On a quiet side street in the historic Rixdorf neighborhood, you may come across a discreet sidewalk sign pointing down an alley. Follow its lead, and you’ll be charmed to discover Zosse. Opened in June 2018 by Paul Seifert, this bucolic bar finds its home in a former blacksmith’s workshop. Records stretching back as far as 1888 describe how the original tenants forged horseshoes, hence the name Zosse – an old German word for horse. Once you’ve pushed past the large, barn-like doors, you’ll be greeted by wood-clad walls, soft candlelight and, in winter, a roaring wood-burning stove. Take a seat and pore over their toothsome list of house-made drinks and bar snacks while nibbling on their zesty popcorn. The newest addition to their menu and our personal favorite is the Old Islay Bramble Sour, a blend of whiskey and bramble liqueur (derived from blackberries). Across the courtyard from the main room is their retro smoking room, accented with industrial lamps, a typewriter, and daguerreotype photos. In summer, take a seat in the Biergarten and enjoy a drink al fresco. (Text: Michael Rice / Photos: Pamina Aichhorn)
Zosse Bar & Biergarten, Richardstr.37, 12043 Berlin–Neukölln; map
Tue-Thu 18-1h, Fri 18-3h, Sat 16-3h, Sun 16-24h
