Cookies Cream

"Cookies Cream may wield a Michelin star, but as you walk up to the entrance — in an alleyway delivery dock — it’s clear the restaurant isn’t your typical exemplar of fine dining selected by a tire company. Owner Heinz “Cookie” Gindullis’s background in the Berlin club scene is evident in the vibe, with hot red banquettes and industrial-chic exposed concrete (not to mention a large painting of a German expletive). The anything-goes approach extends to chef Nicholas Hahn’s outré, all-vegetarian, lineup (a small a la carte selection and a tasting menu), which includes items like potato ceviche or a dish of red peppers infused into items like chips and ice cream. The mostly natural wines are paired with superb care, but it’s worth choosing the option to mix a wine pairing with the restaurant’s non-alcoholic drinks to get a taste of some of the team’s creative, house-made juices and ferments." - Tim Forster

"This place is oh-so Berlin: You walk through the Mitte alley, past garbage bins, until you come across a lone chandelier. Then you’ll need to buzz at the door. If this all sounds a bit club-like, that’s because owner Heinz “Cookie” Gindullis got his start running Cookies, one of Berlin’s most famous underground clubs. Once you’re inside, the space becomes a Victorian bar, all red and velvety, until you finally ascend the stairs to the restaurant itself, which is modern, sophisticated and definitely not full of club kids. This is a one-Michelin-starred vegetarian restaurant meant for people who don’t usually eat vegetarian. Chef Nicholas Hahn, who took over the kitchen in fall 2023, has a way with the mains, bringing out complex flavors so good you’ll want to lick your plate." - Liz Humphreys

"It doesn't get much more quintessentially Berlin than this trendy restaurant! Finding your way here through the backyard (head for the delivery entrance) to ring the bell at the unassuming door is an adventure in itself! After being welcomed at the bar (perfect for an aperitif or after-dinner drink), climb the old stairs up to the first floor to get to the lively restaurant, which was once a fashionable nightclub. In an industrial-chic setting, savour an all-vegetarian set menu dubbed "The Magnificent 7", with the option of enjoying five to seven courses. Meticulously crafted dishes, such as braised peppers, jalapeño and capers, or charcoal-grilled turnip, saffron and olive, balance piquancy and acidity while exploring a variety of textures. You can supplement the menu with a handful of classic signature dishes. The waitstaff are laid back, but no less professional and well organised for it. A hip spot that draws a mixed crowd – Berliners and tourists, fans of plant-based cuisine and foodies from all over the globe." - Michelin Inspector

"Up on the first floor you’ll find a vibrant restaurant decorated in an "industrial" style. The vegetarian cuisine, artful and sophisticated, is served to a soundtrack of electronic music." - Rachel Tan

"Up on the first floor you’ll find a vibrant restaurant decorated in an 'industrial' style. The vegetarian cuisine, artful and sophisticated, is served to a soundtrack of electronic music." - Rachel Tan