Weissensee is known for many things: its art school, an illustrious film and TV heritage, thriving artist studios and galleries and, of course, the eponymous lake. But one thing that the district might be said to lack is bar culture – that is, until now. Three minutes walk from the lake in a former Greek restaurant is Bademeister, the latest venture from acclaimed Berlin barkeeper Dustin Franke. The bar opened in the middle of the pandemic and quickly attracted a loyal following with its warm atmosphere and simple décor. Whether you’re in the mood for refined cocktails or just a beer, the venue does the trick with style and flair. The small but lovingly conceived drinks menu is ever-changing, and offers something for all tastes. And if you don’t know what “soy-milk-washed” means, just ask manager Alex behind the bar who will explain it to you with friendly gusto. Proudly adorned with a graphical depiction of the lake, the house beer is brewed by Heidenpeters in Kreuzberg, and many of the spirits used for the cocktails are custom-distilled in Bavaria.

This blend of sophistication and down-to-earth spirit creates a unique vibe that makes everyone feel welcome: take a quick scan of the crowd and you’ll see art school students, Berliners both new and old and a scattering of smart-looking cinema nostalgics. And in case you find the beer garden vibe a bit too lively, just grab a Helles to go and stroll down to the beach for some sundown sips on the shore. 

Text: Hilka Dirks / Photos: Paula Hornickel

Bademeister, Bizetstr.143, 13088 Berlin–Weissensee; map
Mon–Sat from 18h 

@bademeisterbar

Neukölln-based radio station Refuge Worldwide has been on our radar since it hit Berlin (and the world’s) airwaves in spring 2021. As well as growing online listenership, the station’s presenters and DJs now have another audience: the guests and regulars at Oona, Refuge’s very own in-studio bar at their home on Weserstr. Located in the front part of the studio space, the bar is a place to listen to the station’s programming right where it’s being broadcast. The interior itself is a simple, relaxed affair: its standout feature is a groovy chrome bar area that comes courtesy of designers at ErtlundZull(who are also responsible for the kitchen and lighting in one of our favorite bakeries). The bar is as well-suited for afternoon meetups as late night drinks dates, stocking a great selection of organic orange wines and cocktails including a vegan whiskey sour made with aquafaba. You can hang out at one of the intimate tables or pay a visit to the back room where you can get a glimpse of the live studio and booth designed by DJ Christopher Hreno. (read more) 

Besides broadcasting everything from Afrofunk to modern British electronica, the studio also serves as a workshop space that offers free sessions on music production (with priority given to marginalized groups), voice embodiment and sound healing sessions and even the odd spoken word night. Far more than just a drinking venue, Oona feels like a community hub where all sorts of people from Neukölln and beyond come together. Indeed, the idea for the bar was inspired by a child who frequently visits the space, much to the delight of the regulars. The child’s name: Oona.

Text: Rosie Gilmour / Photos: Savannah van der Niet

Oona, Weserstr.166, 12045 Berlin–Neukölln; map
Tue–Thu 13–0h, Fri–Sat 13–2h

@oona.bar
@refugeworldwide