As a frequent U1/U3 rider, I often rush through Mehringplatz to Hallesches Tor without paying much attention to the ever-changing cluster of tiny shops and cafés. However, the Al Catzone sign immediately caught my eye last year – perhaps thanks to the Cheshire Cat from Alice in Wonderland: according to the founders, the cat is wild, quirky and has a sense of the good life – and thus embodies the idea of the restaurant. My curiosity was piqued. I popped in with a few friends to discover a unique all-vegan Napoli-style Pizzeria in the most unexpected location. I was immediately drawn to the retro interior, nostalgic of the 70s and 80s. There was also an outdoor seating area surrounded by trees, which almost made me forget I was in the center of Berlin. At first glance, one might not even know Al Catzone serves an all-vegan menu. The sourdough pizzas are baked piping hot with just the right hint of crispy, burnt, bubbly dough. There are regularly changing specials. On a recent visit, we tried the “Super Diavola” with spicy salami, “Rave Dave” (Peperoni New York Style), and “Billie” with roasted eggplant and basil pesto. The current special, Timo Truffles with fresh truffle and crispy potato hash browns, had an exceptional burst of flavor. They serve a variety of refreshing spritzes, including a Bergamot and a Nonnino, made of 16 different Italian botanicals. Be sure to leave room for dessert as there is a particularly tasty tiramisu and vanilla ice cream with salt and olive oil.
Text: Stephanie McQuade / Photos: Robyn Steffen
Al Catzone, Brandesstr.7, 10969 Berlin–Kreuzberg; map
@alcatz_one
