There simply aren’t enough hours in the day to explore all the cafés and bars that Berlin has to offer. It’s all too easy to lose track of the options. So when you need to make a decision, it’s advisable to have a true third place alternative up your sleeve — a so-called “plan C”, somewhere you can depend on. One such spot is the legendary Hackbarth’s, which has been around since the fall of the Wall. Here, I can find a quiet corner to sit and read my newspaper in peace in the mornings over a cup of coffee. Or hold a meeting further in the back with a slice of cake (topped with whipped cream, old school-style) or enjoy a pint of beer at the massive brass counter until the early hours — and all that, seven days a week. No need to look up the opening hours beforehand. The whole thing feels honest, reliable and rooted in tradition, partly due to the timeless and minimalist yet homey furnishings. When the world seems to be turning too fast, Hackbarth’s is here to help you unwind. (Text: Markus Roll / Photos: Pamina Aichhorn)
Hackbarth’s, Auguststr.49a, 10119 Berlin-Mitte, map
Mon-Sat 10-4h, Sun 10-24h
Markus Roll worked as a pastor for twelve years. He’s a fan of Fuckup Nights, an event series which sees startup founders share their failures, and co-hosts ABC, an event featuring music, talks, and networking. The next round takes place on 6.9.2018.