout Features: Zero-waste vegan menu, in-house composting, housemade pasta and bread.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Vegan diners, sustainability advocates, and modern eco-friendly foodies.

Frea in Mitte is leading the charge in sustainable dining as Berlin’s first fully zero-waste vegan restaurant. They even have an in-house composter named Gersi! The decor is minimalist and chic, and the food is incredibly creative and flavorful.

You should definitely try their homemade sourdough bread with hazelnut butter. A pasta dish made with seasonal vegetables like pumpkin or wild garlic, or their inventive mushroom-based main courses, are vibrant and satisfying. You can taste the commitment to quality.

6. Klo

• 📍 Location: Charlottenburg
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person (Mainly Drinks/Bar Food)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: German Pub / Novelty Bar
• 🔥 Standout Features: Toilet-themed decor, novelty drinks, quirky pub atmosphere.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Humor-loving groups, offbeat bar nights, and novelty-seekers.

Prepare yourself for Klo (German for “toilet”) in Charlottenburg – one of Berlin’s oldest and most bizarre theme bars. The decor is toilet-themed, with urinals as seats and toilet paper roll menus. Beer is served in bedpan-shaped mugs.

Ordering a classic German beer in one of their unique mugs is part of the experience. For food, a simple Currywurst or Bockwurst with a bread roll are standard pub fare. You’re not here for gourmet food; it’s loud, shocking, and bonkers.

7. Good Bank

• 📍 Location: Mitte
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $25 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Healthy Bowls / Salads / Farm-to-Table
• 🔥 Standout Features: On-site vertical farm, customizable healthy bowls, modern quick-service format.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Health-conscious eaters, quick lunch stops, and urban farm enthusiasts.

Good Bank takes “farm-to-table” to a new level – they have vertical farms inside the restaurant growing many of their own greens! It’s fascinating to see the bright pink glow of grow lights and lush lettuce just feet from where you order. The air has a clean, earthy smell.

Building your own salad bowl with their incredibly fresh greens is a great idea. Their pre-designed bowls, like the “Caesar Crunch” with plant-based chicken or the “Avocado Lover” with quinoa and various toppings, are also popular. It’s brilliant for a quick, healthy meal.

8. Bricole

• 📍 Location: Prenzlauer Berg
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $80 per person (Often set menu)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern German / French Brasserie / “Deutsche Tapas”
• 🔥 Standout Features: Small-plate German cuisine, intimate setting, wine pairings.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Tapas-style German dining, cozy date nights, and wine lovers.

Bricole in Prenzlauer Berg offers a delightful concept they call “Deutsche Tapas” – familiar German dishes reinterpreted into smaller, shareable plates. It’s a fantastic way to try a variety of flavors. The restaurant is cozy and intimate, with warm lighting.

You’ll enjoy their miniature Königsberger Klopse (meatballs in caper sauce). A deconstructed Black Forest cake, or small portions of sauerbraten with red cabbage and dumplings, are also highly praised. The wine pairings are spot on.

9. Benedict

• 📍 Location: Charlottenburg (Wilmersdorf)
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: All-Day Breakfast / International
• 🔥 Standout Features: All-day global breakfasts, 24/7 service, eclectic decor.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Breakfast fans, late-night brunches, and international comfort food.

Craving breakfast at 10 PM? Benedict has you covered. This opulent spot serves breakfast from all over the world, 24/7. The decor is wonderfully over-the-top, like a whimsical, luxurious dream. The smell of coffee and baking pastries is constant.

Trying their classic Eggs Benedict with perfectly poached eggs and hollandaise is essential. Their fluffy American pancakes with maple syrup and berries, or the savory Israeli shakshuka, are also fantastic choices for an indulgent brunch any time.

10. Zur Letzten Instanz

• 📍 Location: Mitte
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Traditional German / Historic Restaurant
• 🔥 Standout Features: Berlin’s oldest restaurant, historic ambiance, traditional German dishes.
• 🎯 Perfect For: History buffs, classic Berlin cuisine, and heritage dining.

Dining at Zur Letzten Instanz is like stepping back in time. Reputedly Berlin’s oldest restaurant, dating to 1621, it oozes history from its dark wood paneling and ancient tiled stove. Apparently, Napoleon once ate here! The air smells of hearty German cooking.

Ordering their Eisbein (pickled pork knuckle), a massive, tender, and flavorful affair, is a must. Their classic Berliner Leber (Berlin-style liver) or a hearty Rinderroulade (beef roulade) are also wonderfully authentic choices in this historic setting.

11. Fairytale Bar

• 📍 Location: Friedrichshain
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person (Cocktails)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Themed Cocktail Bar
• 🔥 Standout Features: Fantasy-themed interiors, theatrical cocktails, costumed bartenders.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Themed bar lovers, whimsical cocktails, and immersive nightlife.

Fairytale Bar in Friedrichshain is a truly enchanting escape. The decor is straight out of a storybook, with whimsical details, hidden nooks, and costumed bartenders who look like they’ve stepped out of a Grimm’s tale. Their cocktails are creative and theatrical.

Sipping on “Cinderella’s Slipper,” a beautifully presented and often fruity concoction, is a great idea. “The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party” (a shareable cocktail) or “Poisoned Apple” are other popular choices. It’s an immersive experience that feels magical.

• Read Next: 13 Legendary Things to Do in Berlin at Night

12. Le Petit Chef

• 📍 Location: Often at upscale hotels (Pop-up basis)
• 💲 Price range: $100 – $180+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: International / Fine Dining / Immersive Dining Experience
• 🔥 Standout Features: 3D animated dining show, gourmet multi-course menu, tech-meets-fine-dining experience.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Food tech fans, special occasions, and immersive fine dining.

Le Petit Chef is a dinner experience unlike any other. Using incredible 3D projection mapping, a tiny animated chef “comes to life” on your plate, “preparing” each course of your gourmet meal right before your eyes. It’s a delightful and surprisingly engaging show.

The menu varies by location and season, but expect upscale dishes like seared scallops or beef tenderloin. A creative seafood bouillabaisse or a beautifully plated chocolate dessert are also common. The star is the little chef’s antics.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Unique Places to Eat in Berlin

In our FAQ section, you’ll find answers to all your questions about eating out in Berlin, making our Berlin restaurant guide your go-to resource for discovering the city’s best bites.

What is famous in Berlin to eat?

Berlin is known for its vibrant food scene, where the best food in Berlin often means trying out the city’s iconic dishes. One such famous dish is the Currywurst, a steamed then fried pork sausage cut into slices and seasoned with curry ketchup, usually served with fries. Another must-try is the Döner Kebab, made of meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, served in bread with salad and sauces. These dishes reflect Berlin’s diverse culinary culture, blending traditional German flavors with international influences.

What are the 3 most popular foods in Germany?

Germany’s culinary landscape is rich and varied, but three dishes stand out for their popularity and ubiquity. Firstly, Bratwurst, a type of German sausage made from pork, beef, or veal, is a staple at German festivals and street food stalls. Secondly, Sauerkraut, fermented cabbage, is a beloved side dish, known for its tangy flavor. Lastly, Pretzels, especially the large, soft variety, are a common sight, often enjoyed with mustard or butter. These foods are integral to Germany’s food identity, complementing the diverse activities in Germany.

What is a unique food in Germany?

A unique food that captures the essence of German culinary innovation is Spätzle. This dish consists of small, egg-based noodles or dumplings of soft texture, often served as a side with meat dishes or incorporated into meals with cheese, resembling a German version of mac and cheese called Käsespätzle. Its simplicity belies its deliciousness, making it a comforting and beloved dish across the country.

Where can I find the best restaurants in Berlin?

The best restaurants in Berlin are scattered across the city, each offering unique dining experiences. Areas like Mitte, Kreuzberg, and Prenzlauer Berg are hotspots for culinary exploration, featuring everything from high-end dining to casual, cozy cafes. Whether you’re after traditional German fare or international cuisine, Berlin’s restaurant scene is dynamic and diverse, with options to suit every taste and budget.

How can I enjoy cheap eats in Berlin?

Enjoying cheap eats in Berlin doesn’t mean compromising on quality. The city is filled with affordable dining options, from street food stalls selling Currywurst and Döner Kebab to bustling food markets like Markthalle Neun, where you can sample a variety of dishes without breaking the bank. Many bakeries and kebab shops offer filling and flavorful meals at low prices, proving that Berlin can be a paradise for budget-conscious food lovers.

What hidden gem restaurants in Berlin should I not miss?

Discovering hidden gem restaurants in Berlin is part of the city’s adventure. Tucked away in quieter neighborhoods or inconspicuous locations, these spots offer exceptional food that locals love. From quaint cafes serving homemade cakes to family-run eateries with recipes passed down through generations, these hidden gems provide a more intimate dining experience. Exploring beyond the main tourist areas can lead you to these culinary treasures.

Can I find international cuisine in Berlin?

Absolutely. Berlin is a melting pot of cultures, and this diversity is reflected in its culinary scene. You can find a wide range of international cuisine, from Italian and Vietnamese to Turkish and Syrian. The city’s multicultural fabric means that food enthusiasts can embark on a global dining journey without leaving Berlin, experiencing authentic flavors from around the world.

What should I try for a traditional German breakfast?

A traditional German breakfast is a hearty and satisfying way to start the day. It typically includes a variety of bread rolls (Brötchen) with butter, cold cuts, cheeses, and jam. Boiled eggs, fresh fruit, and yogurt often accompany the meal, along with strong coffee or tea. This spread is not only delicious but also a great way to experience a slice of German culture and hospitality.

Final Thoughts On Unique Berlin Restaurants

We hope our Berlin restaurant guide has sparked your appetite for adventure and delicious food. Berlin’s culinary scene is a treasure trove of flavors, from traditional German dishes to innovative international cuisine, making it one of the top places to live and visit in Germany.

Whether you’re craving a hearty meal, a quick snack, or a unique dining experience, Berlin has it all. Remember, flying to Berlin and exploring the city’s food is about more than just eating; it’s about discovering new cultures, stories, and people.