Berlin: Friedrichshain & The COOLEST Bar in Europe

Berlin in 5 words: offbeat, alternative, young, unique and inspiring.

I didn’t know what to expect on our recent visit, but I was shocked by what we found. Germany’s capital isn’t the idyllic cross-timbered display so common elsewhere in country, it’s the opposite. Reminding me funky European version of Brooklyn, full of creatives and culture, the city is bursting with energy. One neighborhood in particular, Friedrichshain, had a unique, vibrant, street art-filled charm all it’s own. I loved it.

After our 6 hour drive across the country we arrived hungry, or in Dan’s eyes, dying of starvation. Our Airbnb host recommended a burger joint not far from our apartment called BURGER AMT so we quickly trotted over. Immediately tugging at my heartstrings, sidewalk seating is absolutely everywhere in Friedrichshain. If there’s one thing I love, it’s eating al fresco. Filling a slight nip of the summer air, we opted for a table at the eclectically decorated interior. As this point it was nearly 9PM at the Friday evening scene was buzzing.

Diving into to our juicy burgers and generous American sized portions of fries, Stuart looked on from below. Dogs are welcomed absolutely everywhere in Germany, which we (especially the Fluffy thing) really appreciate. Although it’s fun to bring Stuart with us, the spilled food (fries in this case) littering floor of the the restaurant is far too enticing to keep him minding his manners. While I drizzled ketchup on each fry, I’m annoying I know, Dan was left to tug Stuart back to his den below our table.

The next morning we got an early start for a full day of touring (recaps to come) while Stuart, the fry eating monster, kept watch over the courtyard below our Airbnb apartment. Thanks for your service, Fluff.

That evening we made our way former industrial area, now hip bar and restaurant strip, not far from our apartment. Street art, not to be confused with graffiti, is absolutely everywhere. We enjoyed the long stroll, admiring all the work these artists had poured into their designs all at the risk of being completely covered up within hours of completion.

Following another recommendation by our Airbnb host (and supported by Yelp reviews) we were led to what I would say is undoubtedly the coolest bar I’ve ever been to. (No, really.)

Cassiopeia is a bar that formerly was an old railway station that’s now been re-purposed, distinguished by a small sign directing down an alley we reluctantly ducked. Once inside, though everything is open-air, we were greeted by a huge rock climbing wall, spacious beer garden, multiple bars, a food stand and a DJ playing cool, chill, tunes. Apparently there is an indoor skate park on the premises too but I was too distracted to notice.

After making excessive comments about how much I loved the place, we grabbed drinks (wine shorle for me!) and a table. We ended up posting up there for a few hours, later grabbing food from the exceptionally friendly cook at the food stand. Lauren and I had homemade lentil soup while Dan munched down sausages and fries. Perhaps this isn’t your typical bar fare but it was darn tasty.

Feeling exhausted from the day on our feet we reluctantly departed before the evening club scene kicked in. There is no question, before leaving this great continent, I will return to this bar.

So, where’s your all time favorite bar?! (And when can we meet for a drink?)