I’ve been to Berlin enough times to easily be able to whittle away a few hours in a coffee shop, warming up the mitts in Winter or cooling down in the Summer. Good coffee shops are absolutely crucial to any EJP city break and the more chilled the interior the better, I really do like to relax when sipping on a brew.
On our most recent visit to the city (the one where my heart lives), we made a conscious effort to seek out more spots for ‘caffeining’ away a hangover and people watching the fashionable folk that grace the streets. One of the beautiful things about all the coffee shops in Berlin is the friendly staff that work in them – normally the people just like you, whom have fallen in love with the city and carted their lives off from all around the world. They’re all just looking to make friends and its oh so bloody refreshing.
Want your coffee fix when visiting? Read on to discover my five favourite spots, so far anyway…
1 // ROAMERS
Roamers really is a hidden treasure in terms of location but ask any local or type in ‘best Berlin brunch’ on google and up it will pop. But don’t worry, it’s not an overhyped cafe that will leave you disappointed and hungry, nor is it expensive or bad service from the hoards of people eating there. I simply can’t leave it off my list as it’s one that you shouldn’t be leaving off yours either.
Muddy green concrete walls and botanicals galore, the cafe has a western vibe and surely wouldn’t be out of place in 1970s California. The coffee is strong and the Bloody Mary’s juicy, but the best of the best is the brunch itself where the sunny side eggs are straight outta heaven and the seasonal cakes have you drooling before you’ve even sat down. Roamers don’t take reservations so expect a 30 minute or so wait for a table at peak times but rest assured that the staff will treat you swell while you wait and the grub will be 100% worth it.
Pannierstraße 64, 12043 Berlin
Nearest station: Hermannplatz
2 // Hallesches Haus
Step out at Hallesches Tor and you might think you’ve stepped off at the wrong stop for hip doesn’t immediately spring to mind in this no-mans land near Kreuzberg. However, nestled in the historic Postamt 61 is Hallesches Haus, a gorgeously converted cafe and general store with hoards of natural lights and plenty of plant inspiration.
Now, I love a good a concept store/coffee situation so it’s no surprise that I instantly fell in love with Hallesches Haus and the range of Studio Arhoj, Hay Design and Ferm Living on offer – TAKE YOUR DOLLAR PEOPLE – but honestly, it was the brunch offering that will ensure I return on every Berlin trip with an empty belly.
From French Toast covered in honey to the best scrambled eggs I have ever tried, the menu changes daily and offers healthy, yet hearty seasonal dishes, including options for vegetarians and gluten-free guests. The coffee is Berlin-roasted and local suppliers are used wherever possible. And better yet, there’s plenty of room amongst the seasonal flowers and cute dining accompaniments – one for the top of your list.
Tempelhofer Ufer 1, 10961 Berlin
Nearest station: Hallesches Tor
3 // Isla
Isla coffee is pretty neighbourhood coffee shop, perfect for your caffeine fix in the morning with a spot of people watching at the window for ultimate creative effect. Striving for a zero-waste concept, Isla serves unique and delicious blends of coffee with gorgeous lightweight and tactile cups to ensure major interior accessory envy too.
Again the staff are super friendly and happy to help out with other local recommendations while also telling you all about the Isla concept. If you’re peckish during the week there are a selection of yummy baked treats on offer while at the weekend you can tuck into the brunch menu, but again, no reservations!
Hermannstraße 37, 12049 Berlin
Nearest station: Boddinstraße
4 // The Visit Coffee Roastery
We stumbled across The Visit Coffee Roastery from their leading pathway emblazoned with a ‘We Have Coffee’ neon sign. Of course, we were immediately sold. Priding themselves on their excellent coffee, The Visit often create new styles of drink and perfect roasting methods to ensure the perfect brew.
The space itself is light and bright with areas to work for free as well as a seating platform with cushions and geometric tables for ultimate high angle shots. Plants and concrete once again come to the forefront (I see a theme here) and blankets up the cosiness factor. If there’s one thing I regret, it’s not taking the plunge to try the Turkish coffee so go on, do it for me, it is in Kreuzberg after all.
Adalbertstraße 9, 10999 Berlin
Nearest Station: Kottbusser Tor
5 // Happy Baristas
There’s an abundance of good coffee shops in Berlin but Happy Baristas stole my heart on a recent visit and I’d recommend a trip if you’re nearby. With a typical Berlin-style industrial interior as well as some pretty cool artwork, the general audience appears to be the Australian locals which can only be a good thing – stronger coffee! I enjoyed my first ever nitro-coffee and while I didn’t test out the culinary offering, I certainly had food envy at surrounding guests’ brunch plates. Happy Baristas, happy coffee drinkers!
Neue Bahnhofstraße 32, 10245 Berlin
Nearest Station: Ostkreuz
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