Birra is like a mix between an Italian countryside tavern and a modern craft beer bar. A mix I didn’t know I needed in my life, until I stepped foot into Birra. Upon entering you’re greeted by a slew of Italian bartenders rambunctiously jockeying for space behind the bar. Italian craft beer is fascinating — many brewers actually develop their recipes with wine drinkers in mind, which leads to a strong focus on regionality, terroir, and spice. Beers by the Lambrate brewery, a pioneer of Italy’s craft beer movement, make up the core of the bar’s range. They’re flanked by offerings from many other young Italian breweries, as well as a few local ones (Stone and Motel). The bartenders are happy to help you find a beer you enjoy. When I told them I was a big fan of sour beer they plied with me everything they could find, including a taster of a tomato beer that they’d been working on. In order to sustain a solid night of beer, I highly recommend you order some snacks: Birra’s menu offers a delicious selection of fresh panini, charcuterie, cheese, and large, juicy olives. (Text: Liv Fleischhacker / Photos: Devan Grimsrud)
Birra, Prenzlauer Allee 198, 10405 Berlin-Prenzlauer Berg; map
Mon-Sun 18-2h
Liv Fleischhacker is a native Berliner who moved back to Prenzlauer Berg in 2010. She’s a food and drinks writer, a beer editor, and co-organizer of the city’s Jewish food festival, Nosh Berlin.
