
Berlin institution, Clärchens Ballhaus, celebrates 111 years this fall 2024. There is probably no other place in Berlin where so much dancing and partying has taken place. The Clärchens has survived two world wars and six currency reforms — “if only the walls could speak, they would tell cheerful, sad and incredible stories from the past“. Now it has reinvented itself for its anniversary with the opening of the restaurant Luna D’Oro. What’s on the plate here? German cuisine that evokes nostalgia and surprises with unexpected elegance — just as you might remember from home, only different. On the menu you will find classics that have been waiting for their big comeback, such as the Mettigel with its onion spines and caper nose, or the poisonous green “Waldmeister” jelly in vanilla sauce. Don’t miss the deep-fried Spreewald pickles with dill dip, the “Königsberger Klopse” with mashed potato, or the veal “Berlin style” with onion jus, apple and a large portion of mashed potato as well. The dishes are a true homage to traditional German cuisine, paired with modern influences that in no way detract from the original dish. Anyone who thinks food still tastes best at home may be proven wrong by Tobias Beck. After causing a stir with his Open Fire Cooking concept at Ember, he and his team at Luna D’Oro are now focusing on recipes from previous generations, prepared with regional, home-made ingredients. The Clärchens will probably always remain a place to get together and tell stories — with its unmistakable patina and the sparkling light of the disco ball, which gives the ballroom a new shine.
Text: Robyn Steffen / Photos: Luna D’Oro, Robyn Steffen
Luna D’Oro / Clärchens, Auguststr. 24/25, 10117 Berlin–Mitte; map
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