Do you already own merch from your favorite restaurant? It’s a thing these days in Berlin. If not, here’s your chance. Indian restaurant Patakha has just dropped a small collection. The idea came from two regulars — fashion professor Antje Drinkuth and costume designer Christel Rehm — who teamed up with owner Gaurav to create a uniform for staff. But why stop there? Now, guests can get in on it, too. The graphic prints were designed in collaboration with Danish designer Lind Haugaard and screen-printed by hand in Berlin on certified organic cotton tees. The result: vintage Indian motifs on oversized shirts that capture the energy and meaning of “patakha” (firecracker). If you stop by tomorrow (14.03.2025), you’ll walk straight into a celebration — of the new collection and Holi, India’s festival of colors. Expect more to-go dishes than usual and a lively crowd. A perfect chance to get a taste (literally) and then come back another time for a full deep dive into the menu. Best enjoyed with family and friends and with plenty of time because, as with most Indian restaurants, the menu is extensive. And I know why… The kitchen here is run by three chefs, each from a different part of India: one from the north, one from the south, and one from Bengal. That diversity comes through in the food. You’ll find some classics, of course, like Aloo Gobi and butter Chicken. But also dishes you might not have tried before. A must-try starter is Pani Puri: crispy, bite-sized spheres filled with potatoes and tamarind, served with tamarind-mint water. They’re an explosion of flavors.
There’s a strong lineup of vegan and vegetarian dishes, with some gluten-free options, too. The Eggplant Kari is just as satisfying as any meat dish, and the Lemon Rice with mustard and peanuts is a must-order side. The best way to experience Patakha is to order a mix of dishes and share. Everything comes in individual hand-crafted ceramic bowls, turning the black-and-white tiled tables into a feast for the senses. The restaurant itself is intimate but feels open, thanks to colorful glass panels offering a peek into the kitchen. Owner Gaurav hails from Punjab, which is also the focus of his first restaurant, Prince of Punjab (formerly Bahadur) in Wilmersdorf. With Patakha, launched in early 2024, he’s created a more playful concept. On weekends, the restaurant also serves brunch, opening its doors during the day. But no matter the hour, Patakha is full of flavor. So when will you become a fan and start repping your new favorite Kreuzberg-Indian spot?
Text: Nina Trippel / Photos: Robyn Steffen
Patakha, Urbanstr.31, 10967 Berlin–Kreuzberg; map
@patakhaberlin
