As I enter Kreuzberger Himmel, the first thing I notice is the wonderful scent of cardamom and cloves in the air. On long dark wooden tables, Syrian specialities such as “Kabse”, “Kibbeh” or “Samak” are laid out, garnished with dates, nuts and plenty of spices. Some of them are classics, such as hummus or baba ganoush. Others are rice dishes, prepared as meat, fish or vegetarian options. Kreuzberger Himmel brings the tastes of Syria to Berlin, as a positive example of integration: The restaurant opened in late 2017 and is run by refugees, offering Syrians, Iranians, Pakistanis and Afghans — among others — an opportunity to gain their footing in Germany. The driving force behind this idea is Be An Angel e.V., a charitable organization founded by journalist Andreas Tölke with the aim of connecting communities and sharing culture. And what better way to do that than over a shared meal. (Text: Laura Pausewang / Photos: Pamina Aichhorn)
Kreuzberger Himmel, Yorckstr.89, 10965 Berlin-Kreuzberg; map
Wed-Sun 17h-00h
Laura Pausewang has been living in Prenzlauer Berg since early 2017, following stints in Lisbon, London and Paris. She is a freelance copywriter and a trend researcher. As an ideal place for observing trends, drinking coffee and meeting riveting people, Berlin allows her to live out her passions.
