Markthalle IX

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That’s Berlin – you go down the street and suddenly find a place you never want to leave. Exactly this happened to us when we came across Markthalle IX in the Kreuzberg district. As the name suggests, it’s a ‘market hall’. But not that usual. Actually, it contains dozens of local butcheries, stalls with bio-vegetables and pop-ups of Berlin’s trending restaurants. There are freshly cut flowers and wild oysters; there’s salami in every possible size and taste and even Italian patisserie. The best part – you can try everything. And eat one of the best lunches in Berlin, if you find an empty bench! I tell you, this place is worth a visit.

Eisenbahnstraße 42/43 / Berlin

Odeeh in Berlin

Oh, how I adore Berlin and its stores. With their label called Odeeh, Otto Drögsler and Jörg Ehrlich stand for a now rare atelier tradition since 2008. The German label is the result of the designer duo’s different tempers that brings the complexity to every collection – be it the silhouettes or the range of materials. The vision created by Drögsler and Ehrlich is about a cool, eclectic aesthetic. Whether we’re speaking of a chic knee-lenght tapestry skirt or a baggy coat, Odeeh has you covered for every occasion, really. To truly experience Odeeh, it’s worth discovering their relatively new boutique in Berlin. Located in a well-hidden, old townhouse, the store clashes historical elements and ornaments with contemporary details, like lightbulb lamps or metal shelves. If you’re here, be sure to get your hands on one of those locally sourced homeware pieces!

Potsdamer Str. 81 (Haus J) / Berlin

Berlin for a Day

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Even though our last day trip to Berlin occurred at the time of the Reformation Day, and we were absolutely unaware of the fact all stores are closed during that national holiday, the German capital proved once again that it’s incredible even on calmer, lazier days. First, by a total co-incidence, we’ve stepped into Open Air Mitte, a yard that functions as an open air cinema: it shows anything from classic films to live music performances. But also, it’s Berlin’s top show-off spot for graffiti artists – the street art here is unbelievable! Just like the local pubs, bars and guerilla stores. Later, we strolled around the Museum Island, which is even more spectacular with its monumental architecture when there’s not even one tourist around.

At least, some restaurants were open that day, and Kreuzberg saved us in the evening with its classic. Zola is best known in Berlin for serving Neapolitan style pizza. With its massive, wood-fired oven, the place (crowded even on holidays) has ranked up high with its undemanding atmosphere and very, very well made pizza in the neighborhood. Well, no wonder why.

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All photos by Edward Kanarecki.

Spindler

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On a busy Monday evening like this, there’s a certain place I  wish I could go to for dinner. It’s Spindler, Kreuzberg’s beloved brasserie. Located in a historic building beside a river shore, the restaurant’s rooms (which actually are over 100 years old) were reconstructed by Karolina Preis and revamped with handcrafted furniture, modern art and selected antiques. Spindler’s ever-changing menu offers seasonal treats as well as classics: Haveländer pork belly, king oyster mushrooms, cod with couscous or the Sirloin steak. Whether you’re here for a meal with friends or a weekend brunch in the sun-drenched garden, I tell you: this place won’t disapoint.

Paul-Lincke-Ufer 42/43 / Berlin

Photos by Edward Kanarecki

Le Labo in Berlin

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The leathery scent of Santal 33 is like a drug. Bitter sweetness of Bergamote 22 is a sensual refreshment. Neroli 36 feels like liquid memoir of an Italian summer. I’m speaking of Le Labo, a brand that’s not just about (already) desirable branding, but powerful fragrances. Heralded as one of the best niche fragrances brands in the world, Le Labo boasts a core selection of unique fragrances and exclusive scents available in nine cities. Their newly opened store in Berlin‘s Mitte district is as delightful as the products available there. Those old tiles on the walls, heavy wooden counters, vintage sofas… honestly, wouldn’t mind staying here for much longer.

Alte Schönhauser Str. 26 / Berlin

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Photos by Edward Kanarecki.