An inconspicuous door leads to a sultry subterranean space, waiting to transport you into another world with its warm lighting, dark wood and plush furnishings. Welcome to Small Bar, the latest concept (opened April 2018) from Mokoto Watanabe and Shaul Margulies, the duo behind Zenkichi and House of Small Wonder. “We wanted a place to hang out after work and decompress… like a house party in Brooklyn back in the day. The music is just loud enough, the atmosphere is just rowdy enough, and you meet genuinely nice people — all before bedtime,” explains Shaul. Retro funk and soul records, supplemented by the occasional resident DJ set, add to the intimate mood. Drinks are kept classic, infused with a Japanese twist — like the “Chu High” (Japanese shōchū, tonic, a hint of lavender) and daily sake specials from Zenkichi’s premium Junmai range, as well as a small selection of wine. On weekends, Small Bar will offer takeaway coffees, pastries and all-day brunch cocktails. And on 17.5.2018, you’re invited to join Cee Cee as we take over Small Bar to celebrate our anniversary. It’s not about free drinks this time (the bar is cash only, on that note), but rather raising a toast to seven years of creativity and community. Save the date and come early — the space lives up to its name! (Text: Anna Dorothea Ker / Photos: Pamina Aichhorn)
Small Bar, Johannisstr.20, 10117 Berlin-Mitte; map
Tue & Thu from 18h, Sat-Sun 9-20h. Follow Small Bar on Instagram for pop-ups and special events
Cee Cee’s Seventh Birthday, 17.5.2018, from 19h
