The Top 6 Bars in East Berlin, Germany

Tucked away in Prenzlauer Berg, you’ll find this gentlemen’s bar only by the portrait of Irish playwright Samuel Beckett hanging in its window, and you’ll have to buzz the doorbell to get inside. Full of intrigue and fun, the cocktail menus are hidden in old books and the walls are adorned with pictures that would make sober people blush. Wonderfully, there is also a non-smokers room for those who thought they’d be giving up bars because of the dangers of secondhand smoke.

Unlike almost any other bar in the city, Die Weinerei stands out because it employs an honesty system. Call it overly liberal, idealistic or naive, this bar trusts its punters. First, guests rent a wine glass for €2, then they can drink to their souls’ desire, before leaving payment in a jar. Somehow it works; who knows, but perhaps the freedom and trust implicit in their pay-what-you-want system, along with the cosy, charming atmosphere, restore a sense of moral judgement in people.

Old-fashioned and unique, Reingold, in the district of Mitte, retains its speakeasy style in the midst of a modern city. Expect leather couches, antlers hanging on the wall and gramophone decor to get you into the mood for a night of delicious cocktails and fine whiskeys; if you want to eat, bar food is also served. There is also a candle-lit terrace that is just perfect for balmy nights. Elegant, upmarket and sexy, this is one Berlin bar you won’t want to leave in a hurry.

Offering sleek, sophisticated and luxurious comfort, Drayton Bar has an array of signature cocktails that have got people talking. The space is located off the main roads, and has been recently renovated to increase its cool factor. Dimly lit, the bar oozes glamour and style and has earned itself a reputation for serving some of the best cocktails in Mitte.

Bar Tausend is a classy drinking-hole offering jazzy musical delights and DJs in Mitte, so you’d better step through the door in style. Hidden under a railway bridge, the bar has an alluring charm with its concealed location and unmarked entrance. Ring the doorbell, say you’re here to see the ‘landlord’ and wait for the gates to open (or maybe not). If the iron doors do part, you can look forward to an out-of this-world interior and a good-looking crowd to mingle with while you sip on the finest liquor.

Here’s what you need to know about Immertreu Bar. As their sign will tell you, it’s a place of serious drinking. There is no wifi, no such thing as happy hour, and they only accept cash. A firm favourite among locals and visitors alike, they serve all the classics with their own special twist. Try the Insomnia cocktail concocted from saffron gin and peach bitters, or the Black Walnut Manhattan. The staff are known for their friendly charm, and they are happy to bring you freshly iced glasses, should your cocktail need some more chill.