Berlin is still one of the most affordable cities to live in Europe, especially when it comes to eating cheaply. The city is crammed with hole-in-the-wall eateries and hidden gems that serve up dishes from all over the world. Here’s where to find a great meal for under five euros.
Sahara Imbiss
Restaurant, Fast Food, African, Vegan, Vegetarian, $$$
The falafel to beat all falafels, crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside and drenched in a winning peanut sauce. This is cheap veggie and vegan fast food at its best. Choose a falafel sandwich for just €2,50 or add fried vegetables/halloumi for just a few cents more. The Sahara Teller or plate goes for a delicious €5. There are three different locations in the city, find the one closest to you and go there immediately!
Every day from noon to midnight, people flock to Hamy for their delicious Vietnamese meals served in big, white bowls and never served more than about three minutes after the order is placed. Hamy is down-to earth and to the point; there are generally only two meals to choose from each day and they go for a solid €4,90. One of them usually comes with chicken and rice while the other is likely to be fish/vegetables and noodles. Perfect when you’re looking for something on the run but don’t feel like eating deep-fried fast food.
This is a super yummy Thai restaurant that you would probably miss if it weren’t for the queue of people lining up outside. Enjoy a delicious serving of traditional vegetable phad thai served with tofu for only €5. Chicken and meat dishes will cost only a tad more. There are only about two or three tables inside where you can sit, so come before the dinner rush or order take out, to be devoured in a more comfortable environment.
Expect service with a smile in this cosy, stylish café in the heart of Neukölln. Papilles literally means ‘taste buds’, and the French owners will delight yours, with their simple yet refined dishes. The café is comfortable, hip and full of love. Try the hearty breakfast/brunch favorite, Benny’s eggs (eggs Benedict) for only €5 for the vegetarian option, served on toasted buns with a generous side salad. The bacon Benny goes for a lean 6€.
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Eat pasta, make love is the motto of this charming little pasta restaurant in Neukölln. Their handmade, hand rolled pasta is simply mouthwatering; it’s the best freshly made pasta in town. Every Thursday they serve Gnocchi, while menu standards include Ravioli served with either butter and sage or truffle sauce, and Tagliatelle with ragu. Get an authentic bowl of Italian pasta for €6–8, bravo!
