The Best Bars in Berlin
Berlin’s bar scene is defined in part by its famous “living-room bars.” Picture candlelight, mismatched furniture from your great aunt’s attic, and raw exposed walls. Many of the top bars in Berlin are unassuming during daylight, yet after sunset, they burst into life with boisterous chatter and young revelers spilling onto the sidewalks. The city also boasts a glamorous bar landscape that harks back to the Weimar-era grandeur, alongside those that celebrate German beer traditions in historic biergartens and cafes set within lush parks. Whatever your preference for starting your evening or enjoying a laid-back afternoon, Berlin has it all. Here are the standout bars to visit right now.
Café am Neuen See
Café am Neuen See is a romantic biergarten, thanks to its lakeside location and enchanting surroundings in Tiergarten Park – Berlin’s Central Park equivalent. It shines brightest in summer, but has a cozy indoor restaurant perfect for winter, complete with panoramic windows and roaring fireplaces. It’s an ideal spot to relax with friends.
Address: Café am Neuen See, Lichtensteinallee 2, 10787 Berlin, Germany
Das Hotel
This tiny, eclectic bar in Kreuzberg features dramatic curtains and abundant candles. The interior is raw and industrial, infused with charming floral decorations. The expertly mixed Old Fashioneds and Basil Smashes shine here, with a friendly bar staff ready to customize your drink.
Address: Das Hotel Bar, Oberland Straße 26-35, 12099 Berlin, Germany
Monkey Bar
Situated on the 10th floor of the Monkey Hotel in Charlottenburg, Monkey Bar offers excellent G&Ts alongside stunning views of the zoo below. The decor reflects its surroundings, creating a jungle atmosphere with bright cushions and warm lighting. For the best experience, visit during the day to soak in the views while avoiding long lines.
Address: Monkey Bar, Budapester Str. 40, 10787 Berlin, Germany
Madame Claude
Occupying a former brothel, Madame Claude is styled like an upside-down apartment, with furniture hanging from the ceiling, creating a cozy environment. Enjoy the house cocktail, Mme. Claude, or stick with well-crafted classics. Don’t miss the basement for live music.
Address: Madame Claude, Lübbener Str. 19, 10997 Berlin, Germany
Geist im Glas
This intimate cocktail haven in Neukölln features a raw, industrial space filled with the warm glow of flickering candles. It’s popular among locals, offering expertly crafted drinks in a cozy setting perfect for couples or small groups.
Address: Geist im Glas, Lenaustraße 27, 12047 Berlin, Germany
Tier
Located on Weserstraße, Neukölln’s nightlife street, Tier encapsulates the essence of a “living room bar” with vintage furniture and a relaxed vibe. Their inventive cocktail menu caters to both daring and timid drinkers. Remember, “Tier” means “animal” — and you may understand why after a few drinks.
Address: Tier, Weserstr. 42, 12045 Berlin, Germany
Muted Horn
Although located next to a discount grocery, Muted Horn surprises with its impressive beer selection, including 22 taps and over 100 bottle varieties. It’s an inviting space close to both high-top tables and comfortable sofas, making it a friendly spot to enjoy local crafts.
Address: Muted Horn, Flughafenstraße 49, 12053 Berlin, Germany
Mr. Susan
Entering Mr. Susan feels like stepping into an elegant drinking den with a peacock-blue color scheme. The cocktails feature unique flavors influenced by the owner’s Korean heritage. The atmosphere is cozy, whether you’re on a date or out with friends.
Address: Mr. Susan, Krausnickstraße 1, 10115 Berlin, Germany
Klunkerkranich
Klunkerkranich offers a lovely rooftop experience, serving primarily beer and wine at great prices. Ideal for watching the sunset over Berlin, this bar offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for memorable evenings with friends.
Address: Klunkerkranich, Karl-Marx-Straße 66, 12043 Berlin, Germany
Prater Garten
As Berlin’s oldest biergarten, Prater Garten provides a spacious ambiance with communal tables and benches. A fixture since 1837, it offers a friendly atmosphere where patrons can enjoy beer and bratwurst while soaking up the sun.
Address: Prater Beer Garden, Kastanienallee 7-9, 10435 Berlin, Germany
Velvet
With a smooth ambiance, Velvet features low lighting and a curated cocktail menu that changes weekly, incorporating seasonal ingredients. It promises a cozy experience where intimate conversations can flourish.
Address: Velvet, Ganghoferstraße 1, 12043 Berlin, Germany
KASCHK by BRLO
Known for its vibrant atmosphere, KASCHK by BRLO combines casual settings with a rotating selection of craft beers on tap. It’s self-service, making it easy to enjoy a quick drink in a lively environment with friends.
Address: KASCHK by BRLO, Linienstraße 40, 10119 Berlin, Germany
Ora
ORA, originally a pharmacy, showcases its vintage charm while serving expertly crafted cocktails, blending historical elements with modern mixology.
Address: ORA Restaurant & Wine Bar, Oranienpl. 14, 10999 Berlin, Germany
Buck and Breck
Buck and Breck features a sleek atmosphere where the bartender creates cocktails in an immersive experience. The minimalist design enhances the cocktails, making this bar a hidden gem.
Address: Buck and Breck, Brunnenstraße 177, 10119 Berlin, Germany
Prinzipal Kreuzberg
Prinzipal presents a luxurious atmosphere, reminiscent of the 1920s, combining vintage furniture with chic decor. Here, one can savor memorable cocktails in a unique setting that doubles as a burlesque venue.
Address: Prinzipal Kreuzberg, Oranienstraße 178, 10999 Berlin, Germany
Wax On
Wax On stands out for its unique cocktail offerings and vibrant atmosphere, promising an excellent experience for craft cocktail enthusiasts. It includes cozy seating and an inviting ambiance that reflects the local neighborhood’s charm.
Address: Wax On, Weserstr. 208, 12047 Berlin, Germany