In the middle of the chaotic half of Fuldastrasse (that is, the half in Donaukiez) is the most charming bakery – no! Boulangerie! – of Neukölln. Its name is Le Brot. On the sidewalk, the entrance is flanked by those special-charming white-black woven bistro chairs that you always think must have some ultimate French name you just don’t know. Inside, it’s cozy, personable, small. Light wood, no seating, friendliness and baked goods. And what baked goods! If you bite into the leafy croissants, you’re immediately in France. But not in Oh-lala-Paris, but in a village square, somewhere in the countryside, where there is exactly one café, one butcher and this very bakery, where everything tastes like vacation and sun and that certain je-ne-sais-quoi. Baguettes, chocolate rolls, brioche, quiche, madeleines – everything in the display looks and smells fantastic, and is soft, juicy, crunchy. Le Brot is a neighborhood bakery without airs and graces. Though it does have a small refrigerator in case you forget the organic eggs or butter for Sunday breakfast. Of course, you can also get a coffee, nutty and mild. Have it to take away, or to enjoy on the woven bistro chairs, watching the hustle and bustle in the street and maybe even thinking you’re on vacation for a moment. Le Brot is especially recommended for those at home on Easter weekend. Because there’s filled brioche: sour cherry, vanilla and chocolate. La classe, les classiques!

Text: Hilka Dirks / Photos: Robyn Steffen

Le Brot, Fuldastr.54. 12043  Berlin–Neukölln; map
Mon–Fri 8–18h, Sat 8–16h & Sun 8–14h

@lebrotberlin

You don’t necessarily have to wear color to stand out in Berlin. That’s why Xiao Xue and Andy are bringing black and white to Mitte with the city’s first 2D cafe: Always Together. The pair brought the trend with them from Korea, where these eccentric cafes have long been a phenomenon. The hand-painted interiors of these cafes transport you to another world. The walls, floors, chairs and tables are painted in such a way that three-dimensional objects merge with each other, giving you the impression that you are sitting in a lifesize drawing. The drinks and desserts served are memorable, too: we were particularly impressed with the bingsu, a dessert that melts in your mouth like snow. Made of crushed ice, you can sweeten it with condensed milk, frozen yogurt or ice cream. Always Together has seven varieties: a traditional recipe with red beans, one with Korean rice cake and almonds, and one with Oreos and caramel Biscoff (there are vegan options too). If you aren’t ready for ice-cold drinks, we highly recommend the Ube Latte, which gets its purple color and sweet, nutty flavor from the Filipino yam. It warms you up from the inside, adds some color to the table, and is a bolder alternative to the traditional latte. Sweet treats and fun drinks: who knew the 2D world was so tasty?

Text: Robyn Steffen / Photos: Luna Schaffron

Always Together, Große Hamburger Str.24, 10115 Berlin–Mitte; map
Mon–Sat 11–20h & Sun 12–18h

@cafe_alwaystogether