Berlin Coffee Shops
field notes: thoughts from the road & a few places we’d send a friend
Berlin’s Kaffeepause culture is alive and well — from hand-poured brews in Kreuzberg to minimalist cafés in Mitte.
Berlin’s relationship with coffee is less about trends and more about intentionality. Across neighborhoods, you’ll find roasters and cafés that prioritize quality, design, and community — each with its own point of view. Here are a few of our favorites from recent mornings in the city.
Bonanza Coffee Roasters
A sleek ode to precision. Bonanza is known for its clean interiors, local roasting, and sharp attention to detail — both in design and in every cup. We like the flat white, love the ham & cheese croissant.
Multiple Locations | Locally Roasted
Five Elephant
Tucked into neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Mitte, Five Elephant combines a cozy feel with serious roasting credentials. Their direct-trade sourcing and standout pastries make it a favorite for both quality & comfort.
Multiple Locations | Locally Roasted
The Barn
If you're looking for Berlin’s most meticulous brew, it’s probably here. The Barn is all about transparency, from bean to cup. Their cafés are pared-back but warm, the kind of places that reward repeat visits (even when it’s their newest one in Mallorca).
Multiple Locations | Locally Roasted in Berlin
@kaffeekirscheberlin at 44 Brekkie
Kaffeekirsche x 44 Brekkie
A corner café with charm. Kaffeekirsche’s thoughtful roasts meet 44 Brekkie’s cult-favorite breakfast menu in a cozy Böckhstraße space. You’ll want to linger longer than planned.
Location: Kreuzberg | Locally roasted
Refugio Café
Coffee with community at its core. Refugio doubles as a space for social connection and refugee support, offering a warm backdrop for ethically sourced drinks and quiet moments in Neukölln.
Location: Neukölln | Social Impact
Funk You
Plant-based, easygoing, and quietly cool. Known for smoothies, salads, and power bowls — all meatless — Funk You leans more wellness café than coffee destination, but still worth noting if you’re in Mitte and want something nourishing.
Distrikt
Part neighborhood hang, part design-forward café. Distrikt serves excellent brews in a minimalist setting with a friendly pace. Bonus points for seasonal pastries and Berlin-based collaborations.
