If you’re planning a trip to the German capital, chances are you’ll be looking at the best places to eat. After all, tucking into local dishes and discovering traditional fare are some of the highlights of a successful travel abroad. Luckily, Berlin knows a thing or two about cool vibes and vibrant hotspots serving up menus that are captivating locals and visitors alike. From the bustling streets of Mitte to trendy Friedrichshain to Charlottenburg and beyond, the best restaurants in Berlin showcase fine-dining spins on traditional schnitzels, exceptional cocktails, stunning views, lively terraces and some very fun hotspots.
In Tiergarten, an experimental cocktail bar born in the UK brings a unique experience of molecular mixology to Berlin, alongside Asian and American-inspired small plates. In Mitte, Charlottenburg and Wilmersdorf, a traditional German tavern serves up some of the best schnitzels in the city, including a vegan version. If you’re up for something more international, an Italian icon nestled in Berlin’s Soho House makes for the perfect spot to celebrate a special occasion, while a trendy Japanese izakaya shows the chefs preparing stellar platters of sushi and sashimi moments away from Berlin’s zoo.
Get ready for a trip to the coolest city there is, and book a table at the best restaurants in Berlin on OpenTable before you go.
The 10 best restaurants in Berlin to know about for a trip to remember
For one of the best rooftops in Berlin – visit NENI Berlin in Charlottenburg
Right above Berlin’s zoo in Charlottenburg is NENI Berli, a spectacular rooftop restaurant perched above the city. The kitchen team led by Christian Drewitsch, Christian Geese, and Katharina Elsner brings Middle Eastern cuisine with a unique twist – and spectacular views. Everything on the menu is meant to be shared, so get ready for a group feast to remember through the traditional flavours of the Mediterranean. Large platters and whole pans take centre stage on communal tables that create a lively and convivial atmosphere. Start with the stellar mezze and dip fluffy pita bread in the signature hummus before moving on to a more substantial crispy shawarma chicken and tasty falafel balls. Whatever you go for, make sure to try the outstanding wagyu beef kebab served with tahini and the Tunisian Mashwija salad with chopped vegetables.
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For exceptional German cuisine with a twist – try Restaurant Jäger & Lustig in Friedrichshain
For regional German cuisine with a contemporary approach, look no further than Restaurant Jäger & Lustig in Friedrichshain. Owner Ansgar Niklas and chef Sven Jahn have brought classic home cooking with a touch of modernity to Berlin, starting with the rustic Alpine-inspired interior design showcasing beautiful stained glass windows. The lively beer garden outside invites diners to enjoy hearty dishes and great drinks among friends and family during warmer days – a charming setting that deserves to be visited if you’re looking for the best outdoor dining setting in Berlin. Traditional German fare is revisited in picture-perfect, modern dishes such as filled sandwiches and a stellar ragout topped with melting cheese. Other must-tries include the goulash with mashed potatoes and the Königsberger meatballs in caper sauce. For those looking to indulge in something special, ask for the venison roulades served with pear red cabbage or the venison rump steak with marinated porcini mushrooms sourced from the Brandenburg forests. Finish off with a signature Järoni with local gin, Campari and vermouth rosé or a local pils and you’re in for a dinner in Berlin you’re not yet to forget.
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For one of the best seafood restaurants in Berlin – don’t miss Funky Fisch in Charlottenburg
Renowned chef and owner The Duc Ngo is the master when it comes to top-notch Asian fare in Berlin. After opening several Vietnamese and Chinese restaurants in the capital, including 893 and Kuchi, Fusky Fish revolves around seafood and fish specialities with international inspirations. Expect a trendy vibe with contemporary interiors and a large fish counter where the kitchen pulls out fresh produce and cooks it in a buzzing open kitchen. Recommended by the MICHELIN Guide 2024, seafood is sublimed in unexpected and delicate variations, from fine ceviche to deep-fried cod and prawns, Hawaiian poke bowls, French-inspired fish soup bouillabaisse or pasta. The seafood bar boasts all the sea produce anyone could imagine served with spicy miso sauce and salsa verde. Take your pick and pair it with mashed potatoes with fresh truffle and finish off with the must-try passionfruit crème brûlée with white chocolate and ginger ice cream.
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For one of the best Austrian restaurants in Berlin – don’t miss Einstein Unter den Linden in Mitte
Founded in 1996, this restaurant and café delights the residents of the Mitte neighbourhood with fine Austrian cuisine. Expect authentic vibes as soon as you step into Einstein Unter den Linden, a place that feels like an elegant historic café. Plates are prepared with organic ingredients sourced from the Austrian regions and everything on the menu is homemade, from the traditional Leberkäse (a combination of finely-sliced pork, bacon and beef in a crusty loaf), the Viennese veal schnitzel, the Alpine goulash or the spaetzle noodles topped with Austrian mountain cheese. In the morning, a breakfast menu serves filled croissants, porridge with seasonal fruits or fluffy vegan pancakes. From early morning to late evening, Einstein Unter den Linden is an icon to visit for diners looking for an authentic meal in the heart of Berlin.
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For one of the best cocktail bars in Berlin for experimental fare – visit The Alchemist Bar & Restaurant in Tiergarten
In the UK, this conceptual cocktail bar has conquered diners with experimental drinks and creative food. Recently, The Alchemist Bar & Restaurant has made its mark in Tiergarten, bringing this extraordinary concept to Germany. Inside, expect steam and bubbling as mysterious clouds rise from cocktail glasses and unexpected textures create a peculiar and adventurous experience. Theatric drinks come in the form of a colour-changing mix of vodka, apple, citrus and a dash of magic (secret ingredients), of yummy blends such as the Edible One with calvados, apple, salted caramel, white chocolate cream foam that comes in an edible cup. The same experimental approach resumes in the dishes made with top-notch ingredients and intense flavours. Start with small bites to share like the Korean bao buns filled with duck, mayo and broccoli. Also popular are the crispy and tender pork belly skewers grilled over an open fire. In true Japanese style, they are served with apple aromas and zesty yuzu. For the main, you will be blown away by the juicy rib-eye steak with truffle sauce and the crispy British fish and chips.
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For special occasions – book a table at Cecconi’s Berlin in Mitte
If there’s a special occasion to celebrate such as a birthday, an anniversary or a special date night, then Cecconi’s Berlin is the place to go. Housed in the worldwide famous Soho House, pasta and pizza lovers will love the trendy vibes and the classic Italian fare plated in elegant dishes. Housemade pasta and creamy sauces are the higlight, from fusilly arrabbiata to ragú tagliatelle. The wood-fired oven brings out cripsy pizzas topped with prosciutto, goat cheese, spicy salami, burrata and truffles, as well as parmigiana casseroles and veal milanese. Start with crispy calamari and roasted potatoes, a refreshing beef carpaccio or the must-try beef tartare with quail egg and black truffle and pair your feast with an Italian wine label. Amidst marble floors, red leather sofas, and futuristic retro-style lamps hanging from the ceiling, Cecconi’s Berlin offers the perfect spot for a romantic date night or a special occasion. In the summer, grab a seat on the lovely terrace and start your meal with an aperitivo spritz.
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For one of the best Asian restaurants in Berlin – don’t miss Kuchi Kant in Charlottenburg
Nestled in the cosmopolitan district of Charlottenburg, Kuchi Kant brings a unique and fascinating gastronomic experience to the heart of Berlin. The combination of Japanese cuisine with fusion approaches and the izakaya pub-style ambience promise an unforgettable culinary adventure. From delicate sashimi platters to creative rolls prepared by skilful sushi masters using the finest ingredients, the menu offers an extensive list of must-try options. Expect hearty steaming udon and ramen bowls in rich, comforting broth, spicy chilli beef, Vietnamese phở soups and flavourful Thai curries for a culinary journey through Asian flavours. The trendy vibe makes it a favourite amongst locals, a romance-filled destination, and the perfect spot for a festive dinner before a night out in Berlin.
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For one of the best schnitzel restaurants in Berlin – book at Schnitzelei in Mitte, Charlottenburg and Wilmersdorf
With three branches in Mitte, Charlottenburg and Wilmersdorf, Schnitzelei is the place to visit for traditional local fare. As the name suggests, everything here revolves around schnitzels. From the classic Viennese-style schnitzel to the breaded Jägerschnitzel in mushroom cream sauce, enjoy the iconic German staple in a rustic and picturesque atmosphere that promises a lively night out with friends and family. Crispy and generous portions of veal, pork, and beef schnitzels are served, along with a vegan-friendly take featuring a stellar oyster mushroom schnitzel that even meat-eaters will love. The menu also boasts hearty small dishes from meatballs with wild garlic or sausages with homemade applesauce. Pair it with a Bavarian beer or a local lager and you’re up for a German meal to remember.
📍 Mitte — Check availability
📍 Charlottenburg — Check availability
📍 Wilmersdorf — Check availability
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For one of the best brunch spots in Berlin – visit Mauna Kea in Köpenick
Named after the highest mountain in Hawaii, Mauna Kea is a true neighbourhood gem loved by locals in the quaint Köpenick district. If you’re looking for one of the best brunch spots in Berlin, that’s one you won’t want to miss. Head there in the morning for hearty breakfast plates featuring filled tortillas, French toasts, stacked pancakes, and sandwiches. But the highlight is undoubtedly the creative take on the traditional flammkuchen (a thin oven-baked bread dough) that comes topped with bacon and onions, spinach and feta, gorgonzola, courgette or chorizo. Try the top-notch coffee and fresh fruit juices, the chai latte or the mango smoothie – or go for a cheeky martini spritz for a great start of the day in Berlin. With books lined up on the wall and cosy vibes, Mauna Kea is a must-try spot in Berlin that feels like being at home away from home.
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For a hidden oasis serving seasonal fare – book at Café in der Gartenakademie in Dahlem
Tucked away from the buzzing streets of the German capital, Café in der Gartenakademie in Dahlem is a charming gem that feels like a quiet oasis. During warm days, take a sit in the stunning garden and listen to the chirping birds, or grab a seat in the bright plant-filled greenery while you peruse a menu made with on-site grown ingredients. Vegetables are definitely the star of the menu – featuring many vegetarian and vegan options – and come in global-influenced recipes. For a healthy bite, go for the hearty sweet potato soup and move on to filled gnocchi or a French quiche prepared with fresh local quark and spinach. Make sure to leave room for dessert: the smell of oven-fresh cakes and strudels fills the place with warmth and cosiness. Head there in the morning for hearty breakfast platters of croissants, toasted bagels and eggs.
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Berlin boasts anything a foodie’s heart in search of culinary adventures could desire, from German traditional tavernas serving schnitzels and large pilsners to fine Asian-fusion dishes to Middle-Eastern feasts and top-notch pasta and pizza. From the bustling streets of Mitte to charming Dahlem, from trendy Friedrichshain to Köpenick, get ready for a trip to remember in the German capital at the best restaurants in Berlin.
