12 hotspots for open-air work and play
Summer has arrived in Berlin, bringing glorious weather with it. As temperatures soar, it’s the perfect time to move that meeting outside, network in natural air or enjoy an after-work drink with colleagues in one of the city’s eclectic outdoor spaces.
Birgit&Beer - Kreuzberg
Schleusenufer 3, 10997
Berlin is a master at transforming would-be wastelands into something wonderful – and Birgit & Bier is no exception. Tucked in behind Chalet club at the intersection of Landwehrkanal and the Spree, this hideaway is so much more than a beer garden. It’s one of Kreuzberg’s magical playgrounds, complete with a working carousel and circus-inspired trimmings. Catch up over a cold beer after work or check out one of their many offerings – ranging from techno nights, food fests and special one-off events, like yoga classes.
BRLO BRWHOUSE- Kreuzberg
Schöneberger Str. 16, 10963
Perfectly plunked in the middle of Berlin at Gleisdreieck in Kreuzberg – you’ll find BRLO BRWHOUSE. The entire setup is approximately 38 shipping containers perfectly arranged to create a winning, welcoming retreat. And as the name suggest, they’re brew masters. Choose from a broad selection of their award-winning craft beers and stay for some equally impressive eats. The food was awarded the ‘Berliner Meisterköche 2017’ (Berlin Master Chefs 2017)and earned BRLO the title of ‘Berliner Szeneresuatrant 2017’ (Berlin Scene Restaurant 2017). There’s ample space inside and out. In summer, you can chill in their hops-field-inspired biergarten, lounge in some beach chairs, enjoy artisan ice-cream and live the good life.
Soho House – Mitte
Torstraße 1, 10119 Berlin
Fancy taking your next meeting by a rooftop pool? If you’re looking for something more upmarket and permanent, an exclusive membership at Mitte’s Soho House may be just the ticket.
This London transplant was originally created to offer a comfortable work space for people in the creative industry. In Berlin, it offers professionals of all backgrounds an inspiring place to create, connect, network – and more. After working hard, treat yourself to something delicious at their restaurant and bar, check out a business event, take a dip in the pool or unwind with a bit of pampering at their spa.
Zollpackhof - Mitte
Elisabeth-Abegg-Str. 1, 10557 Berlin
At Zollpackhof you can talk business over a properly-brewed beer – and enjoy a hearty traditional meal when you need a break from your business routine. Whether you want a quick coffee or somewhere to have a business lunch or after-work dinner, this is the perfect location. This long-standing, spacious restaurant offers great ambience and includes a patio-view of the Chancellery. Come back in the winter to check out the Bavarian beer cellar.
Monbijoupark - Mitte
Oranienburger Straße, 10178 Berlin
Though Berlin is a bustling city, it has ample greenery. Monbijoupark is one of the city’s must-see the lush, leafy hotspots. Revamped in 2006/2007, it’s now a spacious centre of activity, with food, fun and events happening almost daily. Try an after-work dancing course or check out a stage play at the local Monbijou Theatre. If you’re hungry, their fast and fresh pizza is some of the best in the city – and the Monbijou beach bar is the perfect place to unwind with a drink next to the Spree. The nearby Bode Museum on Museum Island is also worth a visit too.
KlunkerKranich - Neukölln
Neukölln Arcaden, Karl-Marx-Str. 66, 12043
You might not associate a shopping carpark with great views and total relaxation – but KlunkerKranich’s rooftop deck offers some of Berlin’s best. The rooftop of the Neukölln Arcaden is a surprising oasis of sunshine and spectacular panoramic perspectives. Finding it can be a bit of a tricky adventure. Take the lift – near the post office in the shopping arcade, to the 5th level, then walk up the remaining parking ramps to the top.
By day this beer garden in the sky is the perfect place to grab a tasty bite, collaborate and see Berlin at its best. By night, treat yourself to live music, DJs and even open-air film screenings.
Café am Neuen See – Tiergarten
Lichtensteinallee 2, 10787
Discover one of West Berlin’s green oasis, tucked under the tall trees of the Tiergarten. Café am Neuen See‘s spacious beer garden offers a hearty selection of beer, wine and food – including their crispy pizza. The perfect backdrop to catch up with colleagues or enjoy some after-work fun. If you’re feeling adventurous, explore the river on a rental boat.
Holzmarkt 25 – Friedrichshain
Holzmarktstraße 25, 10243 Berlin
Holzmarkt 25 is a quirky, refreshing contrast to the more traditional commercial developments on the Media Spree in Friedrichshain. This former nightclub turned communal space offers lots of seating, spectacular spree views, and a theatre that hosts viewings and live events. If you’re feeling peckish, their Pampa food stalls and bars are sure to satisfy.
Not only is Holzmarkt the perfect post-work hangout, it’s also a great place to start your day too. Weekly morning yoga classes offers a soothing start to the day.
Prater – Prenzlauer Berg
Kastanienallee 7-9, 10435
Drink in some of Berlin’s history at the city’s oldest beer garden: Prater. This bustling Berlin institution has been serving Pilsner in the shade since 1837 – and it still boasts a more relaxed, traditional feel. On a hot summer day, this Prenzlauer Berg haunt is the place to be. If you’re lucky enough to nab a table after work, ensure you stay until it gets dark to see the true magic of the place. Fairy lights illuminate the trees, instantly making Berlin a brighter, better place.
Badeschiff – Alt-Treptow
Eichenstr. 4, 12435
Magical, memorable and a marvellous way to spend a scorching Berlin summer day. Leave the laptop at home, stick on some swimwear and literally leap into relaxation at Badeschiff. This incredible floating pool is situated in the east harbour of the Spree and offers one of Berlin’s most unique panoramic views. After a dip, feel free to lounge in a hammock or deckchair, have a game of volleyball or sip on a refreshing drink at the bar.
Haubentaucher – Friedrichshain
Revaler Straße 99, 10245 Berlin
A little oasis in the middle of Berlin: Haubentaucher combines various key elements to offer the perfect summer evening retreat. On a hot day enjoy a refreshing drink, cool off in their vast pool and relax on the sundeck or in the lounge. This cultural hotspot flawlessly merges Berlin’s urban vibes with Mediterranean ease, creating the perfect place to recuperate after a busy day of work.
Silicon Drinkabout Berlin – happening all over the city
This regular after-work meetup happens at bars across the city, most Fridays of the year. Like its London counterpart, Drinkabout Berlin lets people working in tech and startup connect, collaborate and enjoy a cold one – or two together. The events happen all year long, though they like to move it outside in the summer.
These weekly gatherings are an easy, enjoyable way to connect with the berlin-based tech community – and discover some cool places in the city.
Text: Trish Elms for Uhura Creative Media
Header image: Thorsten Wulff
