As you set off down an alley around the side of a hotel in Mitte, you might be skeptical that you’re about to take part in one of the finest vegetarian culinary experiences in Berlin, but this is simply the beginning of your Cookies Cream adventure. Concrete walls are mellowed by inviting red fabric benches, creating a trendy, yet cozy feel in the modern restaurant. Heinz Gindullis, known fondly as “Cookie”, created the restaurant in 2007 as a place to hang out with friends — and even the artwork is an homage to that, as many of the pieces are gifts from friends and local artists that give the space a unique character. Chef Stephan Hentschel has created a wonderland of no-nonsense fine-dining dishes, playing with vegetables and herbs from Cookie’s own garden. The grilled leeks with black sesame are quite simply sensational, while the blueberries with celery present the most surprising combination of textures with delicious nuggets of candied celery dotting a refreshing sorbet. The wine pairing is a cherry on top of an evening to remember, although the imaginative plates speak for themselves and are hands down what has kept Cookies Cream at the top of the list when it comes to not only vegetarian, but any restaurant in Berlin. (Text: Laura Soper / Photos: Rene Rils, Joe Sarah, c/o Cookies Cream)
Cookies Cream, Behrenstr.55, 10117 Berlin-Mitte; map
Tue-Sat 18.30-24h
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of Cookies Cream with a special 6-course birthday menu available until this Saturday (11.11.17); reserve a table
Laura Soper is a marketer with a passion for writing and food. Now settled in Kreuzberg, Laura has been sampling the many vegetarian delicacies Berlin has to offer since relocating from the UK in 2016.
