What originally began as a search for a workshop and production kitchen became Open House in November 2023, nestled in the Winsviertel district. John Darcy, founder of Sincerely Coffee and astrophysicist, sits down with us on a sunny Friday morning to tell us the story of how the affectionately titled ‘community hub’ came to be. Anyone entering Open House for the first time might feel like they’re in Copenhagen: sourdough bread with whipped butter, cheese from Alte Milch, and, depending on your preference, a poached or boiled egg — a classic Danish breakfast. And then there are the slightly heartier options, such as Aussie-style pies from Nice Pies. I particularly like the vegan version with mushrooms in truffle ragout. For those with a morning sweet tooth, the Head of Kitchen, aka Jon Cox, offers homemade granola with almonds, walnuts, and honey, served with yogurt from the Brodowin eco-village and seasonal fruit. Not to mention various baked goods from Albatross (where they also source their bread): double-baked almond croissants, pain au chocolate, and one of my favorites, the Breton butter cake called Kouign-amann.
The floor and round tables are oxblood red, contrasting with warm wood-tone chairs that complement the ceiling. An open kitchen counter made of stainless steel forms the centerpiece and metal shelves stocked with products from Berlin completes the room. (The founding team consists of a total of four parties. Including familiar faces, such as Lucien from Café Luc.) The café also has a production kitchen in the basement, which is used by nut butter producer Twisted Nut, among others. These are available to buy on-site, as are other local brands such as Matchasome and Companion Tea. Of course, a café would be nothing without good coffee and this is where John Darcy comes into play with Sincerely Coffee: the chocolatey, nutty Brazil roast is used for the espresso, while the filter coffee beans vary daily. For those who can’t resist coffee’s deliciousness but are staying away from caffeine, there’s the caramel-lemon Columbia Decaf. When asked what else we can expect in the future, John smiles. A bottle shop is in the works, which will mean extended opening hours so punters can sit together in the evening with a bottle of wine and round off the day. We have our fingers crossed there’ll be outdoor seating too, because Spring is just around the corner and there’s nothing Berliners enjoy more than soaking up the sunshine.
Text: Sophie Doering / Photos: Savannah van der Niet
Open House, Christburger Str.13, 10405 Berlin–Prenzlauer Berg; map
Mon–Sat 8–18h. Working on your laptop is possible.
@openhouse.berlin
