As you step through the doorway of Mr. Susan, matte teal and navy walls accented by rays of light and plush, velvet-draped bar stools invite you to take a seat at pink terrazzo tabletops. Taking their name from the beloved Korean-German street food vendor of Markthalle Neun fame, Susan Choi, Damien Guichard, and Shawn Beck are now presenting eclectic flavor pairings in playful ways at their cocktail bar, opened in July 2018. Since then, we’ve slowly been drinking our way through their menu, from their savory “Micheladas” featuring spicy kimchi popsicles to dip in beer to their subtly sweet strawberry cocktail served in a glass rimmed with dehydrated strawberries, and of course their on-rotation “frozen goodness” — which may or may not be that glass of frozé you’ve been craving this summer. Come fall, there are plenty more treats on the horizon — think bar bites and a spirited (literally and figuratively) new seasonal drinks menu. (Text: Devan Grimsrud / Photos: Luke Marshall Johnson)

Mr. Susan, Krausnickstr.1, 10115 Berlin-Mitte; map

Tue–Sat 17–2h

When I asked for a good bar recommendation in the Gleimkiez, I was met with only weak responses. But then on my way home one evening, I stumbled upon Rhinoçéros. The warm lighting, the wooden interior, and the orange-colored retro lamps I could make out through the large window front magically drew me in — and rightfully so. In addition to the superb drinks, you will also find very fine jazz and soul music. For Bénédict Berna — the smart Frenchman who opened the cozy, casual bar in November 2017 together with his charismatic wife Martina Carl — the music that is played in a bar is just as important as the quality of the spirits. Bénédict’s passion for music is ever present; Rhinoçéros has a dedicated music corner consisting of a vintage sound system, a record player, and a vinyl collection. Speaking of spirits: Mixing good drinks is something the two of them sure know how to do! The Whiskey Sour and Blueberry Gin Tonic are highly recommended. French red wines, German white wines, and beers brewed in Berlin are also served here. If you feel like nibbling on something, the two bar owners offer a carefully selected array of French meats and cheeses from Bénédict’s home country, as well as homemade vegan olive paste and bread from Albatross bakery. My tip: Make sure to ask for the best seat in the house, the one by the fireplace. In this charming bar, good conversations are practically inevitable. (Text: Lisa Strube / Photos: Paul Rossaint)

Rhinoçéros, Rhinower Str.3, 10437 Berlin-Prenzlauer Berg; map

Tue-Thu 18-1h, Fri-Sat 18-2h