Hidden away behind Concierge Coffee since the beginning of this year, Zola is one of the most recent establishments to serve up authentic pizza to the people of Berlin. The philosophy here? Simplicity. From the minimal, yet surprisingly friendly interior, to the unadorned menu and quality ingredients, Zola has got it right. We took Head Chef Lukas’ recommendation and ordered the day’s special – a delicious combination of smoked buffalo mozzarella, rocket and Coppa Prosciutto, cooked in minutes thanks to the scorching-hot, wood-burning oven (Lukas’ pride and joy). It’s not just the toppings that have been selected with care either; the dough is given just as much attention. Proved for two days, to allow the home-cultured yeast to develop, the base is full of flavour and as true to Napoli as anything you’ll find here in the city. Drop by for lunch like we did, or make use of the new late opening hours and fill one of the big wooden tables with a group of friends. Last but not least, Lukas also bakes fresh sourdough bread; buy it direct from the counter and he will wrap it up for you to take home. (Text: Chloe Galea / Photo: Daniel Farò)

Zola, Paul-Lincke-Ufer 39-40, 10999 Berlin-Kreuzberg; map
Mon-Wed, 12-21h, Thur-Sat 12-22h

Dimly lit lanterns glowing before the windows are what first draw your attention to L’Eustache. The small French restaurant is run by owner and chef de cuisine Justine Daufresne. The atmosphere, with a small sign slightly crooked on the door, is half French countryside taverna and half cobblestoned back-alley bar in Berlin. The inside is simple but charming; old wooden stools and tables crowd between the dark green walls and plants line the window ledges, complementing their French fare with Mediterranean influences. However, their efficient service and skillful cooking ensure that all is not too quaint: Pâté de Campagne side by side with octopus, chickpea and chorizo stew, burrata and beetroot salad, parsnip soup, and desserts such as sablé breton and warm chocolate cake will keep you enchanted throughout the evening. In short, L’Eustache is full of character and is a real highlight in Schillerkiez. Until 19.11.2015, they are showcasing photography from Patricia Escriche, a selection of images called “tobu sakana” (Japanese for flying fish). This short exhibition is yet another reason to pay this place a visit soon — as if you need another excuse. (Text: Michaela Wölfel / Photo: Janar Siniloo)

L’Eustache, Weiserstr.49, Berlin-Neukölln; map
Tue-Sat 18-23h

When I first heard of a new restaurant focusing on Central and Eastern European specialities I was really happy, since I have Slovak roots and haven’t been able to find anything like this in Berlin before. As soon as you enter the modern yet cozy room, you immediately feel as if you are enjoying “dinner at a friend’s place”. The big dining table in the middle of the room is connected to the focal point: the kitchen. This is where all the magic happens, and from where Vanda and Silvia, the two Slovak founders of Platz Doch!, take care of their guests by treating them to all kinds of specialities accompanied by organic wines and homemade infusions from Slovakia. Platz Doch! also functions as a gastronomic event agency and can be booked for pop-up events. Traditional Slovak dishes and Central European cuisine are transformed into something really special here – I was thrilled, and will definitely be back for more! (Text & Photos: Karolina Rosina)

Platz Doch!, Manteuffelstr.48, 10999 Berlin-Kreuzberg; map
Tue-Sat from 17h