Some phrases simply work better in other languages. La dolce far niente is one of them, but the concept is pretty “un-German”. But maybe we should start making “sweet idleness” more of a priority. When was the last time you left your free time unstructured, allowing for spontaneity? Heading to the nearest café for a cold drink that serves no purpose other than to taste good? What greater luxury is there than having time to spare and doing nothing with it? Is that difficult for you? There’s a place for that. Backaro in Friedrichshain is as wonderfully unpretentious as its name suggests — something rarely found in Berlin. Located in the heart of the Samariterkiez, the small shop has been around for five years. It was founded by Simone, Sari, Sandi, and Luca — three brothers and a mutual friend — to bring the feeling of “al bar” to Berlin: a place where you can spend the whole day. In the mornings, they sell cornetti and Italian white bread. Later come pistachio tarts, focaccia, and tramezzini. All baked by hand (and baked well) just down the street. There’s always someone sitting at the tables out front, no matter the time, no matter the weather. Seemingly without plans, but always with an espresso or Spritz in hand. As soon as I sit down, I feel part of the crowd. The next appointment? Forgotten. Our date? Postponed. Just meet me at my little bistro table in front of Backaro. There’s nothing to do here, and it tastes wonderfully sweet. (Tip: If you still need to buy wine on a Sunday and want to avoid “Späti-Sekt”, you’ll find better options here, even on public holidays.)
Text: Inga Krumme / Photos: Sophie Doering
Backaro, Proskauer Str.23, 10247 Berlin–Friedrichshain; map
@backaro.berlin
