“Hast du Heimweh?” might be a familiar phrase for many foreigners in Berlin. Nestled opposite Gorlitzer Bahnhof, the word takes on a deeper meaning in the form of a family-owned Turkish restaurant. Heimweh, which literally means homesick, has been serving traditional Turkish kumpir, manti dumplings and tiramisu since 2016. The restaurant puts you in control of your kumpir and for this reason, it’s comfort food at its finest. Your potato can be dressed up as a hearty carnivore’s dream or dressed down with lighter varieties. From fiery jalapeños to fresh guacamole, you’re encouraged to build until bursting point. Come after 14h to avoid the lunch rush and enjoy a cup of complimentary Turkish tea, sit by the large, golden samovar and watch the world go by. Glowing with authenticity, love and care, Heimweh was the first place I came to eat when I moved to Kreuzberg. Now, since leaving Berlin, I have “heimweh” for Heimweh. (Text: Leah Dolan / Photos: Johanna Rademacher-Flesland)
Leah Dolan is a freelance writer and copywriter. Formerly based in Berlin, she has returned to London to study for her Masters in Arts Journalism.
Heimweh, Skalitzer Str.100, 10997 Berlin–Kreuzberg; map
Mon–Sun, 12–22h
@heimweh_xberg
