Berlin certainly does not lack for Asian eateries, especially in Kreuzberg and Neukölln with the “China Box” and “Discount Asia” on every corner. But right between the two districts, there are little hidden gems worth discovering. Among them is “Chez Dang”. You’ll find dishes from Southeast Asia, or to be more precise, family recipes of the Dang siblings from the tri-boarder area of Laos, Thailand and Vietnam. The menu reads authentic and creative at the same time, teasing you with dishes such as “Lou’s danger zone” or “Lady in red“. Besides the classics such as Pho or Thai curries, there are also dishes off the beaten track for people who like to try new things. Those who are craving a traditional and spicy dish should try the papaya salad. You’ll also find a variation of “Lap” dishes, a classic at Chez Dang’s, that come with sticky rice nicely arranged in a beaded rice straw basket called “Katip”. Images from the family’s photo book add a personal touch to its simple interior and shorten your wait time for food.
Chez Dang, Friedelstr. 31, 12047 Berlin-Neukölln; map
Mon-Tue & Thu-Fri from 11.30h, Sat-Sun from 16h
Hien Le is a true Berliner and a fashion designer who resides in Kreuzberg.
Published in Cee Cee #58 on 24.5.2012